US20010037732A1 - Air filtration device including filter change indicator - Google Patents
Air filtration device including filter change indicator Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20010037732A1 US20010037732A1 US09/758,888 US75888801A US2001037732A1 US 20010037732 A1 US20010037732 A1 US 20010037732A1 US 75888801 A US75888801 A US 75888801A US 2001037732 A1 US2001037732 A1 US 2001037732A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- air
- housing
- filtration device
- air filtration
- filter
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D46/00—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D46/10—Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filter plates, sheets or pads having plane surfaces
- B01D46/103—Curved filtering elements
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D46/00—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D46/0039—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with flow guiding by feed or discharge devices
- B01D46/0041—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with flow guiding by feed or discharge devices for feeding
- B01D46/0043—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with flow guiding by feed or discharge devices for feeding containing fixed gas displacement elements or cores
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D46/00—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D46/0084—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours provided with safety means
- B01D46/0086—Filter condition indicators
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D46/00—Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D46/42—Auxiliary equipment or operation thereof
- B01D46/4254—Allowing or improving visual supervision, e.g. lamps, transparent parts, windows
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F1/00—Room units for air-conditioning, e.g. separate or self-contained units or units receiving primary air from a central station
- F24F1/0007—Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units
- F24F1/0071—Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units with means for purifying supplied air
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
- F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
- F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
- F24F8/108—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering using dry filter elements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
- F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
- F24F8/15—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering by chemical means
- F24F8/158—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering by chemical means using active carbon
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D2265/00—Casings, housings or mounting for filters specially adapted for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D2265/02—Non-permanent measures for connecting different parts of the filter
- B01D2265/024—Mounting aids
- B01D2265/026—Mounting aids with means for avoiding false mounting
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D2273/00—Operation of filters specially adapted for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
- B01D2273/30—Means for generating a circulation of a fluid in a filtration system, e.g. using a pump or a fan
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/30—Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
- F24F11/32—Responding to malfunctions or emergencies
- F24F11/39—Monitoring filter performance
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S116/00—Signals and indicators
- Y10S116/25—Air filter condition indicator
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S55/00—Gas separation
- Y10S55/34—Indicator and controllers
Definitions
- the present invention related broadly to air filtration apparatus and, more particularly, to an air filtration device that is configured for abutment against an electrical outlet providing operational power for the device, with atmospheric air flowing into an intake on the front surface of the device, and filtered air being emitted through vents provided on the side of the device.
- air filtration devices of all shapes, types and sizes have become more popular.
- One type of air filtration device provides a small fan for use in a smoky environment. These devices typically will include an electric fan contained in a small housing for tabletop use, with a filter through which the air is directed for removal of smoke and other such contaminants. These small fans are useful for removing odors and contaminants from a confined space, since they typically take up little space themselves and move a relatively small volume of air.
- An air filtration device for intake of atmospheric air, assistance in removal of contaminants from the atmospheric air, expulsion of filtered air and configured for operational association with a generally vertically oriented surface.
- the device includes a housing defining an air flow path therethrough having a front surface, at least one side surface and a rear surface; at least one air inlet formed in the front surface of the housing; and at least one air outlet formed in the housing intermediate the front surface and the rear surface, for cooperation of the air outlet with a generally vertical surface to which the air filtration device is associated for enhanced dispersion of filtered air expelled through the air outlet.
- a filter is mounted to the housing in the air flow path and an impeller is provided for moving air through the housing along the air flow path from the at least one air inlet to the at least one air outlet, with the impeller being mounted to the housing.
- the air outlet may be formed on the at least one side surface and the air flow path may be defined from the air inlet on the front surface through the filter, through the impeller and outwardly through the air outlet.
- the side surface may be curved and the air outlet may be formed as a series of vents along the curvature of the side surface.
- the air filtration device may further include a bumper member attached to the rear surface of the housing for abutment with a generally vertical surface to which the air filtration device is associated for orientation of the device with the vertical surface.
- the bumper member may also be formed from resilient material for enhanced noise reduction when the air filtration device is in operation.
- the filter can be formed as a generally planar member selectively removable from the housing and can include a notch formed therein for directing insertion of the filter in a correct orientation with respect to the air flow path.
- the housing may include a locating surface formed thereon and corresponding with the notch in the filter to orient the filter in the housing.
