Sterilization device, air filter, and filtration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air filters are ineffective in filtering small bacteria and viruses, and UV lamps used for sterilization have low utilization rates, leading to inadequate sterilization effects.
Innovation Solution
A sterilization device with a UV lamp module, cover plates, and diffuse reflection layers that create a flow chamber for air to flow through, where UV light is diffusely reflected to ensure even distribution and prolonged exposure, enhancing sterilization efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UV lamps are used for direct irradiation sterilization in the filter, then sterilization function is achieved, but UV light utilization is low resulting in inadequate sterilization effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the UV sterilization from a single-direction direct irradiation approach to a multi-dimensional approach by introducing reflecting layers that redirect UV light in multiple directions. The UV lamp is positioned to irradiate the reflecting layers, which then scatter UV light throughout the flow chamber, achieving comprehensive sterilization coverage without requiring the lamp to directly irradiate all air paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflecting layers serve as intermediaries between the UV lamp and the air flow. Instead of the UV lamp directly irradiating the air, the light first interacts with the reflecting layers which then distribute the UV energy. This intermediary mechanism increases UV light utilization by preventing direct line-of-sight limitations and ensuring more complete light distribution within the chamber.
2Ease of manufacture
If filter element is used to filter air, then dust interception is achieved, but filtering effect for small bacteria and viruses is limited and bacteria multiply on the filter element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dust filtration function and UV sterilization function into a single integrated air filter device. The filter element assembly handles dust interception while the UV lamp module with reflecting layers provides sterilization, combining both functions in one unit rather than separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses the problem of bacteria multiplying on filter elements by introducing UV sterilization that actively kills bacteria and viruses on the filter surface. The harmful accumulation of pathogens on the filter is converted into a controlled sterilization process, where the filter element becomes a substrate for UV irradiation rather than a breeding ground for pathogens.
3Reliability
If conventional direct irradiation UV sterilization is used, then sterilization is achieved, but UV light energy is not evenly distributed resulting in low sterilization efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds spatial dimensionality to UV light distribution by using reflecting layers that redirect light at various angles. This transforms the one-dimensional direct beam irradiation into a three-dimensional light field that penetrates and distributes UV energy throughout the entire flow chamber volume, ensuring even coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflecting layers are designed with a segmented or textured surface structure that divides and scatters the UV light beam into multiple smaller reflected beams. This segmentation of the light path ensures more uniform distribution of UV energy across the air flow path rather than concentrated in a single direction.
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 diffuse reflection design improves UV light utilization and extends air retention time, resulting in a more effective sterilization of bacteria and viruses within the air.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the two reflecting layers is a diffuse reflection layer; when the UV light irradiates or is reflected onto the diffuse reflection surface, the UV light is diffusely reflected on the diffuse reflection surface to present a 'multidirectional' scattering effect
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a sterilization device, an air filter, and a filtration system, which relate to the technical filed of sterilization equipment. The sterilization device includes an ultraviolet (UV) lamp module, two cover plates arranged opposite each other, and two reflecting layers, where a flow chamber which allows the air to flow therein is formed between the two cover plates, and each of the two cover plates is provided with at least one air vent communicated with the flow chamber; wherein two opposite surfaces of the two cover plates respectively have the two reflecting layers disposed thereon, and at least one of the two reflecting layers is a diffuse reflection layer; and the UV lamp module is disposed on the cover plate and is used to emit UV light into the flow chamber.