DE102020112867A1 - Air treatment device with a modular structure - Google Patents

Abstract

An air processing device (1) is proposed for processing air in that the air flows through a flow area (9, 10) of the air processing device (1), with at least one air inlet (LE) and at least one air outlet (LA) and with a container (3) , which forms part of the flow-through area (9, 10), the container (3) having a module slot (S) for receiving and attaching a functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) in a detachable manner around the functional module (2) to be able to use and / or replace and thus achieve a cost advantage, the module slot (S) being connected between the air inlet (LE) and the air outlet (LA) so that the functional module (2) can be flowed through by the air.

Description

The invention relates to an air processing device for processing air according to the preamble of claim 1.

From the prior art, for example, from EP 3 093 567 B1 a humidifier is known in which water is stored in a container, a roller which partially protrudes into the water, rotates and thus periodically dips into the water and is moved out of the water again. Air is blown onto the roller from the environment by a fan. By means of cold evaporation, moisture is released into the air in the contact between the air and the wetted surface of the roller. In order to prevent bacteria from forming in the container, for example, in this known state of the art, a corresponding hygiene agent or disinfectant can be stored in a disk, which in turn is attached to the axis of the roller and therefore rotates with the roller. In this way, the disk is also periodically immersed in the water. In a similar way, for example, softening agents can also be stored in the disk instead and soften the water during operation.

The object of the invention is to be able to propose an air treatment device which can bring a cost advantage in connection with the production but also for the user.

The object is achieved by the characterizing features of claim 1, based on the type of air treatment device mentioned at the beginning.

The measures specified in the dependent claims make advantageous designs and developments of the invention possible.

The air preparation device according to the invention is generally used to prepare the air, for example in the sense of air humidification, air dehumidification, cleaning, cooling or the like. In addition, other functions are also possible, for example the release of a fragrance into the air or the like. For this purpose, the air flows through a flow area of the air preparation device. Correspondingly, the air processing device comprises at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The flow-through area can, for example, extend at least partially through the container. The container in turn has a module slot for receiving and fastening a functional module, so that the functional module can be detachably inserted or removed and exchanged. The module slot is connected between the air inlet and air outlet so that the flow area covers the functional module and the air can flow through it.

The respective function that is to be fulfilled, for example air conditioning by means of air humidification, cleaning, cooling, dehumidification or the like, is assigned to the functional module according to the invention, i.e. the functional module in turn takes on this air conditioning by integrating essential parts of the device to fulfill this function in the functional modules. Correspondingly, the air that flows through the functional module can be processed in the assigned manner. Several advantages can be achieved through this measure: First of all, the air treatment device according to the invention offers decisive advantages for the consumer, since he does not have to buy a completely new air treatment device for different functions, but simply exchange the corresponding function modules, depending on which function is required can. This increased functionality enables the production costs for such an air treatment device to be reduced, because the container with the corresponding module slot forms the basic version and is basically the same for all variations and embodiments. For the various functions, different functional modules must therefore be manufactured, but these can be used in the same container. In addition, the environment can also be protected, since less plastic is required.

In order to supply the air in a targeted manner to the air preparation device and also to enable a corresponding volume throughput for the preparation, the at least one air inlet in one embodiment has a fan module with which air can be guided into the container via the at least one air inlet.

Basically, the container and / or fan module can also be designed as a separate module. For example, it is conceivable that the container is also replaced if, for example, a device with a larger volume or capacity is required. In addition, it is also advantageously made possible that a damaged container can be replaced more easily. The same applies to the fan module. This can also be easily replaced if the fan is defective or if, for example, a different type of fan is to be installed, for example a fan with a different volume flow.

In order to ensure that the functionality of the air processing device is not impaired during operation and especially when replacing components, in one embodiment of the invention the module slot can be a Guide and, accordingly, the functional module have a storage unit that matches the guide, in order to be able to install the functional module precisely and to be able to hold it in or on the container. Advantageously, such a guide can also be used as a coding so that modules suitable only for the air treatment device can be installed. If replicas or modules that are not suitable for use with a corresponding device are used, there is a general risk that the device will be damaged, that it will not function properly or, in the worst case, other damage may occur outside the device due to malfunctions (e.g. with Leakage of water or generation of excessively high humidity). A consumer can, even if he has no direct experience with the corresponding device, immediately recognize whether a module fits into the slot or not. In addition, the installation or replacement of functional modules is facilitated by the guidance, since a functional module can be brought precisely to the corresponding position without the need for special knowledge.