- the housing may also include an icon formed thereon at a position corresponding with the notch in the filter when the filter is inserted in the housing for enhanced visual indication of proper filter orientation.
- the air filtration device can include an electric motor for driving the impeller and a pair of electric prongs extending outwardly from the rear surface of the housing for operational engagement with an electrical wall outlet for supplying electric power to the electric motor.
- the pair of electrical prongs can be configured with each prong in the pair having substantially the same dimensions, so that said air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings.
- the air filtration device may further include an indicator for communicating that the filter should be changed, the indicator providing information after a predetermined period of operation of the air filtration device has passed.
- the impeller may be driven electrically and the indicator can include an electric timer circuit operationally associated with the impeller for determining when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed.
- a lamp may be mounted to the housing for illumination when the impeller is in operation, with the lamp being in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit and configured to provide pulsating illumination when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed.
- a reset switch can be provided in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit to selectively reset the electric timer circuit to a zero operational time setting.
- the indicator may comprise an indicator member movably supported by the housing.
- the indicator member most preferably includes a date wheel rotably supported by the housing and having an annular indicia ring. Indicia are supported by the annular indicia ring for selective rotational positioning relative to the housing at one of a plurality of set positions, wherein each indicia indicates time and is associated with one of the set positions.
- An indexing device is operably associated with the date wheel for rotationally and releasably retaining the wheel in one of the plurality of set positions. The rotational positioning of the date wheel relative to the housing provides an indication of when the filter should be replaced.
- an air filtration device for intake of atmospheric air, assistance in removal of contaminants from the atmospheric air, expulsion of filtered air and configured for operational association with a generally vertically oriented surface, and includes a housing for abutting attachment to an electrical outlet, the housing defining an air flow path therethrough and having a front surface, at least one side surface and a rear surface; at least one air inlet formed in the housing; at least one air outlet formed in the housing intermediate the front surface and the rear surface; a filter mounted to the housing in the air flow path; an electrically driven impeller for moving air through the housing along the air flow path from the at least one air inlet to the at least one air outlet, with the impeller being mounted to the housing; and a pair of electric prongs extending outwardly from the rear surface for operational engagement with an electrical wall outlet for supplying electric power to the impeller.
- the pair of electrical prongs can be configured with each prong in the pair having substantially the same dimensions, so that said air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings.
- a bumper member is attached to the rear surface of the housing for abutment with a generally vertical surface to which the bumper member may abut for orienting the device with the vertical surface.
- the bumper may be formed from resilient material for damping vibrations received from the housing to provide enhanced noise reduction when the air filtration device is in operation.
- the air filtration device includes an air inlet that is formed on the front surface of the housing and the air flow path is defined from the air inlet on the front surface through the filter, through the impeller and outwardly through the air outlet.
- the filter may be formed as a generally planar member selectively removable from the housing and includes a notch formed therein for directing insertion of the filter in a correct orientation with respect to the air flow path.
- the housing may include a locating surface formed thereon and corresponding with the notch in the filter to orient the filter in the housing.
- the housing may include an icon formed at a position corresponding with the notch in the filter when the filter is inserted in the housing for enhanced visual indication of proper filter orientation.
- the air filtration device may include an indicator for communicating that the filter should be changed, the indicator providing information after a predetermined period of operation of the air filtration device has passed.
- the impeller may be driven electrically and the indicator may include an electric timer circuit operationally engaged with the impeller for determining when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed.
- the air filtration device also can include a lamp mounted to the housing for illumination when the impeller is in operation, the lamp being in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit and configured to provide pulsating illumination when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed.
- a reset switch can be provided in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit to selectively reset the electric timer circuit to a zero operational time setting.
- the indicator may alternatively comprise a date wheel rotatably supported by the housing and including indicia comprising symbols indicative of time for providing an indication of when the filter should be replaced.
- an air filtration device for intake of atmospheric air, removal of contaminants from the atmospheric air, expulsion of filtered air and configured for operational association with a generally vertically oriented surface, includes a housing for abutting attachment to an electrical outlet, the housing defining an air flow path therethrough and having a front surface, a curved side surface and a rear surface; at least one air inlet formed in the front surface of the housing; and a series of vents formed in the side surface intermediate the front surface and the rear surface, for cooperation of the vents with a generally vertical surface to which the air filtration device is associated for enhanced dispersion of filtered air expelled through the vents.
