KR20000022237A - Ozone applications for disinfection, purification and deodorization - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A system is provided for disinfection, purification and deodorization, using a gaseous phase containing ozone, wherein the operations are carried out on the surface of the respective objects to be treated. CONSTITUTION: A frame type ozone generator has a plurality of elongated electrodes deployed in substantially parallel, spaced relation to each other so as to form a substantially flat electrode array, and a flow generator for generating a flow of oxygen containing gas through the electrode array in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electrode array. Each of the electrodes is formed from an electrically conductive core covered with polyvinyl-difluoride. Preferably, each electrode array is arranged within a frame of a given area, each frame being configured for assembly with other similar frames to form an extended ozone generator of area greater than the given area. Also provided are an apparatus for treating a product with ozone-containing gas in which pressure-waves are used to enhance effectiveness of the ozone treatment, and a two-chamber batch method for implementing treatment of a product with possibly harmful gases such as ozone.

Description

Ozone Application for Sterilization, Purification and Deodorization

Sterilization with ozone on fresh crops, pharmaceuticals and solids such as medical and industrial equipment is well known and is carried out in gaseous form or in aqueous solution. Some of the disadvantages of treating crops like this are:

(a) the possibility of damage to certain crops due to interaction with the surface of the treated material,

(b) diffusion of ozone into the treated tissue for non-crop solids such as foods as well as foods;

(c) The object to be treated does not have a stagnant region, i.e. a free flowing gas, and there is a portion where ozone permeation is inefficient.

Among the disadvantages of treatment in the liquid phase are:

(a) It is impractical to wet the product to be treated and then dry it again.

(b) There are products whose products can be affected by their surface area after they have been immersed in the liquid. Thus, the shelling of the egg shells dissolves in aqueous solution and the resulting processed eggs can then lose large amounts of water during storage.

(c) After treatment in the liquid phase, the metal parts may corrode.

(d) The fruit and vegetable tubular processing methods may lose the tubular hair, resulting in poor appearance.

The importance of the problem is evidenced by the relatively large number of patents and articles dealing with them. Accordingly, according to Chemical Abstract Vol. 123: 8355, an apparatus for sterilizing by immersing food in water is disclosed, wherein a flow of ozone and air is continuously injected into the water.

According to recent US Pat. No. 5,403,602, the disclosed method uses an aqueous solution containing 3-12% ozone. The released ozone reacts with the food ingredients, which are controlled by introducing enzyme catalysts. This sterilization method is claimed to be most useful for aseptic packaging of fresh food.

According to Chemical Abstract Vol. 119: 15419, a device for fluid sterilization is disclosed which consists of an ozone chamber in which ozone is produced and then dispersed through an ozone-air mixture by a diffuser. Fluid and ozone are thoroughly mixed in the treatment chamber and discharge the fluid to be treated. This device is useful for food processing, farm and water or air purification facilities.

According to Chemical Abstract Vol. 116: 261655, odorous air or water in a refrigeration box used to display fish and other food products is contained in a system comprising a device for gas or liquidized ozone in a pressurized container connected to the refrigeration box. It is deodorized by injecting ozone. It is stated that bacterial growth and odor production in the freezing box can be greatly reduced.

According to Chemical Abstract Vol. 116: 234256, a method and apparatus for sterilizing vegetables and fish using an aqueous ozone solution in a pH range of 3.5 to 4.5 are disclosed. This pH range is maintained by adding organic acids, such as acetic acid, and the ozone solution inhibits microbial growth.

This brief review indicates that there are problems and necessities for the sterilization, purification and deodorization of fresh crops, drugs, and medical and industrial equipment using ozone.

The present invention relates to a system for sterilization, purification and deodorization using a gas phase containing ozone. More particularly, the present invention relates to the system wherein the process is performed on the surface of each object to be treated.

1 is a diagram showing a target treatment method using an ozone-containing gas mixture.

2 shows a variant of the method shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 shows a spiral cylindrical flow of gas mixture that alternately changes its direction.

4 is a view showing a method of treating an object as shown in FIG. 2, combined with sound waves.

It is a figure which shows the processing method of the object in the packaging material which has an opening part.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a modification of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a target treatment method as a system for obtaining a homogeneous mixture of ozone and a carrier gas in a treatment space.

It is a figure which shows the processing method for continuous processes.

FIG. 9 is a processing method as shown in FIG. 4, in which the sound waves are generated by a transducer.

10 is a view showing a method of treating a target by the movement of ozone obtained through the phase transition of water vapor.

11 shows a method of treating liquid droplets with an ozone-containing gas mixture.

It is a figure which shows the processing method of the liquid falling film | membrane by ozone containing gas mixture.

FIG. 13 is a view showing a modification of FIG. 12, wherein the thin film falls from the sliding tray.

14 is a view showing a method of treating a liquid spray with an ozone-containing gas mixture.

15 is a view showing a method of treating eggs.

16 is a diagram illustrating a modification of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 shows a system for sterilization in a treatment space, dried by expanding the thin film surrounding the object to be treated.

18 shows a system for sterilizing open wounds and burns before or after any medical treatment.

FIG. 19 is an organization diagram of two process chamber systems for batch treatment with an ozone-containing gas mixture, shown in the first step of the process.

20, 21 and 22 are views similar to FIG. 19, showing three consecutive process steps of the system.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a change in ozone concentration with respect to time in each treatment chamber of the system of FIG.

FIG. 24 is a view showing an embodiment of a frame of a multipurpose versatile ozonator. FIG.

25A and 25B show an assembly of electrodes used in the ozone apparatus.

26A-26E are cross-sectional views of some typical electrodes used in the ozone apparatus.

27a and 27b illustrate a typical use of the ozone generator in an air outlet or chimney.

Fig. 28 is a view showing a system for purifying and disinfecting air using the ozone and the blower.

29A-29C illustrate a typical use of the ozone in a personal and / or external protective hood.

Fig. 30 is a view showing a personal device preferable for water treatment using the ozone machine.

FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of an ozone system including an arc frame.

FIG. 32 shows a variant of the embodiment shown in FIG. 31, wherein the system consists of a tunnel constructed from an arc-shaped frame.

33A and 33B show the movement of electrodes positioned side by side of the ozone generator during operation.

34 is a front view of a modular ozone generator assembly operating in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

35 is a simplified cross-sectional view through the module corresponding to region I of FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II of FIG. 35.

37 and 38 are detailed views showing the corners of various interlocking shapes for use with the module of FIG.

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III of FIG. 35.

FIG. 40 shows an electrical connection structure that is useful as a front view of the module from FIG. 39.

41 and 42 illustrate two possible ways of assembling the numerous modules of FIG. 40.

43 is a front view of any modular ozone generator, operated in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

44 is a cross-sectional view of the longitudinal axis through the highly concentrated frame type ozone generator operated by the teachings of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view along the horizontal line IV-IV of FIG. 44.

* Brief description of the main symbols in the drawings *

1,21,31,41,51,61,71,81,91,101,111,121,131,141,151,161,171,181 ... gas mixture generator

2,22,32,42,52,62,72,82,92,102,112,122,132,142,152,162,172,182 ... processing target

4,24,34,44,54,64,74,84,94,175,185 ... gas inlet

5,25,35,45,55,65,75,85,95,174,184 ... gas outlet

6,26,36,46.56,66,76,86,96,96,188 ... Relative Humidity and Temperature Controller for Gas Mixtures

3,33,43,53,63,73,83,153,163,173 ... processing space

47,57,67,77,87,97,104,114,125,135,177 ... electronics for sound wave generation

48,58,68,78,88,98,103,113,124,134,147,154,163 ... acoustic transducer

It is an object of the present invention to provide a system for the sterilization, purification and deodorization of objects maintained in a treatment space using ozone. Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for sterilization, purification and deodorization of the subject, which overcomes the existing disadvantages of known systems.

