Ozone Generator for Indoor Air Decontamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indoor odor control systems rely on chemicals or masking deodorizers and fail to effectively disinfect air and surfaces, particularly against bacteria, viruses, mildew, molds, allergens, smoke odors, and food preparation odors, while also being inefficient and not energy-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses an ozone gas generator integrated with an exhaust fan assembly, controlled by a timer and switch, to decontaminate indoor air and surfaces by generating ozone gas for oxidation and disinfection without chemicals, with a wall-mountable and energy-efficient design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If chemical deodorizers or masking agents are used to control odors, then odor masking is achieved, but effective disinfection of air and surfaces is not accomplished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ozone gas, a strong oxidant, to simultaneously eliminate odors through oxidation of odor-causing compounds and disinfect surfaces by destroying microbial cell structures. This resolves the contradiction by using a single agent that performs both odor control and disinfection functions, rather than relying on masking chemicals that fail to disinfect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effects of ozone (strong oxidizing properties that can be toxic at high concentrations) into beneficial effects by using controlled, low-level ozone generation combined with timed operation and ventilation. The system uses the oxidizing power of ozone for disinfection and odor elimination while mitigating potential harm through proper dosage control and air exchange.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If conventional odor control systems are used, then odor masking is provided, but energy efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic operation of the ozone generator through a timer mechanism that activates the device during off-peak hours (e.g., overnight) when energy rates are lower and occupancy is minimal. This periodic action allows the system to achieve thorough disinfection and odor elimination during low-energy-cost periods while consuming minimal energy during occupied hours, resolving the contradiction between effective odor elimination and energy efficiency.
3Reliability
If strong oxidizing agents like ozone are used for disinfection, then disinfection effectiveness is improved, but safety concerns arise from chemical exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully controls the concentration parameter of ozone generation, using low levels sufficient for disinfection but below harmful exposure thresholds. The system adjusts ozone generation parameters to achieve effective disinfection while maintaining safety, and uses timer-controlled operation to ensure adequate ventilation periods follow treatment cycles, resolving the contradiction between disinfection power and safety.
4Reliability
If multiple separate systems are used for odor control and disinfection, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (ozone generation for disinfection, exhaust fan for air exchange, timer for scheduling, and control system for coordination) into a single integrated device. This unified system delivers comprehensive decontamination coverage while avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple separate systems, resolving the contradiction between comprehensive coverage and device simplicity.
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 effectively eliminates odors and disinfects indoor air and surfaces, providing a safe, quiet, and energy-efficient solution for various environments, including hotels and food preparation areas, while maintaining air quality and reducing health risks.
Implementation Method 1
An ozone gas generator is positioned in the base unit... to generate ozone gas for oxidation and disinfection
Implementation Method 2
An electrical operated exhaust fan assembly is positioned in a third opening of the cover... to exhaust the ozone gas generated by the ozone gas generator
Implementation Method 3
The system of this invention attacks odor causing substances and their source to remove odors... ozone gas for oxidation and disinfection
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for the decontamination of indoor air and surfaces having biological, chemical or physical contamination wherein the system is mounted on a wall or the like in the area to be treated. An ozone gas generator is positioned within the housing of the system for generating ozone gas in the housing. The housing also includes an exhaust fan assembly which exhausts the ozone gas and air mixture from the housing into the area to be treated. The system may be operated continuously or at predetermined times and for predetermined lengths of time.