- a filter is mounted to the housing intermediate the at least one air inlet and the at least one air outlet, with the filter being formed as a generally planar member selectively removable from the housing and including a notch formed therein for directing insertion of the filter in a correct orientation with respect to the air flow path.
- the housing may include a locating surface formed thereon and corresponding with the notch in the filter to orient the filter in the housing.
- An electrically driven impeller is provided for moving air through the housing along the air flow path from the at least one air inlet to the vents, with the impeller being mounted to the housing.
- a pair of electric prongs extends outwardly from the rear surface for operational engagement with an electrical wall outlet for supplying electric power to the impeller.
- the pair of electrical prongs can be configured with each prong in the pair having substantially the same dimensions, so that the air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings.
- a bumper member is attached to the rear surface of the housing for abutment with a generally vertical surface to which the bumper member may abut for orienting the device with the vertical surface.
- the bumper member may be formed from resilient material for damping vibrations received from the housing for enhanced noise reduction when the air filtration device is in operation.
- the air filtration device may include an indicator providing information after a predetermined time period of operation of the air filtration device has passed.
- the indicator may include an electric timer circuit, as described above, to determine how long the impeller has been in operation and, when the time period has passed, an indicator lamp provides a pulsing illumination.
- the electric timer circuit may also be provided with a reset switch to selectively reset the electric timer circuit to a zero operational time setting.
- the indicator may comprise a mechanical date wheel for manual rotation relative to the housing, as described herein.
- the present invention provides an air filtration device that will plug directly into an outlet and utilize the wall behind the device for dispersion of filtered air, while directing air intake from a central source.
- the present invention also provides a handy visual indication of when the filter is placed in proper orientation with respect to air flow.
- the device provides reduced noise by damping vibrations transmitted from the housing to the wall against which the device is mounted.
- the present invention provides a filter change indicator for providing a convenient visual indication of when the filter should be replaced.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air filtration device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a front view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a rear view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the air filtration device taken along line 5 - 5 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the air filtration device similar to the device in FIG. 5, illustrating an alternate embodiment without a timer circuit;
- FIG. 7 is a side view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1, shown mounted to a wall;
- FIG. 8 is a rear view of the air filtration device as illustrated in FIG. 3, shown mounted to a wall;
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the air filtration device illustrating filter placement
- FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 9, with the filter inserted properly;
- FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the air filtration device similar to the device in FIG. 1, illustrating an alternative embodiment of a filter change indicator
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the air filtration device taken along line 12 - 12 in FIG. 11;
- FIG. 13 is a partial rear elevational view, with a partial cut-away, of the air filtration device of FIG. 11, illustrating the alternative embodiment of the filter change indicator;
- FIG. 14 is a partial exploded view of the filter change indicator of FIG.
- an air filtration device for intake of atmospheric air, filtration of the atmospheric air and emission of filtered air is illustration generally at 10 and includes a housing 12 .
- the housing 12 includes a generally curved side wall 28 fixed to a generally flat front portion 29 .
- a generally planar door 18 is fixed to the flat front portion 29 , using hinges 19 as seen in FIG. 3.
- the door 18 includes a front surface 14 and a generally circular perforated air inlet grill 16 .
- Tabs 20 are provided on each side of the door as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, for ease of opening for filter replacement, as will be seen in greater detail hereinafter.
- the door covers approximately 80 % of the front surface of the device 10 .
- the remainder of the front surface is covered by a control panel 22 .
- This ratio is primarily a function of aesthetics, and does not effect the performance of the device 10 .
- a centralized rocker 24 is provided in the control panel 22 to control an internal switch to activate and deactivate the device 10 and an indicator light 26 is provided above the rocker switch 24 which illuminates when the device 10 is activated and, as will be seen in greater detail hereinafter, flashes when the filtration device 10 has been in operation for a predetermined time period.
- a plurality of vents 30 are provided around the curved side surface 28 to act as air outlets.
- a rear surface 32 is provided adjacent and integral with the side surface 28 .
- the rear surface 32 is curved to conform to the shape of the side surface 28 .
