KR20200053626A - Air treatment system - Google Patents

Abstract

An air treatment system with an improved control system is disclosed. The control system may include a dynamic “dead front” display that changes the display based on the mode of operation. The display includes a capacitive touch sensor and may include an array of capacitive film segments or traces integrated within the display. The control system may include a self-contained electronic module that can be tested and calibrated before installation in the ATS. The dust sensor assembly may be integrated into the electronic module. The front cover may be attached by a mechanical attachment at the top and a magnetic attachment at the bottom. The ATS may include a filter retainer assembly having a rotating clip configured to perform in a cam-like manner to securely clamp the particulate filter and carbon filter in place.

Description

Air treatment system {AIR TREATMENT SYSTEM}

The present invention relates to an air treatment system, and more particularly to a portable room air filtering system.

Air treatment systems continue to increase in popularity as interest in air quality remains a significant concern. This increase has led to increased use of commercial and domestic air treatment systems. Conventional household air treatment systems are self-contained units that can be placed in rooms where it is desirable to treat air. Household air treatment systems generally operate by drawing room air into the system, treating the air with one (or more) techniques, and venting the treated air back into the room. The treated air as a whole contains lower concentrations of airborne contaminants than in a room. The treated air mixes with the room air, thus reducing the concentration of contaminants in the room air.

Air treatment systems are available with different types of control systems. The control system provides different methodologies to control the operation of the air treatment system and to allow operator input. The design and configuration of the control system can have a significant impact on the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the air treatment system.

Many conventional air treatment systems include a series of specialized filters adapted to address specific air quality problems. For example, domestic air treatment systems often include prefilters, particulate filters and odor filters. The function of the pre-filter is usually to remove relatively large elements from the air, such as a lump of hair and dust. Particulate filters typically function to remove smaller airborne particles. Particulate filters are available in a variety of configurations. For example, a particulate filter may include a pleated material having non-woven fibers that trap particles and are effective as HEPA filters. Odor filters are also available in a variety of types and configurations. Many odor filters contain activated carbon that adsorbs a wide range of impurities, including, but not limited to, a number of organic chemicals. Conventional particulate filters and carbon filters have a limited life and require frequent replacement. The structure of the air treatment system and the instruments used to secure the filter within the air treatment system can have a significant impact on the effectiveness of the system and can significantly affect the amount and complexity of the effort required to replace the filter.

There are other aspects that may affect the functionality and commercial success of air treatment systems. For example, convenience features such as power cord management, and mobility features such as foot and handle can impact the user experience.

The present invention provides an air treatment system with an improved control system. In one embodiment, the control system includes a "dead front" display that provides an ATS with a clean and simple appearance and facilitates an improved control experience. The display may include a plurality of information display elements and a plurality of touch sensors that are selectively illuminated by an array of underlying light sources, such as LEDs. To create the desired graphic, each light source may be covered by a screen with a shielding layer and a diffuser layer. A translucent cover can be placed over the control system to conceal the underlying structure and make it visible only when the graphic image is illuminated. The translucent cover may be integrated into the removable front cover that closes the front side of the ATS. In one embodiment, the electronic module includes an optical duct assembly having a plurality of individual ducts connected side by side to direct light from a light source to a corresponding display element.

In one embodiment, the touch sensor is a capacitive sensor. In this embodiment, a capacitive film, such as a transparent PET film coated with indium tin oxide, may be incorporated into the structure above each light source. For example, each light source may be covered by a stacked screen comprising a shielding layer and a diffusion layer, and the capacitive film may be implemented as an additional layer of the screen. As another example, the capacitive film may be detached from the screen, or may be located at the top or bottom of the screen, where it is possible to sense the presence of the operator's finger. In alternative embodiments, conductive traces may be incorporated into structures above each light source to function as capacitive sensors. For example, a printed circuit board (“PCB”) may be positioned over the optical duct array. The PCB may form an opening over each individual optical duct, or may include traces around each opening associated with the optical duct for the input display element. The PCB may also include a relatively large conductive trace that extends over a significant portion of the face of the PCB to provide a capacitive sensor that is sensitive enough to function as a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be configured to detect the presence of an operator (eg, the operator's hand) within approximately 2 feet of the display.

In one embodiment, the ATS has a removable front cover on top of the display, and the control system is configured to recognize the touch differently depending on whether the cover is installed or removed. This allows the user to control the system whether the cover is in place or not. In one embodiment, the control system is configured to enable a set of different control options depending on whether a cover is installed. For example, the control system may provide a reduced set of control options and / or additional control options when the cover is removed. The control system may recognize whether the cover is installed or removed using one or more of a capacitive touch sensor, such as a proximity sensor.

In one embodiment, the control system includes a dust sensor integrated within the electronic module. The dust sensor may be arranged to draw air into the dust sensor by the partial vacuum generated by the ATS blower. After passing through the dust sensor, air is passed through the filter and returned to the room in a treated state. Alternatively, the dust sensor may be arranged to draw air into the dust sensor by the flow of treated air discharged by the ATS.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a front cover that allows for easy installation and removal, as well as a magnetic interlock that allows the control system to recognize whether the cover is installed. In one embodiment, the front cover includes one or more mechanical attachment points at the top and one or more magnetic attachment points at the bottom. The machine attachment point may include a lip configured to engage a corresponding structure in the ATS housing. For example, the lip may be hung on the electronic module to help ensure true mating between the front cover and the electronic module. The size, shape, and configuration of the locking portion may vary. For example, the catch may generally extend across the width of the front cover or may only extend across the center of the front cover. As another example, the lip may be integrally formed with the front cover or may be a separate component attached to the front cover after manufacture. The front cover may be made from translucent plastics configured to provide an opaque appearance while allowing light from the display to shine through it. In one embodiment, the exposed surface of the front cover may be covered with a film applied using an in-mold film process. In other embodiments, the exposed surface may be covered with a thin layer of paint using a spray process or direct transfer process (ie, silk screen or pad printing, or thermal film transfer). Alternatively, the front cover may be generally opaque or include a window above the display. The window may be made from a translucent plastic configured to provide an opaque appearance, while allowing light from the display to shine through it. In one embodiment, the exposed surface of the window may be covered with a film applied using an in-mold film process. In other embodiments, the exposed surface of the window may be covered with a thin layer of paint using a spray process or a direct transfer process (ie, silk screen or pad printing, or thermal film transfer).

In another aspect, the present invention provides an ATS housing with interchangeable bases. The number and style of bases may vary, but in one embodiment, the ATS may include multiple bases that provide different structures for receiving electrical cords and / or different feet for supporting the ATS. With regard to the electrical cord, ATS may be capable of receiving a base having a structure for manually winding the electrical cord or a recoverable cord assembly with an automatic winding reel. With respect to the foot, the base may include a fixed foot, a caster, a wheel and / or a single elongated roller. As an alternative to the interchangeable base, the base may be integrated into the ATS, or it may include a foot and a single elongated roller. The ATS may also include a handle on the top rear of the housing. In one embodiment, the handle may extend essentially the entire width of the ATS, thereby allowing the ATS to be gripped either centrally with one hand or with both hands toward both sides.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a filter retainer assembly that provides easy and robust installation of the filter. In this embodiment, the ATS includes a particulate filter and an activated carbon filter. The activated carbon filter is first fitted into the filter housing, and the particulate filter is fitted into the filter housing above the carbon filter. The particulate filter is secured to the ATS housing at its periphery by one or more clips that interact with corresponding structures within the ATS. The clip or clips may be configured to be performed in a cam-like manner to securely clamp the particulate filter and carbon filter in place. The ATS may also include a pre-filter snap fit on the particulate filter. The pre-filter may include a coarse filter medium supported by a grid-type pre-filter retainer.

The present invention provides an ATS with an improved control system. The use of self-contained electronic modules allows testing and calibration of electronic devices prior to installation and assembly of the ATS. This also facilitates replacement of the electronic module, if necessary. For example, the use of an onboard dust sensor with integral ducting eliminates the need to install the dust sensor separately and wire the dust sensor to the electronic module. The control system includes a "dead front" display with an integrated capacitive touch sensor. This allows for a fully sealed electronic module without moving parts, providing increased reliability. The use of a "dead front" display allows for a variety of dynamic displays per mode, not only providing improved aesthetics, but also simplifying the display to facilitate easy operation from one mode to another. The use of LEDs with multiple color or brightness options allows the display elements to be illuminated in different configurations depending on the use. Wireless connectivity allows control and data exchange without the need for light of sight or infrared transmissive plastics with remote devices, such as smartphones and tablets, including historical trending data logging and monitoring. RFID tags may provide improved tracking of filter life and product efficacy, and may allow resetting of filter life without operator intervention. The dust sensor not only controls the blower speed, but can also be used to provide more accurate filter life calculations. In another aspect, the ATS includes a front panel that can be easily removed and installed with one hand, without having to bend deeply or kneel to reach the attachment point. By having at least partially translucent or partially translucent windows, the front cover can cover the electronics module to provide a "dead front" display. In addition, the side entrance and the central entrance allow air to enter the ATS freely. In another aspect, the provision of interchangeable donations allows ATS to be easily customized for different applications and for consumers with different preferences. This provides more flexibility and quicker switching between models with different characteristics. For example, the type of footing can vary, and the type of code management features can vary. The use of a single piece handle extending approximately the width of the ATS provides various benefits. This allows the operator to operate the ATS with one or both hands at multiple wrist / hand angles. It can also be formed to provide structural reinforcement under the cantilevered feature of the ATS. In one embodiment, the base may include a caster or central roller that allows the ATS to be easily moved with one hand coupled to the center of the handle. In another aspect, the present invention provides a simple and effective clip device for securing the particulate filter to the ATS. By positioning the clip or clips towards the top of the filter, and the engaging portion toward the bottom, the filter can be secured or released without deep bending or kneeling. Clips or clips may provide improved sealing by automatically pulling the filter closer to the sealing surface as they are joined. The clip or clips also operate in only one direction, thereby ensuring that the filter is installed in the correct orientation.

These and other objects, advantages, and features of the present invention will be more fully understood and appreciated with reference to the description of the current embodiments and drawings.

Before describing the embodiments of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the details of the configuration and arrangement of components or operations described in the following detailed description or shown in the drawings. The invention may be implemented in various other embodiments, or may be practiced or carried out in alternative ways not explicitly disclosed herein. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “equipped” and “comprising” and variations thereof is intended to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items and their equivalents. Also, enumeration may be used to describe various embodiments. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the use of an enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any particular order or number of elements. Also, the use of an enumeration should not be construed as excluding any additional steps or elements that may be combined with or within the enumerated steps or elements from the scope of the present invention. Any reference to a claim element as “at least one of X, Y and Z” individually refers to any one of X, Y or Z, and any combination of X, Y and Z, eg, X, Y, Z ; X, Y; X, Z; And Y, Z.

1A is a front perspective view of an ATS according to an embodiment of the present invention.
1B is a rear perspective view of the ATS.
2 is an exploded perspective view of the ATS showing the front cover and filter removed from the ATS.
3 is a cross-sectional view of the ATS taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1;
4 is a schematic diagram of an electronic module.
5 is a front view of the electronic module.
6 is a perspective view of the electronic module with the cover removed.
7 is an exploded perspective view of the electronic module.
8 is a perspective view of a portion of the ATS showing a “dead front” display with no elements illuminated.
9A is a front view of a display showing the outline of all display elements.
9B is a front view of the display showing all display elements illuminated in the “on” state.
10 is a perspective view of a portion of the ATS showing a "dead front" display showing various elements illuminated in different states.
11 is a front view of the display when the power is turned off.
12 is a front view of the display when in the night mode.
13 is a schematic diagram of a control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
14 is a schematic diagram of an alternative control scheme.
15 is a schematic diagram of a second alternative control scheme.
16 is a front perspective view of the ATS showing the air inlet.
17A and 17B are diagrams showing an alternative method for removing the front cover.
18 is a rear perspective view of the front cover.
19A and 19B are sectional views showing the upper attachment point between the front cover and the ATS.
20A and 20B are sectional views showing a lower attachment point between the front cover and the ATS.
21 is a partially exploded front perspective view showing the ATS and three interchangeable bases.
22 is a partially exploded rear perspective view showing the ATS and three interchangeable bases.
23 is a bottom perspective view showing a base with a fixed foot.
24 is a bottom perspective view showing a base with a caster.
25 is a bottom perspective view showing a base with fixed feet and rollers.
26 is a perspective view of a portion of the ATS including the handle and the handle.
27 is a perspective view of the ATS with the front cover and pre-filter removed.
28A-28D are various views showing various removal stages of the particulate filter.
29A is a perspective view of a particulate filter.
29B is a side elevational view of the particulate filter.
30A to 30D are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of the filter latch according to the embodiment of the present invention.
31A-31D are a series of diagrams representing the operation of a filter latch according to an alternative embodiment.
32A-32D are a series of diagrams representing the operation of the filter latch according to the second alternative embodiment.
33A is a front perspective view of an ATS according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
33B is a rear perspective view of an alternative ATS.
34 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative ATS showing the front cover and filter removed.
35 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative ATS taken along line 35-35 of FIG. 33A.
36 is a schematic diagram of an alternative ATS electronic module.
37 is a perspective view of an alternative ATS display assembly.
38 is a partially exploded perspective view of an alternative ATS display assembly.
39 is an exploded perspective view of the electronic module.
40 is a perspective view of an alternative ATS showing a “dead front” display with no elements illuminated.
41 is a perspective view of an alternative ATS showing a “dead front” display with the contours of all display elements.
42 is a plan perspective view of an alternative ATS showing a "dead front" display with the contours of all display elements.
43 is a schematic diagram of a control scheme according to an alternative embodiment.
44 is a front perspective view of an alternative ATS showing the air inlet.
45A and 45B are diagrams showing alternative methods for removing the front cover of an alternative ATS.
46A is a rear perspective view of the front cover.
46B is an exploded perspective view of the front cover.
47 is a partial cross-sectional view of an alternative ATS lower portion.
48A is a perspective view of the attachment plate.
48B is a plan view of the attachment plate.
49 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the filter housing and a portion of the upper housing.
50 is a perspective view of the ATS with the front cover and pre-filter removed.
51A is a perspective view of a particulate filter.
51B is a front view of the particulate filter.
51C is a side elevational view of the particulate filter.
51D is a plan view of the particulate filter.
52A-52D are various views showing different removal stages of the particulate filter.
53A-53D are a series of diagrams representing the operation of an alternative filter latch.