As already shown, several air inlets can basically be provided depending on the embodiment variant. Accordingly, it is also conceivable that the fan module comprises a fan for each individual air inlet. It is conceivable that the fans can each feed air into a different functional module. It is therefore also conceivable that this measure not only enables a higher volume flow for processing, but also that, for example, the flow areas are structurally separated from one another and different functional modules can be flowed through separately or in parallel. However, it is also conceivable, for example, that air cleaning and air humidification are carried out in parallel.

In principle, function modules can also be connected in series. It is also conceivable that, with two or more air inlets, a corresponding fan module is provided for each air inlet. Since a module as such can be exchanged as a whole, one can be exchanged for each air inlet when using individual fan modules without the entire operation of the air processing device having to be shut down, since the remaining module is still working.

In order to obtain the greatest possible flexibility in a further development of the invention, the modules can be designed in such a way that they can be removed or fastened separately. It is also conceivable that two modules are each fastened to one another in a detachable manner. The way in which and to what extent the individual modules are attached can affect whether and how a module can be replaced. Depending on the situation, a module that is not to be replaced itself or is affected by a malfunction may have to be removed in order to be able to access another module given the present structural design. When arranging and mechanically connecting the modules to one another, boundary conditions with regard to space and costs must be taken into account. Due to the modular structure and the detachable connection of the modules to one another, however, costs and manufacturing costs can generally be saved.

In addition, the overall flexibility when using the device is increased.

Different variants can be used as air treatment devices by using different function modules in the form of air humidifier modules, air purifiers, air coolers or also for air dehumidification. Pure fragrance modules or the integration of fragrance modules in other modules, such as an air humidifier, are also possible in principle.

Air humidification can take place, for example, by cold evaporation. A rotating roller in the water is periodically submerged in and out of the water. The roller is designed in such a way that its surface area is larger than that of a cylinder surface (the cylinder being the basic enveloping shape of the roller). For this purpose, the roller comprises, for example, a stack of panels. An additional surface profile can in turn increase the surface area of each individual plate in the stack. The surface is wetted through contact with the water. If air is passed through this stack of plates, it, usually dry air, can absorb part of the moisture by means of cold evaporation. The device releases the humidified air into the environment, so that a pleasant room climate can be created. In the same way, air purification is also made possible, since small particles in the air, such as dust, can be deposited on the water. The water layer on the roller can absorb these corresponding dirt particles. The particles can then be dispensed into the container if the plates are washed with water during immersion. If necessary, the container will be cleaned and the water replaced.

It is also conceivable that other principles of mechanical separation are used; For example, a HEPA filter insert, for example in combination with an activated carbon layer, can be used. This can also advantageously remove odors from the room air, for example be filtered out. It is again conceivable that such a functional module for air cleaning itself has a new modular structure or comprises at least one interchangeable module, for example a HEPA filter or an activated carbon filter. These can then be regularly removed from the functional module, for example in the form of a cassette, and exchanged. However, if a different function is selected for the entire air preparation device, for example because the device is to be used in a room that is more about air humidification, the function module for air purification can be exchanged for a corresponding air humidification module. A modular structure according to the invention can thus also include module inserts for interchangeable use in modules.

In a particularly advantageous manner, such a functional module can have a housing that can be removed as a whole and reinstalled, which makes it easier for the consumer to replace a module as a compact unit. The risk of damage to the modules or contamination of the parts inside the modules is also reduced.

In order to bring the roller into contact with the liquid, the roller is partially in the water and is rotated so that an area is always immersed in the water and the surface of the panels or the panel stack is repeatedly in contact with the stored water or with the air can come. The air sucked in by a fan module can be directed onto the outer surface of the roller and thus penetrate the stack of panels. A corresponding fan module can, depending on the embodiment of the invention, be arranged above the container, for example, so that the path of the air to the functional module again runs in such a way that the air is guided downwards essentially in the direction of gravity. This also makes it easier for dirt particles, for example, to be separated while they are being transported downwards in the direction of gravity. Ambient air is drawn in through an air inlet in the upper area, but less air that is directly on the floor, even if the device is set up on the floor. Conversely, for better particle separation, the air can again leave the functional module against the direction of gravity. Overall, such an embodiment has the advantage that air can be circulated in the room because the air is drawn in and blown out at different points and in different directions. An air outlet against the direction of gravity can in turn improve the cleaning effect during particle separation in an advantageous manner.

