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Title:
AIR PURIFIER
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2018/234631
Kind Code:
A9
Abstract:
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air purifier (1), comprising a housing (2) comprising an air inlet (5) and an exhaust air exit (6), and wherein a fluid channel is formed within the housing (2) between the air inlet and the exhaust air exit, and an electrostatic filter (10) construction within the housing (2), the electrostatic filter (10) construction including a charging unit (14), which charges the particles to be filtered into a first electric potential and arranged in the filter construction (10) in the path of the air flow before filter elements, electrically conducting electrodes connected to a second electric potential different to the potential of the charged particles and set substantially parallel to the direction of the airflow, and filter elements positioned after the charging unit (14) in the path of the air flow.

Inventors:
MAKIPAA VESA (CN)
MAKIPAA JANETTE (FI)
Application Number:
PCT/FI2018/050472
Publication Date:
July 04, 2019
Filing Date:
June 18, 2018
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
LIFA AIR LTD (CN)
MAKIPAA VESA (CN)
International Classes:
A61L9/22; A61L9/20; B01D46/00; B01D53/02; B03C3/017; B03C3/02; B03C3/155; B03C3/40; B03C3/47; B60H3/06; F24F8/167
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
SEPPO LAINE OY (FI)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS:

1. An air purifier, comprising:

- a housing comprising an air inlet and an air exit, and wherein a fluid channel is formed within the housing between the air inlet and the air exit, and

- an electrostatic filter construction within the housing, the electrostatic filter construction including:

- a charging unit, which charges the particles to be filtered into a first electric potential and arranged in the filter construction in the path of the air flow before filter elements,

- electrically conducting electrodes connected to a second electric potential different to the potential of the charged particles and set substantially parallel to the direction of the airflow, and

- filter elements positioned after the charging unit in the path of the air flow.

2. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein the air purifier is configured to be installed as a part of a ventilation system, as a stand-alone solution or integrated into other structures or devices.

3. The air purifier according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the air purifier is configured to allow air to flow through the housing of the air purifier.

4. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the air purifier comprises an UV- light source.

5. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the air purifier comprises a blower.

6. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the air purifier is configured to clean air and/or to remove odors.

7. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the filter is configured to collect viruses bacteria, gases, nanosized particles and PM2.5.

8. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the filter element is in bag form.

9. The air purifier according to claim 8, wherein the bag comprises multiple bags.

10. The air purifier according to claim 8, wherein the bag comprises separate layers for different purposes.

11. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the air purifier comprises a safety switch capable of cutting of main power if the housing is opened.

12. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the air purifier is configured to be controlled wirelessly.

13. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the air purifier is configured to be controlled with a wired connection to a control panel.

14. The air purifier according to claim 13, wherein the control panel is configured to provide information regarding at least one of present fan speed, remaining time in timer, possible error in any of components, filter change reminder and whether UV-light is operational.

15. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the air purifier comprises LED indicators.

16. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the air purifier is configured to notify a user when the filter is to be changed based on signals from the motor.

17. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein the air purifier is configured to be used in a horizontal or vertical orientation.

18. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein a length of the housing is longitudinally adjustable.

19. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the air purifier comprises a timer programmed UV-light source.

20. The air purifier according to claim 19, wherein the UV-light source is configured to be switched on and off periodically.

21. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein the charging unit comprises carbon extensions or carbon brushes.

22. The air purifier according to claim 21, wherein the carbon extensions or carbon brushes are at least partially surrounded by grounded plates.

23. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-22, wherein the air purifier comprises a DC motor.

24. The air purifier according to claim 23, wherein the DC motor is steplessly adjustable.

25. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-24, wherein the housing is constructed of medium density panels embossed with aluminum.

26. The air purifier according to claim 25, wherein the panels are connected to each other by aluminum extruded flanges.

27. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-26, wherein the filter elements are removable.

28. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-27, wherein the charging unit is removable.

29. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-28, wherein the filter construction is configured to be connected to a mobile communication device.

30. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-29, wherein one side of the filter element is covered with Ti02 and this side is exposed to UV-light.

31. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-30, wherein the filter elements are made of electrically conducting material.

32. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-31, wherein inside the filter elements are electrodes connected to a voltage opposite to the voltage of the charging unit.

33. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-32, wherein the filter elements are disposable.

34. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-33, wherein the filter elements comprise a layer of particle filter media and of gas filter media.

35. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-34, wherein corona strips are connected to negative high voltage.

36. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-35, wherein the charging unit comprises corona strips including brush like extensions directed against the air flow.

37. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1-36, wherein the filter elements are positioned around the electrodes, and inside the filter elements UV- light sources are positioned and photo catalytic material like Ti02.

Description:
AIR PURIFIER

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an air purifier.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Many different devices and methods for separating particles from a gas flow are known. Such devices are also called air purifiers. Such air purifiers are, for example, used in isolation rooms in hospitals, in operating rooms, in factories, in rooms in homes and offices, and the like.

[0003] Consciousness of air impurities and the health hazards caused by them has increased considerably in recent years. Research has shown that gaseous and particulate impurities are environmental exposure agents that clearly increase sickness and health hazards. The problems are worst in large cities, in which emissions from traffic and energy production pollute the air. Besides their health hazards, impurities in outdoor air also affect the corrosion and oxidation of materials.

[0004] Attempts are made to reduce the impurities travelling from outside to the indoor air of buildings and vehicles by filtering the incoming air. Nowadays, the replacement air for dwellings, offices, and commercial buildings is cleaned mainly using only particle filters; gases are filtered mainly only in special cases (e.g., clean rooms, electrical and electronics rooms).

[0005] The separation ability of particle filters varies greatly depending of the size of the particles. Fibre filters separate particles well if they are more than 5 pm, such as, for example, pollens. However, most of the emissions from traffic and energy production are small particles (particle size less than 1 pm), which are much more difficult to filter.

[0006] Recently, combination filters have appeared on the market, which filter gases and particles. However, the small-particle separation efficiency of combination filters is quite modest. They generally belong to the fine filter class (F5-F9) l0pm>Dp> lpm in EN779 standard, which means, for example, that they filter a half or less of the 0,3-pm particles). The ability of the filters to charge gases is very modest in relation to the nominal airflow. US patent 5,108,470 (Charging element having odour and gas absorbing properties for an electrostatic air filter) discloses a filter, in which a flat electrode containing activated carbon is located between two filter structures. The activated-carbon electrode is connected to an electrical power circuit. The construction is surrounded by metal electrodes, which have no filtering properties. The filter construction is at right angles to the direction of flow.

[0007] Application WO 98/22222 (Device in connection with an electrostatic filter) in turn discloses placing a fibre filter between two or more activated-carbon electrodes. In this case, the direction of the flow is parallel to the electrodes.

[0008] A general problem with flat-plate filter solutions is the small amount of gas filtering material: for the filter to be able to effectively separate gaseous impurities, the transit time through the filter material should be sufficiently long. The small amount of adsorptive material means that the charging capacity of the solutions described for gaseous impurities remains low. For this reason, the filters have a short service life. By adding consecutive filtering stages, the gas filtering ability of the alternatives referred to above can be increased, but at the same time the pressure drop will increase.

[0009] The capacity of a gas filter can be increased by using a corrugated construction, as disclosed in patent US 5,549,735 (Electrostatic fibrous filter). The patent discloses a solution, in which there is a charger section, a high-voltage electrode with the same polarity as the charger section, and an earthed activated carbon electrode. The high voltage is used to form an electrical field between the metal mesh and the activated carbon electrode.

[0010] The metal mesh does not have filtering properties. It is difficult to make an even electrical field, because close to the tops of the corrugations the distance of the electrodes easily differs from what it is in the flat section. When making the creases, the upper and lower parts of the corrugations must be sealed. In addition, the parts must be impermeable to air, because the upper and lower parts do not participate in filtering.

[0011] To produce clean incoming air, a filter must be able to filter not only small particles, but also gaseous impurities. One problem is the pressure drop over the filter: present solutions cannot provide effective particle and gas filtering simultaneously with a low pressure drop. Effective filtering is also expensive to implement. In practice, this means that existing air-conditioning machinery would require more powerful and also noisier fans, in order to compensate for the pressure drop caused by the additional filtering. An increasing pressure drop over the filter will require a corresponding increase in fan energy, thus correspondingly increasing the power consumption of the fans.

[0012] W00220162 and US5403383 describe other prior art electrical filters.

[0013] EP 03712196 describes an electrostatic filter structure with bag like filters for filtering both gases and particles. In the filter, electrical forces are exploited by charging the particles with the aid of a corona discharge produced, for example, using corona wires, and collected with the aid of an electrical field in a collector unit. In the charger unit and the collector unit, voltages of the order of 8 - 10 kV can be used. With the aid of the electrical forces, effective filtering can be achieved for small particles too, without high pressure drops.

