KR20200135920A - Sterilization apparatus and home appliance including the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a tubular housing including an inlet through which air is introduced, and an outlet through which the air is discharged; an ultraviolet sterilization module provided inside the housing and emitting ultraviolet light; and a streamer discharge module provided inside the housing and having a first electrode portion and a second electrode portion which are for generating streamer discharge. The ultraviolet sterilization module comprises: a ring-shaped frame; and an ultraviolet light emitting diode disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the frame; and a heat dissipation unit formed to extend outwardly from the outer circumferential surface of the frame and including a plurality of heat dissipation fins. According to the present invention, a sterilization effect can be maximized.

Description

Sterilization device and home appliance including the same {STERILIZATION APPARATUS AND HOME APPLIANCE INCLUDING THE SAME}

The present invention relates to a sterilization device, and in particular, to a sterilization device and a home appliance for sterilizing microorganisms in air using an ultraviolet light emitting diode and a streamer discharge module.

An air purifier is a device that purifies the inhaled air and discharges the purified air. It is capable of inhaling contaminated air with a fan to collect dust and bacteria, and to deodorize various odors such as body odor.

Recently, as interest in air quality has increased due to an increase in fine dust, etc., research on a method for various home appliances to perform an air cleaning function is increasing.

On the other hand, in addition to the removal of dust, there is an increasing demand for sterilization of microorganisms such as bacteria and various bacteria contained in the air.

To this end, methods for sterilizing the microorganisms by using ultraviolet (Ultra Violet (UV)) have been proposed. Among the ultraviolet light, ultraviolet light in the UVC region (200 nm to 280 nm) damages the DNA double helix of the microorganism, thereby inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. Conventionally, ultraviolet lamps have been mainly used, but ultraviolet lamps have limitations in shape and area. Accordingly, in recent years, a method of utilizing an ultraviolet light emitting diode (UV LED) emitting ultraviolet light has been studied.

However, in the case of sterilization using ultraviolet light, under certain conditions (eg, dark room conditions), damaged DNA is recovered by a healing mechanism within the cell, and there is a possibility that microorganisms re-proliferate. In order to prevent this, a collecting means such as a filter for collecting microorganisms in an area irradiated with ultraviolet light may be additionally provided therein.

Meanwhile, as another technique related to sterilization of microorganisms, a streamer discharge technique may be used. Streamer discharge destroys the cell membrane of microorganisms and releases the cellular protoplasm, thereby removing the natural function of the cell. However, there is a problem that a sufficient streamer discharge exposure time must be secured in order to destroy the cell membrane.

In this regard, prior art 1 (Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-2007-0094026, published on September 19, 2007) discloses a discharge unit disposed in an air passage. In the discharge unit, the rod-shaped discharge electrode and the plate-shaped counter electrode are orthogonal to the flow of air and are disposed along the heat exchanger, so that harmful components can be decomposed using streamer discharge.

However, according to the prior art 1, as the discharge electrodes are arranged side by side along the heat exchanger in a direction orthogonal to the air flow, air that does not pass through the streamer discharge region may be generated when air passes through it with straightness. Hazardous ingredients cannot be decomposed effectively. In addition, in the structure as in the prior art 1, in order to increase the processing efficiency, the number of discharge electrodes must be increased. In this case, as the gap between the discharge electrodes becomes narrow, interference may occur between the discharge electrodes, causing unstable streamer discharge. However, the amount of ozone generated may increase.

1. Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2007-0094026 (published on September 19, 2007)

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a sterilization device capable of maximizing a sterilization effect of microorganisms contained in air passing through a flow path, and a home appliance including the same.

Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a sterilization device having a streamer discharge module capable of minimizing disturbance of air flow and a home appliance including the same while securing a sufficient streamer discharge exposure time for sterilization of microorganisms. Is to do.

A sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a tubular housing forming an inlet through which air is introduced and an outlet through which the air is discharged; An ultraviolet sterilization module provided inside the housing and emitting ultraviolet light; And a streamer discharge module provided inside the housing and having a first electrode part and a second electrode part for generating a streamer discharge, wherein the ultraviolet sterilization module includes: a ring-shaped frame; It characterized in that it comprises a UV light-emitting diode disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the frame and a heat dissipating unit formed to extend outward from the outer circumferential surface of the frame, and including a plurality of radiating fins.