The first aspect of the invention flows on the surface, the flow being sterilized, purged and purified from the surface of the object maintained in the processing space by a forced flow of gaseous ozone homogeneously mixed with a carrier gas assisted by acoustic waves and It relates to a system for deodorization.

According to a preferred embodiment, the sound wave is produced via an acoustic transducer.

Thus, according to the teachings of the present invention,

(a) a plurality of elongated electrodes disposed substantially parallel to each other to form a substantially flat electrode arrangement; And

(b) each electrode is formed from an electrically conductive core coated with polyvinyl-difluoride, the flow generator for generating an oxygen containing gas through the electrode array in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electrode array;

There is provided a frame-type ozone generator comprising a.

According to another feature of the invention, the electrode array is disposed within a frame of a given area, the frame forming an assembly with other similar frames to form an enlarged ozone generator having an area larger than the given area.

According to another feature of the invention, the frame is a substantially square having first and second faces substantially perpendicular to the electrode, the ozone generator being enlarged in engagement with a second side located side by side of the similar frame. The first and second faces are complementary to each other to form a device.

According to another feature of the invention, the first surface comprises a first common electrical connection to the first set of electrodes, the complementary interlocking form being different from other common electrical connections of a similar frame in which the first common electrical connection is located side by side. And make an electrical connection with the frame.

According to another feature of the invention, the frame has first and second ends substantially parallel to the electrode, the first and second ends being engaged with side-by-side second ends having a similar frame with the first end. It is formed in a complementary interlocked form to form an expanded ozone generating device.

According to another feature of the invention, the frame and electrode arrangement is formed integrally from polyvinyl-difluoride molded from an electrically conductive implant.

According to the teachings of the present invention there is also provided an apparatus for treating a product with an ozone-containing gas.

(a) a container for containing a product;

(b) an ozone generator for supplying ozone-containing gas into the vessel; And

(c) a pressurized wave generator for generating pressurized waves in the vessel to improve the efficiency of ozone treatment.

According to another feature of the invention, there is also provided a flow generating system for generating a circulation of ozone-containing gas.

According to another feature of the invention, there is also provided a flow generating system arranged to produce an alternating flow of ozone-containing gas between a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction.

According to another feature of the invention, there is also provided a flow generation system arranged to generate a simultaneous flow of ozone-containing gas in one or more directions towards the product.

According to another feature of the invention, there is provided a cooling system for cooling at least one surface layer of the product before being sufficiently treated to cause condensation of ozone-containing water vapor in the surface layer.

According to another feature of the invention, there is also provided a cooling system for cooling at least one surface layer prior to sufficient treatment to effect freezing of the ozone-containing water vapor in the surface layer.

According to another feature of the invention, the product is water and the apparatus also comprises a water treatment system for generating a moving coating of water in the container.

According to another feature of the invention, the product is water and the apparatus is also

(a) a jet generator for generating a jet of water moving in a first direction in the vessel; And

(b) a flow generating system for generating a flow of said ozone-containing gas in a direction substantially opposite to said first direction.

According to another feature of the invention, there is also provided a catalytic filter coupled to the vessel for removing ozone from the ozone-containing gas prior to opening the vessel.

According to the teachings of the present invention, there is provided a process for the batch treatment of a product as a potentially harmful gas, the method of

(a) providing first and second processing chambers;

(b) treating the first batch of products with a large amount of gas in the first processing chamber;

(c) placing the second batch of products in a second processing chamber; And

(d) moving at least a portion of the gas from the first process chamber to the second process chamber;

It includes.

According to another feature of the invention, the potentially harmful gas is an ozone-containing gas.

According to another feature of the invention, the movement is carried out through an ozone generator to further increase the proportion of ozone in the ozone-containing gas.

According to another feature of the invention, the gas is also transferred from the second processing chamber to the first processing chamber via a catalytic filter.

According to another feature of the present invention, a pressurized wave is generated in the first processing chamber to increase the efficiency of the ozone treatment.

According to another feature of the invention, the at least one surface layer of the product is sufficiently cooled before the surface layer is sufficiently treated to condense the ozone-containing water vapor.

According to another feature of the invention, the at least one surface layer of the product is sufficiently cooled before the surface layer is sufficiently treated to cause freezing of the ozone-containing water vapor.

According to another feature of the invention, the first and second processing chambers share a common dividing wall characterizing at least one ozone generator and at least one catalytic filter.

According to another feature of the invention, the at least one ozone generator has an inlet connected to be switched with the first or second processing chamber and an outlet connected with the first or second processing chamber in a switchable manner.

According to another feature of the invention, the at least one catalytic filter has an inlet connected inverted with the first or second treatment chamber and an outlet connected with the first or second treatment chamber.

Also according to the teachings of the present invention,

(a) a plurality of elongated electrodes disposed substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other to form a substantially flat electrode arrangement;

(b) a case substantially surrounding the electrode array, the case having an inlet and an outlet; And

(c) recirculation of gas in the case recirculating through the electrode, and (ii) flow through the inlet and out through the outlet, the volume of the gas being much smaller than the volumetric flow rate of the recirculation flow. Throughflow; A flow system coupled to the case disposed to generate a;

There is provided a high concentration frame type ozone generator comprising a.

According to another feature of the invention, the volumetric flow rate of said recycle stream is at least 10 times the volumetric flow rate of said through stream.

According to another feature of the invention, there is also provided a cooling system coupled to the case for cooling the case.

According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided at least one additional electrode array similar to the electrode array and arranged in parallel such that the recycle flow passes sequentially through the electrode array and the additional electrode array.

The present invention relates to a system for ozone treatment and numerous developments related to ozone generators for such systems.

The principle and method of development according to the present invention can be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description.

More specifically, numerous systems for ozone treatment of objects have been described with particular reference to FIGS. Next, various structures of ozone generators having various structures and applications thereof will be described with reference to FIGS. 24 to 45. It should be appreciated that the ozone generators of FIGS. 24-45 can be advantageously used in the system of FIGS. However, the system is not limited to using such an ozone generator except in certain cases.

Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows a method for treating a target by forced linear flow of an ozone-containing gas mixture which alternately changes its direction. Such a system is particularly suitable for the sterilization of objects having smooth curved surfaces and no voids, such as certain kinds of crops (eg tomatoes, grapes and pumpkins, eggs, etc.).

The details of the system are as follows:

Apparatus (1) for producing an ozone-containing gas mixture and for maintaining gas circulation in the system

. Processing target (2)

. Boundary of processing space (3)

. Inlet (4) and outlet (5)-alternating with respect to the gas mixture

. Relative humidity and temperature control of the gas mixture in the treatment space (6)

. With the flow vector (a ₁ ) in one direction:

. Flow vectors in the opposite direction (a ₂ )

The gas flow in the system by recirculation is driven by a fan located in the apparatus for providing a gas mixture (item 1 above), flowing through the inlet-outlet 4-5 into the processing space 3 and In reaction to the object to be treated (2) and then alternately flow through the inlet-outlet (4-5). At this time, the flow direction changes. During the passage to the processing space, the gas flows through the humidity and temperature controller 6.