A. Overview

An air treatment system (“ATS”) according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the ATS 10 generally includes a pre-filter 100, a particulate filter 102 and an activated carbon filter 104. The ATS 10 also includes a blower 56 for drawing air from the environment into the ATS 10 to move the air through the filter and return the filtered air to the environment.

The ATS 10 of the illustrated embodiment includes a control system 12 with an electronic module 14 that provides a “dead front” display 16. The display 16 of this embodiment includes a plurality of display elements 18 that can be selectively illuminated by the control system 12 to provide dynamic content. Some of the display elements 18 may also include a touch sensor 20 that allows operator input. In this embodiment, the electronic module 14 includes a plurality of light sources 22, such as LEDs, which are each uniquely assigned to the display element 18. Each light source 22 may be covered by a screen 24 having a shielding layer 26 and a diffuser layer 28. Each touch sensor 20 may also include a capacitive film 30 positioned over the light source 22. In this embodiment, the "dead front" appearance may be created by a translucent front cover 32 that conceals the underlying structure and makes the display element 18 visible only when illuminated.

In another aspect, the front cover 32 is secured to the ATS 10 housing 34 using a combination of mechanical and magnetic attachment points. The machine attachment point of the illustrated embodiment includes a lip 36 on top of the front cover 32 and a pair of magnets 90 on the bottom of the front cover 32. The lip 36 is configured to engage on a corresponding structure in the ATS housing 110. In use, the combination of mechanical and magnetic attachment points allows the front cover 32 to be easily removed and installed by the operator in a standing position.

In another aspect, ATS 10 is capable of receiving one of a plurality of interchangeable bases 40. Different bases 40 may provide different structures for receiving the power cord 42 and / or different structures for supporting the ATS 10. In FIG. 10, the ATS 10 includes a base 40 having a bobbin 44 and a fixed foot 46 for manually winding the power cord 42. Alternative bases 40 ', 40 "may include an automatic take-up reel and / or cord recovery assembly with wheels, casters or rollers (see, eg, Figure 25). ATS 10 is an ATS 10 ) May also include a single-piece handle 48 that extends essentially to the full width of the ATS 10 to allow one hand to grasp from the center or with both hands toward both sides. &Quot;) includes a cord recovery assembly 45 " and a single centrally located roller 47 ". With this alternative base, the ATS 10 is inclined forward on the roller 47 "and can be rolled from one position to another using the handle 48.

In another aspect, ATS 10 includes a filter retainer assembly 50 that facilitates rapid and robust installation and removal of filter (s). The filter retainer assembly 50 of the illustrated embodiment is disposed on a particulate filter and a plurality of engaging portions 52 and a plurality of engaging portions 52 that interact with structures on the ATS housing 110 to secure the particulate filter in place within the filter housing 112. Clip 54 is included. The clip 54 may also function in a cam-like manner to facilitate airtight sealing by pulling the particulate filter into the filter housing 112.

Directional terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower”, “inner”, “inward”, “outside” and “outward” refer to the embodiments shown in the drawings) It is used to assist in describing the invention based on orientation. The use of directional terms should not be construed to limit the invention to any particular orientation (s).

B. General configuration

As described above, the present invention is described in the context of a room air treatment system that performs its general function by operating the blower 56 to move air through a series of filters 100, 102, 104. The air treatment system 10 of the illustrated embodiment is configured to treat air with three filtration stages. The first stage is a coarse screen pre-filter 100 intended to remove large contaminants such as hair, lint fibers and large chunks of dust (eg, “dust-bunnies”). The second filtration stage is a particulate filter 102. The particulate filter 102 specification may vary, but the illustrated ATS 10 includes a pleated HEPA filter medium that reduces airborne particles on the order of 0.009 microns. The third filtration stage is an activated carbon filter 104 comprising a bed of granular activated carbon chips coated with various catalysts that adsorb and convert molecular contaminants such as formaldehyde, dioxin and ozone. Carbon filter 104 is the name of the invention granted to Taylor II (Taylor, Jr.), etc. on January 8, 2008 and incorporated herein by reference as the "air treatment filter and associated method" METHOD) ”, US Pat. No. 7,316,732.

In the illustrated embodiment, various filters 100, 102, 104 are fitted within filter housing 112. The filter housing 112 generally includes a carbon filter seat and a particulate filter seat. The two pedestals are generally rectangular voids configured to receive carbon filters and particulate filters respectively. The carbon filter base is somewhat smaller in height and width than the particulate filter base. As a result, the filter housing 112 is stepped with a shoulder 114 surrounding the carbon filter base. The carbon filter 104 is first fitted into the filter housing 112. The outer dimension of the carbon filter 104 is slightly smaller than the dimension of the portion of the filter housing 112 intended to receive the carbon filter 104. As a result, there is a relatively airtight fit between the carbon filter 104 and the filter housing 112, which is intended to move air through the carbon filter 104 and not around it. The particulate filter 102 is then fitted into the filter housing 112. As described above, the filter housing 112 is stepped and includes a shoulder 114 on which the particulate filter 102 is installed. Particulate filter 102 may include a face seal (not shown) that engages shoulder 114 to provide a leak-tight seal between particulate filter 102 and filter housing 112. This pressurizes all air moving through the ATS 10 to flow through the particulate filter 102 rather than around it. Finally, the pre-filter 100 is fitted into the filter housing 112 outside the particulate filter 102. In this embodiment, the pre-filter 100 includes a frame 116 and a layer of filter media (not shown). Frame 116 is configured to snap directly onto particulate filter 102. For example, the frame 116 may include fingers 117 that extend inward and are capable of engaging the particulate filter frame. Except to the extent described, the pre-filter 100, particulate filter 102 and carbon filter 104 are generally conventional and therefore will not be described in detail. Although the illustrated embodiment includes a three-stage filter device, the present invention may be incorporated into ATSs with different filtering / processing devices.

In this embodiment, the ATS 10 includes a front untreated air inlet 106a-106c that allows air to enter the system and a rear air outlet 108 for returning the treated air to the environment. The ATS 10 includes a pre-filter 100, a particulate filter 102, and a blower 56 accommodated in the lower rear portion of the housing behind the carbon filter 104. In operation, the blower 56 draws untreated air from the environment through the inlets 106a through 106c into the ATS 10, and continuously flows air through three filters 100, 102, 104 to treat the air. And then discharge the treated air through outlet 108 to return it to the environment. The size, shape and configuration of the inlet, outlet and internal flow paths are designed above all to provide a compact footprint to the ATS while still providing quiet and efficient operation. The size, shape, and configuration of the inlet, outlet, and internal flow paths may vary from application to application, as desired.

The illustrated ATS 10 is merely an example, and the size, shape, and configuration of the ATS may vary from application to application.

C. Control system

As described above, the present invention includes a control system 12 that provides a user interface for controlling the operation of the ATS 10, displaying information, and receiving input from an operator. The main function of the control system 12 is to control the speed at which the ATS 10 operates to process air based on the detected parameters or operator input, track the filter usage, set mode, motor speed and filter life Is to notify the operator and accept the operator's order. In general, the control system 12 changes the speed at which air is filtered by adjusting the speed of the blower 56. More specifically, the control system 12 controls the operation of the blower 56 based on automatic or manual control measures, as described in more detail below. Control subsystem 60 may be configured to transition slowly between blower speeds, as desired. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, blower speed control is achieved by changing the duty cycle of the power supplied to blower 56. To provide a slow transition between motor speeds, the control subsystem 60 may transition from one speed to another by slow incrementing or decrementing the duty cycle to move from the current speed to the desired speed. . The timing, number and size of steps may vary from application to application depending on the desired effect.

In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface is positioned towards the top of the front cover 32 and is implemented as a "dead front" display 16 that includes an integrated touch sensor. In use, the display 16 displays information and receives operator input related to the operation and maintenance of the system. For example, the control system 12 of the illustrated embodiment displays information regarding the current environmental dust level and residual life of various filters. It also provides a touch-sensitive button that allows the operator to control the system. The "dead front" display 16 includes a plurality of display elements 18 that are only visible when illuminated. The control system 12 is configured to selectively illuminate individual display elements 18 to provide dynamic display that changes to provide information and present control options available at any given time. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 16 is provided with information display elements 18a that are illuminated to provide information regarding the condition of the ATS or monitored characteristics such as environmental air quality and filter life, and the operator to the control system 12. And an input display element 18b incorporating a touch sensor to provide input. In addition to allowing user input, input display element 18b may also provide information regarding the state of the ATS, such as operating mode and blower speed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 12 converts all electronic components of the ATS 10 except for the power supply component that converts AC wall power to the DC power required to operate the ATS 10. It includes a self-contained electronic module 14 in terms of inclusion. In this embodiment, a power supply component (not shown) is located within the base 40 of the ATS housing 110. Referring now to the schematic diagram of FIG. 4, the electronic module 14 is generally controlled subsystem 60, LED array 62, capacitive touch sensor array 64, dust sensor assembly 66, RFID subsystem ( 68) and a wireless communication subsystem 70. Control subsystem 60 coordinates the collection of data from a variety of other subsystems, including capacitive touch sensor array 64, dust sensor 66, RFID subsystem 68, and wireless communication subsystem 70. And includes control circuitry and firmware configured to operate the ATS 10. Various modes of operation of the system are described in more detail below. The control subsystem 60 not only pre-programmed operation default values, but also historical operations such as the lifetime of the filters 100, 102, 104, usage time, counters and other variables that may be used in connection with the operation of the ATS 10. Also includes non-volatile memory for storage of data.

The electronic module 14 of the illustrated embodiment is shown in FIGS. 5 to 7. As shown, the electronic module 14 includes a control subsystem 60, an RFID subsystem 68 and a wireless communication subsystem 70, as well as an LED array 62, a capacitive touch sensor array 64 and And a housing 148 that houses circuitry for the dust sensor assembly 66. Housing 148 generally includes base 150 and cover 152. As described above, the LED array 62 is configured to provide illumination of the display element 18. More specifically, one or more LEDs 62a are located behind each display element 18, including an information display element 18a and an input display element 18b. LED 62a can be selectively illuminated by control subsystem 60 when it is appropriate to display information display element 18 or make input display element 18b available for input. Each LED 62a may include a single LED or multiple LEDs that provide various lighting options. For example, each LED 62a may include multiple LEDs of different brightness to cause the brightness of the display element 18 to change. As another example, each LED 62 may include different color LEDs that can be illuminated individually or in combination to produce different color illumination. In one embodiment, each LED 62 includes red LEDs, green LEDs and blue LEDs that can be illuminated in different combinations and at different levels of brightness to provide essentially any desired color of illumination. In another example, each LED 62a may include multiple LEDs of different brightness and different color. Although the illustrated embodiment includes an LED array 62 for providing illumination to the display 16, the LED array 62 may be replaced or supplemented with other types of light sources, such as OLED, laser and EL light sources. .

