Air conditioner device with trailing electrode
An electro-kinetic air conditioner for removing particulates from the air creates an airflow using no moving parts. The conditioner includes an ion generator that has an electrode assembly including a first array of emitter electrodes, a second array of collector electrodes, and a high voltage generator. Preferably, a third or leading or focus electrode is located upstream of the first array of emitter electrodes, and/or a trailing electrode is located downstream of the second array of collector electrodes. The device can also include an interstitial electrode located between collector electrodes, an enhanced collector electrode with an integrally formed trailing end, and an enhanced emitter electrode with an enhanced length in order to increase emissitivity.
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This application is a divisional of co-pending application entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH TRAILING ELECTRODE,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,209, filed Feb. 12, 2002 which claims priority from the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/341,090, filed Dec. 13, 2001 under 35 U.S.C. 119(e). The co-pending patent application Ser. No. 10/074,209, claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/306,479, filed Jul. 18, 2001 under 35 U.S.C. 119(e). The co-pending patent Application Ser. No. 10/074,209, also claims priority from and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/924,624 filed Aug. 8, 2001 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/564,960 filed May 4, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,417, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/186,471 filed Nov. 5, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,977. The co-pending patent application Ser. No. 10/074,209, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/730,499, filed Dec. 5, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,713,026, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/186,471 filed Nov. 5, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,977. All of the above are incorporated herein by reference.
1. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,518, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH AN UPSTREAM FOCUS ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041US6
2. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,433, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH INTERSTITIAL ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041USF
3. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,592, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH ENHANCED COLLECTOR ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041USG
4. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,320, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH ENHANCED EMITTER ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041USH
5. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,179, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER AND CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISM CAPABILITY”; SHPR-01028US1
6. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/340,702, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER AND CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED HOUSING CONFIGURATION AND ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISM CAPABILITY”; SHPR-01028US2
7. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,377, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER AND CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED MAINTENANCE FEATURES AND ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISM CAPABILITY”; SHPR-01028US3
8. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/023,197, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED CLEANING FEATURES”; SHPR-01041USI
9. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/023,460, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER CONDITIONER WITH PIN-RING ELECTRODE CONFIGURATION”; SHPR-01041USJ
10. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/340,288, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “DUAL INPUT AND OUTLET ELECTROSTATIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER”; SHPR-01041US7
11. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/341,176, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER WITH NON-EQUIDISTANT COLLECTOR ELECTRODES”; SHPR-01041US8
12. U.S. Patent Application No. 60/340,462, filed Dec. 13, 2001, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH A ENHANCED COLLECTOR ELECTRODE FOR COLLECTION OF MORE PARTICULATE MATTER”; SHPR-01041US9
13. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,082, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH AN UPSTREAM FOCUS ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041USL
15. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,208, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH ENHANCED COLLECTOR ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041USO
16. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,339, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH ENHANCED EMITTER ELECTRODE”; SHPR-01041USP
17. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,827, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER WITH NON-EQUIDISTANT COLLECTOR ELECTRODES”; SHPR-01041USQ
18. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,096, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER AND CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISM CAPABILITY”; SHPR-01028US4
19. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,347, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER AND CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED HOUSING CONFIGURATION AND ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISM CAPABILITY”; SHPR-01028US5
20. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,379, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER AND CONDITIONER DEVICE WITH ENHANCED MAINTENANCE FEATURES AND ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISM CAPABILITY”; SHPR-01028US6
21. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,549, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “DUAL INPUT AND OUTLET ELECTROSTATIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER”; SHPR-01041USR and
22. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/074,103, filed Feb. 12, 2002, entitled “ELECTRO-KINETIC AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER DEVICES WITH A ENHANCED COLLECTOR ELECTRODE FOR COLLECTION OF MORE PARTICULATE MATTER”. SHPR-01041USS.
All of the above are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates generally to devices that produce an electro-kinetic flow of air from which particulate matter is substantially removed.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONThe use of an electric motor to rotate a fan blade to create an airflow has long been known in the art. Unfortunately, such fans produce substantial noise, and can present a hazard to children who maybe tempted to poke a finger or a pencil into the moving fan blade. Although such fans can produce substantial airflow (e.g., 1,000 ft3/minute or more), substantial electrical power is required to operate the motor, and essentially no conditioning of the flowing air occurs.
