EP4248147A1 - Ventilation device and method - Google Patents

Ventilation device and method

Info

Publication number
EP4248147A1
EP4248147A1 EP21824018.2A EP21824018A EP4248147A1 EP 4248147 A1 EP4248147 A1 EP 4248147A1 EP 21824018 A EP21824018 A EP 21824018A EP 4248147 A1 EP4248147 A1 EP 4248147A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
duct
enclosure
mouth
ventilator device
ventilator
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP21824018.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Mario Palazzetti
Marco SIMONETTI
Vincenzo Maria GENTILE
Francesco NEIROTTI
Luca AGNOLETTI
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Politecnico di Torino
Original Assignee
Politecnico di Torino
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Politecnico di Torino filed Critical Politecnico di Torino
Publication of EP4248147A1 publication Critical patent/EP4248147A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F9/00—Use of air currents for screening, e.g. air curtains
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
    • F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F9/00—Use of air currents for screening, e.g. air curtains
    • F24F2009/007—Use of air currents for screening, e.g. air curtains using more than one jet or band in the air curtain

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a ventilator device for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • the present invention also relates to an associated method for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type.
  • the present invention finds application in the field of devices for collective protection and devices for protection against contagion from respiratory infections.
  • the new COVID-19 coronavirus is a respiratory virus that mainly spreads by close contact with an infected person.
  • Respiratory droplets of infected persons which spread out when coughing or sneezing, are the primary way of transmission.
  • IPD individual protection device
  • panes of transparent materials e.g. plexiglas
  • panes of transparent materials e.g. plexiglas
  • this solution has some drawbacks as well, which are mainly due to the cost of the equipment and to the fact that such barriers are bulky and excessively rigid, so that they cannot be easily adapted to the varied and different needs of a specific environment.
  • Some solutions are known in the art which envisage the use of devices for purifying environmental air, which usually comprise perimetric walls that define an enclosure within which a duct or path for the air to be treated is formed, wherein the device comprises at least one first suction vent or mouth allowing air to be treated to enter the duct and at least one second vent allowing the air to exit said duct or path, and wherein at least one fan is positioned inside the enclosure of the device, in fluidic communication with the duct formed in said enclosure, to allow air to be taken in, flow through and exit.
  • the air purification devices known in the art comprise at least one filtering element for removing impurities from the air, said at least one filtering element being positioned inside the duct, being in particular positioned in proximity to the first vent through which air can enter said duct.
  • the devices known in the art suffer from a number of drawbacks, mostly due to the fact that the air taken in is not fine-filtered; as a consequence, the devices known in the art cannot appropriately purify the air in residential environments and enclosed structures.
  • a filtering element for removing impurities from the air such element is not always sufficient and effective enough to ensure an adequate degree of air purification.
  • IPD individual protection device
  • Figures 1A to 1C show a first embodiment of a ventilator device according to the present invention, wherein Figure 1A shows a front view of the device, Figure IB shows a sectional view along line A-A of Figure 1A, and Figure 1C shows a sectional view along line B-B of Figure IB;
  • FIGS. 2A to 2C show a second embodiment of the ventilator device according to the present invention, wherein Figure 2A shows a front view of the device, Figure 2B shows a sectional view along line A-A of Figure 2A, and Figure 2C shows a sectional view along line B-B of Figure 2B;
  • Figures 3A to 3C show a third embodiment of the ventilator device according to the present invention, wherein Figure 3A shows a front view of the device, Figure 3B shows a sectional view along line A-A of Figure 3A, and Figure 3C shows a sectional view along line B-B of Figure 3B;
  • FIG. 4A shows a top view of one possible way of using the ventilator device shown in Figures 1A to 1C
  • Figure 4B shows a top view of one possible way of using the ventilator device shown in Figures 2A to 3C;
  • FIG. 5A and 5B show, respectively, a top view and a side view of a further possible embodiment of the ventilator device according to the present invention.
  • reference numeral 1 designates as a whole a ventilator device for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, according to the present invention.
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure (designated as a whole by reference numeral 10) within which a duct 20 is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure 10 comprises at least one first suction vent or mouth 11 for letting air flow into the duct 20 and at least one second vent 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D for letting the air flow out of said duct 20.
  • Said at least one perimetric wall may comprise a bottom wall, side walls and a top wall.
  • the duct 20 may consist of a path formed within the enclosure 10 for the air flow, without such duct 20 or path necessarily requiring a clearly defined conformation.
  • said at least one first suction vent or mouth 11 may, without distinction, be formed either in a bottom wall of the enclosure 10 (as shown in Figures la to 3C) or in another portion of said enclosure 10 (as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, wherein said at least one first vent 11 is formed in a back wall - see Figure 5A - and in a top wall - see Figure 5B - of the enclosure 10).
  • the enclosure 10 is shaped substantially as a prism, in particular a triangle-based prism; in the embodiments shown in Figures IB to 3C, the enclosure 10 is shaped substantially as a quadrangular prism, in particular a square-based or rectanglebased prism.