In the illustrated embodiment, the display 16 is a “dead front” display in which the non-illuminated display element 18 is not visible. In this embodiment, the area where the display 16 is located appears to be a simple continuation of the ATS housing 110, and when no display element 16 is illuminated, the ATS 10 does not have a user interface. see. To create the desired graphic element, each display element 16 includes a screen 74 that shields and diffuses the light generated by the underlying LED 62. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 16 includes two screens 74a, 74b, each of which covers a plurality of LEDs and provides shielding and diffusion functions for the plurality of display elements 18. The screen 74a is provided in conjunction with an information display element 18a that provides information regarding the life of the various filters 100, 102, 104. Screen 74b is an information display element 18a that provides information related to environmental air quality (eg, based on dust sensor readings) and an input display element 18b associated with power, mode and blower speed inputs ). In the illustrated embodiment, each screen 74 is a stacked structure that generally includes a diffusion layer and a shielding layer. The diffusion layer may be essentially any material capable of diffusing the light produced by the LED. For example, the diffusion layer may include a transparent substrate coated with a translucent film or other translucent coating. Alternatively, the diffusion layer may be a transparent material having a “roughed” or otherwise textured surface. In another alternative, the diffusion layer may be a sheet of translucent material. The shielding layer may be essentially any material capable of shielding light to produce the desired graphic, including various opaque and translucent materials, such as ink, paint, film, and other adhesive layers. For example, the shielding layer may be a layer of an opaque film forming opening (s) in the shape of a desired graphic. It may also include combinations of different materials that provide different visual appearances. For example, the shielding layer may include an opaque region that does not require any light transmission, a first translucent material that requires background light transmission, and a second translucent material that requires foreground light transmission. The first and second translucent materials may create differently visible regions through the use of different colored translucent materials or translucent materials having different levels of transparency. The shielding layer may be applied to the diffusion layer by printing, thermal bonding, adhesive or other suitable means. In the illustrated embodiment, the shielding layer is disposed on the outer surface of the diffusing layer facing the LED or other light source, but may be located at another location if desired. The diffusion layer and the shielding layer are part of a single stacked configuration in the illustrated embodiment, but they may alternatively be separate components. For example, these layers may be manufactured separately and positioned adjacent to each other during assembly of the display 16.

In the illustrated embodiment, the light duct array 72 has a plurality of individual ducts 72a connected side by side to receive light from a light source and guide it to a corresponding display element. Each light duct 72a provides a reflective duct that surrounds the light source and transmits light from the light source 62a to the appropriate portion of the screens 74a, 74b. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, one end of each light duct 72a may be configured to fit closely over the LED 62a, and the other end is coupled to and associated with the screen 74b. It may be dimensioned and shaped to follow the perimeter of the display element 18. The inner surface of each light duct 72a is reflective, diffuse, or may have other optical properties selected to provide the desired visual appearance to the corresponding display element 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic module 14 includes two optical duct arrays 72-one for indicating filter life and the other for the remaining display elements. In this embodiment, each optical duct array 72 is manufactured as a single unitary unit, thereby facilitating the manufacture and assembly of the electronic module 14. For example, each light duct array 72 may be injection molded, and the inner surface may be coated with a reflective or diffusive material depending on the desired appearance.

As described above, part of the display element 18 is an input display element 18b that functions as a touch sensor that allows an operator to provide input to the control subsystem 60. The input display element 18b may be implemented using essentially any touch sensor technology that can be incorporated into a “dead front” display. In the illustrated embodiment, the input display element 18b is a capacitive touch sensor. In this embodiment, display 16 includes capacitive touch sensor array 64 that includes a plurality of individual segments of capacitive film 64. Each segment of the film is associated with a single touch sensor. For example, each segment of the film may span the same space as the display element 18b associated with the touch sensor. The capacitive film 64 may be integrated into the screens 74a, 74b, for example, as separate layers stacked on the diffusion layer 76 and / or the shielding layer 78. Alternatively, capacitive film 64 may be separated from screens 74a, 74b. In the illustrated embodiment, each segment of the capacitive film 64 includes tabs 65 or other features for connecting to the electronic module 14, and the underlying substrate 67 provides a common ground plane. do. Monitoring, control and operation of the capacitive touch sensor may generally be conventional and will therefore not be detailed. It is sufficient to say that the control subsystem 60 may recognize the touch by sequentially taking readings from individual segments of the capacitive film and determining that a touch has occurred when these current readings match a predetermined value typical for touch.

As described above, the electronic module 14 of the illustrated embodiment includes a dust sensor assembly 66 that allows the control system 12 to determine the level of airborne contaminants. In this embodiment, the dust sensor assembly 66 includes a dust sensor 80, a sensor inlet 82, a sensor duct 84, a sensor outlet 86, and a pair of sensor gaskets 88. In this embodiment, the dust sensor assembly 66 uses a partial vacuum generated by the blower 56 to draw environmental air through the dust sensor 80. After passing through the sensor 80, air is processed and returned to the environment. As shown, the sensor outlet 86 communicates with the air passage through the ATS 10, and is located upstream from the filters 100, 102, 104. The sensor 80 is mounted to the electronic module 14 in proper alignment with the sensor outlet 86. The sensor inlet 82 is disposed within the cover 152 of the electronic module 14 to provide a passage for environmental air to enter the sensor duct 84. The sensor inlet 82 may include filter material (not shown) selected to prevent large particles, such as hair, lint, and chunks of dust from soiling the dust sensor 80. The filter material may be replaceable or washable. The sensor duct 84 is disposed between the sensor 80 and the sensor inlet 82 to provide a flow path to the sensor 80. A sensor gasket 88 is located between the dust sensor 80 and the sensor outlet 86 and between the dust sensor 80 and the sensor duct 84. In operation, the blower 56 draws air from the environment sequentially through the sensor inlet 82, sensor duct 84, dust sensor 80, and sensor outlet 86. As air passes through the dust sensor 80, the level of dust in the air is measured using known techniques and devices.

Although not shown, the ATS 10 may also include sensors capable of providing readings indicating the presence or absence of the front cover 32. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the ATS 10 includes a hall-effect sensor positioned toward the bottom of the ATS 10 near one of the magnetic attachment points. When the front cover 32 is removed, the absence of the magnet will change the reading provided by the Hall effect sensor. Alternatively, individual interlock magnets (not shown) may be incorporated within the front cover 32 at locations near the electronic module 14, such as Hall effect sensors, reed switches installed on the electronic module 14 ) Or other magnetic field sensor can be used to determine the presence or absence of the front cover 32. Information about the state of the front cover 32 can be used by the control subsystem 60 to affect the operation of the system. For example, in one embodiment, the control subsystem 60 may automatically stop the blower 56 when the front cover 32 is removed, or otherwise change functionality. As another example, when the front cover 32 is removed, the control subsystem 60 may change the parameters used to determine whether a touch has occurred. This will make the touch sensor work equally well with and without the front cover 32 in place. As another example, control subsystem 60 may enter an alternative mode of operation when front cover 32 is removed. This may cause the control subsystem 60 to change the display element 18, including the available input display elements 18b.

The control system 12 also includes an RFID subsystem 68 configured to operate with a corresponding RFID tag in a replaceable filter in the ATS 10 (eg, particulate filter 102 and / or activated carbon filter 104). It may include. The RFID subsystem 68 is generally conventional and will therefore not be described in detail. By means of the RFID subsystem 68, the control subsystem 60 can be used for filter life, usage time, elapsed time since installation, total effective consumption (e.g., motor speed multiplied by usage time), And other data can be collected, accumulated, and stored in other ways within the RFID tag. When the filter is installed, the RFID reader / writer can read any data previously stored in the RFID tag, such as filter life, total time the filter is installed in any system, and total operational consumption of the filter life. In this way, it is possible for the system to provide proper tracking even when the filter moves from one ATS to another. The RFID tag embedded in the filter may also include a serial number that can be used to ensure the authenticity of the filter. For example, the control system 12 may store a table of valid serial numbers to compare serial numbers, or, if it has a network function, have the ability to compare serial numbers against a table of valid numbers stored on the Internet. It might be. Filter usage information can also be used to provide an indication of the remaining filter life and to provide a prompt when filter replacement is required. RFID subsystem 68 may also be used to determine when a filter is removed. This information may be useful for controlling or maintaining statistics related to the use of the ATS 10. For example, control subsystem 60 may be configured to stop the blower when particulate filter 102 and / or carbon filter 104 are removed. As another example, control subsystem 60 may enter a service mode when one or both of the filters are removed. When in service mode, control subsystem 60 displays technical information and / or provides control options specific to that mode. To help ensure proper alignment between the RFID reader / writer in the ATS 10 and the RFID tag in the carbon filter 104, the carbon filter 104 and the filter housing 112 are provided with the carbon filter 104 only aligned. The keyway may be installed so that it can be installed only in the orientation provided. For example, the lower portion of the particulate filter 104 may include a keyway (not shown), and the filter housing 112 may include a corresponding key (not shown). When the RFID reader / writer is centered in the left-right direction, the key may be centered since it will not matter if the filter surface is facing inward. When the RFID reader / writer is not centered, it may be advantageous to provide an asymmetric key arrangement to ensure that the desired filter surface is facing inward.

As described above, the control system 12 is a wireless communication subsystem that allows the control subsystem to communicate wirelessly with other electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, personal computers, local wireless routers, broadband wireless routers, and other communication devices ( 70). In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication subsystem 70 allows the ATS 10 to exchange information with and receive commands from a remote device, such as a smartphone or tablet device running a dedicated application. For example, an application may be provided that allows the operator to input ATS commands on an electronic device that are wirelessly communicated to and performed by the control subsystem 60. As another example, information collected by the ATS 10 can be communicated to an electronic device for display within an application. In the illustrated embodiment, this information may include filter life information for each filter, operating mode information, motor speed information, and environmental air quality information derived using a dust sensor. The wireless communication subsystem 70 may utilize essentially any wireless communication technology and protocol. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, wireless communication subsystem 70 may have Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi functionality.

The control system 12 may be configured to implement a wide range of control schemes. In each case, the control system 12 allows the display element 18 to be illuminated and the touch sensor to provide a dynamic display 16 that is enabled based on changing parameters such as the operating mode and the values of the monitored parameters. It may be configured. In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 12 includes a “smart” mode (or automatic mode) in which control is automated based at least in part on the dust sensor reading, a “manual” mode in which the operator controls the blower speed, the blower ( 56) implements a control scheme with four common operating modes, including a "turbo" mode in which the transient is operated at high speed and a "night" mode in which the display 16 operates differently to limit lighting at night. With regard to this control scheme, the display 16 is capable of displaying various information display elements 18a and input display elements 18b (see FIGS. 5 and 9a). In the illustrated embodiment, each display element 18 includes two LEDs of different color and / or different intensity. One of the two LEDs is used to illuminate the display element in the "present" state (eg a first color such as a blurry LED or a more dull color). This lighting state is used to make the display element 18 visible on the display 16 while providing a visual indication that is not selected or active. Other LEDs are used to illuminate the display element in the “on” state (eg, a second color such as a brighter LED or a brighter color). The “on” state is used to indicate that the display element is “on” or “active”. The number, type, arrangement, configuration and operation of the display elements 18 may vary from application to application, depending largely on the control scheme implemented by the control system 12.

In the illustrated embodiment, the information display element 18a is an information display element 200 representing a pre-filter life, a set of information display elements 202 representing a specific filter life, and an information display element representing a carbon filter life. Includes a set of 204 and a set of information display elements 206 representing environmental dust levels (see FIG. 9B). The input display element 18b is generally a power input display element 208, a “smart” mode input display element 210, a “turbo” mode input display element 212, a “night” mode input display element 214, and It includes a plurality of blower speed input display elements 216 (see FIG. 9B).

In the illustrated embodiment, various filter life displays 200, 202, 204 are positioned between the iconic representation of the front cover 32 and the ATS housing 110 (see FIG. 9B). These icons may help identify which filter life display is associated with which filter. In the illustrated embodiment, the front cover and ATS housing icon are statically illuminated by a white LED operating at 50% brightness.

In the illustrated embodiment, the filter life display 200 for the pre-filter is "on" when the pre-filter is maintenance free and "on" when the pre-filter is maintenance required (such as washing or replacement). It includes an information display element 200 that can be illuminated in the "state. The "presence" state may be created by statically illuminating the green LED. The "on" state may be provided by flashing the red LED.