[0014] In this solution both electrodes are manufactured from activated carbon, or some other material containing a substance that filters gases, and which has a low electrical conductivity. In this case, a material with a low electrical conductivity refers to a material with a surface resistance in the order of 10 9 - 10 15 Ohms.

[0015] In order to bring the electrical filtering effect to a sufficient level, there should be a high difference in voltage potential between the electrodes. This can be implemented in two ways, but in practice a simple construction is one in which one electrode is connected to a high voltage and the other electrode is earthed. This electrode can also be left floating, though this may weaken the filtering effect.

[0016] Also photo catalytic filter structures are known. However in these solutions because of free air flow with high air speed, energy dosage will be not enough to enable to destroy DNA structure of living organism inside ventilation systems. Alternatively if such arrangement will be installed inside air handling unit both initial investment and running costs are very high.

[0017] Most of the UV-lights used for HVAC industry are Mercury Lamp types (Hg, Hg-Fe, and Hg-Ga) having high radiation efficiency with high energy consumption. In addition, mercury lamps are very bad for the environment. [0018] Based on done measurements bag filter with 300 mm deep pocket have following UVC-light density:

1,000 gW/cm 2 = 1,000 mW/cm 2 or lOW/m2

9 cm from UV-light inside filter bag pocket, density was 650 gW/cm 2 18 cm from UV-light inside filter bag pocket, density was 400 gW/cm 2

[0019] Filters used inside Air Handling Units are normally 600 mm deep, often having several bends, thus density will be in several areas, at least in the bottom part of the pocket 0pW/cm 2 .

[0020] Similarly when using UVA-and/or UVB-lights and Ti02 or similar catalyst on inner filter surface inside of bag filter pockets, energy dosage needed for photocatalytic reaction cannot be reached caused by poor achievability of radiation.

[0021] In view of the foregoing, it would be beneficial to provide an air purifier further improving purifying efficiency.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The invention is to create an entirely new type of gas and particle filter. With the invention at least part of the drawbacks of the prior art referred to above can be eliminated.

[0023] The invention is defined by the features of the independent claims. Some specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0024] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air purifier comprising a housing comprising an air inlet and an exhaust air exit, and wherein a fluid channel is formed within the housing between the air inlet and the exhaust air exit, and an electrostatic filter construction within the housing, the electrostatic filter construction including a charging unit, which charges the particles to be filtered into a first electric potential and arranged in the filter construction in the path of the air flow before filter elements, electrically conducting electrodes connected to a second electric potential different to the potential of the charged particles and set substantially parallel to the direction of the airflow, and filter elements positioned after the charging unit in the path of the air flow.

[0025] Various embodiments of the first aspect may comprise at least one feature from the following bulleted list:

• the air purifier is configured to be installed as a part of a ventilation system, as a stand-alone solution or integrated into other structures or devices

• the air purifier is configured to allow air to flow through the housing of the air purifier

• the air purifier comprises an UV-light source

• the air purifier comprises a blower

• the air purifier is configured to clean air and/or to remove odors

• the filter is configured to collect viruses bacteria, gases, nanosized particles and PM2.5

• the filter is in bag form

• the bag comprises multiple bags

• the bag comprises separate layers for different purposes

• the air purifier comprises a safety switch capable of cutting of main power if the housing is opened

• the air purifier is configured to be controlled wirelessly

• the air purifier is configured to be controlled with a wired connection to a control panel

• the control panel is configured to provide information regarding at least one of present fan speed, remaining time in timer, possible error in any of components, filter change reminder and whether UV-light is operational

• the air purifier comprises LED indicators

• the air purifier is configured to notify a user when the filter is to be changed based on signals from the motor

• the air purifier is configured to be used in a horizontal or vertical orientation

• a length of the housing is longitudinally adjustable, i.e. in the direction of air flow

• the air purifier comprises a timer programmed UV-light source

• the UV-light source is configured to be switched on and off periodically • the charging unit comprises carbon extensions or carbon brushes

• the carbon extensions or carbon brushes are at least partially surrounded by grounded plates

• the air purifier comprises a DC motor

• the DC motor is steplessly adjustable

• the housing is constructed of medium density panels embossed with aluminum

• the panels are connected to each other by aluminum extruded flanges

• the filter elements are removable

• the charging unit is removable

• the filter construction is configured to be connected to a mobile communication device