In one embodiment of the invention, the container in turn can have a storage device for mounting the roller, the roller in particular being removable from the container separately. If the functional module has been placed in the intended position in the container, this storage device can, for example, be brought into engagement with the roller. The storage device can advantageously be coupled to a motor so that the roller can be driven. If only the roller is exchanged, it can also be removed separately if necessary. It is conceivable, for example, that the functional module includes the roller including the axis of rotation, but the axis of rotation is detachably fastened in such a way that the roller as such can be removed without detaching the entire functional module. It is also conceivable that the roller is viewed as a separate module.

The air treatment device can, depending on the variant, have a functional module such as a dehumidifier, which e.g. uses a silica gel / silica gel and has a corresponding receiving device for this purpose. This receiving device can optionally also be opened in order to be able to remove the silica gel or the like again separately.

A functional module such as an air cooler can in principle be operated with so-called cooling packs and be designed to be able to exchange the cooling packs separately. In this type of functional module with a cooling function, this variant and a corresponding module exchange are particularly characterized by the fact that they are actually often required in a comparable manner, since when using cold packs, they are usually exchanged after a few hours. However, it is also conceivable that other cooling units, also with a separate power supply, are used, which do not have to be replaced as often.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the air outlet can also have an insert for holding a particle filter so that the particle filter can be replaced regularly. If necessary, this can also be a separate module. The separated particles can be accommodated in an exchangeable or module. Such a variant advantageously facilitates handling in daily use.

As already shown, drive devices can be provided for various functions, for example to drive the roller, but also for the fan modules at the air inlet or air outlet. Usually one is used for the fan module A fast rotating fan is used, while a slow drive, but possibly with a higher torque, is necessary for the roller.

In one embodiment of the invention, the drive device can have a drive shaft or a drive gear which is arranged such that it can be coupled to the roller in order to drive it. A gear drive in particular makes it possible to generate relatively slow rotation and a comparatively high torque.

In the particularly preferred further development of the invention, the air cleaner can in turn have a filter or contact path that is charged by using the triboelectric effect in order to attract particles, fine dust, gases or the like and remove them from the air by means of electrostatic charging. By electrostatic attraction of the charged particles, they can be attracted and deposited within the contact path. For this purpose, the air cleaner can comprise a rotation element that can in particular be driven by the drive device and has a friction body against which the rotation element rests and is mounted in a rubbing manner during rotation. In this way, a friction-related charge separation can take place and electrostatic charging can be achieved, so that charged particles can be deposited there. For example, plastic materials can be used for charging, in particular polyamide or polypropylene. Despite the frictional forces that occur, it is generally advantageous not to use a more powerful motor in comparison to conventional drives, since the cleaning forces can be kept comparatively low.

Embodiments:

• 1: eine schematische Darstellung des modularen Aufbaus eines Luftaufbereitungsgeräts gem. der Erfindung mit Kühlmodul,
• 2: eine schematische Darstellung des modularen Aufbaus eines Luftaufbereitungsgeräts gem. der Erfindung mit Filter,
• 3: eine schematische Darstellung eines Luftbefeuchter-Moduls,
• 4: eine schematische Darstellung eines Luftentfeuchter-Moduls,
• 5: ein schematischer Schnitt durch einen Luftbefeuchter gem. der Erfindung,
• 6: einen schematischen Aufbau eines Luftbefeuchters mit zusätzlichem HEPA-Filter, sowie
• 7, 8: schematische Darstellungen der Anordnung aus Filteraufnahme und des Filterelement als Funktionsmodul.

Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and will be explained in more detail below, giving further details and advantages. Show in detail:

• 1 : a schematic representation of the modular structure of an air treatment device according to the invention with a cooling module,
• 2 : a schematic representation of the modular structure of an air treatment device according to the invention with filter,
• 3 : a schematic representation of a humidifier module,
• 4th : a schematic representation of a dehumidifier module,
• 5 : a schematic section through a humidifier according to the invention,
• 6th : a schematic structure of a humidifier with an additional HEPA filter, as well as
• 7th , 8th : Schematic representations of the arrangement of the filter holder and the filter element as a functional module.

1 shows schematically the modular structure of an air handling unit 1 according to the invention with a functional module 2 in the form of an air cooler. The air treatment device 1 includes a container 3 into which the function module 2 can be used in the form of the air cooler. The air cooler 2 again has a storage device inside 4th for holding ice packs 5 .