In the illustrated embodiment, the filter life display 202 for the particulate filter 102 includes four information display elements 18a, each representing one quarter of the filter life. When the filter life display is on, all four display elements 18a are illuminated. The number of illuminated elements 18a in the "on" state represents the remaining filter life. The remaining elements 18a are illuminated in the "presence" state to provide a visual reminder where the filter life is represented by a quarter. The number of segments may vary from application to application as desired. For example, additional granularity may be provided by increasing the number of information display elements 18a associated with filter life display 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter life display 202 for the particulate filter has a color LED to assist in representing the filter life as follows:

75 to 100% lifetime-all 4 segments illuminated green at 100% brightness

50 to 75% lifetime-the bottom three segments are green with 100% brightness and the top segment is white with 50% brightness

25 to 50% lifetime-lower segment is amber with 100% brightness, upper 3 segments are white with 50% brightness

1 to 10% lifespan-the lower segment is red with 100% brightness, the upper three segments are white with 50% brightness

0% life-the lower segment blinks red with 100% brightness, the upper 3 segments are white with 50% brightness

In the illustrated embodiment, the filter life display 204 for the carbon filter 104 essentially includes four display elements 18a that may be illuminated in a “presence” or “on” state using the same methodology described above. This is essentially the same as the filter life display 202 for the particulate filter 102.

In the illustrated embodiment, the dust level display 206 includes a plurality of individual information display elements 18a that can be illuminated in the "presence" or "on" state. When the dust level display 206 is displayed, the number of information display elements 18a illuminated in the "on" state represents the measured dust level, and the other information display elements 18a are illuminated in the "existing" state . This allows the operator to better understand the dust level by comparing the ratio of the "on" segment to the total number of segments. In the illustrated embodiment, the dust level segments are grouped into three sets, and a single set of LEDs is associated with each set of three segments. As a result, the dust level display 206 of the illustrated embodiment has 15 segments, but only 6 different settings (i.e., 0 segment, 3 segment, 6 segment, 9 segment, 12 segment or 15 segment) ). In the illustrated embodiment, the dust level display 206 has color LEDs to assist in recognizing as follows:

Level 1-the first segment is illuminated with 100% brightness green and the remaining segment is illuminated with 50% brightness white.

Level 2-The first two segments are illuminated amber with 100% brightness and the remaining segments are white with 50% brightness.

Level 3-The first 3 segments are illuminated in amber with 100% brightness and the remaining segments are illuminated with white with 50% brightness.

Level 4-The first 4 segments are lit red with 100% brightness and the remaining segments are lit white with 50% brightness.

Level 5-All 5 segments are illuminated in red with 100% brightness

In this embodiment, the blower speed display element 18b performs a dual function of receiving a touch sensor input to display the current blower speed and allow the operator to manually set the blower speed. As with the dust level display, the blower speed display includes a plurality of individual display elements 18 with two LEDs that can be selectively illuminated to represent a "presence" state or a "on" state. Unlike the dust level display, the blower speed display is also a touch sensor array that can be used by the operator to manually select the blower speed. When the blower speed is displayed, the number of blower speed input display elements illuminated in the "on" state is selected to represent the blower speed, and the other blower speed input display elements are illuminated in the "existing" state, allowing the operator to use the available blower speed options And compare the ratio of the “on” segment to the “existing” segment to understand the current blower speed. In the illustrated embodiment, the “presence” state may be created by statically illuminating the white LED at 50% brightness. The "on" state may be provided by statically illuminating the blue LED at 100% brightness. To provide a touch sensor, each blower speed display element 18b includes a linkage segment of a capacitive film. As described above, the control subsystem 60 monitors the capacitive film segment to determine when a touch has occurred. When a touch occurs, the control subsystem 60 may adjust the blower speed to match the selected setting.

In the illustrated embodiment, the power input display element 208 is illuminated in red with 100% brightness when in the "existing" state and white with 100% brightness when in the "on" state. The "smart" mode input display element 210 is illuminated in white with 50% brightness when in the "existing" state, and blue with 100% brightness when in the "on" state. The "turbo" mode input display element 212 is illuminated in white with 50% brightness when in the "existing" state, and blue with 100% brightness when in the "on" state. The "night" mode input display element 214 is illuminated in white with 50% brightness when in the "existing" state, and in red with 50% brightness when in the "on" state.

As described above, the control system 12 of the illustrated embodiment has a control scheme with four different operating modes: "smart" mode (or automatic mode), "manual" mode, "turbo" mode and "night" mode. Implement it. This control method will be described with reference to FIG. 13. During the "smart" operating mode, the control subsystem 60 evaluates the dust sensor readings and determines the blower speed based on these readings. This allows the ATS 10 to adapt to varying levels of airborne dust in the environment. In this mode, the operator has the option to enter turbo mode, night mode, manual mode or power off the ATS. As such, the turbo mode input display element, night mode input display element, various blower speed input display elements and power input display elements are illuminated. The turbo mode input display element and the night mode input display element are illuminated in the "existing" state. The smart mode input display element and power input display element are illuminated in the "on" state. If the smart mode input display element is touched while the system is already operating in smart mode, the system will transition to manual operation mode. The blower speed input display element is illuminated to indicate the current blower speed and available manual adjustment options according to the lighting methodology described above. Additionally, in the smart mode, the dust level information display element is illuminated to indicate the real-time dust level according to the lighting methodology described above. In smart mode, the filter life display is illuminated for a certain period of time each time the user interacts with the ATS 10. For example, control subsystem 60 may illuminate the filter life display for a period of 15 seconds each time an operator interacts with a touch sensor in display 16. Additionally, the filter life display may be illuminated whenever the filter needs attention and as long as it needs attention (eg, any one of the filters needs to be cleaned or replaced).

The control subsystem enters manual mode (or direct mode) when the operator touches the blower speed input display element 18b. Once in manual mode, control subsystem 60 operates blower 56 at a speed selected by the operator. In this mode, the operator has the option of entering turbo mode, night mode, smart mode, adjusting the blower speed or turning off the ATS. As such, the turbo mode input display element, night mode input display element, smart mode input display element, various blower speed input display elements and power input display elements are illuminated. The smart mode input display element, turbo mode input display element and night mode input display element are illuminated in the "existing" state. The power input display element is illuminated in the "on" state. The blower speed input display element is illuminated to indicate the current blower speed and available manual adjustment options according to the lighting methodology described above. Additionally, the dust level information display element is illuminated to indicate the real time dust level according to the lighting methodology described above. In this mode, the filter life display is illuminated for a certain period of time each time the user interacts with the ATS 10. For example, control subsystem 60 may illuminate the filter life display for a period of 15 seconds each time an operator interacts with a touch sensor in display 16. Additionally, the filter life display may be illuminated whenever the filter needs attention and as long as it needs attention (eg, any one of the filters needs to be cleaned or replaced).

The turbo mode is entered when the operator touches the turbo mode input display element. Once in turbo mode, the control subsystem 60 operates the blower 56 at the highest speed setting (or some other predetermined speed setting) for a preset period of time (eg, 30 minutes), followed by the previous Automatically returns to the operating mode. The turbo mode may be interrupted by a button touch, in which case the system may transition from the turbo mode prior to the expiration of a preset time period. In this mode, the operator touches the smart mode input display element to enter the smart mode, adjusts the blower speed and touches the blower speed input display element to enter the manual mode, or touch the power input display element to power off the ATS. Have options. In addition, the operator has the option of touching the turbo mode input display element to have the system immediately return to the previous setting. As such, the turbo mode input display element, smart mode input display element, various blower speed input display elements and power input display elements are illuminated. The turbo mode input display element and power input display element are illuminated in the "on" state, while the smart mode input display element is illuminated in the "existing" state. The blower speed input display element is illuminated to indicate the current blower speed and available manual adjustment options according to the lighting methodology described above. Additionally, the dust level information display element is illuminated to indicate the real time dust level according to the lighting methodology described above. In this mode, the filter life display is illuminated for a certain period of time each time the user interacts with the ATS 10. For example, control subsystem 60 may illuminate the filter life display for a period of 15 seconds each time an operator interacts with a touch sensor in display 16. Additionally, the filter life display may be illuminated whenever the filter needs attention and as long as it needs attention.

The night mode is entered when the operator touches the night mode input display element. Once in night mode, control subsystem 60 continues to operate ATS 10 in the same mode, but the content of the display is reduced to minimize light emission. In this mode, the operator has the option of turning off the ATS by touching the night mode input display element to disable the night mode (i.e. re-enabling the display according to the current operating mode) or touching the power input display element. . In the night mode, only the night mode input display element and the power input display element are illuminated, all of which are illuminated in the "on" state. In alternative embodiments, the control subsystem 60 may be configured to re-enable the display 16 (whole or partially) when the operator is very close to the display 16. For example, the control subsystem 60 uses a capacitive touch sensor array 64 to sense the proximity of the operator and as a trigger to illuminate all input display elements 18b so that the operator has full set of control. You can also use it. If the operator does not enter a command within a certain period of time (eg, 15 seconds) after the display 16 is re-enabled, the control subsystem 60 may return the display 16 to night mode.

When the ATS 10 is plugged in but not powered on, the control subsystem 60 illuminates the power input display element in the “existing” state. This allows the operator to see the power control element. Once the power button is touched, the control subsystem 60 may start the system in smart mode or in manual mode. When started in smart mode, the control subsystem 60 takes the dust sensor reading, determines the appropriate blower speed based on the dust sensor reading, and then couples the blower at the determined speed. All these steps are taken automatically without the need for operator input. When started in manual mode, control subsystem 60 blows 56 until instructed to do so by operator input, for example by operator touch of one of the blower speed input display elements 18b. ) Does not start.

The control scheme described above is only an example. Control system 12 may implement various alternative control schemes. For example, one alternative control scheme is shown in FIG. 14. This alternative control scheme is essentially the same as the control scheme described above, except as described herein. To implement this control scheme, the display may include an additional mode control button associated with a “manual” mode (labeled “user” in FIG. 14). In this control scheme, the operator is required to use a mode control button to transition between different operating modes. For example, the operator is required to touch the "user" mode input display element to enter the manual operating mode (instead of simply touching the blower speed input display element). Once in manual mode, the operator can control the blower speed by touching the desired blower speed input display element. As another example of this control scheme, the operator can simply leave the turbo mode by touching the turbo mode input display element or by allowing a preset time to elapse. Similarly, the operator can simply leave the night mode by touching the night mode input display element.

Another alternative control scheme is shown in FIG. 15. In this embodiment, the control scheme is essentially the same as the first control scheme described above, except as described herein. To implement this control scheme, the display may include an additional mode control button associated with the "Options" mode (labeled "Options" in FIG. 15). When the system is powered on, it starts in "smart" mode, and the blower speed is automatically set based on the input from the dust sensor. In order to provide additional control options, the "Options" mode button must be touched. In the "smart" mode, the power input display element is illuminated in the "on" state, the smart mode input display element is illuminated in the "on" state, the optional mode input display element is illuminated in the "existing" state, and the dust level display Is illuminated. The turbo mode input display element, night mode input display element and blower speed display are turned off. In smart mode, the operator can touch the power input display element to power off the system or the option mode input display element to transition to the option mode.

Once in the "option" mode, the power input display element is illuminated in the "on" state, the smart mode input display element is illuminated in the "on" state, the optional mode input display element is illuminated in the "on" state, and the dust level The display is illuminated, and the blower speed display is illuminated. Additionally, the turbo mode input display element and night mode input display element are illuminated in the " presence " state. In the optional mode, the operator can turn off the system by touching the power input display element, return to the smart mode by touching the smart mode input display element, and return to the smart mode by touching the optional mode input display element. Can enter turbo mode by touching the turbo mode input display element, enter the night mode by touching the night mode input display element or select the blower speed by touching the blower speed input display element and select manual mode You can enter If no button is touched within a specified time period (eg, 60 seconds), the system may automatically return to smart mode.

Once in the "manual" mode, the power input display element is illuminated in the "on" state, the optional mode input display element is illuminated in the "presence" state, the dust level display is illuminated, and the blower speed display is illuminated. Additionally, the smart mode input display element, turbo mode input display element and night mode input display element are turned off. In manual mode, the operator can power off the system by touching the power input display element, enter the "manual option" mode by touching the option mode input display element, or touch the blower speed input display element to blower speed You can choose While the system remains in manual mode, it will continue to operate the blower at the speed selected by the operator.

Once in the "manual option" mode, the power input display element and the option mode input display element are illuminated in the "on" state, and the dust level display and blower speed display are illuminated. Additionally, the smart mode input display element, turbo mode input display element and night mode input display element are illuminated in the "existing" state. In manual option mode, the operator can power off the system by touching the power input display element, return to smart mode by touching the smart mode input display element, and return to manual mode by touching the option mode input display element. You can enter Turbo mode by touching the Turbo mode input display element, enter Night mode by touching the Night mode input display element, or select the blower speed by touching the Blower speed input display element and manually You can return to mode. If no button is touched within a specified period of time (eg, 60 seconds), the system may automatically return to smart mode. If no button is touched within a specified period of time (eg, 60 seconds), the system may automatically return to manual mode.

