Air ionization system and device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air ionization systems face issues such as insufficient ionization levels to effectively clean and sanitize air, lack of configurability and intelligent control, complexity, high cost, and poor modular configuration and serviceability, often resulting in excessive ozone release.
Innovation Solution
A self-standing, portable air ionization device with a housing, ion generator, ozone catalyst, and control system that measures air parameters to adjust ionization levels, featuring a modular design with fans for air circulation and filtration, and an ozone removal assembly to minimize ozone levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If air ionization systems generate high ionization levels to effectively clean and sanitize air, then air purification effectiveness is improved, but ozone release becomes unacceptable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using the ozone catalyst to convert harmful ozone into beneficial oxygen. The system generates ozone as a byproduct of ionization, then passes it through a catalyst that decomposes ozone back into oxygen, effectively eliminating the harmful effect while maintaining the purification benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The ozone catalyst acts as an intermediary substance that mediates between the ionization process and the air output. It receives ozone from the ionization chamber, undergoes catalytic decomposition, and releases clean oxygen, thus mediating the transformation from harmful to beneficial state
2Reliability
If air ionization systems use complex control mechanisms to optimize performance, then air purification effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by using ambient light detected by a photosensor to automatically control the ionization process. The device monitors its own operating environment and adjusts its operation accordingly without requiring complex external control systems, microprocessors, or user intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The photosensor provides feedback about ambient light conditions to the control circuit, which then adjusts the ionization process accordingly. This simple feedback loop allows the system to optimize its performance based on environmental conditions without requiring complex control architecture
3Ease of manufacture
If air ionization systems are designed as integrated units, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but serviceability and configurability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the air ionization system into distinct functional modules: a housing, a removable ionization cartridge containing the ion generator and catalyst, and a base unit with power and control components. This modular design allows the cartridge to be easily removed and replaced for maintenance or upgrades without affecting the rest of the system
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 device effectively ionizes and filters air, providing customizable and intelligent air purification with reduced ozone levels, improving air quality and user control while being modular and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
an ion generator and an ozone catalyst for removing ozone. The unit may be a one-piece assembly that mounts in the inner cavity of the device... the ion generator, which ionizes the air to remove particulates
Implementation Method 2
an ion generator and an ozone catalyst for removing ozone... The air then moves through (or otherwise comes into contact with) the ozone catalyst to remove some or all of the ozone
Implementation Method 3
Inside the inner cavity, the air is preferably moved by one or more fans... The fan(s) blow the air upwards towards and into contact with the ion generator
Data Source
AI summary
An ionization device may be configured to be portable, and to rest on a surface such as a floor or desk top. The ionization device includes an air-intake port, an ion generator, an ozone catalyst for removing at least some ozone from air, and an air discharge. Air enters the device through the air-intake port, and at least some of the air is ionized to remove particulates. The air is then moved past or through the ozone catalyst to remove at least some of the ozone from the air. A controller may be used to monitor particulates, temperature, humidity, and/or other relevant factors and/or to adjust the ionization level.