Ion Generator Enclosure with Non-Linear Walls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air ionizers lack efficient designs for ion generation and distribution within HVAC systems and other applications, leading to suboptimal ionization and static reduction.
Innovation Solution
The design of an ion generator device with a base, non-linear wall, and top forming an enclosed space, featuring ionizing elements capable of receiving voltage to produce ions, which can be placed on or within HVAC elements, hand dryers, and other devices, reducing static electricity and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If air ionizers are designed with traditional linear structures, then the device complexity is low, but the ion distribution efficiency and ion concentration in target regions are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curved surfaces and non-linear geometries to the enclosure structure, including curved walls and domed surfaces, which improve ion distribution efficiency by creating more uniform ion dispersion patterns compared to traditional linear box structures. The curved geometry helps distribute ions more effectively throughout the enclosed space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar ionizer surfaces to three-dimensional curved surfaces and volumetric ionizing elements. This dimensional change allows ions to be generated and distributed throughout the volume of the enclosure rather than just along flat surfaces, significantly improving ion concentration and distribution efficiency.
2Quantity of substance
If ionizing elements are placed close together to increase ion concentration, then the ion content increases, but ion recombination increases reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements different ionizing elements with varying characteristics at different locations within the enclosure. Some regions have higher ion generation rates while others have lower rates, creating a gradient distribution that maintains high overall ion concentration while preventing excessive local recombination. The non-uniform distribution optimizes both quantity and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ionizing system is divided into multiple separate ionizing elements distributed throughout the enclosure rather than one large concentrated source. This segmentation allows better control over ion generation rates in different regions and reduces ion recombination by spacing elements appropriately while maintaining overall high ion concentration.
3Productivity
If traditional box-shaped enclosures are used, then manufacturing is simple, but ion distribution uniformity and coverage are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved wall enclosures, domed surfaces, and non-linear geometric forms that improve ion distribution uniformity throughout the enclosed space. These curved surfaces create more uniform ion dispersion patterns compared to sharp-edged rectangular enclosures, though they require more complex manufacturing processes.
4Quantity of substance
If high voltage is applied to ionizing elements to maximize ion production, then ion generation increases, but energy consumption and risk of interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable voltage control on ionizing elements, allowing the operating voltage to be optimized based on required ion concentration levels. The system can dynamically adjust power consumption to match actual needs rather than operating at maximum voltage continuously, reducing energy waste while maintaining effective ion generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent varies electrical parameters such as voltage and current across different ionizing elements and operating conditions. By optimizing these parameters rather than using fixed high voltage, the system achieves effective ion generation with reduced energy consumption and minimized interference risks.
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 solution provides effective ionization and static reduction, allowing for adjustable ion concentrations and reduced recombination of ions, enabling efficient ion distribution in smaller spaces with minimal interference.
Implementation Method 1
Gas molecules near the electrodes become ionized when they either gain or lose electrons. Because the ions take on the charge of the nearest electrode
Implementation Method 2
Because the ions take on the charge of the nearest electrode, and like charges repel, they are repelled from that electrode
Implementation Method 3
Ions in the air are attracted to objects carrying an opposite charge. When an ion comes in contact with an oppositely charged object, it exchanges one or more electrons with the object
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to ion generators and their enclosures that include a base, a non-linear wall projecting from the base, a top connected to the non-linear wall a top connected to the non-linear wall, wherein the base, the non-linear wall and the top form a closed space, and at least one ionizing element extending from the enclosure, wherein the at least one ionizing element is configured to receive a voltage capable of producing ions from a power source in the closed space.