It is known to provide such fans with a HEPA-compliant filter element to remove particulate matter larger than perhaps 0.3 μm. Unfortunately, the resistance to airflow presented by the filter element may require doubling the electric motor size to maintain a desired level of airflow. Further, HEPA-compliant filter elements are expensive, and can represent a substantial portion of the sale price of a HEPA-compliant filter-fan unit. While such filter-fan units can condition the air by removing large particles, particulate matter small enough to pass through the filter element is not removed, including bacteria, for example.
It is also known in the art to produce an airflow using electro-kinetic techniques, by which electrical power is converted into a flow of air without mechanically moving components. One such system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,789,801 to Lee (1988), depicted herein in simplified form as
The high voltage pulses ionize the air between the arrays, and create an airflow 50 from the first array toward the second array, without requiring any moving parts. Particulate matter 60 in the air is entrained within the airflow 50 and also moves towards the second electrodes 30. Much of the particulate matter is electrostatically attracted to the surfaces of the second electrodes, where it remains, thus conditioning the flow of air exiting system 10. Further, the high voltage field present between the electrode arrays can release ozone into the ambient environment, which can eliminate odors that are entrained in the airflow.
In the particular embodiment of
In another particular embodiment shown herein as
While the electrostatic techniques disclosed by the '801 patent are advantageous over conventional electric fan-filter units, further increased air transport-conditioning efficiency would be advantageous.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention provides an apparatus as follows.
One aspect of the present invention is to provide an electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner that produces an enhanced airflow velocity, enhanced particle collection, and an appropriate amount of ozone production.
An embodiment includes one or more focus or leading electrodes. Each focus or leading electrode may be located upstream to, or even with, each first electrode. The focus or leading electrodes assists in controlling the flow of ionized particles within the airflow. The focus or leading electrode shapes the electrostatic field generated by each first electrode within the electrode assembly.
Another embodiment includes one or more trailing electrodes. Each trailing electrode can be located downstream of a second electrode. The trailing electrode can assist in neutralizing the amount of ions exiting this embodiment of the invention, and can further assist in collecting ionized particles. The trailing electrode can alternatively enhance the flow of negative ions from the transporter-conditioner. Additionally, the trailing electrodes can improve the laminar flow properties of the airflow exiting the air transporter-conditioner.
Another embodiment of the invention includes at least one interstitial electrode located between two second electrodes. The interstitial electrode can also assist in the collection of particulate matter by the second electrodes.
In yet another embodiment of the invention, one or more of the second electrodes are formed to have an enhanced protective end or trailing surface which assists in the operation and cleaning of the embodiment.
In still a further embodiment of the invention, one or more first electrode are of enhanced length in order to increase the emissivity of the first electrode.
Other objects, aspects, features and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description in which the preferred embodiments have been set forth in detail, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and also from the following claim.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Overall Air Transporter-Conditioner System Configuration:
The upper surface of housing 102 includes a user-liftable handle member 112 to which is affixed a second array 240 of collector electrodes 242 within an electrode assembly 220. Electrode assembly 220 also comprises a first array of emitter electrodes 230, or a single first electrode shown here as a single wire or wire-shaped electrode 232. (The terms “wire” and “wire-shaped” shall be used interchangeably herein to mean an electrode either made from a wire or, if thicker or stiffer than a wire, having the appearance of a wire.) In the embodiment shown, lifting member 112 lifts second array electrodes 240 upward, causing the second electrode to telescope out of the top of the housing and, if desired, out of unit 100 for cleaning, while the first electrode array 230 remains within unit 100. As is evident from the figure, the second array of electrode can be lifted vertically out from the top 103 of unit 100 along the longitudinal axis or direction of the elongated housing 102. This arrangement with the second electrodes removable from the top 103 of the unit 100, makes it easy for the user to pull the second electrodes out for cleaning. In
The first and second arrays of electrodes are coupled to the output terminals of ion generating unit 160, as best seen in
The general shape of the embodiment of the invention shown in
As will be described, when unit 100 is energized with S1, high voltage or high potential output by ion generator 160 produces ions at the first electrode, which ions are attracted to the second electrodes. The movement of the ions in an “IN” to “OUT” direction carries with the ions air molecules, thus electro-kinetically producing an outflow of ionized air. The “IN” notation in
The housing preferably has a substantially oval-shaped or-elliptically shaped cross-section with dimpled side grooves. Thus, as indicated above, the cross-section looks somewhat like a figure eight. It is within the scope of the present invention for the housing to have a different shaped cross-section such as, but not limited to, a rectangular shape, an egg shape, a tear-drop shape, or circular shape. The housing preferably has a tall, thin configuration. As will become apparent later, the housing is preferably functionally shaped to contain the electrode assembly.