Once in the “turbo” mode, the control subsystem operates the blower at the highest speed setting (or some other predetermined speed setting) for a preset period of time (eg 30 minutes), and then automatically to the previous operating mode. To return. Turbo mode may also be interrupted by a button touch, in which case the system may transition from turbo mode prior to the expiration of a preset time period. The turbo mode input display element and power input display element are illuminated in the "on" state. The blower speed display and dust level display are also illuminated. Additionally, the smart mode input display element, optional mode input display element and night mode input display element are turned off. In this mode, the operator has the option of touching the turbo mode input display element to return to the previous mode or touching the power input display element to power off the ATS.

Once in the "night" mode, the control subsystem continues to operate the ATS in the same operating mode, but the content of the display is reduced to minimize light emission. In the night mode, the night mode input display element is illuminated in the "existing" state, and the power input display element is illuminated in the "on" state. The remaining display elements are off. In this mode, the operator has the option of turning off the ATS by touching the night mode input display element to disable the night mode (i.e. re-enabling the display according to the current operating mode) or touching the power input display element. .

D. Front cover

As described above, the ATS 10 includes a filter 100, 102, 104, as well as a removable front cover 32 that closes the front of the ATS 10 covering the electronic module 14 and blower 56. It includes. The front cover 32 of the illustrated embodiment forms a central inlet 106a and is offset from the ATS housing 110 such that they cooperatively form the side inlets 106b, 106c. The inlet trim component 98 may also fit within the central inlet 106a. In the illustrated embodiment, the front cover 32 is convex, creating a relatively large head space between the rear surface of the front cover 32 and the installed filter. This may allow air to enter the ATS 10 more freely through the central inlet 106a.

In this embodiment, the front cover 32 also forms the interface surface of the "dead front" display 16. As such, the front cover 32 of this embodiment is translucent at least in the area of the LED array 62, the light duct array 72, and the electronic modules 14 above the screens 74a, 74b (eg, Not completely transparent to visible light or not completely opaque). The front cover 32 may be made from a translucent polymer (eg, molded thermoplastic) having a paint coating or film coating that provides the desired translucency. In one embodiment, front cover 32 is covered by an in-mold film process. To facilitate the proper appearance of the "dead front" display, it may be necessary to carefully control the paint or film coating applied to the front cover 32. Alternatively, the front cover 32 may be made from a translucent material, such as a molded translucent thermoplastic.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front cover 32 is configured to allow one hand removal and installation. The front cover 32 includes a mechanical attachment point at the top and a pair of magnetic attachment points at the bottom. In the illustrated embodiment, the machine attachment points mate on the electronic module 14. This helps ensure proper alignment between the front cover 32 and the components underneath the display 16, which may help ensure proper appearance and operation of the "dead front" display. The machine attachment point conforms to the electronic module 14 in the illustrated embodiment, but may alternatively conform to other structures.

Referring now to FIGS. 19A and 19B, the machine attachment point of the illustrated embodiment includes a lip 36 that extends from front cover 32 and is configured to engage on electronic module 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the lip 36 extends to approximately the entire width of the electronic module 14, except that it may include a gap 37 (see FIG. 2) aligned with the dust sensor inlet 82. do. The lip 36 of this embodiment is oriented at an angle that causes the lip 36 to engage on the electronic module 14 as the front cover 32 descends in place. This causes the front cover 32 to disengage from the ATS housing 110 by sliding it upwards relative to the ATS housing 110. This upward sliding motion not only disengages the lip 36 from the electronic module 14, but also can simultaneously disengage the magnet 90 from the attachment plate 92 in the ATS housing 110 (as described below). Likewise), thereby facilitating removal. The size, shape, and configuration of the lip 36 may vary from application to application. In alternative embodiments, the lip may be replaced by essentially any other male or female structure capable of engaging electronic module 14.

In this embodiment, the front cover 32 includes two magnetic attachment point positions toward opposite sides of the bottom of the front cover 32. Each magnetic attachment point includes a magnet 90 supported by the front cover 32 and a magnetic attraction plate 92 mounted on the ATS housing 110 (see FIGS. 20A and 20B). The magnet 90 may be a disc-shaped rare earth magnet mounted in a corresponding socket 94 protruding from the rear of the front cover 32. The plate 92 is dimensioned such that the magnet 90 is substantially disengaged from the plate 92 when the front cover 32 slides upwards a sufficient distance relative to the lip 36 to remove the electronic module 14. It can be set and molded. The number, size, shape and configuration of magnets and plates may vary from application to application as desired. For example, stronger magnets or more magnetic attachment points may be used to increase the force required to remove the front cover 32.

In use, the front cover 32 may be removed and installed in various ways. One option for removing the front cover 32 is shown in FIG. 17A. With this option, the front cover 32 slides upwards relative to the ATS housing 110 at a sufficient distance for the lip 36 to remove the electronic module 14, and then the top of the front cover 32 is It is inclined away from the ATS housing 110 to overcome any residual magnetic attraction at the magnetic attachment point. The front cover may be installed essentially using a reverse process. Another option for removing the filter is shown in FIG. 17B. With this option, the operator reaches down and pulls the lower portion of the front cover 32 from the ATS housing 110 until the magnet 90 is disengaged from the plate 92. The operator then lifts the front cover 32 a sufficient distance for the lip 36 to remove the electronic module 14. The front cover 32 spans the top of the front cover 32 over the electronic module 14 and then the bottom of the front cover 32 towards the ATS housing 110 until the magnet 90 engages the plate 92. It can also be installed by rocking.

The front cover 32 may include an interlocking magnet (not shown) that allows the control subsystem 60 to recognize when the front cover 32 is in an installed state and when it is removed. The interlocking magnet may be positioned toward the top of the front cover 32 which can be sensed by a Hall effect or other magnetic field sensor incorporated in the electronic module 14. As an alternative to using individual interlocking magnets, ATS 10 is the presence or absence of front cover 32 based on one of the magnets 90 used to attach front cover 32 to ATS housing 110. It may include a Hall effect sensor (or other magnetic field sensor) positioned to recognize the.

If desired, the electronics module 14 may include LEDs or other light sources that can be coupled to provide illumination that is visible through the central entrance opening 106a and / or on the side of the front cover 32. This lighting may be provided as accent lighting or may have a functional purpose. For example, the control system 12 may provide blue light or no light when the ATS 10 is operating properly and does not require maintenance, and red light when operator intervention is required. It can also be provided. This may occur when a filter needs to be replaced or cleaned, or when a system error is present. Red lights may flash when certain emergency problems exist.

As described above, the front cover 32 is provided with a level of translucency suitable to create a "dead front" display 16. Alternatively, the "dead front" display may be created by translucent components disposed under the front cover 32, such as individual panels disposed over the electronic module 14. In this embodiment, the front cover 32 may be transparent or sufficiently translucent so that the underlying “dead front” display is visible through the front cover 32.

E. Mobility features

In the illustrated embodiment, the ATS 10 may be configured to interface with one of a plurality of interchangeable bases 40. In the illustrated embodiment, bases 40, 40 ', 40 "are secured to ATS housing 110 using screws or other fasteners. The number and location of fasteners may vary from application to application. Alternatives to Fasteners As or in addition, the ATS housing 110 and bases 40, 40 ', 40 "may have snap features that allow the desired base to snap fit to the ATS 10.

Different bases 40 may provide different structures for receiving the power cord 42 and / or different structures for supporting the ATS 10. ATS 10 with three alternative bases 40, 40 ', 40 "is shown in Figures 21 and 22. In general, base 40 is for manually winding power cord 42. Has bobbin 44 and a plurality of fixed feet 46; base 40 'has bobbin 44' and multiple casters 46 'for manually winding power cord 42'; The base 40 "includes a cord recovery assembly 45 with an automatic reel (not shown) and a combination of a fixed foot 46" and a roller 47 ". Although the figure shows an embodiment of a bobbin extending laterally across a portion of the ATS housing 110, the term “bobbin” refers to any individual provided as a structure where the power cord 42 may be wound around it. It is intended to include features or combinations of features.

In the illustrated embodiment, the ATS 10 also includes a handle 48 disposed on the upper rear portion of the ATS housing 110. The handle 48 of this embodiment extends essentially to the full width of the ATS 10 in order to allow the ATS 10 to be gripped either centrally with one hand or with both hands toward both sides. In this embodiment, the handle 48 has a relatively deep central pocket of sufficient depth to accommodate the operator's fingers up to approximately two finger nodes and a relatively shallow side of sufficient depth to accommodate the operator's fingers up to approximately the first finger node. It may also include a pocket. The handle 48 may be, for example, a single piece component secured to the ATS housing 110 by a fastener, or may be integrally formed with other parts of the ATS housing 110.

With respect to base 40, handle 48 may be used to lift ATS 10 as it moves from one location to another. With respect to base 40 ', the handle may be used to grip the ATS when rolling it from position on caster 46' to position. With respect to base 40 ", handle 48" can be used to tilt ATS 10 forward on roller 47 "and roll ATS 10 from one location to another.

F. Filter retainer assembly

As described above, the ATS 10 includes a pre-filter 100, a particulate filter 102 and a carbon filter 104 that are removably fit within the filter housing 112. The system includes a filter retainer assembly 50 that facilitates rapid and robust installation and removal of the filter. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter retainer assembly 50 includes an engaging portion 52 and a pair of clips 54 integrated into the frame of the particulate filter 102, as well as a locking projection integrated into the ATS housing 110 ( 126). Since the pre-filter is fixed to the particulate filter 102 and the particulate filter 102 covers the carbon filter 104, the filter retainer assembly 50 effectively holds all three filters 100, 102, 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the clip 54 is configured to airtightly pull the particulate filter 102 into the filter housing 112 as it is closed. This helps compress the cotton seal 118 on the particulate filter 102 against the shoulder 114 to facilitate airtight sealing.

Referring now to FIG. 29B, the locking portion 52 is disposed at the lower center of the frame of the particulate filter 102. The engaging portion 52 of this embodiment is formed integrally with the frame of the particulate filter 102, but may alternatively be formed separately and attached to the frame. The catch 52 of the illustrated embodiment has a quarter-round cross section that may facilitate installation and removal from the corresponding cavity 120 in the filter housing 112. The number, size, shape and configuration of the locking portion 52 and the cavity 120 may be varied for each application as desired. For example, the positions of the locking portion 52 and the cavity 120 may be reversed to a state in which the locking portion extends from the filter housing 112 and the cavity is formed in the particulate filter 102.

29A and 29B, the clip 54 is rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame of the particulate filter 102, as perhaps best shown. Each clip 54 may include a handle 122 and a hook 124. Handle 122 is configured to provide a structure that can be used by an operator to rotate clip 54. The hook 124 is configured to engage the locking projection 126 as the clip 54 is rotated to the closed position. The hook 124 and the locking projection 126 are configured such that there is interference between the two for a short distance as the clip 54 approaches the closed position. This creates a snap fit that helps secure the clip 54 in the closed position. Additional movement towards the closed position causes the hook 124 to bend creating resistance to further movement towards the closed position. As clip 54 continues towards the closed position, hook 124 removes the area of interference and begins to return to its original unbent state. This forces the clip 54 into the closed position in the remaining path. In the illustrated embodiment, the position and configuration of the hook 124 relative to the pivot position provides a cam-like function for the clip 54 to pull the particulate filter 102 into the filter housing 112 as the clip 54 is closed. It is chosen to provide. The operation of the clip 54 is shown in FIGS. 30A-30D. In FIG. 30A, the clip 54 is shown in the open position. In this position, the hook 124 is disengaged from the locking projection 126. 30B shows clip 54 in the partially closed position. As can be seen, the hook 124 is moved to engage the locking projection 126. In this position, the particulate filter 102 is partially pulled into the filter housing 112 as can be seen by comparison with the reference line R. 30C shows the clip 54 moved further towards the closed position. In this figure, the hook 124 is coupled to the locking projection 126 and begins to flex outwardly away from the locking projection 126 due to the interference between the two. As can be seen, particulate filter 102 is pulled further into filter housing 112. In Figure 30D, the clip 54 is in the closed position. In this position, the hook 124 is moved past the interfering area and is fully engaged with the locking projection 126. The particulate filter 102 is completely pulled into the filter housing 112.

Removal of the particulate filter 102 is described with respect to FIGS. 28A-28D. In the first figure, front cover 32 and pre-filter 100 are removed to provide access to particulate filter 102 (see FIG. 28A). In the illustrated embodiment, it is not necessary to remove the pre-filter 100 from the particulate filter 102. In the following figure, each clip 54 is rotated from a closed position to an open position (see Fig. 28B). This disengages the hook 124 from the locking projection 126 in the filter housing 112. The following figure shows the top of the particulate filter 102 that is inclined away from the filter housing 112 (see FIG. 28C). The last figure shows the filter 102 lifted from the filter housing 112 to disengage the catch 52 from the cavity 120 (see FIG. 28D). The particulate filter 102 can be installed essentially using a reverse process.