2 shows a method of treating a subject by a forced spiral cone flow of an ozone-containing gas mixture, alternating in its direction. In this system, if their surface area is smooth and free of voids, objects with different geometries can be processed. The flow of spiral motion is achieved by a fan-type gas mixer. The alternating direction of the flow accompanied by the helical motion ensures uniform treatment of the object to be treated if the treatment intervals in the other directions are the same.

The details of this system are as follows:

. An apparatus 22 for producing an ozone and gas mixture;

. The object 22 to be processed;

. An interface 23 of the processing space;

. Inlet-outlet 24-25 (alternating each other);

. Humidity and temperature controller 26 in the gas mixture.

The change of flow direction in the processing space is made by changing the direction of the gas mixer. Uniform treatment can also be obtained by rotating the object to be treated without changing the direction of the gas flow.

3 shows a spiral cylindrical flow of gas mixture, alternating in direction. The best result of using such a system is obtained as a layered, smooth object with a different shape when placed on the screen. The gas stream is created by driving the gas mixture tangentially and flowing it out of the center of the processing space.

The details of the system are as follows:

. Devices for the production of ozone and gas mixtures (31)

. Processing target 32;

. An interface 33 of the processing space;

. A gas inlet 34 that changes the direction of the incoming gas by 900 degrees to obtain a tangential velocity that alternates its direction;

. A gas (35) outlet, cylindrical and perforated, positioned in the center of the processing space and acting in parallel (a ₂ ) to generate a cylindrical spiral motion;

. Gas humidity and temperature controller (36).

4 shows a method for treating a subject by forced flow of an ozone-containing gas mixture, coupled with sound waves. Gas flow in the processing space can be done by all of the above methods (FIGS. 1,2 and 3). The sound waves are produced by actuating an acoustic transducer (such as a typical speaker), which ensures the movement of ozone to areas where the gas remains stationary, such as a specific product and the porous surface of the object with multiple edges. . Gas mixtures reaching these areas facilitate their sterilization and purification.

The details of the system are as follows:

. An apparatus 41 for producing an ozone and gas mixture;

. The processing target 42;

. Processing space 43;

. Gas inlet-outlet 44-45;

. Gas humidity and temperature controller 46;

. An electronic device 47 for generating sound waves, and

. Sonic transducer 48.

The treatment target 42 is sterilized when the ozone-containing gas flows into the treatment space 43. Sound waves f are generated by transducer 48 and they interact with the interface between the processing space and the object to be treated and the gas mixture flows in different directions as the frequency and amplitude of the sound waves change. This flow cannot occur without the sound waves. This gas flow also allows for better and more uniform treatment of all objects, including those with porous surfaces.

FIG. 5 shows a method for treating a subject in a package having an opening that allows the ozone-containing gas mixture to contact the packaged subject.

Details of the system are as follows:

. A device 51 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Processing target 52;

. Processing space 53;

. Gas inlet-outlet 54-55;

. Gas mixture temperature and relative humidity controller 56;

. An electronic device 57 for operating the acoustic transducer;

. Acoustic transducer 58;

. The package 59 to be treated.

In this particular case, when a change in the frequency and frequency of the sound waves f occurs, interactions with the objects to be treated, their packaging and the interface of the processing space occur, and the ozone-containing gas mixture is opened in the packaging. By entering more easily through the part, the surface of the said treatment object is disinfected and cleaned.

6 shows a treatment method of an object in a porous package. Porous materials such as fine filters facilitate long-term storage of objects that have been sterilized or purified by ozone.

Details of the system are as follows:

. An apparatus 61 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Processing target 62;

. Processing space 63;

. Gas inlet-outlets 64-65;

. Temperature and relative humidity controller 66 of the gas mixture;

. An electronic device 67 for operating the acoustic transducer;

. Acoustic transducer 68;

. Porous non-collasible packaging material 69 to be treated;

. Vacuum Pump (70)

The vacuum pump sterilizes the treatment object 62 by generating a homogeneous gas mixture through the treatment space 63.

7 shows the subject treatment method as a system for obtaining a homogeneous mixture of ozone and carrier gas in the treatment space. This system allows operating the apparatus for producing a homogeneous ozone-containing gas mixture, based on a frame-type ozone generator described below. The ozone generator does not require a dedicated blower (fan) and produces ozone in a homogeneous mixture of carrier gases.

Details of the system are as follows:

. Frame-type ozone generator 71;

. The object 72 to be processed;

. Processing space 73;

. Gas inlet-outlets 74-7-5;

. Regulator 76 for gas mixture temperature and humidity;

. An electronic device 77 for operating the acoustic transducer;

. Acoustic transducer 78;

. Catalyst Filter at Inlet of Ozone (79)

. Generator to prevent the ozone concentration from increasing gradually over time.

When a frame-type ozone generator is installed in the processing space, the ozone concentration can be adjusted by the interaction between the frequency of sound waves and the vibration of the power supply of the ozone generator. Synchronous and asynchronous states between each frequency control the ozone concentration in other ways by controlling the duration of the gas mixture in the ozone generator.

8 shows a treatment method for a continuous process on a moving belt. This system is for continuous sterilization and purification of objects carried along different kinds of moving belts while preventing negative ozone from both ends of the processing space or moving belt by maintaining negative pressure in the processing space.

Details are as follows.

. A device 81 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Processing target 82;

. Processing space 83;

. Inlet-outlet 84-85 of the gas;

. Temperature and humidity controller 86 of the gas mixture;

. A residual device 87 for operating the acoustic transducer;

. Acoustic transducer 88;

. Moving belt 89;

. Internal negative pressure (pi);

. External pressure (P2).

9 illustrates a processing method by interaction between them with two transducers to generate sound waves. This interaction is achieved by the impact of sound waves from other sources, which produces an effective dispersion of the gas mixture in all directions. In this system sterilization and purification takes place uniformly over the entire surface. In this way, the penetration of the gas mixture into the pores of the porous surface is much better than in a typical system.

Details of the system are as follows:

. An apparatus 91 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Processing target 92;

. Processing space 93;

. Gas inlet-outlets 94-95;

. Temperature and humidity controller 96 of the gas mixture;

. An electronic device 97 for operating the acoustic transducer;

. Acoustic transducer 98;

. Sound waves interacting between (f1) and (f2).

10 shows a target treatment method by the movement of ozone obtained through the phase conversion of water vapor. This method occurs when the temperature of the object to be treated (eg fruits, vegetables, meat) is as follows:

(a) when the gas mixture covers the treatment object with a layer of water containing dissolved ozone and the layer is cooled to a temperature that effectively sterilizes the surface of the treatment object, or

(b) When the ice layer containing ozone is cooled to a temperature below the cooling point of water, which is formed on the surface of the treatment object.

In case (a), a dew point advance point is formed before the gas mixture reaches the surface of the treatment object. This may occur when the temperature of the object to be treated is much lower than the dew point of the gas mixture. As a result, the temperature gradient between the object to be treated and the gas mixture allows for the formation of ozone-containing mist which acts as a very effective sterilization medium.

In case (b), ozone-containing frost is formed on the outer surface of the treatment object. In both cases, the ozone treatment is in particular in combination with alternating flow direction vectors of the gas mixture and in combination with sound waves interacting with the surface of the treatment object, when applicable or in combination with their packaging and treatment space boundaries Is also very effective.

Details of the system are as follows:

. Apparatus 101 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Processing target 102;

. Acoustic transducer 103;

. An electronic device (104) for operating the acoustic transducer;

. A coating layer 105 on the surface to be treated;

. Temperature T1 to be treated;

. Temperature T2 of the gas mixture;

. Direction (a) of the gas flow vector;

. Sound waves (f).