• one side of the filter element is covered with Ti0 2 and this side is exposed to UV- light

• the filter elements are made of electrically conducting material

• inside the filter elements are electrodes connected to a voltage opposite to the voltage of the charging unit

• the filter elements are disposable

• the filter elements comprise a layer of particle filter media and of gas filter media

• corona strips are connected to negative high voltage

• the charging unit comprises corona strips including brush like extensions directed against the air flow

• the filter elements are positioned around the electrodes, and inside the filter elements UV- light sources are positioned and photo catalytic material like Ti0 2

[0026] Considerable advantages are obtained by means of certain embodiments of the present invention. An air purifier is provided.

[0027] Certain embodiments of the present invention can be installed as a part of a ventilation system, as a stand-alone solution or integrated into other structures or devices.

[0028] The air purifier is easy to retrofit in ductwork or into a new application. The

Connection mechanism is flexible and allows connection to various types and shapes of air channels when connected to an air duct. [0029] The housing is typically built of medium density panels embossed with aluminum. In such a case, the panels are connected to each other by aluminum extruded flanges. Advantages of such a construction are flexibility in product dimensions, for example length, in noise reduction, in light weight, in resistance to vibration and in condensation of water. Such a construction is also fire resistant.

[0030] The service can be conveniently done without tools and air tightness is ensured by double sealing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0031] FIGURE 1 and FIGURE la illustrate a view of a housing of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0032] FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 2a illustrate a view of an air entry of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0033] FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 3a illustrate a view of an exhaust air exit of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0034] FIGURE 4 and FIGURE 4a illustrate a view of a control board with indicator lights and screen of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0035] FIGURE 5 and FIGURE 5a illustrate a PCB and electronics installed in a control board of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0036] FIGURE 6 and FIGURE 6a illustrate components of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0037] FIGURE 7 and FIGURE 7a illustrate an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the filter bag has been removed,

[0038] FIGURE 8 and FIGURE 8a illustrate an ionizer of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention, [0039] FIGURE 9 and FIGURE 9a illustrate an ionizer and a UV-light source of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0040] FIGURE 10 and FIGURE lOa illustrate a blower of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention, [0041] FIGURE 11 and FIGURE l la illustrate a filter of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0042] FIGURE 12 and FIGURE l2a illustrate an exterior view of another air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0043] FIGURE 13 and FIGURE l3a illustrate a safety switch for cutting of the power of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0044] FIGURE 14 and FIGURE l4a illustrate a front view of another air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0045] FIGURE 15 and FIGURE l5a illustrate a DC motor, fan, and power adapter of another air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0046] FIGURE 16 and FIGURE l6a illustrate components of another air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0047] FIGURE 17 and FIGURE l7a illustrate an air entry of another air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0048] FIGURE 18 and FIGURE l8a illustrate components of another air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention, and

[0049] FIGURE 19 and FIGURE l9a illustrate an ionizer of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. EMBODIMENTS

[0050] In FIGURE 1 and FIGURE la a view of a housing 2 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The air purifier 1 comprises a housing 2. The housing 2 is typically built of medium density panels embossed with aluminum. In such a case, the panels are connected to each other by aluminum extruded flanges. Advantages of such a construction are flexibility in product dimensions, for example length, in noise reduction, in light weight, in resistance to vibration and in condensation of water. Such a construction is also fire resistant.

[0051] The air purifier 1 comprises an air entry at a first front side 3 of the housing 2 and an exhaust air exit at an opposite second front side 4 of the housing 2. During the purifying process, air will flow through a channel within the housing 2 from the air entry to the exhaust air exit.

[0052] In FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 2a a view of an air entry 5 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In other words, at least one opening through which ambient air can flow into the housing 2 is provided in the first front side 3 of the housing 2.

[0053] In FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 3a a view of an exhaust air exit 6 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In other words, at least one opening through which air can flow from within the housing 2 is provided in the second front side 4 of the housing 2.

[0054] In FIGURE 4 and FIGURE 4a a view of a control board 7 with indicator lights 8 and screen 9 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. Control board 7 is attached to the housing 2 of the air purifier 1. The control board is shown from outside of the housing. The control board 7 may be configured to provide information of present fan speed, remaining time in timer, possible error in any of the components, filter change reminder and whether UV-light is operational, for instance. The aforementioned information is displayed on the screen 9 or with LED-indicator lights 8. LED-indicator lights 8 may have different colors to visualize present status of operation. [0055] In FIGURE 5 and FIGURE 5a a PCB and electronics installed in a control board 7 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. The control board 7 is shown from within the housing 2.