In 1 is the modular structure of the air handling unit 1 shown in different stages of construction from left to right. In the left section is the entire device 1 with container 3 and lid 6th shown. Next to it is a representation in which the lid 6th has been removed and only the container remains 3 with the functional module used in it 2 is shown. The functional module 2 is in the container 3 into the module slot provided for this purpose S. used. The module 2 again has a module housing on the outside 7th , which is designed universally. In its center there is a hole in which an axle can be rotatably mounted. In the present case after 1 is used for the air cooler module 2 this hole is not required because the cold packs 5 are not rotatably mounted and do not have to be rotated. Overall, however, this structure simplifies production because the housing 7th can be used universally for the individual function modules and, depending on the desired function, not a different module housing 7th must be provided.

It just gets the stake 4th provided in order to be able to store the cold packs in it if necessary. In 2 you can see the same air handling unit, but the one inside with an air cleaning module 12th is provided. Otherwise the structure is identical. Again, there is a module housing 7th provided, which is universal and essentially with the out 1 matches. Also the use 4th is identical in the present case to the one in 1 . Instead of the cold packs 5 In the present case, however, HEPA replacement filter inserts are used 15th (possibly in combination with activated charcoal) used in the insert 4th can be used.

3 again shows an air humidification module 22nd that in the same way instead of the modules 2 , 12th from the 1 and 2 into the container 3 can be used. In the case 7th is a roller 23 used, which carries a stack of plates. About the drilling 8th turn is the roller 23 rotatably mounted and can be rotated.

The airways are also shown 9 , 10 , being over the outer sections 9 a flow to the functional module 22nd or to the stack of panels or to the roller 23 in takes place and the treated air over the way 10 flows towards the air outlet again. The ways 9 , 10 thus form the flow area.

In 4th turn is a module 32 shown with a housing 7th which is about a mission 4th has, in turn, stakes 35 can be filled with silica gel or silica gel as a drying agent. Here, too, the side paths lead 9 in the function module 32 and the air flows over the path 10 to the air outlet.

5 shows a schematic section through an air treatment device 1 with humidifier. The functional module 22nd therefore includes a stack of plates 23 . In the container 3 the roller stands 23 partly in the water. Driven by the drive device 11th the roller rotates with a gear 23 standing in the water. Air gets through the air inlets LE in the direction 9 sucked in, moved downwards by gravity, onto the plate stack of the roller 23 steered and after passing the surface of the plate stack in the direction 10 up through the air outlet LA from the device 1 steered. Effective humidification of the air is thus achieved, but particles can also be separated out at the same time. The air is, so to speak, channeled between the plates of the stack of plates. The narrowing of the channel causes an increase in the flow velocity. This can increase the efficiency of air humidification and cleaning.

In principle, function modules 2 , 12th , 22nd , 32 also be provided with a removal handle for easier handling.

6th shows an air treatment device 1 with a container 3 and a lid 6th . In the container 3 a functional module such as a humidifier is used. In the lid 6th are two air inlets LE , each with a fan V , and an air outlet LA integrated. The air outlet LA is with one stone 6a provided, which is formed from ribs so that the air can flow through. The flap 6a enables access to a particle filter insert F. , ie the air is released before it is through the air outlet LA the device 1 leaves, mechanically filtered again. With the variant after 6th is also a display D. attached, which can be connected, for example, to measuring devices such as a hygrometer, thermometer, clock or the like and thus displays the relevant properties for the room climate. Furthermore, other information can also be shown on the display, such as when the next filter change should take place.

the 7th , 8th show part of a further functional module 42 , which enables an air cleaning effect via electrostatic attraction of the particles or gases to be separated. In 7th is first of all the airway with the incoming air 9 and the outflowing air 10 outlined as part of the flow area. Shows a schematic section 8th with a filter holder 43 , in which the filter element 44 is rotatably mounted. The filter holder 43 is designed like a housing and has a cylindrical recess inside, in which the filter element 44 is inserted. The outer wall or the jacket of the filter element 44 made of polypropylene rubs against the inner wall of the filter holder during rotation 43 made of polyamide. During operation, particles / gases are separated from the air flowing through the electrostatic areas.