  • Said enclosure 10 may have a continuous or discontinuous structure; for example, it may comprise walls made up of mutually joined structures or panels. It should also be noted that the boundary between each perimetric wall and the adjoining ones may either be appreciable or consist of a substantially continuous surface, i.e. said boundary may be so realized as to comprise a surface that does not allow understanding where a wall ends and an adjacent wall begins.
  • the ventilator device 1 shown in the annexed figures is of the type that can be defined as stand-alone and/ or portable; it is however clear that the teachings of the present invention are also applicable when the device 1 is of a different type, e.g. adapted to be integrated into an air conveyance system.
  • the ventilator device 1 may also be so realized as to comprise a frame (not shown in the annexed figures) for supporting at least a portion of the enclosure 10, which can be fixed (even removably) to said frame by using known fastening means.
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one ventilator element 30 positioned within said enclosure 10 so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct 20 formed in said enclosure 10 and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent 11, flow in said duct 20, and exit through said at least one second vent.
  • said at least one ventilator element 30 is positioned within the enclosure 10 so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct 20 formed in said enclosure 10 in order to allow: - air to be sucked into the duct 20, in particular through said at least one first vent 11,
  • the second vent comprises at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B developing in the enclosure 10 substantially parallel to each other and formed in such a way as to emit each a substantially vertical air blade (designated as LA in Figures 4A to 5B) for defining and isolating a given area AR comprised between said air blades LA with respect to the surrounding atmosphere; as can be observed in Figures 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, said given area consists of a space apt to be occupied by an individual I.
  • LA substantially vertical air blade
  • the term "vertical" as used herein with reference to the air blades LA indicates a condition of use of the ventilator device 1, in particular in said condition of use each air blade LA emitted through the mouths 12A, 12B being substantially vertical relative to a substantially horizontal reference surface SR; as will be further described hereinafter, said reference surface SR may consist of a table (as in Figures 1A to 4B) or a similar element, or said reference surface SR may consist of a floor (as in Figures 5A and 5B) or the ground.
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises a plurality of mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, in particular each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D being shaped as a slot or slit extending vertically in said enclosure 10 (as particularly visible in Figures 1A, 2A, 3A and 3C) and parallel to at least one contiguous mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D; in this regard, each air blade LA emitted by each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D combines with at least one air blade emitted by a contiguous mouth to define and isolate said given area AR.
  • said slot or slit may be obtained by means of a cut made in the enclosure 10 for each one of said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D; alternatively, said slot or slit may be obtained by means of a plurality of holes or slots vertically aligned to form each one of said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D.
  • said at least one ventilator element 30 comprises at least one fan driven by an electric motor (not shown in the annexed drawings) connected to power supply means (also not shown in the annexed drawings), which may comprise a connection to a power mains and a transformer and/ or at least one battery, possibly a rechargeable one; for example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 2A to 2C there is a single fan positioned inside the enclosure 10.
  • power supply means also not shown in the annexed drawings
  • said at least one ventilator element 30 may comprise a plurality of fans, in particular vertically stacked; preferably, said plurality of fans is positioned in the enclosure 10 in correspondence with said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D (as in the embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 1C and 3A to 3C, wherein three fans are vertically stacked and positioned in correspondence with each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
  • said at least one ventilator element 30 may comprise at least one plenum (not shown in the annexed drawings) positioned in correspondence with said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D and pressurized by a fan, in particular positioned at the base of said plenum. It is however clear that said at least one ventilator element 30 may also be realized otherwise.
  • the ventilator device 1 is configured as a centrepiece (or a similar element to be laid on an associated flat surface), wherein said reference surface SR is a table (or a similar support surface); this embodiment proves to be particularly advantageous for use in public places, e.g. bars and restaurants, i.e. wherever it is impossible to eat and/ or drink while wearing an individual protection device, in particular a mask.
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one pair of mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, wherein each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D emits a substantially vertical air blade LA which diverges from the air blade LA emitted by the associated mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, in particular by an angle a (shown in Figures 4 A and 4B) comprised between 60° and 90°.
  • each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D emits a substantially vertical air blade LA which diverges from the air blade LA emitted by the associated mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, in particular by an angle a (shown in Figures 4 A and 4B) comprised between 60° and 90°.
  • the ventilator device 1 generates air blades LA so positioned as to jointly form a V shape and directed by the ventilator device 1 towards an individual I, thus intercepting and confining the emissions of the individual I without causing any discomfort, because the air blades LA do not occupy the space directly in front of the person, but activate an air induction and attraction motion.
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one support or foot 13 for raising the enclosure 10 above the reference surface SR.
  • the ventilator device 1 is configured as a headrest of a seat or as an element associable with a headrest of a seat; this embodiment proves to be particularly advantageous for use in public means of transport, e.g. buses and tram cars, and/ or in private means of transport.