11 shows a method of treating a drip (or other liquid) with an ozone-containing gas mixture. This method occurs when the liquid droplets contact the homogeneous ozone-containing gas mixture for a time sufficient to allow ozone present in the gas mixture to permeate into the droplets. In this case, the sound wave greatly improves the rate of penetration of ozone into the droplets.

In this case, sterilization and purification of the liquid by ozone are very effective, and their deodorization is also effective. The process of the invention differs from the conventional process for the production of ozone solutions, in which the process of the invention is carried out by atomization of droplets in the presence of a gas mixture while the conventional process is by spraying the gas mixture into a liquid. It is done.

Details of the system are as follows:

. A device 111 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Droplet 112;

. Acoustic transducer 113;

. Electronic device 114 for sound wave operation;

. Droplets 115 processed.

Droplets are surrounded by the gas mixture and ozone penetrates them, thereby sterilizing, purifying and deodorizing the liquid. In general, the smaller the droplet size, the higher the method efficiency. In addition, when the ozone-containing gas mixture is dissolved in the droplets, a significant amount of other dissolved gases are released, thereby improving the deodorization of the liquid to be treated as finely dispersed mist.

Fig. 12 shows a method for treating liquid in a thin falling film by the ozone-containing gas mixture.

This method occurs when the gas mixture passes through a thin drop film of liquid that is sterilizing, purifying or deodorizing. Thin films can be formed by allowing liquid to fall onto the surface of a solid having a suitable geometry. In this way, the process method can have high processing efficiency due to the large surface area of the falling film. Details of the system are as follows:

. Apparatus 121 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Thin liquid 122;

. A solid surface 123 on which the liquid thin film is formed;

. Acoustic transducer 124;

. The electronic device for operating the sound transducer (125).

In addition to sterilizing, purifying or deodorizing the liquid, the surfaces on which the liquid drips are also sterilized. The method is very satisfactory for treating the corpse or part of an animal (including fish).

FIG. 13 shows a processing method for sterilizing, purifying or deodorizing liquid in a thin film falling from a sliding tray. The ideal form of such a tray is circular and the ideal form of the falling film is cylindrical. The gas mixture is introduced into the cylinder at a pressure sufficient to cause the cylindrical partial bulge, thereby forming a cylindrical body. Also in this case, when combined with sound waves, gas flows both internally and possibly externally also improve processing efficiency.

Details of the system are as follows:

. A device 131 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Cylindrical falling film 132;

. A sliding tray 133 having a monotonous interface (except the liquid separation edge);

. Acoustic transducer 134;

. An electronic device (135) for operating the acoustic transducer;

. A valve 136 for generating pressure in the "cylinder";

. Internal volume v of the "cylinder";

. Internal pressure Pi of the "cylinder";

. The direction of flow (a or a ') of the gas mixture;

. Sound waves (f).

14 shows a method for biphasic treatment of water with an ozone containing gas mixture. This treatment is carried out in a tower similar to the cooling tower. Water is sprayed by a fine sprayer to produce haze. The gas mixture originates from the bottom of the tower, which is in the opposite direction of the descending mist. The gas mixture surrounds the mist to sterilize, purify and deodorize the mist. The system is used for cooling water in cooling towers and also for treating relatively small amounts of water, such as swimming pools and drinking water reservoirs.

Details of the system are as follows:

. A device 141 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Tower 142;

. Watering machine 143;

. Mist 144;

. Catalytic filter 145;

. Small tower blower 146;

. Acoustic transducer 147;

. Gas mixture flow direction (a or a '), and

. Sound waves (f).

15 shows a method for treating eggs arranged on an open tray with an ozone-containing gas mixture. The purpose of this treatment is to sterilize the shell of the edible or hatched egg by passing a gas mixture around the outer surface of the egg. Most of the egg surface area is exposed to the gas mixture and a very small surface is in contact with the tray. The sterilization efficiency can be greatly improved not only by the pores of the egg shells, but also by sound waves which increase the penetration of ozone into the space between the eggs and the trays in which they are carried. By limiting the treatment period, the sterilization method can be limited to eggshells only.

Details of the system are as follows:

. A device 151 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Eggs 152 to be processed;

. Tray 153;

. Acoustic transducer 154.

FIG. 16 shows a method for pretreatment of eggs in packaging using an ozone-containing gas mixture. This application can sterilize eggshells in boxes with openings, thereby allowing gas mixtures to flow into them. In this case, the fungal efficiency can also be greatly improved by the sound waves interacting with the wall, thereby improving the rapid penetration of ozone into the space between the eggs and their packed boxes as well as the pores of the egg shells. . This mode of operation allows only eggshell sterilization if desired.

Details of the system are as follows:

. A device 161 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture;

. Eggs 162 to be processed;

. Box (packaging material) 163;

. Openings 164 in the box;

. Acoustic transducer 163; And

. Box dimensions (A, B and C).

This application is also suitable for similar processing of packaged crops such as fruits and vegetables.

FIG. 17 shows a system for sterilization in a processing space made by expanding the thin film surrounding the object to be treated.

Details of the above system are as follows:

. A device 171 for producing a homogeneous ozone and gas mixture for treatment, expansion and recycle;

. Processing target (172).

. Inflatable treatment space 173.

. Inlet 175 for gas mixture.

. Outlet 174 for gas mixture.

. Regulating valve 176 for external gas to expand the processing space.

. Electronic Devices For Operation Of Acoustic Transducer (177)

. Acoustic transducer 178.

. Gas discharge device and catalyst filter 179.

. Regulating element 180 for the temperature and relative humidity of the gas mixture.

As can be seen, the system is characterized by motility and flexibility to allow it to be folded and vacuum packed with minimal packaging volume. This method can be used to treat single plants, such as trees and brushes, as well as for sterilization of single objects such as medical applications, laboratory equipment, etc.

18 shows a system for sterilization of open wounds and burns prior to any medical treatment.

Details of the system are as follows:

. Apparatus (181) for producing a homogeneous mixture of ozone and gas for expansion and gas recirculation.

. Treatment object 182 with burns or open wounds.

. Gas outlet 194.

. Gas inlet (185)

. Regulating valve 187 for external gas for processing space expansion.

. Temperature and relative humidity control element 188 of the gas mixture.

. Apparatus 189 such as an annular storage cuff and a strap for separating the object from the membrane.

This system is for separating areas within the treatment area with open wounds before or after any medical treatment. If the face is covered with a gas mask equipped with a catalytic filter such as carbon, the treatment space may surround the entire body.

Referring now to FIGS. 19-23, a system designed generally 190, operating in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, for efficient batch processing with ozone is described.

Batch treatment with ozone is typically very inefficient. Large amounts of energy are used to generate a sufficient amount of ozone that is efficient for treatment. However, because ozone cannot be released to the atmosphere, all ozone remaining at the completion of each batch must be decomposed by a catalytic filter before the process chamber can be opened to remove the product under treatment. To address this problem, system 190 provides a large number of process chambers between the residual ozone being transferred at each batch end.

System 190 can be used in a wide variety of applications including, but not limited to, foods such as eggs, vegetables, meat and fish, and other products such as medical supplies.

Referring now to the features of the system 190 in more detail, the system 190 consists of at least two process chambers 191, 192 alternately used for batch ozone treatment (or sequentially, for two or more process chambers). The separation between process chambers 191 and 192 is partition 193 provided with ozone generator 194 and catalytic filter 180.

