Self-powered ionization device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air purification systems for ducts are large, bulky, require external power, and are difficult to retrofit, limiting their effectiveness and aesthetic appeal in homes and businesses.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered ionization device with a fan blade shroud, generator enclosure, and ionization enclosure, mounted using adjustable arms with magnets, which generates electrical power from airflow to produce ionized air for filtration, eliminating the need for external power and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If duct mounted air purification systems are installed, then air filtration effectiveness is improved, but device size becomes large and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fan motor and ionization chamber into a single integrated unit that fits within standard duct dimensions. The fan blades are directly coupled to the ionization chamber, eliminating the need for separate housing and reducing overall device volume while maintaining filtration effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The ionization chamber is positioned within the fan housing structure, with the fan blades extending into the ionization chamber. This nested arrangement allows the ionization function to be contained within the existing fan volume, reducing the overall device size.
2Reliability
If professional installation is required, then installation reliability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a modular unit with pre-assembled components including the fan motor, blades, and ionization chamber. This segmentation allows the entire filtration assembly to be installed as a single replaceable unit, simplifying installation to basic duct connection tasks that do not require professional HVAC expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates self-aligning mounting features and tool-free connection mechanisms that enable end-users to perform the installation themselves without requiring professional installation services, while maintaining secure and reliable mounting within the duct system.
3Reliability
If external power is required, then device functionality is ensured, but device complexity and power infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fan motor is configured to drive both the airflow generation and the ionization process simultaneously. The mechanical energy from the fan blades directly powers the ionization chamber through electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for separate electrical power connections and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The power generation and ionization functions are merged into a single electromagnetic system where the fan motor serves dual purposes: moving air and generating electrical power for the ionization chamber. This consolidation eliminates separate power infrastructure requirements.
4Volume of moving object
If compact design is achieved, then aesthetic appeal and space utilization are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses standardized duct mounting flanges and connection interfaces that require high precision only at specific localized mounting points, while the main body components can be manufactured with standard tolerances. This approach maintains compact dimensions without requiring high precision throughout the entire manufacturing process.
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
Provides effective air filtration downstream of ventilation ductwork, reducing harmful pathogens and improving indoor air quality without the need for professional installation or external power sources, while maintaining a compact and aesthetically pleasing design.
Implementation Method 1
a generator shaft connected to a generator that generates an electrical output... The generator shaft extending from the central hub to the generator enclosure transmits mechanical power from the fan blades through the flange and into the generator enclosure
Implementation Method 2
an ionization enclosure disposed behind the fan blades... An electrical output from the voltage regulator may be 12V DC... The self-powered ionization device may further have a parallel connection from the terminal block to the battery and to the ionizer. An ionization device producing an existing ionized airflow may help filter and clean all air downstream of the piece of ventilation ductwork
Implementation Method 3
The mounting foot may include a plurality of magnets for attachment of the self-powered ionization device to a metal surface
Data Source
AI summary
A self-powered ionization device is a bipolar plasma ionization module powered by a wind turbine and supported within a unit of HVAC ductwork by at least three adjustable legs. Power generated by an air current within the ductwork operates the bipolar plasma ionization module.