Ion generator device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Negative air ion generators face issues with charge build-up on surfaces, leading to reduced ion flow due to repulsion of like-charged particles, and ion confinement where ions are not projected into the intended space due to lack of a return current path.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves treating surfaces with conductive materials to provide an electrical path for negative charge dissipation and connecting the ion generator's return path to building wiring or conductive surfaces within the space to create an effective current return path, thereby reducing charge build-up and ion confinement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If negative air ion generation is used to clean air, then air purification is improved, but charge build-up on surfaces occurs leading to reduced ion flow
Solution Approach 1:
A conductive material is introduced as an intermediary between the ion generation system and the surface, providing a controlled path for charge dissipation. The conductive material is applied to the surface and connected to ground through a resistor, serving as a mediator that safely manages charge accumulation without interfering with the ion generation process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical properties of the surface are changed by applying conductive material and connecting it to ground through a resistor. This parameter change transforms the surface from an insulating state (where charge accumulates) to a controlled conductive state (where charge can dissipate), thereby resolving the charge build-up problem while maintaining ion generation effectiveness.
2Productivity
If ion generation occurs without a return current path, then ion production is simple, but ion confinement occurs where ions are not projected into the intended space
Solution Approach 1:
Building wiring or conductive surfaces within the space serve as intermediaries to establish the return current path. These existing conductive elements in the environment are utilized to complete the electrical circuit, allowing ions to be projected into the intended space without requiring complex dedicated return path infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes existing conductive infrastructure (building wiring, conductive surfaces) within the space to provide the return current path. Rather than requiring a dedicated return path system, the invention leverages the self-existing conductive elements in the environment, thereby reducing device complexity while achieving effective ion projection.
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
This approach stabilizes ion production and ensures that negative ions are effectively projected into the desired space, improving air purification by maintaining a consistent ion flow and reducing ion repulsion.
Implementation Method 1
electrons are added to air molecules (i.e. 'generating ions') by applying an electric field to spaced surfaces, generating negatively charged air particles
Implementation Method 2
treating surfaces with conductive materials to provide an electrical path for negative charge dissipation
Implementation Method 3
an air mover disposed to direct an air flow through the space into the fluid conduit interior
Data Source
AI summary
An ion generating device can include a housing having an opening, an anode and a cathode disposed within the housing and having a space between them in fluid communication with the opening, a power source having a negative terminal and a positive terminal with a first connection between the negative terminal and the anode and a second connection between the positive terminal and the cathode, and an air mover disposed to direct an air flow through the space and out of the opening.