Each ozone generator 194 and catalytic filter 195 have independently switchable inlet and outlet conduits to operate in four different ways: Recycling in process chamber 191; Recycling within process chamber 192; Pump from process chamber 191 to process chamber 192; And pump from process chamber 192 to process chamber 191. The operation of the catalyst filter as well as the switching of the inlet and outlet are also controlled by a timer or computerized control system, described below.

Each process chamber preferably has at least one welded door 196, preferably a door 196 at the opposite end to facilitate efficient loading and unloading of the process chamber.

Such a batch also allows for independent acquisition from the opposite side in order to completely separate between the regions containing treated and untreated products. In a preferred embodiment, each treatment chamber also features an acoustic transducer 197 to enhance the penetration of ozone-containing gas as described above.

Each process chamber also features a suction pump 198, preferably with a catalyst pump. Suction pump 198 generates negative pressure in the processing chamber during processing, thereby reducing the risk of ozone leakage.

19-22 show sequential steps in the process of system 190, while FIG. 23 shows the change in ozone concentration with time change in the two process chambers. First, FIG. 19 shows that the second process chamber 192 is free of ozone for loading and removal while the first process chamber 191 performs ozone treatment at a randomly selected initial time. At this stage, ozone generator 194 operates in recirculation mode in process chamber 191 to maintain the ozone concentration at its maximum desired level. The suction pump 198 of the process chamber 191 also operates to maintain an internal pressure gradient to prevent the escape of ozone.

Once the process chamber 192 is loaded and processing of the process chamber 191 is complete, all of the doors 196 are closed and the system 190 enters the change-over shown in FIG. 20. Ozone generator 194 operates in pump mode to move the ozone loaded gas from process chamber 191 to process chamber 192. Backflow occurs through the catalytic filter 195, which decomposes any ozone intended to return to the treatment chamber 191. As a result, the concentration of ozone in the treatment chamber 192na rises sharply while the concentration of the treatment chamber 191 falls. At this stage, both suction pumps 198 operate to prevent leakage.

If the ozone concentration in process chamber 192 exceeds the ozone concentration in process chamber 191, the system enters the two-sided recirculation shown in FIG. Ozone generator 194 operates in recirculation mode in process chamber 192 to raise the ozone concentration to the maximum desired level for treatment. At the same time, the catalytic filter 195 operates in regeneration mode within the process chamber 191 to remove any residual ozone.

Once the ozone content of process chamber 191 becomes zero, filter 195 and suction pump 198 of process chamber 191 are deactivated as shown in FIG. Once the pressure is equal to atmospheric pressure, door 196 is opened for removal and reloading of process chamber 191. At the same time, the processing in the processing chamber 192 continues as in the previous step. Next, the whole process is performed in the opposite direction to process the next batch, ie the roles of the processing chambers 191 and 192 are reversed.

The ozone endogenous structure according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 24-45.

In summary, the ozone generator or "ozonator" of the present invention is a variety of systems for producing ozone from such gases that provide a homogeneous mixture of ozone and oxygen containing gas (called "carrying gas"). The ozone group is covered with a dielectric material, the regions of which are distributed in parallel so that there are gaps between them for gas flow at an angle of substantially 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the electrodes and the front of the frame region, the surface regions of the electrodes Parallel to the surface area of the resulting electrically-conductive material, electrodes of the same polarity are connected together, and electrodes of opposite polarity which are located next to each other are arranged at a position substantially perpendicular to the gas flow entering the system. It includes a frame. The systems for ozone generation are diverse and facilitate various ozone productions by facilitating ozone production at a wide range of desired concentrations.

The system also has a compact structure and occupies a relatively small space.

An important parameter for producing ozone in an ozone by the present invention is the ratio of the surface area of the electrode to the cross-sectional area of the gas flow conduit. If the length of the electrode is 10 times larger than its diameter, this ratio is more than 0.4. As oxygen molecules (O ₂ ) pass through the current generated between the electrodes, some molecules decompose to form monoatomic oxygen (O) and some of them recombine to form ozone (O ₃ ). The cross-sectional shape of the electrodes varies and remains geometrically compatible with each other.

To facilitate adjustment of the gas flow rate, rotation around their longitudinal axis is controlled to narrow or widen the gaps between the electrodes through which the reacted gas flows.

The electrode can be made of any electrically conductive material. Metal wires, films of wire, carbon wires or thin films and electrically conductive liquids and gels. The dielectric coating of the electrode can be selected from a variety of materials, such as borosilicate glass or ceramic having a high dielectric constant (typical value in the range 5-7) and a high breakdown voltage (preferably greater than 12 KV / mm).

In order to provide a uniform electric field between the electrodes, the cross-sectional shape of the electrodes can vary if the same gap (distance) is maintained between them.

In order to obtain a uniform electric field through the entire space in which ozone is formed, the gap between the electrodes of the device is at an angle of substantially 90 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the electrode and the electrodes remain substantially parallel to each other.

The frame supporting the electrodes can be made of another kind of insulating material, which is not attacked by ozone, thereby allowing the selection of a particular kind of material suitable for a particular application. In general, any ozone-resistant material can be used. It should be stressed that any material may be used as this problem is not so important if it is suitable for that particular purpose with sufficient durability, flexibility, elasticity and the like.

The adjustment of the ozone concentration level can be made by changing the electric field between the electrodes made by monitoring the flow rate of gas through the ozone and / or by adjusting the voltage applied across the electrical end of the ozone.

A particular advantage of the ozone system according to the invention is its applicability without any space for additional mixers, such as in the case of narrow gaps for air.

The features of the frame ozone will now be described in more detail. 24 schematically shows a possible embodiment of the frame of the ozone apparatus according to the present invention. The frame is arranged substantially parallel to each other and consists of electrodes 201 and 202 coated with a dielectric material. There is a gap between the electrodes at an angle of substantially 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the electrode and the front of the frame region. The surface area of the electrode is substantially parallel to the surface area of the metal conductor from which the electrode is made. Electrodes of the same polarity are electrically connected together (203, 204) and electrodes with opposite polarities are arranged adjacent to each other. The arrangement is oiled together by confining to square frame 206. High voltage AC is applied to the electrode and is connected across terminals A and B. The flow of air or oxygen containing gas passes through the frame and is applied perpendicular to the front of the frame to achieve maximum efficiency of ozone production. As oxygen molecules (O ₂ ) pass through the electric field generated between the electrodes, some molecules decompose to form monoatomic oxygen (O) and then recombine, partially forming ozone (O ₃ ).

Figure 25 schematically shows an assembly of an electrode used for the ozone machine according to the present invention. The assembly includes a metal electrode 211, a dielectric coating 212, an electrical connection 213 and an insulating space 214. The electrodes of the ozone group can have various designs, and two typical designs are shown in FIG. 25. As shown, the electrode is placed in an insulated tube with all but the electrical contacts 202a covered with a dielectric material or with an insulating cavity at the end that prevents electrical discharge between the electrodes.

Figure 26 shows a typical cross-sectional shape of an electrode most suitable for an ozone group according to the present invention.

FIG. 26A shows a polygonal cross-sectional shape having a metal electrode 221 and a dielectric sheath 222, the direction of the gas flow being indicated by V and the space for ozone formation represented by G. FIG.

26B shows an electrode having a circular cross section.

Figures 26c and 26d show different faces of the electrodes that are compatible with each other according to the corresponding form of the space therebetween, these comprising a metal electrode 221 and a dielectric coating 224, where ozone is in the space g. Is formed.

