KR20050101731A - Air transporter-conditioner with particulate detection - Google Patents

Abstract

The ambient sensor is used to determine the voltage output of the high voltage generator used for the first and second electrodes of the air conditioner. In one embodiment, the ambient sensor is a particulate detector. If the particulate level is detected low, a low level output is used. If high particulate levels are detected, the high output of the generator is used. As the ambient sensor, an ozone detector or a passive IR detector is used.

Description

AIR TRANSPORTER-CONDITIONER WITH PARTICULATE DETECTION

The present invention relates to the fabrication of an apparatus for generating air flow using electro-kinetic to remove particulates.

The present invention relates to a device for generating air flow using electro-kinetic to remove particulates.

Techniques for flowing air using electric motors and fans are already known. Unfortunately, these fans make a lot of noise and are dangerous for children who can stick fingers or pencils in their wings. These fans have large flow rates (more than 1000 cubic feet / minute), require a significant amount of power to drive an electric motor, and above all, no flow control.

HEPA flexible filters are provided in the pan to remove particulates above 0.3 micron. However, twice as large an electric motor is required to maintain the required flow rate due to the air resistance by the filter element. Moreover, HEPA flexible filters are expensive and account for a large percentage of the price of the entire fan unit. This filter-fan unit can remove the assembly but not the particulates such as bacteria.

Airflow techniques using electro-kinetic techniques that convert electrical energy to flow air without mechanical movement are already known. Such a system is described in Lee's US Pat. No. 4,789,801 (1988). The arrangement or induction plane of the first electrode (emitter) is symmetrically apart from the second electrode (collector) or induction plane. The positive pole of the pulse generator generating a high positive voltage (0 to +5 KV) is connected to the first array, and the negative pole of the pulse generator is connected to the second array. The arrangement includes a plurality of electrodes but may comprise one electrode.

The high voltage pulses ionize the air between the arrays and generate air flow from the first array to the second array without moving parts. Particulates in the air follow the air flow and move to the second electrode. The fine particles are attracted to the second electrode surface by the electrostatic force and remain there, and the air escapes. The high pressure electric field between the electrode arrays generates ozone, which removes the smell of air.

The electrostatic technique shown in patent '801 has advantages over conventional electric fan-filter systems and is advantageous in air conditioning transfer efficiency.

One embodiment of the invention consists of a first and a second electrode and a voltage generator. The voltage generator is connected to the first and second electrodes to flow air from the first electrode to the second electrode. The device includes an ambient sensor. The output of the voltage generator is adjusted based on the signal of the sensor.

The ambient sensor causes the device to respond to changes in the environment. In one embodiment, the ambient sensor is a particulate sensor. The use of a particulate sensor allows the device to adjust the output of the voltage generator in response to particulate levels in the air. For example, the duty cycle of the voltage generator output can be increased when voltage peaks or high levels of particulates are detected.

In one embodiment, the ambient sensor is an ozone detector. The ozone detector can keep the ozone at the air conditioner outlet below a specified maximum. In this way, the air conditioner can operate at a high level without excessive ozone levels.

In one embodiment, the ambient sensor is a passive infrared detector. The detector detects people or animals. As a person or animal moves in the room, particulates develop. If a person or animal is detected, the device is activated or the output of the voltage generator is increased.

In one embodiment, the ambient sensor is a remote unit. The wireless unit communicates with the base unit to control the output of the voltage generator.

Other objects, aspects, features and advantages of the present invention appear in the following description, the accompanying drawings and the claims.

1A shows that the device 100 includes a first electrode 102 and a second electrode 104, 106. In this example, one first electrode 102 and a plurality of second electrodes 104, 106 are used. However, other numbers of electrodes are also available. The high voltage generator 108 supplies a pulse of voltage to the first electrode 102. The high voltage generator may be connected to the second electrodes 104 and 106. The high voltage ionizes the air and moves ions from the first electrode to the second electrode. Particles 110 included in the air flow 112 moves to the second electrode. The fine particles are electrostatically connected to the surface of the second electrode and control the air exiting the device. The first electrode of the high pressure electric field generates ozone and removes odors in the air.

Air flow 112 and ozone are related to the voltage generated at high voltage generator 108. In one embodiment, the control unit 116 regulates the high voltage generator 108 to produce a suitable output. You can adjust the peak voltage, frequency, or duty cycle of the output voltage. In one embodiment, the duty cycle or peak voltage is adjusted.