- a pair of electrical prongs 34 extend outwardly from the rear surface 32 for operational engagement with a conventional electrical outlet.
- the electric prongs 34 are each formed of like dimensions, so that the air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings. Accordingly, the device 10 may be oriented properly, with the prongs 34 above the vents 30 , no matter what orientation a polarized socket is mounted to the outlet E. Further, the prong arrangement allows the device 10 to be mounted in the lower of the two sockets in an outlet pair, without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings. The location of the prongs 34 with respect to the top of the housing 12 ensures that the uppermost socket in a socket pair will remain available for use by other devices when the device 10 is in operation, as seen in FIG. 8.
- a bumper member 36 is provided below the electrical prongs 34 for abutment with a vertical surface or wall W against which the device 10 is mounted, as seen in FIGS. 7 and 8.
- the bumper member 36 assists a user in orienting the device 10 with respect to a wall surface W.
- the bumper member 36 may be formed from resilient material.
- a resilient bumper member 36 absorbs and dampens vibrations from the housing 12 to reduce or prevent their transmission to the wall W which reduces the noise associated with an operational air filtration device 10 .
- FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 the internal components of the device 10 are illustrated.
- an air flow path is defined through the housing 12 , a filter 40 is provided and a device is provided to move the air.
- the air flow path illustrated by arrows, is defined by air movement generated within the device 10 , from the air inlet 16 , through the device 10 and outwardly through the vents 30 .
- An impeller 54 is provided to move air through the device 10 .
- the impeller 54 is a basket-like structure having two mounting rings 55 separated by a plurality of vanes 57 that are curved to draw air from outside the impeller 54 and drive the air outwardly through the side of the impeller 54 .
- the impeller 54 is rotated by an electric motor 46 .
- the motor 46 includes an armature 56 attached to the impeller 54 . Electrical excitation of the motor 46 causes the armature 56 to rotate, thereby rotating the impeller 54 .
- a filter 40 is provided for filtering incoming air.
- the filter 40 can be directional in that a particular surface can be facing incoming air so that contaminated air is drawn through the filter 40 in a direction optimal for air filtration.
- One useful filter 40 includes a front filtration surface 41 , a rear scrim 43 and is charcoal activated. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the filtration art that other filter compositions may be used. In particular, some filters may be configured to remove bathroom odors and some filters may be configured to remove kitchen odors. Other types of filters may include an increased charcoal content for smoke filtration.
- the filter 40 is formed with a notch 42 in one comer, as will be explained in greater detail hereinafter.
- An internal baffle plate 60 is provided to provide a surface for mounting the filter 40 and to direct air inwardly toward the impeller.
- a conical inner surface 62 is provided in the baffle plate 60 to provide a nozzle effect to increase the effectiveness of the filtration device 10 .
- a locating surface 43 is formed as a raised rib in a lower comer of the baffle plate 60 corresponding to the notch 42 in the filter 40 for orienting the filter in the housing 12 .
- An icon 44 is applied to the baffle plate 60 adjacent the locating surface 43 , for visual indication of proper filter orientation.
- the air filtration device 10 is configured for mounting against an electrical outlet E mounted on a wall W.
- the air flow path is defined through the housing 12 and illustrated by arrows. Atmospheric air enters the air filtration device 10 through the air inlet grill 16 and then travels through the filter 40 for contaminant removal. With reference to FIG. 4, the air travels down the conical inner surface 62 fo the internal baffle plate 60 and enters a plenum 63 containing the rotating impeller 54 . The impeller 54 draws the air along the flow path to an area within the rotating vanes 57 and the air is directed then outwardly through the rotating vanes 57 through the plenum 63 and eventually out through the vents 30 in the curved side wall 28 .
- Another feature of the present invention is a filter change indicator providing the ability to determine in general when the filter 40 should be replaced. Under normal operation, the filter 40 should be replaced after a predetermined period of time. It may be presumed that the time period of filter contamination coincides with the operating period of the impeller 54 and therefore the motor 46 .
- a timing circuit 48 is provided in the wiring 50 that connects the switch 25 to the motor 46 .
- the rocker 24 operates a remotely disposed switch 25 , with the rocker 24 projecting through the control panel 22 . It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such a timing circuit is a basic electronic device and can be configured in any number of ways.