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one pair of mouths 12A, 12B, wherein each mouth 12A, 12B emits a substantially vertical air blade LA converging towards the air blade LA emitted by the associated mouth 12A, 12B.
  • the embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B allows an individual I to protect him/herself from emissions of other people, while at the same time protecting other people from his/her own emissions.
  • the air blades LA in addition to being vertical, may also be directed towards the reference surface SR; this is shown in Figures 5A and 5B with reference to the embodiment wherein the air blades LA are mutually converging, but may also apply to the embodiment wherein the air blades LA are mutually diverging (as shown in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B).
  • the ventilator device 1 comprises coupling means (not shown in the annexed drawings) for connecting said ventilator device 1 to a headrest and/ or a seat.
  • the ventilator device 1 may then comprise orienting means (not shown in the annexed drawings) associated with at least one mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D for orienting at least one air blade LA in a specific direction; merely by way of example, said orienting means may comprise at least one fin or at least one deflector, preferably so designed as to rotate about its longitudinal axis to adjust the outflow direction of the air blade LA emitted from said at least one mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D.
  • orienting means may comprise at least one fin or at least one deflector, preferably so designed as to rotate about its longitudinal axis to adjust the outflow direction of the air blade LA emitted from said at least one mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D.
  • each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D may be substantially parallel to the air blade LA emitted from a contiguous mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D.
  • each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D is realized in at least one side wall of the enclosure 10, i.e. in at least one side wall of the perimetric wall that defines the enclosure 10.
  • the peculiar features of the present invention make it possible, therefore, to implement the ventilator device 1 in such a way as to protect individuals I from a possible contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, by creating air blades LA that allow defining and isolating a given area AR from the surrounding atmosphere, so that an individual I can remain within said area without having to resort to using an individual protection device (IPD) known in the art, e.g. a mask.
  • IPD individual protection device
  • the ventilator device 1 allows its users to live together in a given environment without running the risk of contagion from an infection, in particular of the respiratory type, even when said individuals are not using or wearing an individual protection device.
  • the ventilator device 1 also permits separating people that are present in a given environment in order to protect them from a possible contagion, in particular such separation being advantageously effected by means of a solution that can be easily adapted to the varied and different needs that may arise in a specific environment.
  • the ventilator device 1 can then be realized in such a way as to comprise at least one filtering element (not shown in the annexed drawings) associated with the duct 20, in particular positioned in proximity to said at least one first vent 11, for filtering the air flowing in said duct 20.
  • the ventilator device 1 may be so realized as to comprise at least one ultraviolet lamp (not shown in the annexed drawings), in particular of the shortwave type (UV-C), positioned inside the duct 20 for purifying the air flowing in said duct 20.
  • at least one ultraviolet lamp not shown in the annexed drawings
  • UV-C shortwave type
  • the device 1 may comprise at least one electrostatic element (not shown in the annexed drawings) positioned in the duct 20 for stopping any fine dust, bacteria, microbes or viruses that may be present in the air and/ or for removing any odours from the air.
  • the ventilator device 1 may then be so realized as to comprise a refrigeration circuit (not shown in the annexed drawings) for cooling and/ or dehumidifying the air flowing in the duct 20.
  • the device 1 may also be realized in such a way as to comprise a control unit (also not shown in the annexed drawings) for controlling the components of the device 1, in particular said at least one ventilator element 30 and/or said at least one ultraviolet lamp and/or said refrigeration circuit.
  • a control unit also not shown in the annexed drawings for controlling the components of the device 1, in particular said at least one ventilator element 30 and/or said at least one ultraviolet lamp and/or said refrigeration circuit.
  • a ventilator device 1 comprising:
  • At least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure 10 within which a duct 20 is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure 10 comprises at least one first vent 11 for letting air flow into the duct 20 and at least one second vent for letting the air flow out of said duct 20,
  • At least one ventilator element 30 positioned within said enclosure 10 so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct 20 formed in said enclosure 10 and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent 11, flow in said duct 20, and exit through said at least one second vent.
  • said method comprises a step a) of activating said at least one ventilator element 30 to obtain the emission of an air blade LA through at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B of the second vent, wherein each air blade LA is substantially vertical and allows defining and isolating a given area AR from the surrounding atmosphere, in particular said given area AR consisting of a space apt to be occupied by an individual I.
  • said step a) is carried out by emitting, through said at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B, substantially vertical air blades LA diverging from each other, in particular by an angle a comprised between 60° and 90°.
  • said step a) is carried out by emitting, through said at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B, substantially vertical air blades LA converging towards each other.
  • said step a) may be preceded by a step a-1) of filtering the air flowing in the duct 20 by means of at least one filtering element positioned in said duct 20.
  • the method according to the present invention may also comprise a step bl) of activating at least one ultraviolet lamp positioned in the duct 20 for purifying the air flowing in said duct 20.
  • said method may comprise a step b2) of activating an electrostatic element positioned in the duct 20 for stopping any fine dust, bacteria, microbes or viruses that may be present in the air and/ or for removing any odours from the air flowing in said duct 20.