As mentioned above, the housing has an inlet and an outlet. Both the inlet and the outlet are covered by fins or louvers. Each fin is a thin ridge spaced-apart from the next fin, so that each fin creates minimal resistance as air flows through the housing. The fins are horizontal and are directed across the elongated vertical upstanding housing of the unit. Thus, the fins are substantially perpendicular in this preferred embodiment to the electrodes. The inlet and outlet fins are aligned to give the unit a “see through” appearance. Thus, a user can “see through” the unit from the inlet to the outlet. The user will see no moving parts within the housing, but just a quiet unit that cleans the air passing therethrough. Alternatively the fins can be parallel with the electrodes in another preferred embodiment. Other orientations of fins and electrodes are possible in other embodiments.
As best seen in
The high voltage generator unit 170 preferably comprises a low voltage oscillator circuit 190 of perhaps 20 KHz frequency, that outputs low voltage pulses to an electronic switch 200, e.g., a thyristor or the like. Switch 200 switchably couples the low voltage pulses to the input winding of a step-up transformer T1. The secondary winding of T1 is coupled to a high voltage multiplier circuit 210 that outputs high voltage pulses. Preferably the circuitry and components comprising high voltage pulse generator 170 and circuit 180 are fabricated on a printed circuit board that is mounted within housing 102. If desired, external audio input (e.g., from a stereo tuner) could be suitably coupled to oscillator 190 to acoustically modulate the kinetic airflow produced by unit 160. The result would be an electrostatic loudspeaker, whose output airflow is audible to the human ear in accordance with the audio input signal. Further, the output air stream would still include ions and ozone.
Output pulses from high voltage generator 170 preferably are at least 10 KV peak-to-peak with an effective DC offset of , for example, half the peak-to-peak voltage, and have a frequency of , for example, 20 KHz. Frequency of oscillation can include other values, but frequency of at least about 20 KHz is preferred as being inaudible to humans. If pets will be in the same room as the unit 100, it may be desired to utilize and even higher operating frequency, to prevent pet discomfort and/or howling by the pet. The pulse train output preferably has a duty cycle of for example 10%, which will promote battery lifetime if live current is not used. Of course, different peak-peak amplitudes, DC offsets, pulse train waveshapes, duty cycle, and/or repetition frequencies can be used instead. Indeed, a 100% pulse train (e.g., an essentially DC high voltage) may be used, albeit with shorter battery lifetime. Thus, generator unit 170 for this embodiment can be referred to as a high voltage pulse generator. Unit 170 functions as a DC:DC high voltage generator, and could be implemented using other circuitry and/or techniques to output high voltage pulses that are input to electrode assembly 220.
As noted, outflow (OUT) preferably includes appropriate amounts of ozone that can remove odors and preferably destroy or at least substantially alter bacteria, germs, and other living (or quasi-living) matter subjected to the outflow. Thus, when switch S1 is closed and the generator 170 has sufficient operating potential, pulses from high voltage pulse generator unit 170 create an outflow (OUT) of ionized air and ozone. When S1 is closed, LED will visually signal when ionization is occurring.
Preferably operating parameters of unit 100 are set during manufacture and are generally not user-adjustable. For example, with respect to operating parameters, increasing the peak-to-peak output voltage and/or duty cycle in the high voltage pulses generated by unit 170 can increase the airflow rate, ion content, and ozone content. These parameters can be set by the user by adjusting switch S2 as disclosed below. In the preferred embodiment, output flowrate is about 200 feet/minute, ion content is about 2,000,000/cc and ozone content is about 40 ppb (over ambient) to perhaps 2,000 ppb (over ambient). Decreasing the ratio of the radius of the nose of the second electrodes to the radius of the first electrode or decreasing the ratio of the cross-sectioned area of the second electrode to the first electrode below about 20:1 will decrease flow rate, as will decreasing the peak-to-peak voltage and/or duty cycle of the high voltage pulses coupled between the first and second electrode arrays.
In practice, unit 100 is placed in a room and connected to an appropriate source of operating potential, typically 117 VAC. With S1 energizing ionization unit 160, systems 100 emits ionized air and preferably some ozone via outlet vents 106. The airflow, coupled with the ions and ozone freshens the air in the room, and the ozone can beneficially destroy or at least diminish the undesired effects of certain odors, bacteria, germs, and the like. The airflow is indeed electro-kinetically produced, in that there are no intentionally moving parts within unit 100. (Some mechanical vibration may occur within the electrodes.).