FIG. 26E illustrates an electrode having a cross section that allows spaces to trap parallel-boundary surfaces, thereby facilitating control of gas flow through the electrode by rotating the electrode about their longitudinal axis.

27 shows a particular use of the ozone in an air outlet or chimney.

27a shows the use of an ozone according to the invention installed in an air outlet or chimney. This includes the air outlet 230, ozone 231 according to the invention, the direction of the gas flow as indicated by V. This system is intended for the purification and sterilization of the medium to be treated.

FIG. 27B shows a similar compilation installed in the air outlet, with a device for removing ozone residue after completion of air treatment in the system. As can be seen, the ozone residue is removed by the external space 233 of the air outlet, the space 234 to which the ozone treatment is applied, and the post-treatment catalyst filter 235 mounted in the system and in front of the ozone treatment region. There is a catalytic filter 232 having a space to be provided. This system is for purifying, sterilizing as well as deodorizing air or other gases. Such a system can be used in air conditioners and refrigerators of various sizes.

The ozone system according to the present invention is also suitable for treating air or oxygen contaminated with microorganisms or chemical contaminants. After the treatment, ozone is converted into oxygen molecules with decontaminated gas and ozone-free gas.

28 shows an air purification and sterilization system using an ozone and a blower according to the present invention. The system is:

. Cabinet 240;

. Integrated blower 241;

. Ozone group 242 according to the present invention;

. Catalytic filter 243;

. An outer space 244 in front of the ozone treatment region;

. A space 245 to which ozone treatment is applied;

. An inner space 246 behind the catalytic filter;

. Located at the rear of the blower, the filter for removing dust particles 247;

. A second catalytic filter 248 (optional) to prevent the release of ozone caused by backflow of the gas;

It includes.

29 shows typical use of ozone in external protection for personal and / or microbial contamination.

The intake air as well as the exhaust air are sterilized before passing through the catalyst filter, thereby reliably protecting the hood wearer from infection through the air around the hood. If you are already infected, be sure to prevent infection from others.

29B shows a personal protective hood in which only intake air is sterilized. The hood can be used to protect people who come into contact with patients who are confined to the sterile chamber, such as those with diseases of the immune system.

The hood includes the following items:

A transmission shield 270;

An ozone 271 comprising a catalyst filter on each side of the ozone to sterilize the air sucked as described above;

A catalytic filter 272 on each side of the ozone for sterilizing the discharged air;

A sheet 273 which protects the chest in the human body so that air does not penetrate or leak into or out of the hood without passing through the ozone;

Check valves 274 that regulate the inlet and outlet of air.

To prevent condensation of moisture, a membrane 275 may also be mounted to separate the compartment for exhaust air from the air remaining in the hood.

Fig. 30 shows a preferred water treatment setup using an ozone according to the invention, in particular designed to be immersed in a drinking water container.

The apparatus includes the following items:

Cylinder type housing 280;

A particle removal filter 281 incorporating a catalytic filter;

Ozone group 282 according to the present invention;

Battery cartridge 283;

High voltage inverter 284, if required;

A water pump 285;

Venturi device 287;

A catalyst filter 287; And

· Outlet 288 of purified water.

The operation for water treatment is as follows. Water is pumped through a venturi device that sucks air through filter 281 and ozone 282. While the water passes through the venturi device, the water is mixed homogeneously with the ozone-containing air. The mixture flows through the outlet 288 into the purified water container. After purification, the ozone operation is stopped, but the pump remains active for an additional period of time in order to completely remove any ozone residue by passing air through the catalytic filter.

31 and 32 show another embodiment in which the electrode is in arc-shaped form to facilitate positioning of the electrode around the conveyor, which can be continuously treated by ozone with a homogeneous distribution of solids.

In other modes of use, containers in which ozone is dispersed may be secured to a shelf into which solids processed by ozone may be loaded, such as fresh crops, foods, packaging materials or devices to be sterilized. Thus, for example, fruits and vegetables can be sterilized using ozone concentrations of up to 10 ppm at relative humidity in the range of up to 98% and temperatures in the range from 0 to 40 ° C without affecting the natural waxy coating of the fruit skin. The sterilization operation takes 5 to 100 minutes.

At the outlet of the container, the ozone is converted back to oxygen. If even trace amounts of ozone are undesirable, a trap may be provided at the outlet containing a catalyst filter, such as a reducing agent solution or carbon from which the residue is easily removed.

FIG. 31 is a structural diagram of a tunnel constructed from arc-shaped electrodes that can be used along and around a conveyor where solids or targets, such as crops, can be continuously processed by ozone. The above items may be mentioned:

291: arc type electrode;

292: air intake;

293: bottom of tunnel;

V ₁ : bottom of tunnel; And

V ₂ : ozone containing air.

Figure 32 has the following items and is similar to Figure 31:

301: arc type electrode;

302: porous bottom for inhalation of air;

303: bottom of tunnel;

V ₁ : air inlet; And

V ₂ : ozone containing air.

On the surface of the tunnel, a conveyor with a porous film is located, and the solids treated with ozone are moved along the conveyor belt. After the ozone comes into contact with the solids, the ozone gas is discharged from the tunnel through the outlet V ₂ . A mobile device may optionally be located in the tunnel in which the material to be suspended is suspended.

According to another preferred embodiment, the device is positioned in the tunnel to reverse the material alternately from one side to the other side, at least once during the ozone treatment, so that all surfaces are in contact with ozone.

In addition to the ozone structure described above, in the ozone structure described below, a preferred feature of the present invention is that the electrode is formed using polyvinyl-difluoride (PVDF) as the dielectric insulator.

Conventional glass coated electrodes are known to have a variety of poor physical effects that reduce both efficiency and reliability. This effect is believed to be due to the gap that exists between the conductive core and the glass layer and allows oxygen to penetrate harmfully.

The use of this PVDF allows the fabrication of electrodes while ensuring intimate adhesion between the dielectric material and the conductive core by injection molding technology. Injection molding techniques can also be fabricated in one step of all self-containing ozone devices, as detailed below. Suitable injection molding techniques are well known in other electrical component applications as being performed with conductive materials in which injection molding of other plastic materials has been performed.

PVDF provides a number of other beneficial features. In addition to the properties that have a high dielectric constant and are required to be inert under the operating conditions of the ozone group, PVDF also exhibits significant modulus of elasticity. As a result, structures produced with PVDF have significant fracture resistance and are therefore more reliable and durable than equivalent structures made of glass. Such bendability can also be used structurally, such as a clip-on connector, as described below.

33 to 43, various subtleties of the ozone structure of the present invention are described. First of all, for purposes of introduction, FIGS. 33A and 33B illustrate the effect of resonance motion of an extended electrode 310 of length l. During the operation of the ozone, a large magnetic field is generated near the electrodes, generating various forces among them. If two or more electrodes are included, complex vibrations can occur in one or more planes. As a result of these vibrations, the gap between adjacent electrodes was initially h, varying between the minimum value h ₁ (FIG. 33A) and the maximum value h ₂ (FIG. 33B) depending on the length of the electrode. This vibration has a number of undesirable effects: first, ozone generation is reduced in proportion to the time the gap is increased; Second, the reduced gap spacing is accompanied by the risk of sparking across the gap; Third, severe mechanical vibrations can destroy the insulating dielectric coating of the electrodes or even break adjacent electrodes or create harmful collisions.