The radiating part may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer circumferential surface of the frame.

The front surface of the heat dissipation unit may be formed in a streamlined shape.

The ultraviolet sterilization module may include a mounting portion extending by a predetermined length from the outer circumferential surface of the frame.

The extension length of the mounting portion may be longer than the extension length of the heat dissipation portion.

The length of the mounting portion may be formed to be longer than the distance between the inner peripheral surface of the frame and the center position of the frame.

The ultraviolet sterilization module may be disposed between the inlet and the streamer discharge module.

The first electrode part may include a discharge electrode support fastened to the inside of the housing; And

And at least one discharge electrode protruding from the discharge electrode support in a direction of the second electrode part, having a tip part, and to which a voltage is applied, and the second electrode part is disposed at a position corresponding to the at least one discharge electrode, and the at least At least one ground electrode forming a streamer discharge region between the one discharge electrode; And it is possible to include a ground electrode support for supporting the at least one ground electrode inside the housing.

The housing includes a light blocking film formed on the inlet side, and the light blocking film is

It is possible to be inclined toward the central axis of the housing as the distance from one end corresponding to the inlet of both ends of the housing increases.

Home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, the sterilization device; And a blower having the sterilizing device therein and having a fan module for generating a flow of air.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sterilization device includes an ultraviolet sterilization module that sterilizes microorganisms in the air using ultraviolet light and a streamer discharge module that sterilizes the microorganisms using streamer discharge, thereby sterilizing microorganisms. You can maximize performance.

The ultraviolet sterilization module is provided in front of the streamer discharge module based on the flow direction of air, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to the ultraviolet light emitting diode due to active species such as micro ions emitted from the streamer discharge module.

In addition, the sterilization device has a porous ground plate between the UV sterilization module and the streamer discharge module, or has a reflective member connected to the ground inside the housing, so that the active species emitted from the streamer discharge module or ultraviolet rays caused by an electric field are provided. The risk of damage to the light-emitting diode can be minimized.

In addition, the sterilization device may include a plurality of streamer discharge modules, and the plurality of streamer discharge modules may be arranged to have a zigzag-shaped flow path inside the housing. Accordingly, a sufficient streamer discharge exposure time for air passing through the streamer discharge modules may be ensured, and sterilization performance of microorganisms by the streamer discharge may be improved.

1 is a perspective view of an ultraviolet sterilization module provided in a sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an ultraviolet light emitting diode unit included in the ultraviolet sterilization module shown in FIG. 1.
3 is a view for explaining the radiating fins of the ultraviolet sterilization module shown in FIG.
4 is a view showing another form of the heat dissipation fin included in the ultraviolet sterilization module shown in FIG.
5 is a perspective view of a streamer discharge module provided in a sterilizing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a plan view of the streamer discharge module shown in FIG. 5.
7 is a cross-sectional view aa′ of the streamer discharge module shown in FIG. 5.
8 is a perspective view of a sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a cross-sectional view of the sterilizing device shown in FIG. 8.
10 is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization device according to another embodiment of the present invention.
11 is an exemplary view showing an air purifier as an example of a home appliance including a sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are only for making it easier to understand the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, and the technical idea disclosed in the present specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings, and all changes and equivalents included in the spirit and scope of the present invention It should be understood to include water or substitutes.

1 is a perspective view of an ultraviolet sterilization module provided in a sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an ultraviolet light emitting diode unit included in the ultraviolet sterilization module shown in FIG. 1. 3 is a view for explaining the radiating fins of the ultraviolet sterilization module shown in FIG. 4 is a view showing another form of the heat dissipation fin included in the ultraviolet sterilization module shown in FIG.

The sterilization device may be included in various home appliances that process (cooling, heating, sterilizing, purifying, etc.) the introduced air, such as an air purifier, an air sterilizer, an air conditioner, and other blowing devices. The sterilization device included in the home appliance may provide purified air to a user by sterilizing microorganisms present in the introduced air.

First, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 provided in the sterilization device will be described through FIGS. 1 to 4.

Referring to FIG. 1, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 may include at least one ultraviolet light emitting diode unit 11 and a module body 12.

In FIG. 1, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 is shown to have a polygonal ring (or circular ring) shape. However, according to an embodiment, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 may conform to the structure or shape of the housing 500 to be described later in FIG. 8. It may have a different shape according to it.