Having described various aspects of this embodiment of the invention in general, preferred embodiments of electrode assembly 220 are now described. In the various embodiments, electrode assembly 220 comprises a first array 230 of at least one electrode or conductive surface 232, and further comprises a second array 240 of preferably at least one electrode or conductive surface 242. Understandably material(s) for electrodes 232 and 242 should conduct electricity, be resistant to corrosive effects from the application of high voltage, yet be strong enough to be cleaned.
In the various electrode assemblies to be described herein, electrode(s) 232 in the first electrode array 230 are preferably fabricated from tungsten. Tungsten is sufficiently robust in order to withstand cleaning, has a high melting point to retard breakdown due to ionization, and has a rough exterior surface that seems to promote efficient ionization. On the other hand, electrode(s) 242 preferably have a highly polished exterior surface to minimize unwanted point-to-point radiation. As such, electrode(s) 242 preferably are fabricated from stainless steel and/or brass, among other materials. The polished surface of electrode(s) 232 also promotes ease of electrode cleaning.
In contrast to the prior art electrodes disclosed by the '801 patent, electrodes 232 and 242, are light weight, easy to fabricate, and lend themselves to mass production. Further, electrodes 232 and 242 described herein promote more efficient generation of ionized air, and appropriate amounts of ozone, (indicated in several of the figures as O3).
Electrode Assembly with First and Second Electrodes:
The positive output terminal of unit 170 is coupled to first electrode array 230, and the negative output terminal is coupled to second electrode array 240. It is believed that with this arrangement the net polarity of the emitted ions is positive, e.g., more positive ions than negative ions are emitted. This coupling polarity has been found to work well, including minimizing unwanted audible electrode vibration or hum. However, while generation of positive ions is conducive to a relatively silent airflow, from a health standpoint, it is desired that the output airflow be richer in negative ions, not positive ions. It is noted that in some embodiments, one port (preferably the negative port) of the high voltage pulse generator can in fact be the ambient air. Thus, electrodes in the second array need not be connected to the high voltage pulse generator using a wire. Nonetheless, there will be an “effective connection” between the second array electrodes and one output port of the high voltage pulse generator, in this instance, via ambient air. Alternatively the negative output terminal of unit 170 can be connected to the first electrode array 230 and the positive output terminal can be connected to the second electrode array 240.
With this arrangement an electrostatic flow of air is created, going from the first electrode array towards the second electrode array. (This flow is denoted “OUT” in the figures.) Accordingly electrode assembly 220 is mounted within transporter system 100 such that second electrode array 240 is closer to the OUT vents and first electrode array 230 is closer to the IN vents.
When voltage or pulses from high voltage pulse generator 170 are coupled across first and second electrode arrays 230 and 240, a plasma-like field is created surrounding electrodes 232 in first array 230. This electric field ionizes the ambient air between the first and second electrode arrays and establishes an “OUT” airflow that moves towards the second array. It is understood that the IN flow enters via vent(s) 104, and that the OUT flow exits via vent(s) 106.
Ozone and ions are generated simultaneously by the first array electrodes 232, essentially as a function of the potential from generator 170 coupled to the first array of electrodes or conductive surfaces. Ozone generation can be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the potential at the first array. Coupling an opposite polarity potential to the second array electrodes 242 essentially accelerates the motion of ions generated at the first array, producing the airflow denoted as “OUT” in the figures. As the ions and ionized particulates move toward the second array, the ions and ionized particles push or move air molecules toward the second array. The relative velocity of this motion may be increased, by way of example, by decreasing the potential at the second array relative to the potential at the first array.
For example, if +10 KV were applied to the first array electrode(s), and no potential were applied to the second array electrode(s), a cloud of ions (whose net charge is positive) would form adjacent the first electrode array. Further, the relatively high 10 KV potential would generate substantial ozone. By coupling a relatively negative potential to the second array electrode(s), the velocity of the air mass moved by the net emitted ions increases.
