Universal air purification system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air filtration and purification systems are inefficient, causing high pressure drops and reduced airflow, and are often limited to specific applications, failing to provide a broad solution for clean, humidity-balanced air in various environments, especially in the context of airborne pathogens like COVID-19 and mold/fungus spores.
Innovation Solution
An air purification system featuring a curved filter with varying thickness to manage pressure drops and a UV light treatment stage to kill pathogens, integrated with a conveyance system and control mechanisms for flexibility and efficiency, including a reflector to maximize UV exposure and prevent filter degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a flat filter arranged perpendicular to air flow is used, then the filtering surface area is limited, but the pressure drop across the filter is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is formed into a cylindrical shape with curved surface instead of a flat arrangement, providing increased filtering surface area while managing pressure drop characteristics through the curved geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The filter transitions from a two-dimensional flat arrangement to a three-dimensional cylindrical structure, maximizing filtering surface area within the available spatial envelope and improving airflow distribution
2Ease of manufacture
If the filter material is made uniformly thick, then manufacturing is simplified, but the pressure drop along the length of the filter cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The filter material thickness varies along the length of the cylindrical filter, with thicker material at the inlet end and progressively thinner material toward the outlet, optimizing pressure drop characteristics at different locations
Solution Approach 2:
The filter material thickness parameter is changed along the length of the filter to optimize performance, transitioning from uniform thickness to a graduated thickness profile
3Reliability
If existing filtration systems are used, then filtration is provided, but the pressure drop is too high causing strain and leakage in existing systems
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical curved surface filter provides increased filtering surface area that reduces pressure drop compared to flat filters, decreasing strain on existing HVAC systems
Solution Approach 2:
The three-dimensional cylindrical structure allows for optimized airflow distribution and reduced pressure drop, preventing system strain and leakage issues
4Area of stationary object
If a cylindrical or curved filter shape is used, then filtering surface area is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical shape provides increased filtering surface area through simple curved geometry that can be manufactured using standard processes
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical filter design can be integrated into various HVAC system configurations and scaled to different sizes, providing a universal solution for different applications
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 achieves efficient filtration and UV treatment, maintaining airflow while providing a scalable solution for various environments, effectively reducing pathogens and mold/fungus spores, and ensuring humidity balance, thus enhancing indoor air quality.
Implementation Method 1
Within the interior space of the filter is an ultraviolet lamp or other UV light source operable to irradiate air after it has passed through the filter. This UV irradiation provides further purification by killing, damaging, or breaking down pathogens and other biological material.
Implementation Method 2
The ultraviolet lamp is at least partially surrounded by a reflector positioned within the interior space, the reflector is operable to reflect ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet lamp, and positioned to prevent exposure of the filter to the ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet lamp.
Data Source
AI summary
An air purification system is provided. The air purification system utilizes a multi-pronged approach to both filter air as well as irradiate it with ultraviolet light. Optionally, a humidifier and/or dehumidifier may be used to further treat the outlet air. The system may be positioned fixedly in building air ducts, or may be used in mobile applications to treat and purify air in a room or other space.