- the timing circuit is also in electrical communication with the indicator lamp 26 which illuminates upon electrical excitation of the motor 46 .
- the indicator light 26 is caused to pulsate, or flash, which is an indication that the filter 40 should likely be replaced.
- the timing circuit 48 also includes a reset switch 49 which allows an operator or owner to reset the timer once the filter is replaced.
- the device 10 may be provided without a timing circuit 48 as illustrated in FIG. 6.
- a second or mechanical filter change indicator as illustrated in FIGS. 11 - 14 , may be utilized.
- an indicator member is movably supported by the housing 12 and preferably comprises a date wheel 64 rotatably supported intermediate the control panel 22 and the flat front portion 29 of the housing 12 .
- the date wheel 64 includes a substantially cylindrical outer wall 66 defining a substantially annular indicia ring 68 supported for rotation about a longitudinal center axis 69 .
- Indicia 70 preferably symbols representing months of the year arranged in successive chronological order, are supported on an outer surface 72 of the indicia ring 68 .
- the outer wall 66 further defines a substantially annular gripping ring 74 includes disposed relative to the indicia ring 68 .
- the gripping ring 74 concludes a gripping surface, most preferably in the form of a plurality of alternating projections 76 and recesses 78 for providing improved frictional engagement or gripping of the date wheel 64 by a user and thereby facilitating rotational movement of the wheel 64 .
- a spacing wall 80 extends peripherally around the flat front portion 29 of the housing 12 in a forward direction toward the control panel 20 and the door 18 .
- the spacing wall 80 includes an upper portion 82 having a viewing window 84 formed therein.
- a portion of the indicia ring 68 is visible through the viewing window 84 thereby permitting the user to view a limited portion of the indicia 70 therethrough.
- a portion of the annular gripping ring 74 preferably extends upwardly through the viewing window 84 for facilitating engagement by a user.
- a pointer 86 is preferably formed within an upper surface of a control panel 22 for alignment with one of the indicia 70 , thereby facilitating reading of the appropriate symbol within the viewing window 84 .
- the date wheel 64 is rotatably supported on an axial 90 extending rearwardly from an inner surface of the control panel 22 .
- the axle 90 passes through an aperture 92 formed within the baffle plate 60 .
- a semi-annular recess is formed within the baffle plate concentrically with respect to the aperture 92 first guiding ring 96 extending frontwardly from the date wheel 64 .
- receipt of the first guiding ring 96 within the recess 94 facilitates relative positioning of the date wheel 64 relative to the baffle plate 60 .
- the axle 90 is received within an aperture 98 formed within the date wheel 64 concentrically relative to the outer wall 66 .
- An annular second guiding ring 100 extends rearwardly from the date wheel 64 and is concentrically received within a counterbore 102 formed within a post 104 extending forwardly from an inner surface of the front portion 29 of the housing 12 . Receipt of the ring 100 within the bore 102 further assists in proper location of the date wheel 64 within the housing 12 .
- a conventional fastener such as a screw 106 , passes through a bore 108 in the post 104 , and is threadably received within a threaded bore 110 of the axle 90 . As such, the screw 106 secures the date wheel 64 and baffle plate 60 intermediate the housing 12 and control panel 22 .
- An indexing device 112 is operably associated with the date wheel 64 for rotationally and releasably retaining the date wheel 64 in one of a plurality of set positions.
- the set positions are associated with the indicia 70 supported by the date wheel 64 .
- each set position is associated with one of the symbols representing the months of the year.
- the indexing device 112 includes a plurality of radially outwardly extending indexing recesses 114 formed within a substantially cylindrical inner wall 116 .
- the inner wall 116 is concentrically disposed within the outer wall 66 .
- a resilient finger 118 extends frontwardly from the inner surface of the front portion 29 of the housing 12 and is receivable within any one of a plurality of indexing recesses 114 for releasably securing the date wheel 64 in one of the set positions and preventing inadvertent rotation therefrom. More particularly, the indexing finger 118 is biased radially outwardly relative to the inner wall 116 such that the finger 118 is securable within the recesses 114 .
- the air filtration device 10 of the present invention is plugged into an electrical outlet using electrical prongs 34 in a generally conventional manner.