On the other hand, if it were desired to maintain the same effective outflow (OUT) velocity, but to generate less ozone, the exemplary 10 KV potential could be divided between the electrode arrays. For example, generator 170 could provide +4 KV (or some other fraction) to the first array electrodes and −6 KV (or some other fraction) to the second array electrodes. In this example, it is understood that the +4 KV and the −6 KV are measured relative to ground. Understandably it is desired that the unit 100 operates to output appropriate amounts of ozone. Accordingly, the high voltage is preferably fractionalized with about +4 KV applied to the first array electrodes and about −6 KV applied to the second array electrodes.
In the embodiments of
As previously indicated first or emitter electrodes 232 are preferably lengths of tungsten wire, whereas electrodes 242 are formed from sheet metal, preferably stainless steel, although brass or other sheet metal could be used. The sheet metal is readily configured to define side regions 244 and bulbous nose region 246, forming the hollow, elongated “U”-shaped electrodes 242. While
In the embodiment of
Electrodes 232 in first array 230 are coupled by a conductor 234 to a first (preferably positive) output port of high voltage pulse generator 170. Electrodes 242 in second array 240 are coupled by a conductor 249 to a second (preferably negative) output port of high voltage generator 170. The electrodes maybe electrically connected to the conductors 234 or 249 at various locations. By way of example only,
In this and the other embodiments to be described herein, ionization appears to occur at the electrodes 232 in the first electrode array 230, with ozone production occurring as a function of high voltage arcing. For example, increasing the peak-to-peak voltage amplitude and/or duty cycle of the pulses from the high voltage pulse generator 170 can increase ozone content in the output flow of ionized air. If desired, user-control S2 can be used to somewhat vary ozone content by varying amplitude and/or duty cycle. Specific circuitry for achieving such control is known in the art and need not be described in detail herein.
Note the inclusion in
In the embodiments of
In
As discussed above and as depicted by
It is noted that the embodiments of
In the embodiment of
Electrode Assembly with an Upstream Focus Electrode:
The embodiments illustrated in
As shown in
The third focus electrode 224 illustrated in
In a preferred embodiment, each third focus electrodes 224a, 224b, 224c are electrically connected with the first array 230 and the high voltage generator 170 by the conductor 234. As shown in
The particles within the airflow are positively charged by the ions generated by the first electrode 232. As previously mentioned, the positively charged particles are collected by the negatively charged second electrodes 242. The third focus electrode 224 also directs the airflow towards the second electrodes 242 by guiding the charged particles towards the trailing sides 244 of each second electrode 242. It is believed that the airflow will travel around the third focus electrode 224, partially focusing the airflow towards the trailing sides 244, improving the collection rate of the electrode assembly 220.
The third focus electrode 224 maybe located at various positions upstream of each first electrode 232. By way of example only, a third focus electrode 224b is located directly upstream of the first electrode 232-2 so that the center of the third focus electrode 224b is in-line and symmetrically aligned with the first electrode 232-2, as shown by extension line B. Extension line B is located midway between the second electrode 242-2 and the second electrode 242-3.
Alternatively, a third focus electrode 224 can also be located at an angle relative to the first electrode 232. For example, a third focus electrode 224a can be located upstream of the first electrode 232-1 along a line extending from the middle of the nose 246 of the second electrode 242-2 through the center of the first electrode 232-1, as shown by extension line A. The third focus electrode 224a is in-line and symmetrically aligned with the first electrode 232-1 along extension line A. Similarly, the third electrode 224c is located upstream to the first electrode 232-3 along a line extending from the middle of the nose 246 of the second electrode 242-3 through the first electrode 232-3, as shown by extension line C. The third focus electrode 224c is in-line and symmetrically aligned with the first electrode 232-3 along extension line C. It is within the scope of the present invention for the electrode assembly 220 to include third focus electrodes 224 that are both directly upstream and at an angle to the first electrodes 232, as depicted in
In a preferred embodiment, the protective end 241 is created by shaping, or rolling, the trailing sides or side walls 244 inward and pressing them together, forming a rounded trailing end with no gap between the trailing sides or side walls of each second electrode 242. Accordingly the side walls have outer surfaces, and the outer surface of end of the side walls are bent back adjacent to the trailing ends of the side walls so that the outer surface of the side walls are adjacent to, or face, or touch each other. Accordingly a smooth trailing edge is integrally formed on the second electrode. If desired, it is within the scope of the invention to spot weld the rounded ends together along the length of the second electrode 242. It is also within the scope of the present invention to form the protective end 241 by other methods such as, but not limited to, placing a strap of plastic across each end of the trailing sides 244 for the full length of the second electrode 242. The rounded or capped end is an improvement over the previous electrodes 242 without a protective end 241. Eliminating the gap between the trailing sides 244 also reduces or eliminates the eddy currents typically generated by the second electrode 242. The rounded protective end also provides a smooth surface for purpose of cleaning the second electrode. Accordingly in this embodiment the collector electrode is a one-piece, integrally formed, electrode with a protection end.