For this reason, it has been found that there is an effective "critical length" in which the electrode is not mechanically unstable. As an example, the critical length was found to be about 30 cm for an electrode whose aluminum core had a 1.6 mm diameter and the PVDF dielectric insulator had a thickness of 1.2 mm (total diameter 4 mm). For improved stability and reliability, it is preferred that the length is about 20 cm. In a more general sense, the critical ratio (ratio between critical length and electrode diameter) is about 80 for aluminum / PVDF electrodes and about 100 for pyrex-coated electrodes.

Limiting the electrode length to less than a given grain boundary creates a problem of having to construct a large volume of ozone. The fundamental solution to this problem is to add an intermediate electrode spacer at intervals below the critical length. However, this solution is very labor intensive because it requires precise manual placement of the space between the electrodes during assembly or the use of unrealistically large molds.

A preferred solution is provided by the frame-ozone assembly of the module, generally indicated at 312 by the teachings of the present invention, and will be described with reference to FIGS. 34-42.

34 shows an assembly 312 consisting of an array 314 of identical modules. Each module 314, shown in detail in cross section in FIG. 35, has a plurality of elongated electrodes 316, 317 of length l up to a critical length arranged to form a self-containing frame ozone device. The structure of this module makes it easy to construct ozones of any desired area and size while avoiding the problems normally encountered in large size ozones.

In the detailed description of module 314, each electrode 316, 317 is formed from an electrically conductive core 318 with polyvinyl-difluoride 320 spread over its surface. The electrodes 316 and 317 are arranged to be equally spaced from each other while being substantially equilibrated to form a substantially flat electrode array with air gaps between adjacent electrodes. An electrode 316 with one polarity is located between electrodes 317 with the opposite polarity.

The electrodes 316, 317 consist of first and second side faces 322, 324 substantially perpendicular to the electrode and are supported by a substantially rectangular frame of first and second side faces 326, 328 substantially parallel to the electrodes. Since the gaps at these locations do not contribute to ozone production, there is preferably no air gap between side 326 and 328 and adjacent electrodes.

The first and second sides 322, 324 are created in a complementary interlocking fashion such that the first side 322 can engage the second side 324 positioned in parallel with the similar module 314 during the construction of the assembly 312. The preferred structure of the complementary interlocking form is shown most clearly in FIG. 36. Each side is characterized by a clip form 330 such that adjacent modules can receive semi-permanent forces into engagement.

Preferred structures for replacing the interlocked form are shown in FIGS. 37 and 38. FIG. 37 shows a clip form 332 similar to the clip form 330 but with ratchet teeth 334 securely clamping the clip together in its engaged position. If necessary, the dismantling of the connection can only be carried out by sliding the module separately along the length of the sides 322 and 324. 38 shows a rectangular linkage 336.

Preferably the first and second ends 326, 328 are also formed in complementary interlocking form such that the first end 326 can engage the second end 328 positioned side by side of the similar module 314 during assembly. An example of a suitable interlocking form is shown in FIG. 39. The interlocking form is not limited thereto, but may be in a range of forms including those described above based on the side surfaces 322,324.

In the electrical connection of module 314, all electrodes 316 with one polarity are connected to one conventional electrical connection or rail 338 and all electrodes 317 of opposite polarity are connected to a second conventional electrical connection or rail 340. do.

External connections to the rails 338 and 340 can be made in a number of ways. Connectors 342, 344 (FIGS. 36-40) are preferably fitted to the sides and ends of module 314 in such a way that they are contacted across assembly 312 without additional external windings. In this case, the modulus of elasticity of the assembly assembled with the clip maintains stable adhesion of the once assembled connector, thereby preventing ignition occurring across the connection.

Additional switchable multi-connector sockets 346 (FIGS. 35 and 40) are preferably provided to connect through the required external windings. For the sake of clarity, detailed descriptions of the electrical connections in the multiple connector socket 346 as well as both the rail 338 and the connector 342 and between the rail 340 and the connector 344 have been omitted from the drawings.

There are specific features of the preferred embodiment of the module 314 to electrically position the connectors 342 and 344 to be adaptable to the connected module. By subdividing the power supply of a large area ozone generator into multiple small areas, a number of low power high voltage transformers can be used, thereby avoiding both the stability risks and the legal regulations associated with high current high voltage systems. On the other hand, when a high current supply is available, the same module can be easily rearranged to provide a common parallel connection of all modules. Examples of proper placement and use of connectors 342 and 344 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 40-42.

In this embodiment, the complementary interlocking form of the sides 322 and 324 means that if one module 314 rotates by 180 ° near a line parallel to the sides 322 and 324 (hereinafter referred to as "rotation"), the rotated side 322 It should be noted that is manufactured to be able to interlock with the side 322 of the module 314 is not rotated. Similarly, the shape of terminals 326 and 328 is that if one module 314 is rotated 180 ° near the line parallel to the terminals 326 and 328 (hereinafter referred to as "reverse rotation"), the reverse rotated terminal 326 is not reverse rotated. It is made to work with the terminal 326 of 314.

40 shows module 314 having connectors 342 asymmetrically positioned at the top end of side 322 and the bottom end of side 324. Similarly, connector 344 is located asymmetrically on the right side of end 326 and on the left side of end 328.

When the two modules of this invention are assembled side-by-side, it can be readily understood that no contact occurs between the connectors 342 on the bonded side. Conversely, if one of the modules is rotated, the connector 342 results in an overlapping position where electrical contact can be made when they are assembled.

Similarly, if two modules of this invention are assembled one-above-the other, no contact will occur between the connectors 344 at the bonded ends. If one of the modules is reversed, the connector 344 introduces an overlapped position that may have electrical contact when they are assembled.

FIG. 41 shows an assembly 312 consisting of a 3 × 3 array of modules 314. For ease of reference, the relative orientation of each module is shown in the direction of the arrow. Each module is rotated about its horizontal vicinity and reversely rotated about its vertical neighborhood. As a result, a continuous connection is formed between the connectors 342 across the entire assembly horizontally and between the connectors 344 across the entire assembly vertically. The assembly can thus be activated simply by connecting the exposed connector 342 to one pole of the supply and the three exposed connectors 344 to the other pole of the supply.

Figure 42 shows another assembly that is a 3x4 array of module 314. In this case, no reverse of module 314 is provided. As a result, no vertical connection is created. Similarly, rotation is optionally performed to form a connection of a pair of modules 314. As a result, assembly 312 is electrically subdivided into small subunits of a pair of modules 314, each of which has all the advantages of requiring the low currents mentioned above. In addition, it should be noted that the outer winding needs to be connected to the rail 340 of the middle row of the module by adhering to the multiple connectors 346.

The overall structure of module 314 is preferably formed integrally from polyvinyl-difluoride molded from suitably positioned electrically conductive implants. The choice of conductive material is not critical, but typically aluminum can be used.

Assembly 312 works with some type of flow generator (not shown) to generate a flow of oxygen containing gas through the assembly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the electrode array. The flow generator can be used in any form that is open or not open to the ozone generator.

It should be appreciated that placing the electrode in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the gas flow results in uniform cooling of the electrode along its entire length during operation of the ozone generator. This phenomenon significantly reduces the thermal decomposition of ozone.

43 illustrates a variation 400 of the frame-ozone assembly 312 of the module. Assembly 400 is generally similar to assembly 312. The main difference is that the module 402 is formed of a strip extending in a direction perpendicular to the electrode. In all other respects, the features of assembly 400 are similar to assembly 312 described above and will be readily understood.

Finally, looking at Figures 44 and 45, a high concentration frame-type ozone generator, generally designated 500, will be described and constructed and operated in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

The ozone generator 500 has a plurality of frames 502 that are substantially parallel and similarly to the foregoing, each consisting of an array of elongated electrodes disposed with respect to each other. Frames 502 are spaced apart along the flue so that they can cover the entire cross-sectional area of the flue. Year 504 is mounted in a substantially sealed cylindrical case 506 to define an ambient gas flow conduit 508.