In one embodiment, the control unit 116 may be an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a processor. The control unit controls the high voltage pulse generator using the signal of the ambient sensor. The control unit may receive a signal to turn on the switch or the device by a high different value by an external switch.

A high voltage generator output of a predetermined pattern is used. For example, after a low duty cycle a high duty cycle may follow for a few seconds. The control unit can change and select a predetermined pattern according to the signal of the ambient sensor.

The ambient sensor 118 can use any sensor or sensor that indicates ambient conditions. The ambient sensor may be a particulate sensor that indicates particulate levels in the air. The ambient sensor may be an ozone sensor indicating the ozone level in the air. The ambient sensor may be an infrared sensor for detecting people and animals in the room.

One or more ambient sensors may be connected to the control unit to control the output of the high voltage pulse generator. In one embodiment, the control unit 116 receives the output signal of the ambient sensor to determine how much to change the output of the high voltage generator.

Particulate detectors or other sensors can be installed anywhere in the air flow between the electrodes or inside or outside the apparatus.

1B shows an apparatus composed of a base unit 122 and a wireless unit 124. The base unit is composed of a first electrode 102, a second electrode 104, 106, a high voltage pulse generator 108 and a control unit 116. In one embodiment all or part of the control unit is located in the wireless unit. In the example of FIG. 1B, the base unit is in wireless communication with the wireless unit via the wireless communication device 126. The wireless unit includes an ambient sensor. In this embodiment, the wireless unit is at another location in the room and the wireless device communicates with the base unit 122. The wireless unit 124 is connected to the base unit 122 and the wired or wireless.

2A-2C show the ambient sensor. 2A shows a particulate detector 102. Optical particulate detectors are turbidimeters or other forms of optoelectronic devices. In the example of FIG. 2A, the light source 204 is located within the tube 206. Light rays emitted from the light source are reflected by the particles 208 and reach the photoelectric detector 210. More particulates generate more reflected light, making the signal larger. In a variant, the light source can be collinear with the photoelectric sensor.

The light source 204 can be in any form, including a photodiode. The photoelectric sensor 210 generates a signal indicative of particulate levels. As described above, the signal of the particulate detector is used to determine the output voltage of the high voltage pulse generator in the control unit.

2B shows an example of ozone sensor 220. The ozone sensor uses a light source 222 that is sent to an optional optical filter 224. The lamp 222 and the optional optical filter 224 are designed so that the output light is absorbed much by ozone. Part of the light passes through the tube 226 with the air being measured. The other part of the light passes through a reference tube 228 containing ozone-free air. The outputs of the main sensor 230 and the reference sensor 232 are used to calculate the concentration of ozone. In one embodiment, the output of the lymph 222 and optical filter 224 has a wavelength of 254 nm using absorption. The Beer-Lanbert dietary tube 226 is used to determine the ozone concentration. If the temperature and pressure are high, use sensors suitable for temperature and pressure. Other ozone detectors can also be used.

2C is a passive infrared detector 240. Passive infrared sensors use optics 242, 244, 246 that focus infrared light on infrared sensors 248, 250, 252. Passive infrared detectors detect the presence of people or animals in the room. Passive infrared detectors detect non-uniform conditions of infrared radiation by people or animals moving in focus.

3 shows the output of the voltage generator based on the output of the ambient sensor. In this example, the output of the ambient sensor is that of the particulate detector. This example illustrates multimode operation. In very clean air, the device is operated in low mode. Moderately moderate in dirty air, and high mode in dirty air. Very dirty air activates boost mode for a while. 3 shows an example of hysteresis for switching between low, medium, high and boost modes. There is a transition between low and medium mode at point 320, there is a transition between medium and high mode at point 304, there is a transition between high and medium mode at point 306 and There is a medium and low mode transition at point 308. In this example, the particulate level is not high enough so the boost mode does not enter.

4A-4C show examples of the output of the voltage generator for another mode. In this example, the duty cycle of the output of the voltage generator for the intermediate mode is greater than the low mode and the duty cycle of the output of the voltage generator for the high mode is greater than the intermediate mode. In this method, the air flow rate, particulate aggregation, and ozone increase when a large amount of particulates are sensed. 3 and 4A-4C show a device using a fixed voltage generator output, the output may change gradually based on the sensor signal.

5 shows a graph of detected ozone levels. In this example, line 502 represents the maximum value of the required ozone amount. In one embodiment, the maximum is 50 billion. In this example, predetermined levels 504 and 506 are used to switch between high and low. When the ozone level is above line 504, the device is at a low output. When the ozone level is below line 506, the device is at high power. In this way, ozone production can be maintained at a constant level. Other control methods are also available.