At least one ultraviolet light emitting diode unit 11 may sterilize the microorganisms or bacteria by irradiating ultraviolet light to microorganisms or bacteria in the air passing through the flow path in the home appliance, thereby providing purified air. In the present specification, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 is shown to include five ultraviolet light emitting diode units, but the number of ultraviolet light emitting diode units is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 2, each of the at least one ultraviolet light emitting diode unit 11 includes a substrate 111 and an ultraviolet-light emitting diode (UV LED) emitting ultraviolet light for sterilization of air. ; 112) may be included.

A circuit for controlling light emission of the UV LED 112 may be formed on the substrate 111. The substrate 111 may be implemented as a printed circuit board (PCB).

For example, the substrate 111 may be fastened to and fixed to the frame 122 of the module body 12. To this end, at least one fastening groove 113 may be formed in the substrate 111. Each of the at least one fastening groove 113 may correspond to a fastening groove formed in the frame 122. The substrate 111 may be fastened to the frame 122 as fastening means such as fastening screws (not shown) are inserted into the fastening groove 113.

The UV LED 112 may be mounted on the substrate 111 to emit ultraviolet light for sterilizing air.

Typically, the ultraviolet light can be subdivided according to the length of the wavelength. For example, ultraviolet light may be divided into UV-A having a wavelength of 320 nm to 400 nm, UV-B having a wavelength of 280 nm to 320 nm, and UV-C having a wavelength of 200 to 280 nm.

Among them, UV-C, which is a short-wavelength ultraviolet ray, has the property of destroying bacterial DNA and causing a chemical reaction to special substances, so it can be effectively used for sterilization, removal of surface or water contamination, and curing.

Therefore, the UV LED 112 included in the UV light emitting diode unit 11 may be an LED that emits light in an ultraviolet wavelength range, and more preferably, a UVC LED that emits light of a UVC wavelength excellent in sterilization effect. I can.

According to an embodiment, the ultraviolet light emitting diode unit 11 may further include a concave lens (not shown) for dispersing ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112 to increase an emission area of the ultraviolet light.

The module body 12 may include a frame 122, at least one radiating part 124, and at least one mounting part 126. In particular, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 122, at least one heat dissipation unit 124, and at least one mounting unit 126 constituting the module body 12 may be integrally formed. The module body 12 may be implemented with a material having high thermal conductivity. In addition, the module body 12 may be implemented with a material having a high reflectance in order to reflect the ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112 to various locations. For example, the module body 12 may be implemented with a metal such as aluminum, but is not limited thereto.

The frame 122 may have a ring shape or a tube (tube) shape as a whole. As the frame 122 has a ring or tubular shape, an opening may be formed inside the frame 122. Accordingly, when the air introduced through the air inlet of the home appliance and the inlet 502 (refer to FIG. 8) of the housing 500 moves inside the flow path, flow disturbance by the frame 122 can be minimized. In this specification, the frame 122 is illustrated as having a polygonal ring shape, but according to embodiments, the frame 122 may have various shapes such as a circular ring shape.

At least one infrared light emitting diode unit 11 may be fastened to the inner peripheral surface of the frame 122. In this case, the UV LED 112 may be disposed to face the inside of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 or the module body 12 as shown in FIG. 1 to emit ultraviolet light.

As will be described later in FIGS. 8 to 10, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 is installed inside the housing 500 of the sterilization device, and when air passes, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 passes through the inner side (opening portion) of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10. The amount of air may be greater than the amount of air passing through the area between the inner peripheral surface of the housing 500 and the ultraviolet sterilization module 10. That is, the UV LED 112 emits ultraviolet light toward the inside of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 through which a large amount of air passes, so that sterilization is effectively performed.

In addition, as described above, since the frame 122 is implemented with a metal such as aluminum having excellent reflectivity, the ultraviolet light emitted by the UV LED 112 can be reflected to various areas. Accordingly, microorganisms in the air passing through the area between the inner peripheral surface of the housing 510 and the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 may also be sterilized.

Meanwhile, when the UV LED 112 emits ultraviolet light, heat is generated, and accordingly, the temperature of the UV LED 112 may increase. As the temperature of the UV LED 112 increases, the light output performance of the UV LED 112 rapidly decreases, and the lifespan may also decrease. Accordingly, a heat dissipation structure for minimizing an increase in temperature of the UV LED 112 is required.