The second electrode 242 in
A third leading or focus electrode 224 is located upstream of each first electrode 232. The innermost third focus electrode 224b is located directly upstream of the first electrode 232-2, as shown by extension line B. Extension line B is located midway between the second electrodes 242-2, 242-3. The third focus electrodes 224a, 224c are at an angle with respect to the first electrodes 232-1, 232-3. For example, the third focus electrode 224a is upstream to the first electrode 232-1 along a line extending from the middle of the nose 246 of the second electrode 242-2 extending through the center of the first electrode 232-1, as shown by extension line A. The third electrode 224c is located upstream of the first electrode 232-3 along a line extending from the center of the nose 246 of the second electrode 242-3 through the center of the first electrode 232-3, as shown by extension line C. Accordingly and preferably the focus electrodes fan out relative to the first electrodes as an aid for directing the flow of ions and charged particles.
The previously described embodiments of the electrode assembly 220 disclose a rod-shaped third focus electrode 224 upstream of each first electrode 232.
In a preferred embodiment, the third focus electrode 224 is electrically connected to the high voltage generator 170 by conductor 234. The third focus electrode 224 in
The electrical properties and characteristics of the third focus electrode 250 is similar to the third focus electrode 224 described in previous embodiments. In contrast to the rod-shaped physical characteristic of the previous embodiments, the shape the third focus electrode 250 is a concave disc, with the concave surface preferably facing toward the second electrodes 242. The third focus electrode 250 preferably has holes extending therethrough to minimize the disruption in airflow. It is within the scope of the present invention for the third focus electrode 250 to comprise other shapes such as, but not limited to, a convex disc a parabolic disc, a spherical disc, or other convex or concave shapes or a rectangle, or other planar surface and be within the spirit and scope of the invention. The diameter of the third focus electrode 250 is preferably at least fifteen times greater than the diameter of the first electrode 232. The focus electrode 250 can also be made of a screen or a mesh.
The second electrode 242 has an opening 246. The opening 246 is preferably circular in this embodiment. It is within the scope of the present invention that the opening 246 can comprise other shapes such as, but not limited to, rectangular, hexagonal or octagonal. The second electrode 242 has a collar 247 (see
Other similar pin-ring embodiments are shown in
In
Electrode Assembly with a Downstream Trailing Electrode:
When the trailing electrodes 245 are electrically connected to the high voltage generator 170, the positively charged particles within the airflow are also attracted to and collect on, the trailing electrodes. In a typical electrode assembly with no trailing electrode 245, most of the particles will collect on the surface area of the second electrodes 242. However, some particles will pass through the unit 200 without being collected by the second electrodes 242. Thus, the trailing electrodes 245 serve as a second surface area to collect the positively charged particles. The trailing electrodes 245 also can deflect charged particles toward the second electrodes.
The trailing electrodes 245 preferably also emit a small amount of negative ions into the airflow. These negative ions will neutralize the positive ions emitted by the first electrodes 232. If the positive ions emitted by the first electrodes 232 are not neutralized before the airflow reaches the outlet 260, the outlet fins 212 can become electrically charged and particles within the airflow may tend to stick to the fins 212. If this occurs, eventually the amount of particles collected by the fins 212 will block or minimize the airflow exiting the unit 200.
Electrode Assemblies with Various Combinations of Focus Electrodes, Trailing Electrodes and Enhanced Second Electrodes with Protective Ends:
Upstream from each first electrode 232, at a distance X2, is a third focus electrode 224. Each third focus electrode 224a, 224b is at an angle with respect to a first electrode 232. For example, the third focus electrode 224a is preferably along a line extending from the middle of the nose 246 of the second electrode 242-2 through the center of the first electrode 232-1, as shown by extension line A. The third focus electrode 224a is in-line and symmetrically aligned with the first electrode 232-1 along extension line A. Similarly, the third focus electrode 224b is located along a line extending from middle of the nose 246 of the second electrode 242-2 through the center of the first electrode 232-2, as shown by extension line B. The third focus electrode 224b is in-line and symmetrically aligned with the first electrode 232-2 along extension line B. As previously described, the diameter of each third focus electrode 224 is preferably at least fifteen times greater than the diameter of the first electrode 232.