  • the method according to the present invention may comprise a step c) of activating a refrigeration circuit for conditioning and/or dehumidifying the air flowing in the duct 20.
  • the peculiar features of the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention make it possible to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and protect individuals I from a possible contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, by creating air blades LA that allow defining and isolating a given area AR from the surrounding atmosphere, so that an individual I can remain within said area without having to resort to using an individual protection device (IPD) known in the art, e.g. a mask.
  • IPD individual protection device
  • the ventilator device 1 allows its users to live together in a given environment without running the risk of contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, even when said individuals are not using or wearing an individual protection device.
  • the ventilator device 1 also permits separating people that are present in a given environment in order to protect them from a possible contagion, in particular such separation being advantageously effected by means of a solution that can be easily adapted to the varied and different needs that may arise in a specific environment.
  • the ventilator device 1 described herein by way of example and the associated method for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, may be subject to many possible variations without departing from the novelty spirit of the inventive idea; it is also clear that in the practical implementation of the invention the illustrated details may have different shapes or be replaced with other technically equivalent elements.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
  • Ventilation (AREA)
  • Pharmaceuticals Containing Other Organic And Inorganic Compounds (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a ventilator device (1) for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, said ventilator device (1) comprising: - at least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure (10) within which a duct (20) is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure (10) comprises at least one first vent (11) for letting air flow into the duct (20) and at least one second vent (12) for letting the air flow out of said duct (20), - a ventilator element (30) positioned within said enclosure (10) so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct (20) formed in said enclosure (10) and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent (11), flow in said duct (20), and exit through said at least one second vent. The peculiar feature of the present invention lies in the fact that said at least one second vent comprises at least one first mouth (12A) and one second mouth (12B) developing in the enclosure (10) substantially parallel to each other and formed in such a way as to emit each a substantially vertical air blade (LA) for defining and isolating a given area (AR) comprised between said air blades (LA) with respect to the surrounding atmosphere, in particular said given area (AR) consisting of a space apt to be occupied by an individual (I).

Description

VENTILATION DEVICE AND METHOD
DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to a ventilator device for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, according to the preamble of claim 1. The present invention also relates to an associated method for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type.
In this frame, the present invention finds application in the field of devices for collective protection and devices for protection against contagion from respiratory infections.
For example, the new COVID-19 coronavirus is a respiratory virus that mainly spreads by close contact with an infected person.
Respiratory droplets of infected persons, which spread out when coughing or sneezing, are the primary way of transmission.
In order to avoid contact with such droplets, it is of the utmost importance to observe some behavioural rules, such as keeping a physical distance from other people, washing hands often, covering mouth and nose with a handkerchief or a bent elbow when sneezing or coughing.
Whenever physical distancing is impossible, an important measure for protecting others is to wear an individual protection device (IPD), e.g. a mask. It has been observed, however, that masks and other individual protection devices, in addition to being rather uncomfortable, cannot be worn correctly in some situations, as is the case in restaurants, where it is impossible to eat and/ or drink while wearing a mask.
In such situations, and also in many public and private offices or shops, panes of transparent materials (e.g. plexiglas) are used as barriers ensuring physical separation between people within an environment. Nevertheless, this solution has some drawbacks as well, which are mainly due to the cost of the equipment and to the fact that such barriers are bulky and excessively rigid, so that they cannot be easily adapted to the varied and different needs of a specific environment.
Some solutions are known in the art which envisage the use of devices for purifying environmental air, which usually comprise perimetric walls that define an enclosure within which a duct or path for the air to be treated is formed, wherein the device comprises at least one first suction vent or mouth allowing air to be treated to enter the duct and at least one second vent allowing the air to exit said duct or path, and wherein at least one fan is positioned inside the enclosure of the device, in fluidic communication with the duct formed in said enclosure, to allow air to be taken in, flow through and exit. In addition, the air purification devices known in the art comprise at least one filtering element for removing impurities from the air, said at least one filtering element being positioned inside the duct, being in particular positioned in proximity to the first vent through which air can enter said duct.
However, the devices known in the art suffer from a number of drawbacks, mostly due to the fact that the air taken in is not fine-filtered; as a consequence, the devices known in the art cannot appropriately purify the air in residential environments and enclosed structures. In fact, while they are provided with a filtering element for removing impurities from the air, such element is not always sufficient and effective enough to ensure an adequate degree of air purification. In this frame, it is therefore the main object of the present invention to provide a ventilator device which is so realized as to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.
In particular, it is one object of the present invention to provide a ventilator device which is so realized as to protect individuals from a possible contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, without having to resort to using an individual protection device (IPD), e.g. a mask.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a ventilator device that makes it possible to obtain a separation of the individuals who are present in a given environment for the purpose of protecting them from a possible contagion, while at the same time representing an inexpensive, compact and highly flexible solution that can be easily adapted to the varied and different needs of a specific environment.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a ventilator device which is so realized as to allow the users to live together in a given environment without running the risk of contagion from an infection, in particular of the respiratory type, even when such individuals are not using or wearing an individual protection device.
Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in the light of the following detailed description and the annexed drawings, which are provided herein merely by way of non-limiting explanatory example, wherein:
- Figures 1A to 1C show a first embodiment of a ventilator device according to the present invention, wherein Figure 1A shows a front view of the device, Figure IB shows a sectional view along line A-A of Figure 1A, and Figure 1C shows a sectional view along line B-B of Figure IB;
- Figures 2A to 2C show a second embodiment of the ventilator device according to the present invention, wherein Figure 2A shows a front view of the device, Figure 2B shows a sectional view along line A-A of Figure 2A, and Figure 2C shows a sectional view along line B-B of Figure 2B;
- Figures 3A to 3C show a third embodiment of the ventilator device according to the present invention, wherein Figure 3A shows a front view of the device, Figure 3B shows a sectional view along line A-A of Figure 3A, and Figure 3C shows a sectional view along line B-B of Figure 3B;
- Fig. 4A shows a top view of one possible way of using the ventilator device shown in Figures 1A to 1C, while Figure 4B shows a top view of one possible way of using the ventilator device shown in Figures 2A to 3C;
- Figures 5A and 5B show, respectively, a top view and a side view of a further possible embodiment of the ventilator device according to the present invention.
Referring now to the annexed drawings, in Figure 1 reference numeral 1 designates as a whole a ventilator device for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, according to the present invention.
The ventilator device 1 comprises at least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure (designated as a whole by reference numeral 10) within which a duct 20 is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure 10 comprises at least one first suction vent or mouth 11 for letting air flow into the duct 20 and at least one second vent 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D for letting the air flow out of said duct 20.
Said at least one perimetric wall may comprise a bottom wall, side walls and a top wall.
It should be noted that the duct 20 according to the present invention may consist of a path formed within the enclosure 10 for the air flow, without such duct 20 or path necessarily requiring a clearly defined conformation. Moreover, said at least one first suction vent or mouth 11 may, without distinction, be formed either in a bottom wall of the enclosure 10 (as shown in Figures la to 3C) or in another portion of said enclosure 10 (as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, wherein said at least one first vent 11 is formed in a back wall - see Figure 5A - and in a top wall - see Figure 5B - of the enclosure 10).
In particular, as concerns the embodiment shown in Figures 1A to 3A, the enclosure 10 is shaped substantially as a prism, in particular a triangle-based prism; in the embodiments shown in Figures IB to 3C, the enclosure 10 is shaped substantially as a quadrangular prism, in particular a square-based or rectanglebased prism.
Said enclosure 10 may have a continuous or discontinuous structure; for example, it may comprise walls made up of mutually joined structures or panels. It should also be noted that the boundary between each perimetric wall and the adjoining ones may either be appreciable or consist of a substantially continuous surface, i.e. said boundary may be so realized as to comprise a surface that does not allow understanding where a wall ends and an adjacent wall begins.
Furthermore, the ventilator device 1 shown in the annexed figures is of the type that can be defined as stand-alone and/ or portable; it is however clear that the teachings of the present invention are also applicable when the device 1 is of a different type, e.g. adapted to be integrated into an air conveyance system.
It must be pointed out that the ventilator device 1 may also be so realized as to comprise a frame (not shown in the annexed figures) for supporting at least a portion of the enclosure 10, which can be fixed (even removably) to said frame by using known fastening means.
The ventilator device 1 comprises at least one ventilator element 30 positioned within said enclosure 10 so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct 20 formed in said enclosure 10 and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent 11, flow in said duct 20, and exit through said at least one second vent.
In substance, said at least one ventilator element 30 is positioned within the enclosure 10 so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct 20 formed in said enclosure 10 in order to allow: - air to be sucked into the duct 20, in particular through said at least one first vent 11,
- the air to flow in the duct 20, i.e. in the duct section 20 comprised between said at least one first vent 11 and said at least one second vent;
- the air to exit the duct 20 and the enclosure 10 of the device 1, in particular through said at least one second vent.
In accordance with the present invention, the second vent comprises at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B developing in the enclosure 10 substantially parallel to each other and formed in such a way as to emit each a substantially vertical air blade (designated as LA in Figures 4A to 5B) for defining and isolating a given area AR comprised between said air blades LA with respect to the surrounding atmosphere; as can be observed in Figures 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, said given area consists of a space apt to be occupied by an individual I.
It should be noted that, in accordance with the present invention, the term "vertical" as used herein with reference to the air blades LA indicates a condition of use of the ventilator device 1, in particular in said condition of use each air blade LA emitted through the mouths 12A, 12B being substantially vertical relative to a substantially horizontal reference surface SR; as will be further described hereinafter, said reference surface SR may consist of a table (as in Figures 1A to 4B) or a similar element, or said reference surface SR may consist of a floor (as in Figures 5A and 5B) or the ground.