List of reference symbols

1

Air treatment device

2

Air cooler

3

container

4th

Storage device / insert

5

Cold pack

6th

lid

6a

flap

7th

Module housing

8th

Drilling / bearing d. axis

9

Airway in the flow area

10

Airway in the flow area

11th

Gear drive device

12th

Air purification module

15th

HEPA replacement filter inserts

22nd

Humidifier module

23

Roller / stack of plates

32

Drying module

35

Silica gel inserts

42

Filter function module

43

Filter mount

44

Filter element

D.

Display

F.

Filter insert

LE

Air inlets

LA

Air outlet

S.

Module slot

V

Fan module

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• EP 3093567 B1 [0002]

Claims (20)

Air processing device (1) for processing air in that the air flows through a flow area (9, 10) of the air processing device (1), with at least one air inlet (LE) and at least one air outlet (LA) and with a container (3), the one Forms part of the through-flow area (9, 10), characterized in that the container (3) has a module slot (S) for receiving and fastening a functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) in order to be detachable around the functional module (2) to be able to use and / or replace, wherein the module slot (S) is connected between the air inlet (LE) and the air outlet (LA) that the functional module (2) can be flown through by the air. Air preparation device (1) Claim 1 , characterized in that the at least one air inlet (LE) has a fan module (V) with which air can be guided into the container (3) via the at least one air inlet (LE). Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (3) and / or the fan module (V) is designed as a separate module. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module slot (S) has a guide and the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) has a storage unit suitable for the guide in order to accommodate the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) to be able to bring in and hold precisely. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that • at least two air inlets (LE) are provided and the fan module (V) comprises a fan for each of the air inlets, wherein the fan module and the container can be connected to one another so that the Fans can feed air into the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) and / or • at least two air inlets (LE) are provided and one of the fan modules (V) is provided for each air inlet to feed air into the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) to be able to feed. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modules, in particular the fan module (V) and / or the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) and / or the container (3): • separately are designed to be removable and / or attachable and / or • at least two of the modules can be attached to and detached from one another. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42): • as an air humidifier (22) for humidifying the air with liquid and / or • as an air cleaner (12) for Cleaning of dirt particles from the air and / or • is designed as an air cooler (2) for cooling the air and / or • as an air dehumidifier (32) for dehumidifying the air. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (3) is designed to hold a liquid, in particular water, and the functional module (22) is designed as an air humidifier which has a roller (23) for humidifying the air Comprises cold evaporation of the liquid, which is rotatably mounted and is mounted in the container (3) in such a way that the roller (23) can at least partially dip into a liquid stored in the container (3) in order to prevent the liquid emerging from the liquid upon further rotation, wetted part of the roller (23) to release the liquid by cold evaporation to the air to be humidified, the roller (23) in particular comprising a stack of plates in order to be able to enlarge the surface. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air sucked in by the fan module (V) is guided onto the outer surface of the roller (23). Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one fan module (V) is arranged above the container (3) and the path (9) of the air to the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) is as follows is designed that the air is guided downwards essentially in the direction of gravity. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) is designed so that the air leaves the functional module again against the direction of gravity. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (3) has a storage device (8) for the rotatable mounting of the roller (23), the roller (23) in particular being removable from the container (3) separately . Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (32), in particular the air dehumidifier, comprises a receiving device for receiving silica gel. Air processing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (2), in particular the air cooler, has a receiving device for exchangeably receiving at least two cooling batteries (5). Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (12), in particular the air cleaner, has at least one receiving device for exchangeably receiving filters, in particular HEPA exchangeable filters and / or activated carbon filters. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air outlet (LA) has an insert for holding a particle filter. Air processing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a drive device is provided which: • at the air outlet (LA) and / or • in the fan module (V) and / or • between two of the fans (V) and / or • is arranged above the function module (2, 12, 22, 32, 42). Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (11) has a drive shaft and / or a drive gear which is arranged so that it can be coupled to the roller (23), to drive the roller, the roller in particular having a gear which is coupled to the drive gear. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (42) is designed as an air cleaner and / or filter and has a contact path that can be charged by the triboelectric effect in order to remove particles, Attract fine dust or gases and separate them from the air. Air treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional module (42) is designed as an air cleaner and / or filter and has a rotation element, which can be driven and rotated in particular by the drive device, and a friction body (43) which the rotary element (44) is in contact and rubbing during rotation in order to achieve the friction-related charge separation and electrostatic charging, in particular the rotary element and / or the friction body are each at least partially made of plastic, preferably of polyamide and / or polypropylene.

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