The design and construction of the clip may vary from application to application. Alternative clips 54 ', 54 "are shown in Figures 31A-31D and Figures 32A-32D. In all of these alternative embodiments, the filter retainer assembly places the clips 54', 54" in the closed position. It further includes locking pins 128 ', 128 "to secure. The locking pins 128', 128" protrude from the particulate filter 102, but can alternatively protrude from the filter housing 112 if desired. The alternative clip 54 'includes teeth 130' that protrude from the outer edge of the clip 54 '. The teeth 130 'are configured to engage the corresponding recesses 132' in the locking pin 128 'when the clip 54' is in the closed position. Along with this, the teeth 130 'and the locking pins 128' snap-lock the clip 54 'to the closed position. The operation of the clip 54 'is shown with reference to FIGS. 31A-31D. In Fig. 31A, the clip 54 'is shown in the open position. In this position, the hook 124 'is disengaged from the locking projection 126'. 31B shows clip 54 'in the partially closed position. As can be seen, the hook 124 'is moved to engage the locking projection 126'. In this position, the particulate filter 102 is partially pulled into the filter housing 112 as can be seen by comparison with the reference line R. 31C shows the clip 54 'moved further towards the closed position. In this figure, the hook 124 'is also coupled to the locking position 126' and pulls the filter 102 further into the filter housing 112. In Fig. 31D, the clip 54 'is in the closed position. In this position, the teeth 130 'are seated in the recess 132', and the particulate filter 102 is completely pulled into the filter housing 112. The correlation between the teeth 130 'and the locking pins 128' helps to secure the clip 54 'in the closed position.

The alternative clip 54 "is similar to the clip 54 '. In this embodiment, the clip 54" interacts with the locking pin 128 "to control the movement and feel of the clip 54". Includes a series of contours. More specifically, the clip 54 "includes a stop 134" and a pedestal 136 "configured to engage the locking pin 128" when the clip 54 "is in the open or closed position. The portion 134 "is configured to engage the locking pin 128" when the clip 54 "is in the fully open position. The stop 134 "helps limit the range of motion of the clip 54". The base 136 "is configured to interlock with the locking pin 128" when the clip 54 "is in the fully closed position. The leading edge of the base 136" is the clip 54 "closed or opened. It may thus be raised to create a snap fit interaction. The operation of clip 54 "is now described with reference to Figures 32A-32D. In Fig. 32A, the clip 54 "is shown in the open position. In this position, the hook 124" is disengaged from the locking projection 126 "and the stopper 134" is the locking pin 128 ". ). Figure 32B shows clip 54 "in the partially closed position. The hook 124 "is moved to engage the locking projection 126". In this position, the particulate filter 102 is partially pulled into the filter housing 112 as can be seen by comparison with the reference line R. 32C shows the clip 54 "moved further towards the closed position. In this figure, the hook 124" is also engaged to the locked position 126 "and further away into the filter housing 112. Tow the filter 102. In addition, the leading edge of the pedestal 136 "begins to engage the locking pin 128". In Figure 32D, the clip 54 "is in the closed position. In this position, the locking pin 128 "and the pedestal 136" are fully engaged, and the particulate filter 102 is completely pulled into the filter housing 112. The relationship between the locking pin 128 "and the seat 136" helps to secure the clip 54 'in the closed position.

G. Alternative Examples

The invention can be implemented in a wide variety of alternative embodiments. For example, one alternative embodiment is shown in FIGS. 33A-53D. Except to the extent described below or illustrated in the accompanying drawings, this alternative embodiment is generally the same as the embodiment disclosed above in FIGS. 1A-20B. To facilitate the disclosure, this alternative embodiment will be described with the same reference numerals used in connection with the ATS 10, except for prefixing the number "4". For example, the alternative ATS is indicated by reference numeral 410 (similar to ATS 10), and the ATS housing of the alternative ATS is indicated by reference numeral 4110 [similar to ATS housing 110]. ].

Referring now to FIGS. 33A, 33B and 34, ATS 410 generally includes control system 412, blower 456, pre-filter 4100, particulate filter 4102 and activated carbon filter 4104. And a housing assembly for receiving. The ATS 410 includes a front untreated air inlet 4106a-4106c through which untreated air is drawn into the system through and a rear air outlet 4108 through which processed air can be returned to the environment (FIG. 44) Reference). In operation, the control system 412 operates the blower 456 to draw untreated air through the inlets 4106a to 4106c into the ATS 410 and to draw the untreated air into three filters 4100, 4102, 4104. Continuously through, and then treated air is discharged through outlet 4108. The size, shape, and configuration of the inlet, outlet, and internal flow paths may vary from application to application, as desired.

Referring again to FIG. 34, the housing assembly generally includes a main housing 4110, a filter housing 4112, and an upper housing 4113. The main housing 4110 mainly forms the rear, side and bottom of the ATS 410. Like the ATS 10, the filter housing 4112 is attached to the main housing 4110 to close the front of the ATS 410 and provides a seat for the particulate filter 4102 and carbon filter 4104. 49, the upper housing 4113 is attached to the back of the filter housing 4112, for example by screws (not shown). The upper housing 4113 includes an integral handle 448. In this embodiment, the handle 448 includes a central section that can be gripped with one hand and a pair of side sections that can be gripped with both hands. In the illustrated embodiment, the main housing 4110 includes a cord winding 444 (or bobbin) for manually winding a power cord (not shown) (see FIG. 33B). In this embodiment, the cord reel 444 includes a pair of fingers 445 spaced apart on opposite sides of the power cord input port 447. The size, shape, and configuration of the finger 445 may vary, for example, depending on the characteristics of the power cord. As shown, the cord reel 444 may be positioned within a recess in the main housing 4110 so as not to protrude and thus not increase the profile of the ATS 410.

The ATS 410 includes a display 416 and a removable front cover 432 that closes the front of the ATS 410 covering the filters 4100, 4102, 4104. 33A, 44 and 46, the front cover 432 forms a central inlet 4106a, and the front cover 432 and the filter housing 4112 are side inlets 410b. 410c) apart from the filter housing 4112 to form cooperatively. The illustrated front cover 432 is made from an opaque plastic material, for example by injection molding. Front cover 432 may alternatively be made from a wide variety of alternative materials. In this embodiment, the front cover 432 includes a window 433 covering the display 416. The window 433 fits within the corresponding opening 435 formed in the front cover 432. To conceal the non-illuminated display element, the window 433 of this embodiment is translucent at least in the area or regions above the display element 418. The window 433 may be made from a translucent polymer (eg, a molded thermoplastic) having a paint coating or film coating that provides the desired translucency. In one embodiment, the window 433 is covered by an in-mold film process. To facilitate the proper appearance of the "dead front" display, it may be necessary to carefully control the paint or film coating applied to the window 433. Alternatively, the window 433 may be made from a translucent material, such as a molded translucent thermoplastic.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front cover 432 is configured to allow one hand removal and installation. The front cover 432 includes a mechanical attachment point at the top and a pair of magnetic attachment points at the bottom. Referring now to FIGS. 45A, 45B, and 46, the mechanical attachment point of the illustrated embodiment extends from the front cover 432 and within the base 437 in the electronic module 414 or the structure surrounding the electronic module 414 And a locking portion 436 (or a lip) configured to fit within. The locking portion 436 may be separately manufactured and attached to the front cover 432 (see FIG. 46) or may be integrally formed with the front cover 432 (not shown). The engaging portion 436 of this embodiment is oriented at an angle such that the engaging portion 436 is held in the seat 437 as the front cover 32 is closed. This causes the front cover 432 to disengage from the ATS housing 4110 by sliding it upwards relative to the ATS housing 4110. This upward sliding motion not only disengages the engaging portion 436 from the base 437, but also may simultaneously disengage the magnet 490 from the attachment plate 492 in the ATS housing 4110 (as described later). Likewise), thereby facilitating removal. The size, shape, and configuration of the locking portion 436 may vary for each application. In alternative embodiments, the engaging portion 436 may be replaced by essentially any other male or female structure capable of engaging other similar structures in or around the seat 437 or electronic module 414.

The front cover 432 of this embodiment includes two magnetic attachment point positions toward opposite sides of the bottom of the front cover 432. Each magnetic attachment point includes a magnet 490 supported by the front cover 432 and a magnetic attraction plate 492 mounted on the ATS housing 4110 (see FIG. 48). The magnet 490 may be a disk-shaped rare earth magnet mounted in a corresponding socket 494 protruding from the rear of the front cover 432. In this embodiment, the plate 492 is configured to perform two functions-(i) providing a magnetic attraction structure for the magnet 490 and (ii) rotatably supporting the roller 447. In this embodiment, each plate 492 is generally L-shaped with a first leg 493 positioned to receive a magnet 490 and a second leg 495 rotatably supporting a roller 447. to be. The first leg 493 and the second leg 495 are generally planar, but may also be interleaved with adjacent components of the ATS 410 or may include ribs or other contours to enhance strength. The first leg 493 includes a pair of mounting tabs 491 extending rearward and allowing the plate 492 to be attached to the housing 4110 by, for example, screws (not shown). The second leg 495 defines a circular opening 497 configured to rotatably receive the axle (or shaft) of the roller 447. In use, the two plates 492 capture the opposite ends of the shaft or axle of the roller 447. In this embodiment, the plate 492 is stamped from the sheet stock, and is configured to be ambidextrous so that the same plate 492 can be used on opposite sides of the ATS 410 by simply flipping the plate 180 degrees. For example, the mounting tabs 491 may be vertically centered, and each tab 491 may be spaced at the same distance from the corresponding end of the first leg 493. Further, the circular opening 497 may be perpendicular to the second leg 495.

In this embodiment, the control system 412 includes a capacitive sensor that allows the system to recognize when the front cover 432 is installed and when it is removed (described in more detail below). This eliminates the need for any interlocking magnet or magnetic field sensor used to determine the presence of the front cover as described above in relation to the ATS 10.

As described above, the ATS 410 includes a pre-filter 4100, a particulate filter 4102 and a carbon filter 4104. Like ATS 10, filters are secured within ATS 410 by filter retainer assembly 450 incorporated into particulate filter 4102. More specifically, the filters fit the carbon filter 4104 into the carbon filter base in the filter housing 4112, and the particulate filter 4102 fits over the carbon filter 4104 into the particulate filter base in the filter housing 4112, It is installed by fixing the particulate filter 4102 using the filter retainer assembly 450 and attaching the pre-filter 4100 to the particulate filter 4102. In this embodiment, the filter retainer assembly 450 is somewhat different from the filter retainer assembly 50 described above with respect to the ATS 10. In this embodiment, the lower portion of the particulate filter 4102 is held by a locking portion 452 fitted in the cavity 4120 in the filter housing 4112, and the upper portion is a locking projection 4126 extending from the filter housing 4112 ) And is held by a clip 454 (or latch) that interlocks. 52A-52D illustrate the process of removing particulate filter 4102 from ATS 410. 52A shows particulate filter 4102 with clip 454 installed in the closed position. 52B shows particulate filter 4102 installed with clip 454 rotated to the open position. 52C shows the top of the inclined particulate filter 4102 away from the ATS 410. The inclined movement of the filter 4102 also disengages (almost disengages) the engaging portion 452 from the cavity 4120. 52D shows particulate filter 4102 removed from ATS 410. In the illustrated embodiment, the clip 454 is configured to airtightly pull the particulate filter 4102 into the filter housing 4112 as it is closed. This helps compress the cotton seal (not shown) on particulate filter 4102 against shoulder 4114 to facilitate airtight sealing.

Referring now to FIGS. 51A-51C, the locking portion 452 is disposed at the lower center of the frame of the particulate filter 4102. The engaging portion 452 of this embodiment is integrally molded with the frame of the particulate filter 4102, but may alternatively be formed separately and attached to the frame. The catch 452 of the illustrated embodiment has a quarter round cross section that may facilitate installation and removal from the corresponding cavity 4120 in the filter housing 4112. The number, size, shape, and configuration of the locking portion 452 and the cavity 4120 may be varied for each application as desired.