In the embodiments shown in Figures 2A to 3C, the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, in particular each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D being shaped as a slot or slit extending vertically in said enclosure 10 (as particularly visible in Figures 1A, 2A, 3A and 3C) and parallel to at least one contiguous mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D; in this regard, each air blade LA emitted by each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D combines with at least one air blade emitted by a contiguous mouth to define and isolate said given area AR.
In this respect, it is necessary to point out that said slot or slit may be obtained by means of a cut made in the enclosure 10 for each one of said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D; alternatively, said slot or slit may be obtained by means of a plurality of holes or slots vertically aligned to form each one of said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D. Preferably, said at least one ventilator element 30 comprises at least one fan driven by an electric motor (not shown in the annexed drawings) connected to power supply means (also not shown in the annexed drawings), which may comprise a connection to a power mains and a transformer and/ or at least one battery, possibly a rechargeable one; for example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 2A to 2C there is a single fan positioned inside the enclosure 10.
Furthermore, said at least one ventilator element 30 may comprise a plurality of fans, in particular vertically stacked; preferably, said plurality of fans is positioned in the enclosure 10 in correspondence with said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D (as in the embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 1C and 3A to 3C, wherein three fans are vertically stacked and positioned in correspondence with each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
It should also be noted that said at least one ventilator element 30 may comprise at least one plenum (not shown in the annexed drawings) positioned in correspondence with said mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D and pressurized by a fan, in particular positioned at the base of said plenum. It is however clear that said at least one ventilator element 30 may also be realized otherwise.
In the embodiment shown in Figures 1A to 4B, the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention is configured as a centrepiece (or a similar element to be laid on an associated flat surface), wherein said reference surface SR is a table (or a similar support surface); this embodiment proves to be particularly advantageous for use in public places, e.g. bars and restaurants, i.e. wherever it is impossible to eat and/ or drink while wearing an individual protection device, in particular a mask.
Preferably, in this embodiment the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one pair of mouths 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, wherein each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D emits a substantially vertical air blade LA which diverges from the air blade LA emitted by the associated mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, in particular by an angle a (shown in Figures 4 A and 4B) comprised between 60° and 90°.
In substance, in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 A to 4B the ventilator device 1 generates air blades LA so positioned as to jointly form a V shape and directed by the ventilator device 1 towards an individual I, thus intercepting and confining the emissions of the individual I without causing any discomfort, because the air blades LA do not occupy the space directly in front of the person, but activate an air induction and attraction motion.
Preferably, in the embodiment shown in Figures 1A to 4B the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one support or foot 13 for raising the enclosure 10 above the reference surface SR.
As far as the embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B is concerned, the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention is configured as a headrest of a seat or as an element associable with a headrest of a seat; this embodiment proves to be particularly advantageous for use in public means of transport, e.g. buses and tram cars, and/ or in private means of transport. Preferably, in this embodiment the ventilator device 1 comprises at least one pair of mouths 12A, 12B, wherein each mouth 12A, 12B emits a substantially vertical air blade LA converging towards the air blade LA emitted by the associated mouth 12A, 12B. The embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B allows an individual I to protect him/herself from emissions of other people, while at the same time protecting other people from his/her own emissions.
It should be noted that the air blades LA, in addition to being vertical, may also be directed towards the reference surface SR; this is shown in Figures 5A and 5B with reference to the embodiment wherein the air blades LA are mutually converging, but may also apply to the embodiment wherein the air blades LA are mutually diverging (as shown in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B).
Preferably, in the embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B the ventilator device 1 comprises coupling means (not shown in the annexed drawings) for connecting said ventilator device 1 to a headrest and/ or a seat.
In accordance with the present invention, the ventilator device 1 may then comprise orienting means (not shown in the annexed drawings) associated with at least one mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D for orienting at least one air blade LA in a specific direction; merely by way of example, said orienting means may comprise at least one fin or at least one deflector, preferably so designed as to rotate about its longitudinal axis to adjust the outflow direction of the air blade LA emitted from said at least one mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D.
It is nevertheless clear that the air blade LA emitted from each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D may be substantially parallel to the air blade LA emitted from a contiguous mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D. As can be seen in the annexed drawings, in all embodiments made in accordance with the teachings of the present invention each mouth 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D is realized in at least one side wall of the enclosure 10, i.e. in at least one side wall of the perimetric wall that defines the enclosure 10.
The peculiar features of the present invention make it possible, therefore, to implement the ventilator device 1 in such a way as to protect individuals I from a possible contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, by creating air blades LA that allow defining and isolating a given area AR from the surrounding atmosphere, so that an individual I can remain within said area without having to resort to using an individual protection device (IPD) known in the art, e.g. a mask.
It is therefore apparent that the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention allows its users to live together in a given environment without running the risk of contagion from an infection, in particular of the respiratory type, even when said individuals are not using or wearing an individual protection device.