[0056] In FIGURE 6 and FIGURE 6a components of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. Within the housing there are several components arranged.

[0057] The air purifier 1 is equipped with 3G-technology, more specifically ionization, particle filter and active carbon filter.

[0058] The air purifier 1 comprises an ionizer or charging unit 14. The unit may have carbon brushes where corona discharge generates negative ions. This will enhance the filtration efficiency. Electromagnetic field is strengthened with grounded plates surrounding the carbon brushes.

[0059] Further, the air purifier 1 comprises a filter 10. The filter 10 is in bag form. The filter 10 may have multiple bags 11 and separate layers for different purposes. Particle filter media may collect particular matter and active carbon layer may adsorb gaseous contaminants. The bags 11 are typically orientated parallel to the direction of gas flow through the housing 2.

[0060] According to certain embodiments, a combined filter and electrode unit mounted together may be provided. Electrodes are positioned parallel to the air flow and covered with a suitable photo catalytic material like Ti0 2 . The electrodes are typically aluminium, also other metals or other electrically conductive material may be used. On these electrode plates are positioned UV-light sources on both sides of the electrode. These light sources 16 are typically LED (Light emitting Diodes) light sources assembled on suitable substrate, in this case a longitudinal circuit board extending deep into the filter bag 11. Typically the light source elements are as long as the electrodes. On the other hand the electrodes extend almost to the end of the filter bags 11. The ratio of the length of the electrode to the length of the filter bag 11 is typically around 70 %, advantageously in the range of 50-95%. Wiring feeds energy to the light sources and as well takes care of the grounding of the electrodes. Using UV-C light LED lights are installed on both sides of electrode. The main target with UV-C radiation is to destroy DNA structure of the organic material captured to the filter media. UV-A and UV-B light can also be installed in both sides of electrodes and be mainly used for photocatalytic oxidation. Using UV-A and UV- B led lights can also be installed inside between electrode plates that must be then transparent enabling uv-light to penetrate through plates. These plates can have either honeycomb, mesh wire or nanostructure like graphene or other nano layer type structure to enhance surface area for Ti0 2 or other catalyst above flat plates. Only electrode plate’s inner side against UV-light will not be coated with Ti0 2 , all other surfaces (Electrode plates outer side and structures integrated in it) will be coated with anatase phase or combination of anatase and rutile phase of Ti0 2 . Other catalyst can also be used. Amount of LED-light depends on the usage of the filter solution, distance to catalyst and PCO efficiency needed The efficiency of LED light is measured in lumens per watt, which refers to the total quantity of light the LED lamp produces per 1 W of energy. Efficiency = total lumen output / total power. These light sources 16 are typically LED (Light emitting Diodes) light sources assembled on suitable substrate, in this case a longitudinal circuit board extending deep into the filter bag 11. Typically the light source elements are slightly shorter than electrodes. On the other hand the electrodes extend almost to the end of the filter bags 11.

[0061] Additionally, the air purifier 1 comprises a control board 7 attached to the housing.

[0062] Furthermore, the air purifier comprises a safety switch 12 capable of cutting of main power if the housing 2 is opened. The grommets are protected with waterproof cable glands.

[0063] Yet further, the air purifier comprises optionally a blower 13. The unit uses a DC-motor which can be steplessly adjusted, is silent and has low power consumption. The fan blades are protected so that user cannot accidentally touch them.

[0064] UV-light is also an optional accessory. The air purifier 1 may have a timer programmed UV-light which destroys the collected organisms from the filter surface. The purpose is to periodically sterilize filter media in order to avoid excessive energy consumption.

[0065] The air purifier 1 will clean the air and remove odors. An important component is the filtering arrangement which can collect vast amounts of various contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, gases, nanosized particles and PM2.5. [0066] The air purifier 1 can be used horizontally or vertically in any position.

[0067] The service can be conveniently done without tools and air tightness is ensured by double sealing.

[0068] The air purifier 1 is easy to retrofit in ductwork or into a new application. The connection mechanism is flexible and allows connection to various types and shapes of air channels when connected to an air duct.

[0069] In FIGURE 7 and FIGURE 7a an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated, wherein the filter 10 has been removed.