6 shows an electro-kinetic air conditioner 600 of one embodiment. The air conditioner 600 includes a housing 602 with a rear intake port, a front exhaust port, and a pedestal. If desired, exhaust and suction can be done through one hole. The housing can stand up or down. Inside the housing is an ion generating unit. The ion generating unit is operable with an AC / DC power source operated by the switch 604. The external switch 604 is conveniently located at the top 606 of the unit 600. The ion generating unit contains air therein, so that nothing is required from the outside of the housing.

In the upper surface of the housing 602, a handle member 612 lifted by a user is fixed to the electrode array 240. The electrode array consists of a first array of emitter electrodes or one first electrode. The first electrode is an electrode in the form of a wire. (In this document, the term wire is used to distinguish it from an electrode thicker than the wire.) In the illustrated embodiment, the handle member lifts the second electrode upwards, so that It comes up telescopically from the top of the housing and, if desired, exits the unit 600 with the first electrode inside the unit for cleaning. The lower end of the second electrode is connected to a flexible member attached to the machine and includes a slot for holding and cleaning the first member.

The general form of the embodiment of FIG. 6 is an eight-shaped end, although other forms are within the spirit and scope of the invention. In one embodiment, the vertical height is 1m, the left and right width is 15cm, the front and rear depth is about 10cm, and other dimensions are possible. The dormer provides a wide entry and exit and economical housing configuration. There is no actual difference between the inlet and the outlet except the distance from the second electrode. This vent allows sufficient air and ionized air and ozone to flow through the device.

When the device 600 is turned on, ions are generated at the first electrode at a high voltage by the ion generator, and ions are attracted to the second electrode. The motion of the ions ionizes the air molecules, and the electro-kinetics cause the ionized air to flow. Inhaled air contains particulates. The outlet air is cleaned of reduced particulates. The fine particles are attracted electrostatically to the surface of the second electrode. In the production of ionized air, an appropriate amount of ozone is produced. This provides an electrostatic protection film on the inner surface of the housing 602 to reduce electromagnetic radiation. For example, a metal protective film may be in the housing or applied with metal paint to reduce this radiation.

The housing has an oval or oval cross-section with a hollow side. Therefore, as described above, the cross section is 8-shaped. Other shapes, such as square, oval, polka dot, or round, are also possible. The housing is tall and thin. As described below, the housing is of a type suitable for receiving electrodes.

As mentioned above, the housing of this embodiment has an inlet and outlet. The entrances and exits are covered with fins or dormer windows. Each pin is thin, hard and spaced from each other. The pin minimizes air resistance. The pin is horizontal and in a direction transverse to the vertical of the housing. Thus the pin is perpendicular to the electrode. The pin is configured so that the user can look out from the inlet to the outlet. The user can see the air flowing without moving parts inside the device. In other embodiments, conversely, the pin may be horizontal to the electrode or in a different direction.

The wireless unit 620 includes an ambient sensor. The ambient sensor communicates wirelessly with the device 600. The wireless unit includes a display and an additional removal device for adjusting the output of the device.

7 shows an ion generating unit 700 composed of a high voltage generator 702 and a direct current power source unit 704. In one embodiment, the DC power supply unit is an AC / DC converter or a battery. The control unit 706 includes circuitry for controlling the type and / or duty cycle of the output voltage. The control unit uses signals from the ambient sensor. The control unit includes a pulse mode device connected to the switch and can increase ozone production at a time. The control unit 704 includes a timer and a light emitting diode (LED). LEDs or other indicators (such as alarms) generate signals when ion generation stops. The timer stops the generation of ions and / or ozone after a period of time (eg 30 minutes).

The high voltage generator 702 is composed of a low voltage oscillation circuit 710 (about 20 KHz), and sends a low voltage pulse to the electric switch 712 (such as a thyristor). The switch 712 couples the low pressure pulse to the input of the boost transformer T1. The secondary coil of T1 is connected to the high voltage circuit 714 to generate a high voltage pulse. The high voltage pulse generator 702 and the DC power supply unit 704 may be printed on a printed board and mounted in the housing. If desired, an external audio input (from the stereo tuner) can be connected to the oscillator 710 to acoustically modulate the airflow of the device. The result is an electrostatic treble speaker, where the airflow is human audible according to the input signal and the airflow still contains ions and ozone.