As shown in
One aspect of the trailing electrode 245 is to direct the air trailing off the second electrode 242 and provide a more laminar flow of air exiting the outlet 260. Another aspect of the trailing electrode 245 is to neutralize the positive ions generated by the first array 230 and collect particles within the airflow. As shown in
Electrode Assemblies with Second Collector Electrodes having Interstitial Electrodes:
It is to be understood that interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b may also be closer to one second collector electrode than to the other. Also, the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b are preferably located substantially near or at the protective end 241 or ends of the trailing sides 244, as depicted in
Still further, the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b can be located upstream along the trailing side 244 of the second collector electrodes 244. However, the closer the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b get to the nose 246 of the second electrode 242, generally the less effective interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b are in urging positively charged particles toward the entire length the second electrodes 242. Preferably, the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b are wire-shaped and smaller or substantially smaller in diameter than the width “W” of the second collector electrodes 242. For example, the interstitial electrodes can have a diameter of, the same as, or on the order, of the diameter of the first electrodes. For example, the interstitial electrodes can have a diameter of one-sixteenth of an inch. Also, the diameter of the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b is substantially less than the distance between second collector electrodes, as indicated by Y2. Further the interstitial electrode can have a length or diameter in the downstream direction that is substantially less than the length of the second electrode in the downstream direction. The reason for this size of the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b is so that the interstitial electrodes 246a, 246b have a minimal effect on the airflow rate exiting the device 100 or 200.
Electrode Assembly with an Enhanced First Emitter Electrode Being Slack:
The previously described embodiments of the electrode assembly 220 include a first array of electrodes 230 having at least one wire-shaped electrode 232. It is within the scope of the present invention for the first array of electrodes 230 to contain electrodes consisting of other shapes and configurations.
As shown in
The electrodes 252, 254 and 256 shown in
The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to the practitioner skilled in the art. Modifications and variations maybe made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the subject and spirit of the invention as defined by the following claims. Embodiments were chosen and described in order to best describe the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the invention, the various embodiments and with various modifications that are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. An air conditioner having an ion generator disposed within a housing having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the ion generator at least produces ions in an airflow from the inlet to the outlet upon activation, the ion generator comprising:
- a. a first electrode assembly having a plurality of wire-like electrodes located proximal to the inlet;
- b. a second electrode assembly having a plurality of plates parallel to one another, the second electrode assembly downstream of the first electrode assembly;
- c. a trailing electrode downstream of the second electrode assembly and proximal to the outlet, the trailing electrode including a plurality of pointed ends and having at least a portion triangular in shape; and
- d. a voltage generator electrically coupled to the second electrode assembly and the trailing electrode, wherein the second electrode assembly and the trailing electrode are charged at the same potential.
2. The generator of claim 1 wherein the second electrode collects particles in the air charged by first electrode.
3. The generator of claim 1 wherein the voltage generator causes the first electrode to emit ions, wherein the trailing electrode neutralizes the ions emitted by the first electrode.
4. The generator of claim 1 wherein the voltage generator causes the first electrode to emit positive ions, wherein the trailing electrode emits negative ions to neutralize the positive ions emitted by the first electrode.
5. The generator of claim 1 wherein at least one pointed end of the trailing electrode is in-line with one second electrode in the second electrode assembly.
6. The generator of claim 1 wherein the second electrode is removable from the housing.
7. The generator of claim 1 further comprises a plurality of trailing electrode wires downstream of the second electrode array.
8. The generator of claim 1 wherein the first electrode is positively charged and the second electrode is negatively charged.
9. The generator of claim 1 wherein the first electrode is pin-shaped.
10. The generator of claim 1 wherein the trailing electrode is formed with the second electrode.
11. The generator of claim 1 wherein the trailing electrode protrudes from the second electrode.
12. The generator of claim 1 wherein the second electrode is elongated and has a base, the trailing electrode located at the base of the elongated second electrode.
13. The generator of claim 1 wherein the first and second electrodes are elongated and the trailing electrode is substantially shorter than the first and the second electrodes.
14. The generator of claim 1 wherein at least one of the plurality of pointed ends of the trailing electrode faces a downstream direction.
15. The generator of claim 1 wherein at least one of the plurality of pointed ends of the trailing electrode faces the outlet.