Case 506 is featured at inlet 510 and outlet 512. Near the inlet 510, the power supply 514 feeds a motor 516 that drives a fan 518 via a drive shaft 520. Separation wall 522 defines a small aperture 524 near drive shaft 520 and is supplied to separate the inlet region containing power supply 514 and motor 516 from the working volume of ozone generator 500.

In operation, fan 518 generates a dual flow pattern: first, gas is discharged into the working volume as it circulates back along year 504 and along surrounding conduit 508 to allow gas to be recycled through frame 502. In addition, the suction effect at the back of the fan 518 sucks gas from the inlet 510 via the opening 524 and results in the processing-flow of the corresponding gas through the outlet 512. By correctly placing the ozone generator 500 and, more particularly, by adjusting the size of the opening 524, the flow rate V ₀ of the volumetric flow rate of the treatment-flow is set to be significantly smaller than the flow rate V ₁ of the volumetric flow rate of the recycle stream. Preferably V ₁ is at least 10 times _greater than V ₀ , resulting in a homogeneous mixture of relatively high concentrations of ozone in the carrier gas.

Significant heat is generated during operation of the ozone generator. In some cases, air cooling of independent gas within conduit 508 may be sufficient through the walls of case 506. Alternatively, an active cooling system is provided for cooling the walls of the case 506. One example of such a system is a water circulation cooling system that indicates cooling of tube 526.

The placement of the fan 518 relative to the opening 514 ensures that ozone can flow back into the area containing the power supply and motor without possible damage.

Preferably the inlet 510 is provided with a filter and / or an electrostatic precipitator to remove dust and other small particles from the inlet air, thus ensuring the performance of the ozone generator 500 safely.

The above detailed description is provided by way of example only, and many other embodiments may also be possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The ozone generator according to the present invention is used in the sterilization, purification and deodorization system for use in the gas phase containing ozone.

Claims (30)

(a) a plurality of elongated electrodes disposed substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other to form a substantially flat electrode arrangement; And (b) a flow generator for generating a flow of oxygen-containing gas through the electrode array in a direction substantially perpendicular to the electrode array; Wherein each electrode is formed from an electrically conductive core coated with polyvinyl-difluoride. The ozone of claim 1, wherein the electrode array is disposed within a frame of a given area, the frame forming an assembly with other similar frames to form an enlarged ozone generator having an area larger than the given area. generator. 3. The frame of claim 2, wherein the frame is substantially square with first and second surfaces substantially perpendicular to the electrode, wherein the first and second surfaces are side-by-side second surfaces of the similar frame to the first surface. And an complementary interlock form to form an enlarged ozone generating device in engagement with the ozone generator. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first face comprises a first common electrical connection to the first set of electrodes, the complementary interlocking form being another common of similar frames in which the first common electrical connection is located side by side. And an electrical connection and an electrical connection, the ozone generator being configured to interlock with the frame. 4. The frame of claim 3, wherein the frame has first and second ends that are substantially parallel to the electrode, wherein the first and second ends are engaged with and enlarged in tandem with the second end located side by side with the similar frame. An ozone generator, characterized in that it is formed in a complementary interlocked form to form an ozone generator device. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the first end comprises a first common electrical connection to the first set of electrodes, the complementary interlocking form being a common electrical connection of a similar frame in which the first common electrical connection is located side by side. Ozone generator, characterized in that the electrical connection is formed to interlock with the frame. The ozone generator as claimed in claim 2, wherein the frame and the electrode array are integrally formed from molded polyvinyl-difluoride having an electrically conductive implant. (a) a container for containing a product; (b) an ozone generator for supplying ozone-containing gas into the vessel; And (c) a pressurized wave generator for generating pressurized waves in the vessel to improve the efficiency of ozone treatment; And an apparatus for treating a product with an ozone-containing gas. 10. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a flow generating system for generating a circulation of said ozone-containing gas. 9. The apparatus of claim 8 further comprising a flow generating system configured to generate alternating flows of ozone-containing gas between a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. 9. The apparatus of claim 8 further comprising a flow generating system arranged to generate a simultaneous flow of ozone-containing gas in one or more directions towards the product. 12. A cooling system as claimed in any of claims 8 to 11, further comprising a cooling system for cooling at least one surface layer of said product prior to sufficient processing to cause condensation of ozone-containing water vapor in said surface layer. Device. 12. A cooling system as claimed in any of claims 8 to 11, further comprising a cooling system for cooling at least one surface layer of said product prior to sufficient treatment to cause freezing of ozone-containing water vapor in said surface layer. Device. The device according to claim 8, wherein the product is water, and the device further comprises a water treatment system for generating a moving coating of water in the vessel. The device of claim 8, wherein the product is water and the device is (a) a jet generator for generating a jet of water moving in a first direction in the vessel; And (b) a flow generating system for generating the flow of the ozone-containing gas in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction; Apparatus comprising a. 12. The device of any one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising a catalytic filter coupled to the vessel for removing ozone from the ozone-containing gas prior to opening the vessel. (a) providing first and second processing chambers; (b) treating the first batch of products with a large amount of gas in the first processing chamber; (c) placing a large amount of said second batch of products in said second processing chamber; And (d) moving a minimum portion of said quantity of gas from said first processing chamber to said second processing chamber; Batch treatment method of the product as a potentially harmful gas comprising. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the potentially harmful gas is an ozone-containing gas. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein said moving is further performed through an ozone generator to increase the proportion of ozone in the ozone-containing gas. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising moving gas from the second process chamber to the first process chamber through a catalytic filter. 21. The method of any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising generating a pressurized wave in the first treatment chamber to increase the efficiency of the ozone treatment. 21. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising, before the treatment, cooling at least one surface layer of the product sufficient to cause condensation of ozone-containing water vapor in the surface layer. . 21. The method of any one of claims 18 to 20, comprising, prior to said treatment, cooling at least one surface layer of said product sufficient to cause freezing of ozone-containing water vapor in said surface layer. 21. The method of any of claims 18-20, wherein the first and second processing chambers share a common dividing wall characterized by at least one ozone generator and at least one catalytic filter. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the at least one ozone generator has an inlet connected to be diverted with the first or second processing chamber and an outlet connected to the first or second treatment chamber. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the at least one catalytic filter has an inlet connected to be diverted with the first or second processing chamber and an outlet connected with the first or second processing chamber. (a) a plurality of elongated electrodes disposed substantially parallel and spaced apart from one another to form a substantially flat electrode arrangement; (b) a case substantially surrounding the electrode array, the case having an inlet and an outlet; And (c) (i) recirculation of gas in the case that is recycled through the electrode array, and (Ii) through-flow of gas flowing through the inlet and out through the outlet and having a volume flow rate much smaller than the volume flow rate of the recirculation flow; A flow system coupled to the case formed to generate a; High concentration frame-type ozone generator comprising a. 28. The ozone generator of claim 27, wherein the volumetric flow rate of said recycle stream is at least 10 times higher than said volumetric flow rate of said through flow. 29. The ozone generator of claim 27 further comprising a cooling system coupled to the case for cooling the case. 28. The ozone of claim 27, further comprising at least one additional electrode arrangement similar to and parallel to said electrode arrangement such that said recycle flow passes sequentially through said electrode arrangement and said additional electrode arrangement. generator.