The output pulse of the high voltage generator 702 has a peak-peak of at least 10 KV with an effective DC offset, for example a half peak-peak voltage, and a frequency of 20 KHz. The oscillation frequency can have different values, but at least 20KHz is audible. If the pet is in the same room with the device 700, the frequency is raised to make the pet comfortable.

In one embodiment, the signal from the ambient sensor can be low, medium, high and boost pulse outputs. An intermediate pulse output can save electricity by using a 10% duty cycle, for example. In one embodiment, the low pulse output is a duty rate of 10% or less and the high and boost output pulses are a duty rate of 10% or more. Other peak-peak amplifications, DC offsets, waveforms, duty cycles, and / or frequencies are also available. 100% wave (DC high voltage) also reduces battery life but is available. In this embodiment, the generating unit 702 is a high voltage generator. Unit 702 functions as a DC / DC high voltage generator and may use other circuits and / or techniques.

As mentioned above, airflow contains an appropriate amount of ozone to remove odors and kill bacteria, bacteria, and other organisms (similar organisms). Thus, when the user switch is closed and the generator 702 is fully operational, the pulses of the high voltage generator generate a flow of ionized air and ozone. When the switch closes and ions are generated, you can see the signal from the LED.

The operating parameters of the unit 700 may be fixed during the manufacturing operation so that the user cannot adjust them. For example, in operating parameters, the peak-peak output voltage and / or duty cycle are increased to increase the air flow rate, ion content, and ozone amount. In one embodiment, this parameter can be adjusted by the user by operating the switch. In another embodiment, for medium mode operation, the outlet flow rate is about 200 cubic feet / minute, ions 2,000,000 / cc and ozone is 40 ppb to 2,000 ppb. Reducing the radius of the second electrode to less than 20: 1 of the first electrode can reduce the peak-peak voltage and / or duty cycle associated with the first and second electrode arrays.

In practice, unit 700 is placed indoors and connected to a suitable power source (eg 117 VAC). Energy is supplied to the ionization unit 700 to discharge ionized air and ozone to the outlet 106. Air flows are cleaned of ions and ozone, and ozone destroys odors, bacteria, and bacteria. The airflow is electrokinetic, with no moving parts in the device (slight vibrations occur at the electrode).

In a variation, the electrode assembly 716 is comprised of a first array 718 and a second array 720 of at least one electrode or induction surface. The electrode material must be strong enough to resist corrosion and to be cleaned by high voltages.

Among the various electrodes described herein, the electrode 232 is made of tungsten. Tungsten is strong enough to withstand cleaning, has a high melting point to prevent destruction by ionization, and has a strong surface to promote effective ionization. On the other hand, electrode 720 has a high gloss surface to minimize local radiation. This electrode 720 is made of stainless steel and / or brass. The glossy surface of electrode 718 facilitates cleaning of the electrode.

The electrode is light and easy to manufacture and can be suitable for mass production. The electrodes here make the production of ionized air and ozone more efficient.

An embodiment for an electrode is described in US Patent Application No. 10 / 074,082 2002,2,12, "Electro-Kinetic Transporter-Conditioner Devices with Upstream Focus Electrode."

In one embodiment, the positive output terminal of the unit 702 is connected to the first electrode array 718 and the negative output terminal is connected to the second electrode array 720. In this arrangement, the ionicity of the ions is positive and there are more cations than anions. This interlocking polarity is readily visible, including minimizing unwanted audible vibrations. However, it is preferable that the generation of cations induces relatively quiet airflow from the viewpoint of health, and that the concentration of the anions is higher than that of the cations. In some embodiments, the cathode of the high voltage pulse generator may be atmospheric air. Thus, the second electrode is connected to the high voltage pulse generator with a lead. One pole of the second electrode and the high voltage pulse generator has an effective connection, in this case air in the atmosphere. In contrast, the cathode of the unit 702 is connected to the first electrode array 718 and the anode is connected to the second electrode array 720.

In this arrangement, electrostatic airflow occurs. Flow from the first electrode array to the second electrode array.

The voltage or pulse of the high voltage pulse generator 702 is connected to the first and second electrode arrays 718 and 720 so that a plasma-like field is generated at the electrode 718. This electric field ionizes the air and sends it to the second electrode.

Ozone and ions are simultaneously generated in the first electrode array 718. The generation of ozone can be controlled by raising or lowering the potential of the first array. It is connected to different poles to accelerate the ions produced at the first electrode to create airflow. Ions move to the second electrode and ions push air molecules to the second electrode. This speed increases when the voltage of the second electrode is lowered than that of the first electrode.