16. A method of conditioning air through an electro-kinetic air conditioner-transporter comprising:
- a. providing a housing having a top end and a bottom end and an air inlet and an air outlet, wherein the air inlet and the air outlet are configured between the top and bottom end;
- b. configuring a first electrode in the housing proximal to the air inlet;
- c. configuring a second electrode in the housing downstream of the first electrode;
- d. configuring a trailing electrode in the housing to be directly in-line and downstream from the second electrode, wherein the trailing electrode is proximal to the air outlet; and
- e. coupling a voltage generator to the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the voltage generator is adapted to positively energize the first electrode and negatively energize the second electrode to create a flow of air downstream from the air inlet to the air outlet.
17. A device for conditioning air comprising:
- a. a upstanding housing with an air inlet and an air outlet;
- b. a first wire electrode configured proximate to the air inlet;
- c. a second plate-like electrode configured downstream of the first electrode;
- d. a potential generator electrically coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the potential generator creates airflow in a downstream direction from the first electrode to the second electrode; and
- e. a trailing electrode located downstream of and in-line with the second electrode and proximal to the air outlet.
18. The device of claim 17 wherein the trailing electrode is charged to a polarity opposite of a polarity of the first electrode.
19. The device of claim 17 wherein the first electrode emits positive ions and the trailing electrode emits negative ions.
20. The device of claim 17 wherein the second electrode is removable from the housing.
21. The device of claim 17 wherein the trailing electrode is substantially the same length as the second electrode.
22. The device of claim 17 wherein the second electrode has a first width dimension and the trailing electrode has a second width dimension, wherein the second width dimension is substantially the same as the first width dimension.
23. The device of claim 17 wherein the second electrode has a first width dimension and the trailing electrode has a second width dimension, wherein the second width dimension is less than the first width dimension.
24. The device of claim 17 wherein the trailing electrode and the second electrode are charged to the same polarity.
25. The device of claim 17 wherein the second electrode has a width dimension and the trailing electrode is located downstream from the second electrode at least three times the width dimension.
26. The device of claim 17 wherein the first electrode is positively charged and the second electrode is negatively charged.
27. A device for conditioning air comprising:
- a. a upstanding housing having a top and a bottom, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet positioned between the top and the bottom;
- b. a first electrode proximate to the air inlet;
- c. a second electrode downstream of the first electrode;
- d. a potential generator electrically coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the potential generator creates airflow in a downstream direction from the inlet to the outlet; and
- e. a trailing electrode located downstream of and a portion in-line with the second electrode, the trailing electrode having a pointed end facing a direction towards the top of the housing.
28. An air conditioner having a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and an ion generator disposed within the housing, wherein the ion generator includes a first electrode and a second electrode downstream of the first electrode, the improvement comprising:
- a trailing electrode downstream of and directly in-line with the second electrode.
29. An air conditioner having a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and an ion generator disposed within the housing, wherein the ion generator includes a first electrode and a second electrode downstream of the first electrode, the improvement comprising:
- a trailing electrode downstream of the second electrode, the trailing electrode having at least one pointed end.
30. An air conditioner having a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and an ion generator disposed within the housing, wherein the ion generator includes a first electrode proximate to the inlet and a second electrode downstream of the first electrode, the improvement comprising:
- a trailing electrode downstream and directly in-line with the second electrode, wherein the trailing electrode is proximate to the outlet.
31. An air conditioner having a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and an ion generator disposed within the housing, wherein the ion generator includes a first electrode proximate to the inlet and a second electrode downstream of the first electrode, the improvement comprising:
- a trailing electrode downstream of the second electrode, wherein at least a portion of the trailing electrode having a pointed end positioned in-line with the second electrode.
32. An air conditioner having a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and an ion generator disposed within the housing, wherein the ion generator includes a first electrode proximate to the inlet and a second electrode downstream of the first electrode, the improvement comprising:
- a trailing electrode downstream of the second electrode, wherein at least a portion of the trailing electrode having a pointed end facing the outlet.
33. An air conditioner having a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and an ion generator disposed within the housing, wherein the ion generator includes a first electrode proximate to the inlet and a second electrode downstream of the first electrode, the improvement comprising:
- a trailing electrode downstream of the second electrode, wherein the trailing electrode having a first pointed end in-line with the second electrode and a second pointed end facing the outlet.
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 21, 2004
Publication Date: Jan 6, 2005
Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation (Novato, CA)
Inventors: Charles Taylor (Punta Gorda, FL), Jim Lee (Rohnert Park, CA)
Application Number: 10/895,799