Each of the at least one radiating unit 124 may include a plurality of radiating plates for dissipating heat generated when the UV LED 112 is driven to the outside. As shown in FIG. 1, the plurality of heat sinks are formed parallel to the flow direction of air, so that interference with the flow of air can be minimized. According to an embodiment, each of the at least one radiating part 124 may include a plurality of radiating fins instead of the plurality of radiating plates.

The heat dissipation part 124 may be formed to extend outward from the outer peripheral surface of the frame 122. For example, the plurality of heat sinks (or fins) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer circumferential surface.

The ultraviolet light emitting diode unit 11 may be fastened to the inner circumferential surface of the frame 122 corresponding to the position of the heat dissipation unit 124. Accordingly, heat generated from the UV LED 112 may be radiated to the outside through the substrate 111, the frame 122, and the heat dissipation unit 124.

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 3, the heat dissipation performance of the heat dissipation unit 124 is an extended length of a heat dissipation plate (or a heat dissipation fin) (extended length from the outer circumferential surface of the frame 122; L), a distance D between the heat dissipating plates, It may be related to the thickness (T) of the heat sink. For example, the heat dissipation performance of the heat dissipation unit 124 may increase as the extension length (L) of the heat dissipation plate increases and the thickness (T) increases, and if the distance (D) is about 1 to 1.5 mm, the heat dissipation performance may be maximum. have.

However, as the extension length L of the heat sink increases, the opening area of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 decreases, so that sterilization performance may decrease. In addition, as will be described later in FIG. 8 and the like, in order to minimize flow disturbance due to the generation of vortex when air passes between the housing 500 and the ultraviolet sterilization module 10, the heat sink is provided with the inner wall of the housing 500 It may have a length spaced apart by a predetermined distance or more. That is, the extended length L of the heat sink may be set based on an opening area of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and a distance to the housing 500.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 1 to 3, the front surface of the heat dissipation unit 124 is formed perpendicular to the air flow direction based on the air flow direction, so that turbulence may occur or the flow rate may be reduced.

Referring to FIG. 4, according to an embodiment, the front surface of the heat dissipation unit 125 is formed in a streamlined shape to reduce the air resistance coefficient. Specifically, the front surface may be formed in a streamlined shape rounded to the rear as it moves away from the outer circumferential surface of the frame 122. Accordingly, the generation of the turbulence or the decrease in the flow rate is minimized, so that the flow of air is smooth, and the heat dissipation effect may also be increased.

At least one mounting part 126 may mount the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 inside the housing 500.

For example, each of the at least one mounting portion may be formed to extend from the outer circumferential surface of the frame 122. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the mounting portion may be implemented as a mounting protrusion 126 extending by a predetermined length in a vertical direction from the outer circumferential surface of the frame 122.

In FIG. 1, for convenience of explanation, the extension length of the mounting protrusion 126 is shown to be shorter than the length L of the heat dissipation part 124, but the extension length of the mounting protrusion 126 is the extension length of the heat dissipation part 124 It can be formed longer than (L). Accordingly, a space is formed between the heat dissipation unit 124 and the housing 500, so that interference with the flow of air can be minimized.

Further, the length of the mounting protrusion 126 may be longer than the distance between the inner peripheral surface of the frame 122 and the center position (center of the opening) of the frame 122. Accordingly, when the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 is mounted in the housing 510, the amount of air passing through the opening of the frame 122 passes between the outer circumferential surface of the frame 122 and the inner wall of the housing 500. Since the amount of air is larger than the amount of air, the sterilization effect of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 can be increased.

For example, the mounting protrusion 126 may be fitted into a mounting groove 526 (see FIG. 8) provided on the inner wall of the housing 500 to mount the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 inside the housing 500.

5 is a perspective view of a streamer discharge module provided in a sterilizing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a plan view of the streamer discharge module shown in FIG. 5. 7 is a cross-sectional view a-a' of the streamer discharge module shown in FIG. 5.

