Smart Air Filter Blockage Detection Using Optical IoT Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air filter systems lack accuracy in detecting blockage due to particle size, are not adjustable to user-specific needs, and are difficult to install, often requiring manual reminders for replacement.
Innovation Solution
A filter detection and alert system using light sources and sensors of varying wavelengths, coupled with a control unit and IoT capabilities, determines blockage thresholds and communicates alerts through 4G or 5G networks, allowing for user-specific adjustments and easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light sources and sensors of varying wavelengths are used to detect particle size, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses light sources with different wavelengths as a variable parameter to detect different particle sizes. By changing the wavelength parameter of light, the system can characterize soil particles of different sizes that cause filter blockage, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complex mechanical structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable blockage thresholds are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable blockage thresholds that can be dynamically modified by users based on their specific needs. The system allows users to set different blockage levels that trigger filter replacement alerts, making the system adaptable to different usage conditions while using a relatively simple control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to users through alerts when filter blockage reaches the threshold level. This feedback mechanism allows users to monitor filter condition and make informed decisions about replacement timing, enhancing adaptability without requiring complex continuous control.
3Loss of information
If IoT communication capability is added, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses IoT communication modules as an intermediary to transmit filter status information between the detection device and the user's smartphone or other communication devices. This intermediary approach allows information to be communicated effectively without requiring complex direct interaction systems between all components.
4Measurement precision
If multiple light sources of different wavelengths are used, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple light sources of different wavelengths to characterize particles of different sizes. By using periodic or sequential activation of different wavelength sources rather than continuous operation, the system achieves comprehensive particle characterization while managing energy consumption more efficiently.
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
Accurately detects filter blockage based on particle size, adjusts alerts to user needs, and communicates timely replacements via IoT networks, enhancing system efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a light source and a light sensor are placed on two sides of the filter membrane, respectively. The light source and the sensor are activated to measure the intensity of received light.
Implementation Method 2
The actuator is attached to the housing and the light source and the sensor are attached at ends of two actuator arms of the actuator. The control unit turns on the light sources and activates the sensors... When the measurement is completed, the actuators pull in the actuator arms along with the light sources and the sensors into the housing
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a smart air filter blockage detection and alert communication system for use with filters in air circulation systems such as HVAC, vehicles, server systems, and dryers. The system attached to the frame of a filter comprises a light source, a light sensor, two actuators and a control unit. The control unit based on a stored program or an external command activates the actuators to place the source and the sensor devices attached to the two arms of the actuators on the two sides of the filter membrane. The sensor measures the light intensity transmitted through the filter. The control unit upon receiving the intensity data determines the filter blockage level and communicates alert to the user when the blockage exceeds a predetermined value. The system uses a 4G or a 5G IoT network capability for data collection and communication with servers and user devices.