- the rear surface 32 of the housing 12 is closely adjacent to the electrical outlet E and may abut the electrical outlet E.
- the bumper member 36 abuts the wall W or outlet E or indeed, any vertical surface to which the device 10 may be fixed in order to provide proper orientation of the device 10 with respect to the wall surface W and, if the bumper member 36 is resilient, to provide a damping effect for motor vibrations that may be transmitted from the housing 12 during operation.
- the filtered air is dispersed along an approximately 315° curve and the wall W acts as a baffle to enhance air dispersion from the device 10 . Therefore, the air filtration device 10 of the present invention draws air from a generally focused source of contaminated air and provides a dispersed wave of filtered air to enhance the effectiveness of the filter operation. It should be noted that the relationship of the device 10 and the wall LW, along with the vent location, is illustrated in FIG. 8.
- the present invention provides a user with visual enhancements with respect to filter replacement.
- a filter is shown spaced a distance from the baffle plate 60 to which it is to be mounted.
- the filter 40 includes a notch 42 formed in a lower right hand comer of the filter 40 .
- the baffle plate 60 includes the icon 44 which is preferably shaped as a keyhole, yet may be shaped in any configuration imaginable.
- the icon 44 would not be visible, because the notch 42 would not be in a position to allow the user to see the icon 44 . Additionally, the locating surface 43 acts to physically orient the filter 40 . Therefore, the combination of the notch 42 , the icon 44 , and the locating surface 43 allows someone replacing the filter to easily determine when the filter is in proper orientation with respect to air flow.
- the present invention provides a compact air filtration device that provides enhanced effectiveness, the ability to determine when a filter should be replaced, and a visual indication of proper filter orientation with respect to air flow.
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/563,821, filed May 3, 2000.
- The present invention related broadly to air filtration apparatus and, more particularly, to an air filtration device that is configured for abutment against an electrical outlet providing operational power for the device, with atmospheric air flowing into an intake on the front surface of the device, and filtered air being emitted through vents provided on the side of the device.
- As the atmosphere in general becomes more polluted and the general population becomes more aware of discomforts associated with dirty air, air filtration devices of all shapes, types and sizes have become more popular. One type of air filtration device provides a small fan for use in a smoky environment. These devices typically will include an electric fan contained in a small housing for tabletop use, with a filter through which the air is directed for removal of smoke and other such contaminants. These small fans are useful for removing odors and contaminants from a confined space, since they typically take up little space themselves and move a relatively small volume of air.
- Such current designs, while effective, leave room for improvement in the areas of noise control, air dispersion and filter management.
- An air filtration device is provided for intake of atmospheric air, assistance in removal of contaminants from the atmospheric air, expulsion of filtered air and configured for operational association with a generally vertically oriented surface. The device includes a housing defining an air flow path therethrough having a front surface, at least one side surface and a rear surface; at least one air inlet formed in the front surface of the housing; and at least one air outlet formed in the housing intermediate the front surface and the rear surface, for cooperation of the air outlet with a generally vertical surface to which the air filtration device is associated for enhanced dispersion of filtered air expelled through the air outlet. A filter is mounted to the housing in the air flow path and an impeller is provided for moving air through the housing along the air flow path from the at least one air inlet to the at least one air outlet, with the impeller being mounted to the housing.
- The air outlet may be formed on the at least one side surface and the air flow path may be defined from the air inlet on the front surface through the filter, through the impeller and outwardly through the air outlet. Also, the side surface may be curved and the air outlet may be formed as a series of vents along the curvature of the side surface.
- The air filtration device may further include a bumper member attached to the rear surface of the housing for abutment with a generally vertical surface to which the air filtration device is associated for orientation of the device with the vertical surface. The bumper member may also be formed from resilient material for enhanced noise reduction when the air filtration device is in operation. The filter can be formed as a generally planar member selectively removable from the housing and can include a notch formed therein for directing insertion of the filter in a correct orientation with respect to the air flow path. The housing may include a locating surface formed thereon and corresponding with the notch in the filter to orient the filter in the housing. The housing may also include an icon formed thereon at a position corresponding with the notch in the filter when the filter is inserted in the housing for enhanced visual indication of proper filter orientation.