In this embodiment, the clip 454 is rotatably mounted near the upper center of the frame of the particulate filter 4102. The clip 454 includes a handle 4122, teeth 4130 and a hook 4124. The teeth 4130 are configured to engage the locking pin 4128 as the clip 454 is rotated to the closed position. More specifically, interference between the teeth 4130 and the locking pin 4128 causes the clip 454 to snap-lock to the closed position. Further, the hook 4124 is configured to engage the locking projection 4126 as the clip 454 is rotated to the closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the position and configuration of the hook 4124 and the locking projection 4126 is cam-shaped, with the clip 454 pulling the particulate filter 4102 into the filter housing 4112 as the clip 454 is closed. It is selected to provide functionality. The operation of the clip 454 is shown in FIGS. 53A-53D. In FIG. 53A, the clip 454 is shown in the open position with the hook 4124 disengaged from the locking projection 4126. 53B shows the clip 454 rotated clockwise to the partially closed position. 53C shows the clip 454 rotated further clockwise to the position where the teeth 4130 are trying to engage the locking pin 4128. Finally, FIG. 53D shows clip 454 in the closed position. As can be seen, the teeth 4130 are moved past the locking pin 4128 and now resist the movement of the clip 454 out of the closed / locked position. Further, the hook 4124 is moved to engage the locking projection 4126. The interaction between the hook 4124 and the locking projection 4126 completely pulls the particulate filter 4102 into the filter housing 4112.

In this embodiment, the pre-filter 4100 is secured to the particulate filter 4102 using a somewhat different configuration than that incorporated into the ATS 10. As shown in FIG. 34, the pre-filter frame 4116 includes a pair of tabs 4304 at the bottom and a pair of tabs 4306 at the top. 51A-51C, the particulate filter 4102 includes a foot 4300 with a pair of slots at the bottom, and a pair of fingers 4302 at the top. Finger 4302 may be configured to snap lock in engagement with slotted tab 4306. For example, the fingers 4302 may be angled upward from the particulate filter frame. In use, the prefilter 4100 first inserts the tab 4304 at the bottom of the prefilter frame 4116 into the slot in the foot 4300 at the bottom of the particulate filter 4102, and then the top of the particulate filter 4102 It is secured to the particulate filter 4102 by inclining the top of the pre-filter 4100 inward toward the top of the particulate filter 4102 to snap-fit the slotted tab 4306 over the finger 4302 of.

Control system

The ATS 410 includes a control system 412 that controls the operation of the ATS 410, displays information, and provides a user interface for receiving input from an operator. The main function of the control system 412 is to control the speed at which the ATS 410 operates to process air based on the detected parameters or operator input, track the filter usage, set mode, motor speed and filter life Is to notify the operator and accept the operator's order. The control system 412 is implemented as a "dead front" display 416 that displays information and includes a user interface that receives operator input related to the operation and maintenance of the system. Display 416 includes a plurality of display elements 418 that are visible only when illuminated and provide a dynamic display that changes to provide information and present control options available at any given time (FIGS. 40 and 41). compare). Like the display 16 described above, the display 416 of the ATS 410 includes an illuminated information display element 418a to provide information regarding the status or monitored characteristics of the ATS, and the operator to the control system 412. And an input display element 418b having a touch sensor to provide input (see FIG. 41). In addition to allowing user input, input display element 418b may also provide information regarding the state of the ATS, such as operating mode and blower speed. Display 416 shows that display 416 includes one additional display element to indicate when display element 418 is differently located and display 416 uses an integrated Wi-Fi transceiver to communicate with an external network. Excluding the display elements 418, which are essentially the same as the display 16 described above.

Control subsystem 460 coordinates collection of data from a variety of other subsystems, including capacitive touch sensor array 464, dust sensor 480, RFID subsystem 468, and wireless communication subsystem 470. And control circuitry and firmware configured to operate the ATS 410. Various modes of operation of the system are described in more detail below. Referring now to the schematic diagram of FIG. 36, the electronic module 414 is generally distributed control with a primary application controller 510, a touch detection controller 512, an LED driver controller 514 and an RFID controller 516. Device. The primary controller 510 includes a dust sensor 480, an RFID subsystem 468 (RFID controller 516 and RFID antenna 518), a wireless communication subsystem 470 (Bluetooth module 520 and WiFi module ( 522) and electrical components constituting the display 416 (including the LED driver controller 514 and the touch detection controller 512). Primary controller 510 is also coupled to blower motor power 530 to allow primary controller 510 to control blower speed and to receive feedback from blower motor power 530 in some applications. The primary application controller 510 includes a buzzer 524 to provide audible output, a UART head 526 for diagnostics and pre-programmed operation defaults, as well as a filter's lifetime, time of use, counter and ATS 410 It is also coupled to a non-volatile memory such as EEPROM 528 for storage of historical operational data, such as other variables that may be used in connection with the operation of. The touch detection controller 512 is electrically connected to the capacitive touch key formed by the plurality of capacitive traces 532 and the ambient light sensor 534. In use, the touch detection controller 512 may monitor the capacitive trace and ambient light sensor 534 and provide touch / proximity information and ambient light information to the primary application controller 510. The LED driver controller 514 is coupled to the LED array 462. In operation, the LED driver controller 514 may illuminate individual LEDs within the LED array 462 according to commands received from the primary application controller 510.

Control system 412 is incorporated into self-contained electronic module 414. Referring now to FIGS. 37-39, the electronic module 414 for the ATS 410 generally includes a base 4150, a dust sensor cover 4152, an electronic assembly 550, and a screen 474. In this embodiment, base 4150 is mounted to filter housing 4112 and provides a structure in which various components of electronic module 414 are mounted. Base 4150 includes an electronic assembly base (not shown) that allows electronic assembly 550 to be mounted to the underside of base 4150 by, for example, screws (not shown) extending through mounting tabs 552. do. The base 4150 also includes a dust sensor compartment 560 that seats the dust sensor 480 and provides a flow path for directing air over the dust sensor 480. The flow path generally includes a sensor inlet 482, a sensor tunnel 484, and a sensor outlet 486. The sensor inlet 482 may be closed by a dust sensor screen 562 to prevent large particles from staining the dust sensor 480. The dust sensor 480 is enclosed within a pair of rubber shell halves 488a, 488b that create an airtight seal around the dust sensor 480. The dust sensor cover 4152 may form a plurality of air flow holes 564 that allow air to flow out of the outer sensor compartment 560 from the particulate filter 4102 to a position upstream. It should be noted that the dust sensor flow path is described for a system in which partial vacuum generated by the blower 456 draws air into the ATS 410 along the dust sensor flow path. Alternatively, the air sensor detects a partial vacuum greater than the air exhausted by the ATS 410 through the air outlet 4108 creates in the air flow aperture 564 in the dust sensor cover 4152. When created at the inlet 482, it may flow back through the dust sensor flow path.

The electronic assembly 550 for the ATS 410 generally includes a lower PCB 566, a light guide 472, and an upper PCB 568 (see FIG. 39). The lower PCB 566 may include various controllers and LED arrays 462 to support the bulk of circuitry and circuit components. The LED array may also include a plurality of individual LEDs 462a that can be selectively illuminated when appropriate. Each LED 462a may include a single LED or multiple LEDs that provide various lighting options. In this embodiment, each LED associated with the filter life display element may include a red LED and a green LED, and each LED associated with the ATS display element, power display element and line display element may include a white LED. Each LED associated with the blower speed display element, turbo mode display element, WiFi display element and dust sensor cloud sensor element may include a blue LED and a white LED, and the LED associated with the first dust level display may Red LED, green LED and yellow LED, and each LED associated with the second and third dust levels may include red and yellow LEDs, respectively associated with the fourth and fifth dust levels. The LED of may include a red LED, and each LED associated with the night mode display element may include a red LED and a white LED. Like the ATS 10, the LED array 462 may be replaced or supplemented with other types of light sources such as OLED, laser and EL light sources.

The light guide 472 provides a mounting structure for the PCBs 566, 568, and an LED array on the lower PCB 566 through openings in the upper PCB 568 to illuminate the display elements 418 on the screen 474. And a plurality of light ducts 472a that transmit light from 462. Light duct 472a is configured to create a light path from LED 462a to corresponding display element 418. Light ducts 472a may be isolated from each other to prevent leakage of light from one LED 462a to adjacent display elements 418. The surface of the light duct 472a may be coated or textured to generate diffuse light.

The upper PCB 568 is mounted on the top of the light guide portion 472. The upper PCB 568 forms a plurality of light openings 570 and a plurality of traces 532 functioning as capacitive touch sensors. In this embodiment, the upper PCB 568 includes a separate light opening 570 for each display element 418 (see FIGS. 38 and 39). The size, shape, and configuration of the light aperture 570 may vary from application to application, for example, depending on the desired lighting effect. As described above, control system 410 includes a plurality of capacitive touch sensors 464. The design and configuration of the capacitive touch sensor may vary from application to application. For example, each capacitive touch sensor may include a pair of electrodes, and a touch may be recognized by monitoring mutual capacitance between the pair of electrodes. As another example, each capacitive touch sensor may include a single electrode, and the touch may be recognized by monitoring the electrode's own capacitance. Referring now to FIG. 39, traces 532 (or pairs of traces) extend around each light opening 570 associated with the input display element 418b. More specifically, a copper conductive element is provided around the periphery of each light opening 570 associated with the input display element 418b (or pair of traces) of the conductive trace 532. The size, shape, extent, and other aspects of the configuration of each conductive trace 532 may vary from application to application to provide desired touch sensor characteristics. Additionally, the upper PCB 568 may include additional conductive traces 532b intended to sense user proximity. As shown in FIG. 39, proximity sensor trace 532b may be a relatively large trace that extends along a significant portion of upper PCB 568. In use, touch detection controller 512 may monitor various conductive traces 532 to determine when a touch or proximity event occurs.

In this embodiment, control system 412 includes a single screen 474 that covers all display elements 418. The screen 474 is a stacked structure generally including a diffusion layer and a shielding layer. The diffusion layer diffuses the light generated by the LED. The shielding layer includes various opaque and translucent materials, such as ink, paint, film, and other adhesive layers, to shield the light to produce the desired graphic. In the illustrated embodiment, the shielding layer is disposed on the outer surface of the diffusing layer facing the LED or other light source, but may be located at another location if desired. The diffusion layer and the shielding layer are part of a single stacked configuration in the illustrated embodiment, but they may alternatively be separate components. For example, these layers may be manufactured separately and positioned adjacent to each other during assembly of the display 416.

The operation of the ATS 410 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 42 and 43. 42 is a diagram of a display 416 showing the outline of all display elements 418, including information display elements 418a and input display elements 418b. 43 shows a series of views of displays 416a-416m in different modes of operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 416 can be in three different states when powered off. When the ATS 410 is unplugged or is not receiving power in any other way, the display is completely blank, as shown by display 416a. When the ATS 410 is plugged in, but is not powered and no user is in proximity, display elements 618a-618c are shown to display a line across display 416, as shown by display 416b. It is illuminated. When the ATS 410 is plugged in, but not powered and the user is in close proximity, the display elements 618a-618c, 608 are illuminated to indicate line and power icons, as shown by the display 416c.

The control system 412 may determine that the user is close by monitoring the capacitive trace 532b. Control system 412 and proximity trace 532b may be configured to determine when a user is in proximity using various alternative approaches. In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 412 and proximity trace 532b allow the user to trace 532b by, for example, waving the user's hand over the display 416 within about 12 inches of the window 433. ) When it comes within about 12 inches of the user. The size, shape, and configuration of the trace 532b and / or the sensitivity of the control system 412 to changes detected within the trace 532b increases how close the user must be to the system to conclude that the user is close. It can be changed to make or reduce. Control system 412 may determine that the user is not in proximity based on the passage of time after display 416 receives the user input. For example, the control system 412 may reset the countdown timer whenever a user input event occurs. The user input event may occur whenever the user touches the touch key trace 532 or whenever the user comes within sufficient proximity of the proximity trace 532b. When the countdown timer reaches zero, the control system 412 will conclude that no user is close and will adjust the display 416 accordingly. The control system 412 may then continue to monitor the proximity trace 532b to determine when the user will come back within enough proximity to the display 416. In addition, the control system 412 may also conclude that the user is in proximity when the touch key trace 532 is touched by the user.

Once powered on, the display 416 is capable of operating in a variety of alternative states. When the ATS 410 is in manual mode and the user is in close proximity, all display elements are properly illuminated, as shown by display 416d. Display elements 618a through 618c are illuminated to represent the lines. Display element 608 is illuminated to indicate the power icon. The display element 614 is illuminated to indicate the night mode icon. Since the ATS 410 is not in night mode, the display element 614 is illuminated in white. The display element 606 including the dust icon 606a and an appropriate dust level indicator 606b is illuminated. Since the ATS 410 is not in the automatic mode, the dust icon 606a is illuminated in white. Also, since the dust level is sufficiently low, only a single dust level indicator 606b is illuminated, which is illuminated in green. The display element 616 including the blower icon 616a and the appropriate blower speed indicator 616b is illuminated. Since the ATS 410 is in manual mode, the blower icon 616a is illuminated in blue. All blower speed indicators 616b are illuminated with indicators representing the actual blower speed illuminated in blue and the higher available blower speed illuminated in white. Display element 612 is illuminated in white to indicate that ATS 410 is not in turbo mode. The filter life display elements 600, 602, 604 are illuminated, including the ATS icon 605. In this example, all filters have a residual life and are therefore illuminated in green. The ATS icon 605 is illuminated in white. Finally, the display element 620 is illuminated to display the Wi-Fi icon. In this example, no Wi-Fi transmission occurs and thus the Wi-Fi icon is illuminated in white. When the operator is no longer close, the display 416 transitions to a reduced state, showing significantly fewer display elements. Referring now to display 416e, display element 618b is illuminated to indicate the center of the line. The display element 606 is illuminated, including a dust icon 606a and an appropriate dust level indicator 606b. The display element 616 is illuminated, including a blower icon 616a and a suitable blower speed indicator 616b. In this state, only the blower speed indicator representing the actual blower speed is illuminated in blue. The higher blower speeds available are not illuminated. When any filter expires, the display will also show the filter life display elements 600, 602, 604, including an ATS icon 605. In the example shown on display 416f, the pre-filter icon 600 is illuminated green to indicate that it has a remaining life, and the particulate filter icon 602 and carbon filter icon 604 are illuminated red to indicate that they have expired. Instructed, the ATS icon is illuminated in white.

