Photocatalyst Module Layout for Dual-Flow Vehicle Air Conditioners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-layered flow air conditioners face challenges in optimizing the design location and mounting structure for photocatalyst modules to achieve maximum performance while minimizing the number of modules due to space constraints and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle air conditioner with a duct divided into upper and lower flow paths, incorporating a photocatalyst module with a single carrier positioned in both paths, using a recessed groove and sealing member to prevent air leakage, and optionally multiple carriers spaced apart to enhance sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple photocatalyst modules are provided in the upper and lower flow paths, then air purification performance is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the air purification function for both upper and lower flow paths into a single photocatalyst module. The module is positioned at the outlet of the air conditioning unit where it can treat air from both flow paths simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate modules in each path and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining purification effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The single photocatalyst module is designed to serve multiple functions by purifying air from both the upper flow path (outside air) and lower flow path (inside air) simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows one module to replace what would traditionally require two separate modules, reducing cost and complexity
2Reliability
If multiple photocatalyst modules are installed, then air purification performance is improved, but mounting space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple purification functions into a single module located at the air conditioning unit outlet. This consolidation reduces the total mounting space required compared to installing separate modules in both upper and lower flow paths, as the single module handles air from both paths simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The photocatalyst module is positioned at the outlet of the air conditioning unit where air from both upper and lower flow paths converges. This spatial repositioning allows a single module to treat air from multiple flow paths that would otherwise require separate treatment locations, effectively utilizing the convergence point in the ductwork
3Reliability
If multiple photocatalyst modules are used, then air purification performance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the requirement for multiple photocatalyst modules into a single module design. By positioning this single module at the outlet of the air conditioning unit, the system achieves purification of both upper and lower flow paths with fewer components, directly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the required purification performance
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 configuration reduces the overall packaging size and manufacturing costs while effectively purifying air in both flow paths, maintaining efficient air conditioning performance.
Implementation Method 1
a body having a light source therein
Implementation Method 2
a carrier disposed below the body and configured to generate a superoxide radicals by generating a photocatalyst reaction by using light emitted from the light source
Implementation Method 3
generate a superoxide radicals by generating a photocatalyst reaction
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a vehicle air conditioner having a photocatalyst module, i.e., a two-layered flow air conditioner in which an inner flow path of the air conditioner is divided into an upper flow path and a lower flow path, the air conditioner providing an optimal design location and a mounting structure of a photocatalyst module which are capable of purifying both the upper flow path and the lower flow path by using a minimum number of photocatalyst modules.