The streamer discharge module 20 may cause insulation breakdown of air by generating a streamer discharge by applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes. As the insulation breakdown of air occurs, active species (e.g., radicals, high-speed electrons, excitation molecules, etc.) are generated in the air, and these active species destroy the cell membrane of microorganisms such as bacteria and bacteria in the air, thereby sterilizing microorganisms. I can. Streamer discharge can generate a large amount of highly active active species compared to corona discharge or glow discharge, and thus sterilization efficiency of microorganisms can be further improved. The streamer discharge, corona discharge, and glow discharge are known in advance, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

5 to 7, the streamer discharge module 20 may include a first electrode part 21 and a second electrode part 22 as a pair of opposing electrodes. Hereinafter, in this specification, it will be described that the first electrode part 21 corresponds to a discharge electrode part that generates discharge by applying a voltage, and the second electrode part 22 corresponds to a ground electrode part. That is, as a voltage is applied to the first electrode part 21, a voltage difference may occur between the first electrode part 21 and the second electrode part 22, and streamer discharge may occur.

The first electrode part 21 includes at least one discharge electrode 211 in which a streamer discharge is generated by applying a voltage, and a discharge electrode support 212 for supporting the at least one discharge electrode 211 in the housing 500. Can include.

At least one discharge electrode 211 may have a shape protruding from the discharge electrode support 212 toward the second electrode part 22. The at least one discharge electrode 211 may be formed to have a pointed tip in order to generate a streamer discharge. For example, at least one discharge electrode 211 may be implemented in a conical shape, but is not limited thereto. At least one discharge electrode 211 is formed of a conductive material made of a metal material, so that a voltage may be applied.

The discharge electrode support 212 may fix and support at least one discharge electrode 211 inside the housing 500. The discharge electrode support 212 may be implemented in the form of a plate fastened to the inner wall of the housing 500. The discharge electrode support 212 is formed of the same conductive material as the discharge electrode 211, and a voltage applied from the outside may be applied to the at least one discharge electrode 211 through the discharge electrode support 212.

The second electrode part 22 may be located at the front end of the first electrode part 21 based on the air flow direction. At this time, in order to perform sterilization by streamer discharge while air passes between the second electrode part 22 and the first electrode part 21, the second electrode part 22 is porous and has at least one opening. It can be implemented in shape. Air may be introduced between the second electrode part 22 and the first electrode part 21 through the opening of the second electrode part 22, and may pass through the streamer discharge region STR. In order to induce the introduced air to pass through the streamer discharge region STR, the discharge electrode support 212 may be implemented in a flat plate shape without an opening.

The second electrode part 22 may be divided into a ground electrode support 221 and at least one ground electrode 222 by the opening. The ground electrode support 221 may be fastened to the inner wall of the housing 500 to fix and support at least one ground electrode 222 inside the housing 500. Like the discharge electrode 211, the second electrode 22 may be made of a conductive material made of a metal material, and thus streamer discharge between the discharge electrode 211 and the ground electrode 222 may be generated.

At least one ground electrode 222 may be positioned to face the at least one discharge electrode 211. In this case, as a voltage is applied to each of the at least one discharge electrode 211, a streamer discharge region STR in which a streamer discharge occurs is formed between the at least one discharge electrode 211 and the at least one ground electrode 222 Can be.

Active species such as radicals are formed in the streamer discharge region STR to sterilize microorganisms included in the air passing through the streamer discharge region STR.

Meanwhile, the distance between the discharge electrode 211 and the ground electrode 222 may be set in consideration of the amount of ozone generated and the magnitude of the applied voltage. As the distance between the discharge electrode 211 and the ground electrode 222 increases, the amount of the applied voltage must increase, and accordingly, the amount of ozone generated may also increase. Accordingly, a distance between the discharge electrode 211 and the ground electrode 222 of the streamer discharge module 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be set to about 5 mm to 10 mm.

However, when the distance between the discharge electrode 211 and the ground electrode 222 decreases, the streamer discharge region STR also decreases, so that effective sterilization may not be performed. To solve this problem, the sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may prevent deterioration of sterilization performance by having a plurality of streamer discharge modules as described later in FIG. 9.

Hereinafter, a sterilization device including an ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and a streamer discharge module 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10.

8 is a perspective view of a sterilizing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the sterilizing device shown in FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 8, the sterilization device includes an ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and a streamer discharge module 20, and a housing 500 that houses the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and the streamer discharge module 20 therein. Can include.

