Modular Ion Generator Assembly for Flexible HVAC Air Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Historically, ionization bars have been custom manufactured for specific applications, leading to long manufacturing lead times, which is not efficient for meeting the needs of HVAC systems that require flexible and adaptable air treatment solutions.
Innovation Solution
A modular ion generator device with standard sizes that can be selectively secured to each other and mounted to various locations, featuring a housing with cavities for electrodes, engagement devices for connection, and magnets for secure attachment to cooling coil frames, along with printed circuit boards and carbon fiber electrodes for efficient ion generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ionization bars are custom manufactured for specific applications, then the device can be precisely tailored to application requirements, but manufacturing lead time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The ionization bar is divided into multiple modular sections that can be connected in series to achieve the required total length. Each module contains standardized components (electrodes, housing, mounting features) that can be mass-produced independently, eliminating custom manufacturing lead times while maintaining adaptability through selective assembly of different数量的 modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design creates universal building blocks that can be configured for different application requirements. The standardized interface and connection mechanisms allow the same basic module to serve multiple applications by simply varying the number of modules or their arrangement, thus achieving customization without custom manufacturing.
2Ease of operation
If modular ion generator devices are selectively secured to each other, then assembly flexibility and installation speed improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements (electrodes, housing, mounting brackets, connection interfaces, electrical contacts) are integrated into single modular units. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components that need to be handled during assembly, simplifying the modular connection process while maintaining assembly flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows smaller functional components to be nested within the standardized module housing. Electrical contacts, mounting features, and electrode assemblies are contained within the modular unit, creating a compact hierarchical structure that simplifies both assembly and maintenance while preserving ease of configuration.
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 modular design allows for flexible and efficient air treatment by enabling quick assembly and secure mounting, producing a high concentration of ions (up to 40 million per cubic centimeter) that can effectively abate allergens, pathogens, and improve indoor air quality, while reducing the need for external air intake and lowering heating and cooling costs.
Implementation Method 1
At least one electrode is positioned within the cavity... producing a high concentration of ions (up to 40 million per cubic centimeter)
Implementation Method 2
a magnet positioned on the device for selectively securing the device to a cooling coil frame
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides methods and systems for a modular ion generator device that includes a bottom portion, two opposed side portions, a front end, a back end, and a top portion. A cavity is formed within the two opposed side portions, front end, back end, and top portion. At least one electrode is positioned within the cavity, and an engagement device is engaged to the front end and/or an engagement device engaged to the back end for allowing one or more modular ion generator devices to be selectively secured to one another.