[0070] In FIGURE 8 and FIGURE 8a an ionizer 14 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The ionizer unit 14 may have carbon brushes 15 where corona discharge generates negative ions. Typically, the corona brushes 15 are arranged in several rows. The corona brushes 15 provide an ion flow, thus separating the desired materials from the gas flowing through the housing 2.

[0071] The ionizer or charging unit 14 comprises a frame, which may be e.g. of aluminium. Inside of the frame are positioned corona strips equipped with brush like extensions 15 directed against the air flow. These extensions have activated carbon fibre brushes 15 on the top. In this way the first thing high voltage item the air flow meets are these carbon fibre brushes 15. By this feature wear of the corona elements can be minimized. In this solution there are two parallel electrically conductive corona strips positioned such that each strip is e.g. located about 25% of the total width W away from the inside of the frame, where W is the total width of the inside of the frame. The number of corona strips increases if the inner cross section (face) of charging unit 14 increases. On the other hand each brush 15 has a limited area of influence and therefore a charging unit 14 with a larger cross section needs more brushes 15.

[0072] In FIGURE 9 and FIGURE 9a an ionizer 14 and a UV-light source 16 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The UV-light source 16 is an optional feature and configured to emit UV light. The UV-light source unit 16 may have a timer programmed UV-light which destroys the collected organisms from the filter surface. [0073] In FIGURE 10 and FIGURE lOa a blower 13 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The blower unit 13 uses a DC-motor which can be steplessly adjusted, is silent and has low power consumption. The fan blades are protected so that a user cannot accidentally touch them.

[0074] In FIGURE 11 and FIGURE 1 la a filter 10 of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The filter 10 comprises a frame or plate 17 with openings 18 through which a gas can flow. The bags of the filter are attached to the plate 17. The plate 17, and thus the filter 10, can be easily removed from and inserted into the housing 2.

[0075] In one embodiment, the filter bag unit 10 (without the charging unit) is disposable, in other words the filter bags 15 will not be cleaned but replaced by a new unit when dirty. This saves essentially maintenance time and cost.

[0076] Photo catalytic material like Ti0 2 may also be positioned in the filter bags 11 with suitable process like with wet and dry methods. In the wet method, the nano-Ti0 2 in anatase phase of Ti0 2 is in liquid solution which is sprayed onto the substrate. In the dry method the anatase phase of Ti0 2 is in powder form and then led through the substrate material. Nano-coating methods such as spraying, dipping and ultra sound treating may be used. [0077] First filter media to against UV-light source will be treated with photo catalyst and it can be:

• non woven activated carbon filter media

• electret filter material

• coarse filter material

· combination and/or mix of the filter material named above or other filter material

[0078] The filter unit 10 may include an electrode unit. The electrodes are positioned between support poles, which keep the elastic filter bags 11 in suitable form. The frame 17 may be e.g. plastic. Of course the number of electrode/bag pairs can vary, typically in range of 4-12. [0079] In FIGURE 12 and FIGURE l2a an exterior view of another air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The air purifier 1 comprises a housing 2. The housing 2 is typically built of medium density panels embossed with aluminum. In such a case, the panels are connected to each other by aluminum extruded flanges. Advantages of such a construction are flexibility in product dimensions, for example length, in noise reduction, in light weight, in resistance to vibration and in condensation of water. Such a construction is also fire resistant.

[0080] In FIGURE 13 and FIGURE l3a a safety switch 12 for cutting of the power of an air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The safety switch 12 is attached to the housing 2. The safety switch 12 is further electrically connected to the blower and to the ionizer. When the inspection door of the housing 2 is opened, the blower will be turned off. Additionally, the ionizer will be turned off.

[0081] In FIGURE 14 and FIGURE l4a a front view of another air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The exhaust air exit side 4 is shown. The second front side 4 comprises an opening and a plurality of screw holes for connecting the air purifier 1 to a duct, for instance. The blower 13 is visible through the opening in the second front side 4.

[0082] In FIGURE 15 and FIGURE l5a a DC motor, fan 13, and power adapter 19 of another air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated.