In the following drawings, the housing 500 forming a flow path through which air passes may have a tubular shape. In the housing 500, an inlet 502 through which air is introduced, and a discharge port 504 through which air sterilized by the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and the streamer discharge module 20 is discharged may be formed. Hereinafter, the inlet 502 side is referred to as the front side, and the discharge port 504 side is referred to as the rear side.

In the present specification, the housing 500 formed integrally is shown to accommodate the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and the streamer discharge module 20, respectively, but according to the embodiment, the housing 500 accommodates the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 It may be implemented in a form in which the partial housing and the partial housing accommodating the streamer discharge module 20 are combined.

A mounting groove 506 corresponding to the mounting protrusion 126 of the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 may be formed on the inner wall of the housing 500. The mounting protrusion 126 may be fitted into the mounting groove 506, and accordingly, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 may be fastened and fixed inside the housing 500. In this case, since the length of the heat dissipation part 124 is shorter than the length of the mounting protrusion 126, the heat dissipation part 124 and the inner wall of the housing 500 may be separated by a predetermined distance.

On the other hand, since the UV LED 112 emits ultraviolet light toward the center of the opening of the frame 122, the ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112 is inside the frame 122, that is, facing the UV LED 112. It may be irradiated to the inner circumferential surface of the frame 122. Since the frame 122 is made of a metal (aluminum, etc.) having excellent reflectivity, it is possible to reflect ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112 to various areas.

In addition, a reflective member 520 (see FIG. 9) is provided in at least a portion of the inner wall of the housing 500 including a region corresponding to the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 to reflect the ultraviolet light to various regions. I can. The reflective member 520 may be implemented with a reflective plate made of a metal material or a reflective paint.

Accordingly, not only the air passing through the inner periphery of the frame 122 can be sterilized, but also the air passing through the outer periphery of the frame 122, that is, the space between the frame 122 and the inner wall of the housing 500 may be sterilized.

According to an embodiment, the housing 500 may further include a light blocking film 530 formed on the inlet 502 side. The light blocking film 530 may be formed to be inclined in the direction of the central axis of the cylinder as the distance from one end corresponding to the inlet 502 among both ends of the cylindrical housing 500. The light blocking layer 530 may block ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112 from flowing out through the inlet 502 to the outside. The light blocking layer 530 may have a slope and a length to prevent the ultraviolet light from leaking to the outside. For example, the inclination and length of the light blocking layer 530 may be determined according to the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112, an emission angle, and the size of the housing 500.

Each of the first electrode unit 21 and the second electrode unit 22 of the streamer discharge module 20 may be fastened to and fixed to the inner wall of the housing 500. The first electrode part 21 and the second electrode part 22 may be fastened to the inner wall so as to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance (eg, about 5 mm to 10 mm). For example, each of the first electrode part 21 and the second electrode part 22 is fastened to the inner wall in a manner similar to the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 (mounting protrusion and mounting groove), or fastening means such as fastening screws. It can be fastened in various ways, such as fastening to the inner wall by using.

The second electrode part 22 may be disposed closer to the inlet 502 than the first electrode part 21, and the discharge electrode 211 of the first electrode part 21 faces the second electrode part 22. Can be placed. Accordingly, air introduced through the inlet 502 may be introduced into the streamer discharge region STR through the opening of the second electrode part 22.

Meanwhile, the streamer discharge module 20 may emit radicals, micro ions, and electric fields as the streamer discharge is activated. At this time, there is a concern that the UV LED 112 of the UV sterilization module 10 may be damaged by the emitted micro ions or electric field.

Accordingly, the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 is disposed in front of the streamer discharge module 20 to prevent air containing micro ions emitted from the streamer discharge module 20 from entering the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 can do.

According to an embodiment, the reflective member 520 made of a metal material is connected to the ground, thereby preventing the risk of damage to the UV LED 112 due to an electric field.

According to an embodiment, the sterilization device may further include a porous ground plate 510 disposed between the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and the streamer discharge module 20. The porous ground plate 510 may be fastened to and fixed to the inner wall of the housing 500. The porous ground plate 510 may be implemented with a metal material and may be connected to the ground. The porous ground plate 510 may block the risk of damage to the UV LED 112 by preventing the micro ions and electric fields generated from the streamer discharge module 20 from being transmitted to the area where the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 exists. For example, the porous ground plate 510 may be implemented in a shape having a plurality of openings, such as a mesh shape, in order to allow air to pass smoothly.