- The air filtration device can include an electric motor for driving the impeller and a pair of electric prongs extending outwardly from the rear surface of the housing for operational engagement with an electrical wall outlet for supplying electric power to the electric motor. The pair of electrical prongs can be configured with each prong in the pair having substantially the same dimensions, so that said air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings.
- The air filtration device may further include an indicator for communicating that the filter should be changed, the indicator providing information after a predetermined period of operation of the air filtration device has passed. The impeller may be driven electrically and the indicator can include an electric timer circuit operationally associated with the impeller for determining when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed.
- A lamp may be mounted to the housing for illumination when the impeller is in operation, with the lamp being in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit and configured to provide pulsating illumination when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed. A reset switch can be provided in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit to selectively reset the electric timer circuit to a zero operational time setting.
- In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the indicator may comprise an indicator member movably supported by the housing. The indicator member most preferably includes a date wheel rotably supported by the housing and having an annular indicia ring. Indicia are supported by the annular indicia ring for selective rotational positioning relative to the housing at one of a plurality of set positions, wherein each indicia indicates time and is associated with one of the set positions. An indexing device is operably associated with the date wheel for rotationally and releasably retaining the wheel in one of the plurality of set positions. The rotational positioning of the date wheel relative to the housing provides an indication of when the filter should be replaced.
- It will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations on that which is described above may be achieved by addition or omission of the features of the features above described.
- Accordingly, an air filtration device is provided for intake of atmospheric air, assistance in removal of contaminants from the atmospheric air, expulsion of filtered air and configured for operational association with a generally vertically oriented surface, and includes a housing for abutting attachment to an electrical outlet, the housing defining an air flow path therethrough and having a front surface, at least one side surface and a rear surface; at least one air inlet formed in the housing; at least one air outlet formed in the housing intermediate the front surface and the rear surface; a filter mounted to the housing in the air flow path; an electrically driven impeller for moving air through the housing along the air flow path from the at least one air inlet to the at least one air outlet, with the impeller being mounted to the housing; and a pair of electric prongs extending outwardly from the rear surface for operational engagement with an electrical wall outlet for supplying electric power to the impeller. The pair of electrical prongs can be configured with each prong in the pair having substantially the same dimensions, so that said air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings. A bumper member is attached to the rear surface of the housing for abutment with a generally vertical surface to which the bumper member may abut for orienting the device with the vertical surface. The bumper may be formed from resilient material for damping vibrations received from the housing to provide enhanced noise reduction when the air filtration device is in operation.
- The air filtration device includes an air inlet that is formed on the front surface of the housing and the air flow path is defined from the air inlet on the front surface through the filter, through the impeller and outwardly through the air outlet. The filter may be formed as a generally planar member selectively removable from the housing and includes a notch formed therein for directing insertion of the filter in a correct orientation with respect to the air flow path. The housing may include a locating surface formed thereon and corresponding with the notch in the filter to orient the filter in the housing. The housing may include an icon formed at a position corresponding with the notch in the filter when the filter is inserted in the housing for enhanced visual indication of proper filter orientation.
- The air filtration device may include an indicator for communicating that the filter should be changed, the indicator providing information after a predetermined period of operation of the air filtration device has passed. The impeller may be driven electrically and the indicator may include an electric timer circuit operationally engaged with the impeller for determining when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed. The air filtration device also can include a lamp mounted to the housing for illumination when the impeller is in operation, the lamp being in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit and configured to provide pulsating illumination when a predetermined time of impeller operation has passed. A reset switch can be provided in electrical communication with the electric timer circuit to selectively reset the electric timer circuit to a zero operational time setting. The indicator may alternatively comprise a date wheel rotatably supported by the housing and including indicia comprising symbols indicative of time for providing an indication of when the filter should be replaced.