[0083] In FIGURE 16 and FIGURE l6a components of another air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. The air purifier 1 comprises a housing 2 having an air entry opening through a first front 3 and an exhaust air exit through a second front 4. Air is allowed to flow through the housing 2 during use of the air purifier 1. Within the housing 2, i.e. in the flow channel, there is a filter construction arranged. The filter construction comprises a charging unit 14 and a filter 10. The filter 10 comprises a plurality of bags. Both the charging unit 14 and the filter 10 are removably connected to the housing 2. Both the charging unit 14 and the filter 10 can be moved along a linear guiding. Thus, it is easy the remove and to insert the charging unit 14 and the filter 10. The air purifier 1 further comprises a safety switch 12 and a control board 7. Additionally, the air purifier comprises a power adapter 19 and a blower 13. The air purifier 1 uses a DC-motor which can be steplessly adjusted, is silent and has low power consumption. The fan blades are protected so that user cannot accidentally touch them. The safety switch cuts off main power if the unit is opened, the grommets are protected with waterproof cable glands. [0084] The air purifier is equipped with 3G-technology, i.e. ionization, particle filter and active carbon filter. UV-light is optional accessory. Blower is also optional in case the air duct has sufficient air flow. This product will clean the air and remove odors. The main component is the filtering arrangement which can collect vast amount of various contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, gases, nanosized particles and PM2.5. [0085] The air purifier 1 has a timer programmed UV-light which destroys the collected organisms from the filter surface. The purpose is to periodically sterilize filter media so excessive energy consuming can be avoided.

[0086] The air purifier 1 has carbon brushes where corona discharge generates negative ions, this will enhance the filtration efficiency. Electromagnetic field is strengthened with grounded plates surrounding the carbon brushes.

[0087] The filter 10 is in bag form and has multiple bags and separate layers for different purposes, particle filter media collects particular matter and active carbon layer adsorbs gaseous contaminants.

[0088] The air purifier 1 can be controlled either wirelessly or with wired connection to optional control panel 7. Control panel 7 provides information of present fan speed, remaining time in timer, possible error in any of components, filter change reminder and whether UV-light is operational. These will be displayed on screen or with LED-indicators. LED-indicators have different colors to visualize present status of operation.

[0089] The air purifier 1 is programmed to notify user when the filter 10 should be changed, this is based on signals from the motor.

[0090] The air purifier 1 can be used horizontally or vertically in any position.

[0091] The service can be conveniently done without tools and air tightness is ensured by double sealing. [0092] The air purifier 1 is easy to retrofit in ductwork or in to new application. Connection mechanism is flexible and allows connection to various types and shapes of air channels when connected to air duct.

[0093] The product is can be installed as a part of a ventilation system, as a stand- alone solution or integrated into other structures or devices. Air will flow through the unit and be purified during the process.

[0094] The housing 2 of the air purifier 1 may be, for example, made of sandwich material.

[0095] The length of the housing 2, i.e. the distance between the first front 3 and the second front 4 may be adjustable. Instead, also housings 2 each having a different length may be provided. The dimensions of the filter construction may be dependent on the length of the housing 2.

[0096] In FIGURE 17 and FIGURE l7a an air entry 5 of another air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The front end 3 of the housing 2 of the air purifier 1 comprises an air entry opening 5. Through the air entry 5 a UV-light source a charging unit and a filter are visible.

[0097] In FIGURE 18 and FIGURE l8a components of another air purifier 1 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated.

[0098] In FIGURE 19 and FIGURE l9a an ionizer of an air purifier in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention is illustrated

[0099] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed are not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but are extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0001] Reference throughout this specification to one embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases“in one embodiment” or“in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Where reference is made to a numerical value using a term such as, for example, about or substantially, the exact numerical value is also disclosed.

[0002] As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and/or materials may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary. In addition, various embodiments and example of the present invention may be referred to herein along with alternatives for the various components thereof. It is understood that such embodiments, examples, and alternatives are not to be construed as de facto equivalents of one another, but are to be considered as separate and autonomous representations of the present invention.

[0003] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of lengths, widths, shapes, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0004] While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the claims set forth below.

[0005] The verbs“to comprise” and“to include” are used in this document as open limitations that neither exclude nor require the existence of also un-recited features. The features recited in depending claims are mutually freely combinable unless otherwise explicitly stated. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the use of "a" or "an", that is, a singular form, throughout this document does not exclude a plurality. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0006] At least some embodiments of the present invention find industrial application in air purifiers and/or purifying air.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

1 air purifier

2 housing

3 first front side

4 second front side

5 air entry

6 exhaust air exit

7 control board

8 indicator lights

9 screen

10 filter

11 bag

12 safety switch

13 blower

14 ionizer

15 corona brushes

16 UV- light source

17 plate

18 opening

19 power adapter