The ventilator device 1 according to the present invention also permits separating people that are present in a given environment in order to protect them from a possible contagion, in particular such separation being advantageously effected by means of a solution that can be easily adapted to the varied and different needs that may arise in a specific environment.
The ventilator device 1 according to the present invention can then be realized in such a way as to comprise at least one filtering element (not shown in the annexed drawings) associated with the duct 20, in particular positioned in proximity to said at least one first vent 11, for filtering the air flowing in said duct 20.
In addition, the ventilator device 1 may be so realized as to comprise at least one ultraviolet lamp (not shown in the annexed drawings), in particular of the shortwave type (UV-C), positioned inside the duct 20 for purifying the air flowing in said duct 20.
In a further embodiment, preferably alternative to that in which the ventilator device 1 comprises said at least one ultraviolet lamp, the device 1 according to the present invention may comprise at least one electrostatic element (not shown in the annexed drawings) positioned in the duct 20 for stopping any fine dust, bacteria, microbes or viruses that may be present in the air and/ or for removing any odours from the air.
The ventilator device 1 according to the present invention may then be so realized as to comprise a refrigeration circuit (not shown in the annexed drawings) for cooling and/ or dehumidifying the air flowing in the duct 20.
The device 1 according to the present invention may also be realized in such a way as to comprise a control unit (also not shown in the annexed drawings) for controlling the components of the device 1, in particular said at least one ventilator element 30 and/or said at least one ultraviolet lamp and/or said refrigeration circuit.
The following will describe a method for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, by means of a ventilator device 1 comprising:
- at least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure 10 within which a duct 20 is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure 10 comprises at least one first vent 11 for letting air flow into the duct 20 and at least one second vent for letting the air flow out of said duct 20,
- at least one ventilator element 30 positioned within said enclosure 10 so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct 20 formed in said enclosure 10 and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent 11, flow in said duct 20, and exit through said at least one second vent.
In accordance with the present invention, said method comprises a step a) of activating said at least one ventilator element 30 to obtain the emission of an air blade LA through at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B of the second vent, wherein each air blade LA is substantially vertical and allows defining and isolating a given area AR from the surrounding atmosphere, in particular said given area AR consisting of a space apt to be occupied by an individual I.
In accordance with an embodiment shown in Figures 1A to 4B, said step a) is carried out by emitting, through said at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B, substantially vertical air blades LA diverging from each other, in particular by an angle a comprised between 60° and 90°.
In accordance with an embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B, said step a) is carried out by emitting, through said at least one first mouth 12A and one second mouth 12B, substantially vertical air blades LA converging towards each other.
In accordance with the method according to the present invention, said step a) may be preceded by a step a-1) of filtering the air flowing in the duct 20 by means of at least one filtering element positioned in said duct 20.
The method according to the present invention may also comprise a step bl) of activating at least one ultraviolet lamp positioned in the duct 20 for purifying the air flowing in said duct 20. Alternatively, said method may comprise a step b2) of activating an electrostatic element positioned in the duct 20 for stopping any fine dust, bacteria, microbes or viruses that may be present in the air and/ or for removing any odours from the air flowing in said duct 20.
Lastly, the method according to the present invention may comprise a step c) of activating a refrigeration circuit for conditioning and/or dehumidifying the air flowing in the duct 20.
The features and advantages of the ventilator device 1 for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, and of the method according to the present invention are apparent from the above description.
In particular, the peculiar features of the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention make it possible to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and protect individuals I from a possible contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, by creating air blades LA that allow defining and isolating a given area AR from the surrounding atmosphere, so that an individual I can remain within said area without having to resort to using an individual protection device (IPD) known in the art, e.g. a mask.
It is therefore apparent that the ventilator device 1 according to the present invention allows its users to live together in a given environment without running the risk of contagion from an infection, in particular of a respiratory type, even when said individuals are not using or wearing an individual protection device.
The ventilator device 1 according to the present invention also permits separating people that are present in a given environment in order to protect them from a possible contagion, in particular such separation being advantageously effected by means of a solution that can be easily adapted to the varied and different needs that may arise in a specific environment.
The ventilator device 1 described herein by way of example and the associated method for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, may be subject to many possible variations without departing from the novelty spirit of the inventive idea; it is also clear that in the practical implementation of the invention the illustrated details may have different shapes or be replaced with other technically equivalent elements.
It can therefore be easily understood that the present invention is not limited to the above-described ventilator device 1 and method, but may be subject to many modifications, improvements or replacements of equivalent parts and elements without departing from the inventive idea, as further specified in the following claims.

