Photocatalyst filter and air conditioner including the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air purifiers using photocatalyst filters face challenges in efficiently purifying air while minimizing energy consumption, as they require multiple light sources to enhance photocatalyst reactions, leading to increased energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A photocatalyst filter design incorporating light reflecting structures and a controller to optimize the use of photocatalyst beads of varying sizes, shapes, and components within multiple internal spaces, along with a processor to manage light and air flow based on sensed pollution levels, enhancing light efficiency and air purification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple light sources are increased to enhance photocatalyst reactions, then air purification effect is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful loss of light into a beneficial effect by introducing light-reflecting structures. These structures reflect scattered or unused light back onto the photocatalyst beads, transforming what would be wasted light into effective photocatalytic action, thereby improving air purification without additional energy input
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the system by introducing reflective surfaces with specific reflectivity characteristics. This modifies the light distribution and intensity parameters within the filter, enhancing photocatalyst activation efficiency without requiring increased light source power
2Productivity
If light reflecting structures are added to improve light efficiency, then photocatalyst reaction efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the filter and simultaneously acts as a light-reflecting surface through its metallic coating. This multi-functionality avoids adding separate reflective components, thereby maintaining device simplicity while improving photocatalyst efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the light-reflecting function with the existing base structure by coating it with a metallic layer. Instead of adding a separate reflective component, the base is transformed to serve both structural and optical functions, reducing overall device complexity
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 design improves air purification efficiency while reducing energy consumption by optimizing light usage and air flow, allowing for effective sterilization and deodorization with reduced energy expenditure.
Implementation Method 1
a photocatalyst filter comprising: at least one base defining therein a plurality of internal spaces, a plurality of photocatalyst beads disposed within each of the plurality of internal spaces, each of the plurality of internal spaces having a light reflectivity
Implementation Method 2
Titanium dioxide generates radicals when irradiated with infrared light, and may thereby sterilize microorganisms and decompose odor-causing particles by the strong oxidizing power of such radicals
Implementation Method 3
The plurality of photocatalyst beads may include photocatalyst materials and adsorbents. The adsorbent may be at least one of activated carbon and zeolite
Data Source
Figure 1~3b
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Figure 6~7
AI summary
A photocatalyst filter is provided. The photocatalyst filter includes: a base in which an internal space is formed. The internal space is permeable to fluid, and a plurality of photocatalyst beads are provided in the internal space, wherein a surface of the internal space is reflective.