For example, if +10 KV is applied to the first electrode and no voltage is applied to the second electrode, a cloud of ions (positively charged) is formed near the first electrode. Moreover, a relatively high voltage of 10KV generates a significant amount of ozone. By the second electrode relatively connected to the cathode, the moving speed of the ionized material increases.

On the other hand, to maintain the same effect of the OUT rate and reduce ozone, a voltage of 10 KV is distributed to the array of electrodes. For example, generator 702 provides + 4KV to the first electrode and -6KV to the second electrode. In this example, + 4KV and -6KV are measured at the ground point. Unit 700 generates an appropriate amount of ozone. Thus, in one embodiment, the high voltage is made of + 4KV applied to the first electrode and -6KV applied to the second electrode. Large and small peak values depend on the signal from the ambient sensor.

In one embodiment, electrode 716 is comprised of a first array 718 in the form of a wire and a second array 720 of U-shaped electrodes 242. In some embodiments, the number N1 constituting the first array is different from the number N2 constituting the second array. In many embodiments N2> N1. However, if desired, the outer end of the array is added such that the first electrode is N1> N2 (five first electrodes, four second electrodes).

As described above, the first or emitter electrode may be formed of a metal plate such as tungsten wire, stainless steel, or brass. The metal plate can easily be made into a hollow U-shaped electrode on the side and the front.

In one embodiment, the first and second arrays are arranged apart. Each of the first array electrodes is arranged in a wave shape at a same distance from the second electrode. The symmetric wave arrays are arranged symmetrically apart by the same distance as adjacent electrodes. Y1 and Y2 in order. However, asymmetrical configurations are also used. The quantity of electrodes may also vary.

In one embodiment, ions are generated as a function of the high voltage electrode. For example, high voltage pulse generator 720 increases ozone to increase peak-peak voltage amplification and pulse duty cycle. Other user control switches can control ozone with amplification and / or duty cycles.

In one embodiment, the second electrode has electrode marks that aid in the generation of negative ions. In one embodiment, the second array of electrodes is U-shaped. In one embodiment, the pair of ends is an L-shaped electrode.

In one embodiment, the electrode is a focusing electrode. The focus electrode enhances airflow. The focus electrode has no edges to prevent corrosion and oxidation. In one embodiment, the diameter of the focusing electrode is at least 15 times that of the first electrode. The diameter of the focusing electrode is chosen so that the focusing electrode does not function as an ion generating surface. In one embodiment, the focus electrode is in electrical connection with the first array. The focus electrode helps direct air flow from the first electrode to the second electrode.

The focusing electrode is U or C type and has a hole to minimize the disturbance of air flow. In one embodiment, electrode 716 is a pin-ring electrode. The pinring electrode has a conical or triangular first electrode and an annular second electrode.

The device may further use a trailing electrode downstream. The trailing electrode is aerodynamic and does not disturb the air flow. The trailing electrode has a negative electrode, which reduces the positively charged particles of the air flow and can be fixed or flowable. The trailing electrode can function as a second surface that collects positively charged particles, reflects particles going to the second electrode, and neutralizes the cations of the first electrode by flowing a small amount of negative ions in the air.

The assembly may use a gap electrode between the second electrodes. The gap electrode flows and is fixed and can apply a positive high voltage, such as the voltage portion of the first electrode. The gap electrode refracts fine particles moving to the second electrode.

The first electrode can be made loose, twisted or coiled to increase the amount of ions generated at the first electrode.

The foregoing embodiments of the invention provided for purposes of illustration and description do not limit the invention. Many variations are conceivable to those skilled in the art. Modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and subject matter of the invention as claimed. The embodiments are intended to illustrate the principles and applications of the present invention and various embodiments and various modifications can be applied to a particular application. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims.

The high voltage pulses ionize the air between the arrays and generate air flow from the first array to the second array without moving parts. Particulates in the air follow the air flow and move to the second electrode. The fine particles are attracted to the second electrode surface by the electrostatic force and remain there, and the air escapes. The high pressure electric field between the electrode arrays generates ozone, which removes the smell of air.

1A illustrates an air conditioner of one embodiment of the present invention using an ambient sensor.

1B illustrates an embodiment of an air conditioner using an ambient sensor located in a wireless unit.

FIG. 2A illustrates a particulate detector used in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

FIG. 2B shows an ozone detector used in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

FIG. 2C shows a passive infrared detector used in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

Figure 3 is a graph illustrating the output of the ambient sensor of one embodiment of the present invention.

