Microwave-UVC Air Sterilization Layout for Longer Exposure Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air sterilization systems are inadequate in effectively combining microwave energy and UVC light for comprehensive air purification across various applications, lacking efficient exposure mechanisms and multi-stage filtration.
Innovation Solution
A microwave energy air sterilization system utilizing multiple magnetrons within a sealed steel chamber for microwave exposure, combined with 265 nm UVC LED sources and HEPA filters in multiple stages to ensure thorough air purification, with RF transparent delay chambers for maximum microwave exposure and efficient solid-state power supplies to minimize heat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional air sterilization systems are used, then basic filtration is provided, but effective combination of microwave energy and UVC light for comprehensive purification is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sterilization methods (HEPA filtration, UVC irradiation, and microwave energy) into a single integrated system. The housing contains all three components working together on the air stream, creating a comprehensive purification solution that addresses limitations of individual methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The sterilization process is divided into distinct stages: first stage HEPA filtration removes particles, second stage UVC irradiation disinfects, and third stage microwave energy provides additional sterilization. This segmented approach allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system manageability.
2Reliability
If air exposure time to sterilization energy is increased, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses alternating passages that fold the air stream back and forth through the chamber, effectively increasing the exposure path length without proportionally increasing chamber volume. This dimensional approach to air flow path design maximizes sterilization effectiveness within a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved reflective surfaces within the chamber direct microwave energy along the folded air path, ensuring continuous exposure as air moves through the alternating passages. This curved geometry optimizes energy distribution throughout the compact chamber volume.
3Power
If traditional power supplies are used with magnetrons, then microwave generation is achieved, but excessive heat is generated reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical power supply systems with solid-state power supplies that drive the magnetrons. This substitution eliminates excessive heat generation and improves overall system efficiency while maintaining the required microwave generation capability for effective sterilization.
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 system achieves comprehensive air sterilization by leveraging the synergistic effects of microwave and UVC energy, providing high-efficiency air purification suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial settings with enhanced particle removal and reduced heat generation.
Implementation Method 1
microwave energy created by multiple magnetrons within a sealed chamber to expose a column of air and any suspended particles within the air to the microwave energy
Implementation Method 2
265 nm UVC led source adapted for residential, commercial, and industrial applications
Implementation Method 3
an air delay unit comprised of alternating passages within the chamber for maximum exposure of air to microwaves the delay unit is construct of RF transparent material
Implementation Method 4
HEPA filter as a first stage and a 265 nm UVC source as a second stage sterilization and a third stage HEPA filter as a final stage
Data Source
AI summary
An air sterilization system utilizing three stages of sterilization using UVC and microwave energy created by one or more magnetrons powered by solid state high voltage supplies. The first stage is formed by a chamber with concentrated 265 nm UVC generated by two rings of UVC leds, the second stage formed by a chamber with a labyrinth to allow maximum exposure of the air by microwaves generated by 2 magnetrons, the third stage is formed with concentrated 265 nm UVC generated by two rings of UVC leds. There are also HEPA filters at both the inlet and outlet of the unit. The unit can be configured to be free standing without specialized installation required or can be hardwired into a circuit. Only the stand-alone unit incorporates a telescoping inlet to the height to be adjusted up to 12 feet.