The operator can place the ATS 410 in the automatic mode by touching the dust sensor icon 606a. When the ATS 410 is in automatic mode and the user is in close proximity, all display elements are properly illuminated, as shown by display 416g. Display elements 618a through 618c are illuminated to represent the lines. Display element 608 is illuminated to indicate the power icon. The display element 614 is illuminated in white to indicate the night mode icon. The display element 606 is illuminated, including a dust icon 606a and an appropriate dust level indicator 606b. Since the ATS 410 is in the automatic mode, the dust icon 606a is illuminated in blue. Also, since the dust level is at the highest display level, all dust level indicators 606b are illuminated in red. The display element 616 is illuminated, including a blower icon 616a and a suitable blower speed indicator 616b. Since the ATS 410 is in automatic mode, the blower icon 616a is illuminated in white. The blower speed indicator 616b representing the actual blower speed is illuminated in blue. In this example, the blower operates at full speed, so all indicators are illuminated in blue. Display element 612 is illuminated in white to indicate that ATS 410 is not in turbo mode. The filter life display elements 600, 602, 604 are illuminated, including the ATS icon. In this example, all filters have a residual life and are therefore illuminated in green. The ATS icon is illuminated in white. Finally, the display element 620 is illuminated to display the Wi-Fi icon. In this example, no Wi-Fi transmission occurs and thus the Wi-Fi icon is illuminated in white. When the operator is no longer close, the display 416 transitions to a reduced state, showing significantly fewer display elements. Referring now to display 416h, display element 618b is illuminated to indicate the center of the line. The display element 606 is illuminated, including a dust icon 606a (blue) and an appropriate dust level indicator 606b (red). The display element 616 including the blower icon 616a (white) and the appropriate blower speed indicator 616b (blue) is illuminated. When any filter expires, display 416 will also display filter life display elements 600, 602, 604, including ATS icon 605 (see, eg, display 416f).

The operator can activate the turbo mode by touching the turbo icon. When the ATS 410 is in turbo mode and the user is close, all display elements are properly illuminated, as shown by display 416L. Display elements 618a through 618c are illuminated to represent the lines. Display element 608 is illuminated in white to indicate the power icon. The display element 614 is illuminated in white to indicate the night mode icon. The display element 606 is illuminated, including the dust icon 606a (white) and a suitable dust level indicator 606b. Since the dust level is appropriate, the three dust level indicators are illuminated in yellow. The display element 616 including the blower icon 616a (white) and the appropriate blower speed indicator 616b is illuminated. Since the ATS 410 is in turbo mode, the blower operates at full speed, and all indicators 616b are illuminated in blue. Display element 612 is illuminated in blue to indicate that ATS 410 is in turbo mode. The filter life display elements 600, 602, 604 are illuminated, including the ATS icon 605. In this example, all filters have a residual life and are therefore illuminated in green. The ATS icon is illuminated in white. Finally, the display element 620 is illuminated to display the Wi-Fi icon. In this example, no Wi-Fi transmission occurs and thus the Wi-Fi icon is illuminated in white. When the operator is no longer close, the display 416 transitions to a reduced state, showing significantly fewer display elements. Referring now to display 416j, display elements 618a and 618b are illuminated to indicate the left and center portions of the line. The display element 606 is illuminated, including a dust icon 606a (white) and a suitable dust level indicator 606b (yellow). The display element 616 including the blower icon 616a (white) and the appropriate blower speed indicator 616b (blue) is illuminated. Display element 612 is illuminated in blue to indicate that ATS 410 is not in turbo mode. When any filter expires, display 416 will also display filter life display elements 600, 602, 604, including ATS icon 605 (see, eg, display 416f).

The ATS 410 may be placed in the night mode by touching the night mode icon. When in the night mode, the display 416 displays only the night icon 614 illuminated in red as illuminated in the display 416k. When in the night mode, the control system 412 limits the maximum speed of the blower 456 and decelerates the speed at which the blower 456 transitions from one speed to another. The control system 412 may be configured to implement other features when in the night mode. In this embodiment, the control system 412 may operate in manual or automatic mode when in the night mode. For example, the user may touch the night mode icon 614 while the control system 412 is in manual mode or automatic mode, and the control system 412 may otherwise blow the blower 456 according to the existing mode. It will continue to work and transition to night mode. When transitioning from the manual mode to the night mode, the control system 412 will continue to operate the blower 456 at the manually specified speed unless the manually set speed exceeds the maximum speed threshold. If so, the control system 412 reduces the blower speed to match the maximum speed threshold for night mode. When transitioning from the night mode to the automatic mode, the control system 412 causes the control system 412 to ensure that the blower speed does not exceed the maximum speed threshold and that the change from one blower speed to another blower speed is slower. Except that occurs in, an automatic speed control algorithm allows the blower speed to be controlled.

The ATS 410 may also have the ability to access external applications using Wi-Fi or other wireless communication systems. To enter the wireless communication mode, the operator may touch the Wi-Fi icon (display element 620). While ATS 410 attempts to establish a wireless connection, display element 620 may be illuminated in blue in a blinking pattern, as shown by display 416l. Once the connection is established and the ATS 410 remains in the wireless communication mode, flashing may end, and the display element 620 may be illuminated in blue, as shown by display 416m. In this embodiment, wireless communication may be employed during any mode of operation, and the control system 412 may continue operating the display 416 according to the existing mode of operation. Wireless communication may be used to communicate to the remote location things about the operation of the ATS 410, such as filter life data for various filters, speed and time of operation of the blower motor and dust sensor readings over time. Wireless communication may also be used to transmit diagnostic information, including data that may allow an individual to evaluate the operation of the ATS 410 at a remote location to determine whether maintenance or restoration is necessary. In addition, wireless communication may be used to update firmware and / or any other programming or data contained within control system 412.

The above description is that of the present embodiment of the present invention. Various changes and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broad aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims, which should be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law, including uniformity theory. This disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration, and should not be construed to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these examples, or as a thorough description of all embodiments of the invention. For example, without limitation, any individual element (s) of the described invention may provide substantially similar functionality, or alternatively may be replaced by alternative elements that provide suitable operation. It may be developed in the future, such as, for example, currently known alternative elements, such as those that may currently be known to those skilled in the art, and those that the skilled person may recognize as alternatives in development. Includes elements In addition, the disclosed embodiments include a plurality of features that are described in unison and may cooperatively provide a set of benefits. The present invention is not limited to only these examples, which include all these features or provide all the stated benefits, except to the extent explicitly stated in other ways in the appended claims. For example, any reference to a singular form or claim element in singular form using "above" should not be construed as limiting the element to the singular.

An embodiment of the present invention in which exclusive characteristics or privileges are claimed is defined as follows.

Claims (18)

Air treatment system,
A system housing comprising a filter housing,
A plurality of filters arranged in the filter housing,
Blower for moving the air through the plurality of filters,
A dust sensor to detect the dust level,
A sensor configured to detect the presence of an operator of the air treatment system,
It includes a control system having an electronic module with a display,
The display has a plurality of display elements capable of being illuminated in a plurality of different configurations, wherein the electronic module is covered by a translucent portion having a translucency selected to provide a dead front display,
The control system is configured to selectively illuminate the combination of the plurality of display elements in various configurations to provide a plurality of display states that present available control options based on one of a plurality of operating modes of the air treatment system, Air treatment system. The air of claim 1, wherein the plurality of display elements comprises a dust level display element, a blower speed input display element, a power display element, an automatic mode input display element, a turbo mode input display element, and a night mode input display element. Processing system. 3. The air treatment system of claim 2, wherein the transition speed between blower speeds during the night mode is reduced compared to the transition speed between blower speeds during the other operating modes. The air treatment system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of operating modes of the air treatment system include an automatic mode, a manual mode, a turbo mode, and a night mode. The display element associated with the current operating mode of the air treatment system is illuminated in a first color indicating the current operating mode, and other display elements related to a mode other than the current operating mode of the air treatment system are different. An air treatment system, illuminated in a second color. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured to determine that there is no operator close to the air control system based on the output of the sensor, in response to the dust level display element, a display indicating the current mode of the air control system. And adjusting the plurality of display elements so that none of the plurality of display elements are illuminated except the element and the power display element. Air treatment system,
A flow path including an inlet, a filter housing, and an outlet,
A filter arranged in the filter housing along the flow path,
A front cover covering the filter,
A blower for moving air through the flow path and the filter,
A dust sensor to detect the dust level,
A sensor configured to detect the presence of an operator,
It includes an electronic module capable of generating a display,
The display is disposed behind the translucent portion, the display has a plurality of display elements that can be selectively illuminated, the display element being visible through the translucent portion only when illuminated,
The display includes a plurality of display elements capable of being illuminated in a plurality of different configurations,
The electronic module is configured to selectively illuminate the combination of the plurality of display elements in various configurations to provide a plurality of display states that present available control options based on one of a plurality of operating modes of the air treatment system, Air treatment system. The air of claim 7, wherein the plurality of display elements comprises a dust level display element, a blower speed input display element, a power display element, an automatic mode input display element, a turbo mode input display element, and a night mode input display element. Processing system. 9. The air treatment system of claim 8, wherein the transition speed between blower speeds during the night mode is reduced compared to the transition speed between blower speeds during the other operating modes. The air treatment system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of operating modes of the air treatment system include an automatic mode, a manual mode, a turbo mode, and a night mode. 8. The display element according to claim 7, wherein the display element associated with the current operating mode of the air treatment system is illuminated in a first color indicating the current operating mode, and other display elements associated with a mode other than the current operating mode of the air treatment system are different. An air treatment system, illuminated in a second color. 8. The control system of claim 7, wherein the control system is configured to determine that there is no operator close to the air control system based on the output of the sensor, in response to the dust level display element, a display indicating the current mode of the air control system And adjusting the plurality of display elements such that none of the plurality of display elements are illuminated except the element and the power display element. Air treatment system,
System housing,
A filter arranged in the system housing,
A front cover covering the filter and forming a central entrance;
A blower for moving air through the filter,
A dust sensor to detect the dust level,
A sensor configured to detect the presence of an operator,
It includes a control system capable of operating in a plurality of different modes of operation,
The control system has a user interface having a plurality of information display elements and a plurality of input display elements, the user interface is disposed behind the translucent portion, and the information display element and the input display element can be selectively illuminated, , The information display element and the input display element are visible through the translucent only when illuminated, and the control system is configured to illuminate different things of the information display element and the input display element according to the operating mode,
The plurality of display elements and the plurality of input display elements can be illuminated in a plurality of different configurations,
The control system utilizes a combination of the plurality of display elements and the plurality of display input elements in various configurations to provide a plurality of display states that present available control options based on one of a plurality of operating modes of the air treatment system. An air treatment system, configured to selectively illuminate. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of display elements comprises at least a dust level display element, the plurality of input display elements being a blower speed input display element, a power input display element, an automatic mode input display element, a turbo mode input display element And a night mode input display element. 15. The air treatment system of claim 14, wherein the transition speed between blower speeds during the night mode is reduced compared to the transition speed between blower speeds during the other operating modes. 14. The air treatment system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of operating modes of the air treatment system include an automatic mode, a manual mode, a turbo mode, and a night mode. 14. The display element of claim 13, wherein a display element associated with the current operating mode of the air treatment system is illuminated in a first color indicating the current operating mode, and other display elements associated with a mode other than the current operating mode of the air treatment system are different. An air treatment system, illuminated in a second color. 14. The control system of claim 13, wherein the control system is configured to determine that there is no operator close to the air control system based on the output of the sensor, in response to the dust level display element, a display indicating the current mode of the air control system And adjusting the plurality of display elements such that none of the plurality of display elements are illuminated except the element and the power display element.

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