4A-4C illustrate the output of a high voltage generator of one embodiment of the present invention.

5 is a graph illustrating ozone sensed for one embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a view showing a self-supporting air conditioner of an embodiment of the present invention.

7 illustrates one embodiment of a system of the present invention.

* Symbol description *

102: first electrode 116: control unit

104,106: second electrode 118: ambient sensor

110: fine particles 122: base unit

112: air flow 124: remote unit (remote unit)

Claims (54)

In the apparatus, A first electrode; Second electrode; A voltage generator electrically connected to the first and second electrodes for flowing air from the first electrode to the downstream direction of the second electrode when energy is supplied; And And the peripheral sensor whose output is regulated based on a signal of the peripheral sensor. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the ambient sensor is a particulate detector. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the particulate detector is an optoelectronic unit. The device of claim 1, wherein the ambient sensor detects a person or animal. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the ambient sensor is a passive IR detector. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the ambient sensor is an ozone sensor. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second electrodes and the voltage generator are in the base unit and the ambient sensor is in the wireless unit. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the wireless unit communicates wirelessly with the base unit. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second electrodes, the voltage generator, and the ambient sensor are in one unit. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a control unit for adjusting the voltage generator based on a signal from the sensor. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the control unit adjusts the peak voltage of the voltage of the voltage generator. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the control unit adjusts the duty cycle of the voltage generator output. 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first electrode is an ion emitter and the second electrode is a particulate collector. 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first electrode is positively charged and the second electrode is negatively charged. In the apparatus, A first electrode; Second electrode; A voltage generator electrically connected to the first and second electrodes for flowing air from the first electrode to the downstream direction of the second electrode when energy is supplied; And Apparatus characterized by comprising a control unit for automatically controlling the output of the voltage generator based on the ambient conditions 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the ambient condition is a detection level of particulates. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the ambient condition is a detection level of ozone. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the ambient condition is detecting the presence of a human or animal. 16. The device of claim 15, comprising an ambient sensor to sense ambient conditions. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the ambient sensor is a particulate detector. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the particulate detector is an optoelectronic unit. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the ambient sensor is a passive IR detector. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the ambient sensor is an ozone sensor. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first and second electrodes and the voltage generator are in the base unit and the ambient sensor is in the wireless unit. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the wireless unit communicates wirelessly with the base unit. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first and second electrodes, the voltage generator, and the ambient sensor are in one unit. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the control unit adjusts the peak voltage of the voltage of the voltage generator. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the control unit adjusts the duty cycle of the voltage generator output. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first electrode is an ion emitter and the second electrode is a particulate collector. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first electrode is positively charged and the second electrode is negatively charged. A first electrode; Second electrode; A voltage generator electrically connected to the first and second electrodes for flowing air from the first electrode to the downstream direction of the second electrode when energy is supplied; And An apparatus comprising the particulate detector for regulating the output of the voltage generator based on the particulate detector signal 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the particulate detector is an optoelectronic unit. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the first and second electrodes and the voltage generator are in the base unit and the particulate detector is in the wireless unit. 34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the wireless unit communicates wirelessly with the base unit. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the first and second electrodes, the voltage generator, and the particulate detector are in one unit. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, comprising a control unit for adjusting the voltage generator based on the signal of the particulate detector. 37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the control unit adjusts the peak voltage of the voltage of the voltage generator. 38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the control unit adjusts the duty cycle of the voltage generator output. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the first electrode is an ion emitter and the second electrode is a particulate collector. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the first electrode is positively charged and the second electrode is negatively charged. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the voltage generator generates air flow downstream from the first electrode to the second electrode. Generating a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode to create airflow downstream from the first electrode to the second electrode; Adjusting the potential difference based on a signal of the ambient sensor. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the peak power of the potential difference is adjusted. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the duty cycle of the potential difference is adjusted. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the ambient sensor is a particulate detector. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the ambient sensor is a passive IR detector. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the ambient sensor is an ozone sensor. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first and second electrodes are in the base unit and the ambient sensor is in the wireless unit. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the wireless unit communicates wirelessly with the base unit. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first and second electrodes and the ambient sensor are in one unit. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the potential difference occurs at the voltage generator. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein the control unit adjusts the output of the voltage generator based on the signal of the sensor. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first electrode is an ion emitter and the second electrode is a particulate collector. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first electrode is positively charged and the second electrode is negatively charged.