Self-Cleaning Ion Generator Assembly for In-Place Electrode Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air treatment systems lack effective self-cleaning mechanisms for ionization devices, requiring manual removal and cleaning, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A self-cleaning ion generator device with a protective grate encircling the electrodes and a cleaning assembly powered by a motor, allowing for automated cleaning of the ion emitting devices without removing them from the conduit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cleaning of ion emitting devices is used, then device structure is simple, but maintenance convenience deteriorates and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The ion generator device performs self-cleaning through an automated cleaning mechanism. A cleaning head with brushes or wiping elements is rotated by a motor to clean the ion emitting electrodes without requiring manual intervention. The system activates the cleaning mechanism automatically after a set operating period, allowing the device to maintain itself during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning mechanism incorporates a motor-driven rotating cleaning head that dynamically contacts the ion emitting electrodes. The cleaning head rotates to continuously wipe the electrode surfaces, transforming the static cleaning problem into a dynamic automated process that occurs during device operation.
2Ease of operation
If ion emitting devices are removed for cleaning, then cleaning access is improved, but loss of time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning mechanism is pre-positioned within the housing and continuously or periodically activates to clean the ion emitting electrodes before particle buildup significantly degrades performance. The system monitors operating time and automatically initiates cleaning cycles, preventing the need for device disassembly and immediate manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated cleaning system allows the ion generator to clean its own electrodes in place during normal operation or between operational cycles, eliminating the time loss associated with removing and manually cleaning the ion emitting devices.
3Reliability
If protective grate encircling electrodes is added, then device protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into distinct functional zones: an outer protective housing, an inner protective grate encircling the electrodes, and a motor housing containing the cleaning mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system protection without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective grate serves multiple functions: it protects the ion emitting electrodes from physical damage, provides structural support for the cleaning mechanism, and allows airflow through the ionization zone. The motor housing simultaneously protects the motor and provides mounting for the cleaning head assembly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device maintains air treatment efficiency by continuously cleaning the ion emitting devices, preventing particle buildup and ensuring consistent ion production, thus improving indoor air quality.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one cleaning apparatus is powered by a motor housed within the cavity
Implementation Method 2
At least one ion emitting device extending from the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A self-cleaning ion generator device includes a first portion with a base portion that extends to an outer edge and a first pair and a second pair of opposed sidewalls extending upwardly from the outer edge and intersect at corners, forming a cavity therein. A second portion includes a base portion that extends to an outer edge selectively secured to the first portion forming a housing. At least one ion emitting device extending from the housing, and at least one cleaning apparatus for cleaning the at least one ion emitting device.