According to an embodiment, a transparent insulating film (not shown) made of silicon or sapphire is provided on the outside of the UV light emitting diode unit 11 to shield the UV light emitting diode unit 11 from the micro ions or electric field. Damage to the LED 112 may be prevented.

Referring to FIG. 9 with respect to the sterilization action of the sterilization device, air may be introduced into the housing 500 through the inlet 502. Microorganisms contained in the introduced air may be sterilized primarily by ultraviolet light emitted from the UV LED 112 while passing through the ultraviolet sterilization module 10.

The air that has passed through the ultraviolet sterilization module 10 passes through the opening formed in the second electrode part 22 of the streamer discharge module 20 and passes between the first electrode part 21 and the second electrode part 22. It can flow into space. Microorganisms contained in the air introduced between the first electrode part 21 and the second electrode part 22 pass through the streamer discharge region STR, and are secondarily sterilized by the active species of the streamer discharge region STR. Can be.

Meanwhile, when viewed from the discharge port 504 or the inlet port 502, a partial area between the discharge electrode support 212 of the first electrode part 21 and the inner circumferential surface of the housing 500 may be open. That is, an opening may be formed between the inner circumferential surface of the housing 500 and the discharge electrode support 212. Accordingly, the air introduced between the first electrode part 21 and the second electrode part 22 is sterilized while passing through the streamer discharge region STR, and may be discharged to the discharge port 504 through the opening. .

10 is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

When one streamer discharge module 20 is provided in the housing 500 as shown in FIG. 9, the area of the streamer discharge region STR formed by the streamer discharge is limited, and the streamer discharge module 20 ), it may be difficult to provide effective sterilization for the air passing through.

Accordingly, the sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 to improve a sterilization effect.

Referring to FIG. 10, a plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 may be provided inside the housing 500 of the sterilizing device. In FIG. 10, each of the plurality of streamer discharge modules is briefly illustrated for convenience of description, but each of the plurality of streamer discharge modules may be the same as the streamer discharge module illustrated in FIG. 9.

The plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 may be arranged to improve a sterilization effect while minimizing flow resistance of air passing through the housing 500. As shown in FIG. 10, the plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 have an opening in a position opposite to the opening formed by the discharge electrode support of the neighboring streamer discharge module based on the center of the housing 500. It can be fastened to form. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, in one cross-section of the sterilizing device, the streamer discharge modules 20 may be arranged in a zig-zag shape. Accordingly, a zigzag flow path may be formed inside the housing 500, and air may sequentially pass through each streamer discharge module 20 along the zigzag flow path.

According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, as the plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 are arranged in a zigzag shape in the housing 500, air passing through the housing 500 is transferred to the streamer discharge module 20. Can pass through them in sequence. As a result, a sufficient streamer discharge exposure time for sterilization of microorganisms can be secured, so that the sterilization effect can be improved. In addition, since the plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 are arranged in a zigzag shape, a flow path through which air can pass is formed, so that a smooth flow of air is possible.

11 is an exemplary view showing an air purifier as an example of a home appliance including a sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The air purifier 700 shown in FIG. 11 is only an example of a home appliance including a sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the home appliance including a sterilization device is the air purifier 700 of FIG. It is not limited to

On the other hand, the sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention is not provided only in the home appliance. For example, the sterilization device may be provided inside the ventilation duct of a specific building, or the sterilization device itself may be provided as an independent product.

Referring to FIG. 11, the air purifier 700 may include various components for purifying air in an indoor space. For example, the air purifier 700 according to an embodiment is provided under the blower 710, the blower 710 for generating air flow, and is generated from the base 720 and the blower 710 placed on the ground. The flow conversion device 730 for changing the discharge direction of the air flow, and the input/output device 740 for receiving a user input for controlling the operation of the air purifier 700 or outputting information related to the operation of the air purifier 700 ) Can be included.

The sterilization device according to an embodiment of the present invention is disposed in the blowing device 710 to sterilize microorganisms in the air passing through the flow path in the blowing device 710. In this case, the housing 500 of the sterilizing device may form a part of the blowing device 710. Depending on the embodiment, the housing 500 may be fastened to the inner wall of the blowing device 710.

