UV Filter Irradiation Layout for Uniform Air Conditioner Disinfection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioners with pleated filters and light source modules for ultraviolet light irradiation face inefficiencies in disinfection due to the vertical orientation of light source modules, leading to uneven ultraviolet light distribution and reduced effective irradiation area.
Innovation Solution
The air conditioner incorporates an irradiation unit that emits ultraviolet light with an inclined optical axis relative to the filter plane, allowing for a larger irradiation area without increasing the distance between the light source and the filter, and is positioned on an inclined surface to ensure uniform coverage and prevent dust adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If light source modules are arranged vertically behind the filter, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ultraviolet light distribution becomes uneven and the effective irradiation area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the arrangement dimension of light source modules from vertical to inclined positioning. The optical axis of the light source modules is inclined relative to the filter surface, forming an angle between 10-70 degrees. This dimensional change allows the ultraviolet light to distribute more uniformly across the filter surface, solving the problem of uneven irradiation while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Productivity
If multiple light source modules are used to increase irradiation area, then the disinfection efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of light source module orientation from vertical to inclined arrangement. By adjusting the inclination angle of the optical axis relative to the filter surface, the effective irradiation area is maximized. This parameter change allows a single light source module to achieve better disinfection efficiency compared to multiple vertically arranged modules, thereby reducing device complexity and cost.
3Illumination intensity
If light source modules are positioned closer to the filter, then the irradiation intensity is increased, but the dust adhesion to the light source increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric positioning of light source modules relative to the filter surface. The optical axis is inclined at an angle between 10-70 degrees, creating an asymmetric configuration that prevents dust particles from settling directly on the light source modules while maintaining close proximity for high irradiation intensity. This asymmetric arrangement effectively reduces dust adhesion compared to symmetric vertical positioning.
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 enhances the disinfection efficiency of the primary filter by increasing the irradiated area and reducing dust accumulation, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and power efficiency compared to using multiple light sources.
Implementation Method 1
an irradiation unit that irradiates the filter with ultraviolet light
Implementation Method 2
The filter contains a photocatalyst that decomposes a noxious gas component and an odor component. The light source modules irradiate the photocatalyst of the filter with ultraviolet light.
Data Source
AI summary
An air conditioner includes a filter and an irradiation unit that irradiates the filter with ultraviolet light. An optical axis of the ultraviolet light emitted from the irradiation unit is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to a thickness direction of the filter. This makes it possible to efficiently disinfect the filter.