Claims

1. Ventilator device (1) for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, said ventilator device (1) comprising:
- at least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure (10) within which a duct (20) is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure (10) comprises at least one first vent (11) for letting air flow into the duct (20) and at least one second vent (12) for letting the air flow out of said duct (20),
- a ventilator element (30) positioned within said enclosure (10) so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct (20) formed in said enclosure (10) and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent (11), flow in said duct (20), and exit through said at least one second vent, said ventilator device (1) being characterized in that said at least one second vent comprises at least one first mouth (12A) and one second mouth (12B) developing in the enclosure (10) substantially parallel to each other and formed in such a way as to emit each a substantially vertical air blade (LA) for defining and isolating a given area (AR) comprised between said air blades (LA) with respect to the surrounding atmosphere, in particular said given area (AR) consisting of a space apt to be occupied by an individual (I).
2. Ventilator device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said ventilator device (1) comprises a plurality of mouths (12 A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
3. Ventilator device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that each mouth (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D) is shaped as a slot or slit extending vertically in said enclosure (10) and parallel to at least one contiguous mouth (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
4. Ventilator device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said slot or slit is obtained by means of a cut made in the enclosure (10) for each one of said mouths (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
5. Ventilator device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said slot or slit is obtained by means of a plurality of holes or slots vertically aligned to form each one of said mouths (12 A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
6. Ventilator device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one ventilator element (30) comprises at least one fan.
7. Ventilator device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that said at least one fan is driven by an electric motor connected to power supply means, in particular comprising at least one battery.
8. Ventilator device (1) according to one or more of claims 6 and 7, characterized in that said at least one ventilator element (30) comprises a plurality of fans, in particular vertically stacked.
9. Ventilator device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said ventilator device (1) comprises at least one pair of mouths (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D), wherein each mouth (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D) emits a substantially vertical air blade (LA) which diverges from the air blade (LA) emitted by the associated mouth (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D).
10. Ventilator device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that said ventilator device (1) is configured as a centrepiece.
11. Ventilator device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said ventilator device (1) comprises at least one pair of mouths (12A, 12B), wherein each mouth (12A, 12B) emits a substantially vertical air blade (LA) which converges towards the air blade (LA) emitted by the associated mouth (12 A, 12B).
12. Ventilator device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that said ventilator device (1) is configured as an element that can be associated with a headrest of a seat.
13. Ventilator device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one filtering element associated with the duct (20) for filtering the air flowing in said duct (20) and/ or at least one ultraviolet lamp positioned inside the duct (20) for purifying the air flowing in said duct (20).
14. Method for preventing contagion from infection, in particular of a respiratory type, by means of a ventilator device (1) comprising:
- at least one perimetric wall that defines an enclosure (10) within which a duct (20) is formed for the air flow, wherein said enclosure (10) comprises at least one first vent (11) for letting air flow into the duct (20) and at least one second vent (12) for letting the air flow out of said duct (20),
- at least one ventilator element (30) positioned within said enclosure (10) so as to be in fluidic communication with the duct (20) formed in said enclosure (10) and allow air to be sucked in through said at least one first vent (11), flow in 14 said duct (20), and exit through said at least one second vent, said method being characterized in that it comprises a step a) of activating said at least one ventilator element (30) to obtain the emission of an air blade (LA) through at least one first mouth (12A) and at least one second mouth (12B) of said second vent, wherein each air blade (LA) is substantially vertical and allows defining and isolating a given area (AR) from the surrounding atmosphere, in particular said given area (AR) consisting of a space apt to be occupied by an individual (I).
15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that said step a) is carried out by emitting, through said at least one first mouth (12 A) and one second mouth (12B), substantially vertical air blades (LA) diverging from each other, in particular by an angle a comprised between 60° and 90°.
16. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that said step a) is carried out by emitting, through said at least one first mouth (12A) and one second mouth (12B), substantially vertical air blades (LA) converging towards each other.
EP21824018.2A 2020-11-17 2021-11-16 Ventilation device and method Pending EP4248147A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102020000027555A IT202000027555A1 (en) 2020-11-17 2020-11-17 VENTILATION DEVICE TO AVOID CONTAGION FROM INFECTION, IN PARTICULAR OF THE RESPIRATORY TYPE, AND RELATED METHOD
PCT/IB2021/060605 WO2022106994A1 (en) 2020-11-17 2021-11-16 Ventilation device and method

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ES2064608T3 (en) * 1989-08-18 1995-02-01 Mitsubishi Heavy Ind Ltd A METHOD FOR FORMING AN AREA SURROUNDED BY AN AIR CURRENT.
JPH04327736A (en) * 1991-04-30 1992-11-17 Mitsubishi Heavy Ind Ltd Fluid suction nozzle and fluid treatment device
KR101228617B1 (en) * 2010-09-28 2013-01-31 주식회사 환기연구소 Air curtain apparatus
KR20180073759A (en) * 2016-12-22 2018-07-03 엘지전자 주식회사 Baby carriage
KR102093862B1 (en) * 2018-07-03 2020-03-26 주식회사 프리쉐 Fine dust blocking apparatus of wearable
GB2575784B (en) * 2018-07-19 2022-04-27 Bentley Motors Ltd Zone separation in a vehicle

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