Specifically, referring to an example of the cross section of the blowing device 710, the blowing device 710 includes a fan module 712 that generates a flow of air, and dust collection or deodorization of air sucked by the blowing device 710. It may include a filter module 716 that purifies the air through. The sterilization device according to the embodiment of the present invention may be disposed between the fan module 712 and the filter module 716.

The fan module 712 includes a hub coupled with a rotation shaft 715 of a fan motor (not shown), a shroud 713 disposed to be spaced apart from the hub, and a plurality of blades disposed between the hub and the shroud 713 714 may be included. That is, a plurality of blades 714 rotates as the fan motor is driven, and air flow may occur as the blades 714 rotate. Air may be sucked into the blower 710 through an inlet formed on the side wall of the base 720 or the filter module 716, and may flow upward and be discharged to the outside.

Air sucked into the blower 710 may be filtered by at least one filter included in the filter module 716. The at least one filter may be provided in a cylindrical shape and may have a filter surface for filtering air. For example, the filter module 716 may include a dust collection filter (such as an electric dust collection filter) that collects dust or foreign matter in the air, and a deodorization filter that performs a deodorization function, but is not limited thereto. When the filter module 716 includes a dust collection filter and a deodorization filter, dust or foreign matter may be filtered while the inhaled air passes through the dust collection filter, and odors and the like may be filtered while passing through the deodorization filter.

The air filtered by the filter module 716 may be sterilized while passing through the sterilization device. As described above, the sterilization device includes an ultraviolet sterilization module 10 and a streamer discharge module 20 to perform primary and secondary sterilization of air passing through the sterilization device.

The ultraviolet sterilization module 10 may perform primary sterilization by destroying DNA of microorganisms contained in the air by emitting ultraviolet light. The streamer discharge module 20 may perform secondary sterilization by destroying cell membranes of microorganisms through active species (radicals, micro ions, etc.) generated by the streamer discharge. 11 shows that the sterilization device includes one streamer discharge module 20, but according to an embodiment, the sterilization device may include a plurality of streamer discharge modules 20 as shown in FIG. have.

The above description is merely illustrative of the technical idea of the present invention, and those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention.

Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of the present invention, but to explain the technical idea, and the scope of the technical idea of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments.

The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within the scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims (10)

A tubular housing forming an inlet through which air is introduced and an outlet through which the air is discharged;
An ultraviolet sterilization module provided inside the housing and emitting ultraviolet light; And
A streamer discharge module provided inside the housing and having a first electrode part and a second electrode part for generating a streamer discharge,
The ultraviolet sterilization module,
An annular frame;
UV light emitting diodes disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the frame, and
A sterilization device including a heat dissipation unit formed to extend outward from an outer circumferential surface of the frame and including a plurality of radiating fins.
The method of claim 1,
The heat dissipation unit is a sterilization device extending in a direction perpendicular to the outer peripheral surface of the frame.
The method of claim 1,
The heat dissipation unit is a sterilization device formed in a streamlined front.
The method of claim 1,
The ultraviolet sterilization module,
Sterilizing device comprising a mounting portion extending a predetermined length from the outer peripheral surface of the frame.
The method of claim 4,
A sterilization device in which the extension length of the mounting part is longer than the extension length of the heat dissipation part.
The method of claim 4,
The length of the mounting portion is longer than the distance between the inner peripheral surface of the frame and the center position of the frame sterilization device.
The method of claim 1,
The ultraviolet sterilization module,
A sterilization device disposed between the inlet and the streamer discharge module.
The method of claim 1,
The first electrode part,
A discharge electrode support fastened to the inside of the housing; And
And at least one discharge electrode protruding from the discharge electrode support in the direction of the second electrode part, and having a tip part to which a voltage is applied,
The second electrode part,
At least one ground electrode disposed at a position corresponding to the at least one discharge electrode to form a streamer discharge region between the at least one discharge electrode; And
Sterilization device comprising a ground electrode support for supporting the at least one ground electrode inside the housing.
The method of claim 1,
The housing includes a light blocking film formed on the inlet side,
The light blocking film is
A sterilization device formed to be inclined in a direction of the central axis of the housing as the distance from one end corresponding to the inlet of both ends of the housing increases.
The sterilizing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; And
A home appliance including a blower having the sterilization device therein and a fan module for generating a flow of air.

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