- It should also be understood that the above-described features may be combined under a single, full-featured unit. In that regard, an air filtration device for intake of atmospheric air, removal of contaminants from the atmospheric air, expulsion of filtered air and configured for operational association with a generally vertically oriented surface, includes a housing for abutting attachment to an electrical outlet, the housing defining an air flow path therethrough and having a front surface, a curved side surface and a rear surface; at least one air inlet formed in the front surface of the housing; and a series of vents formed in the side surface intermediate the front surface and the rear surface, for cooperation of the vents with a generally vertical surface to which the air filtration device is associated for enhanced dispersion of filtered air expelled through the vents. A filter is mounted to the housing intermediate the at least one air inlet and the at least one air outlet, with the filter being formed as a generally planar member selectively removable from the housing and including a notch formed therein for directing insertion of the filter in a correct orientation with respect to the air flow path. The housing may include a locating surface formed thereon and corresponding with the notch in the filter to orient the filter in the housing. An electrically driven impeller is provided for moving air through the housing along the air flow path from the at least one air inlet to the vents, with the impeller being mounted to the housing. A pair of electric prongs extends outwardly from the rear surface for operational engagement with an electrical wall outlet for supplying electric power to the impeller. The pair of electrical prongs can be configured with each prong in the pair having substantially the same dimensions, so that the air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings. A bumper member is attached to the rear surface of the housing for abutment with a generally vertical surface to which the bumper member may abut for orienting the device with the vertical surface. The bumper member may be formed from resilient material for damping vibrations received from the housing for enhanced noise reduction when the air filtration device is in operation.
- The air filtration device may include an indicator providing information after a predetermined time period of operation of the air filtration device has passed. The indicator may include an electric timer circuit, as described above, to determine how long the impeller has been in operation and, when the time period has passed, an indicator lamp provides a pulsing illumination. The electric timer circuit may also be provided with a reset switch to selectively reset the electric timer circuit to a zero operational time setting. Alternatively, the indicator may comprise a mechanical date wheel for manual rotation relative to the housing, as described herein.
- By the above, the present invention provides an air filtration device that will plug directly into an outlet and utilize the wall behind the device for dispersion of filtered air, while directing air intake from a central source. The present invention also provides a handy visual indication of when the filter is placed in proper orientation with respect to air flow. Further, the device provides reduced noise by damping vibrations transmitted from the housing to the wall against which the device is mounted. Finally, the present invention provides a filter change indicator for providing a convenient visual indication of when the filter should be replaced.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air filtration device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a front view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a rear view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the air filtration device taken along line5-5 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the air filtration device similar to the device in FIG. 5, illustrating an alternate embodiment without a timer circuit;
- FIG. 7 is a side view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 1, shown mounted to a wall;
- FIG. 8 is a rear view of the air filtration device as illustrated in FIG. 3, shown mounted to a wall;
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the air filtration device illustrating filter placement;
- FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the air filtration device illustrated in FIG. 9, with the filter inserted properly;
- FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the air filtration device similar to the device in FIG. 1, illustrating an alternative embodiment of a filter change indicator;
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the air filtration device taken along line12-12in FIG. 11;
- FIG. 13 is a partial rear elevational view, with a partial cut-away, of the air filtration device of FIG. 11, illustrating the alternative embodiment of the filter change indicator; and
- FIG. 14 is a partial exploded view of the filter change indicator of FIG.
- Turning now to the drawings and, more particularly to FIGS. 1, 2 and3, an air filtration device for intake of atmospheric air, filtration of the atmospheric air and emission of filtered air is illustration generally at 10 and includes a
housing 12. Thehousing 12 includes a generallycurved side wall 28 fixed to a generallyflat front portion 29. A generallyplanar door 18 is fixed to theflat front portion 29, using hinges 19 as seen in FIG. 3. Referring back to FIG. 1, thedoor 18 includes afront surface 14 and a generally circular perforatedair inlet grill 16.Tabs 20 are provided on each side of the door as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, for ease of opening for filter replacement, as will be seen in greater detail hereinafter. The door covers approximately 80% of the front surface of thedevice 10. The remainder of the front surface is covered by acontrol panel 22. This ratio is primarily a function of aesthetics, and does not effect the performance of thedevice 10. Acentralized rocker 24 is provided in thecontrol panel 22 to control an internal switch to activate and deactivate thedevice 10 and anindicator light 26 is provided above therocker switch 24 which illuminates when thedevice 10 is activated and, as will be seen in greater detail hereinafter, flashes when thefiltration device 10 has been in operation for a predetermined time period. A plurality ofvents 30 are provided around thecurved side surface 28 to act as air outlets. - Turning now to FIG. 3, a
rear surface 32 is provided adjacent and integral with theside surface 28. Therear surface 32 is curved to conform to the shape of theside surface 28. - In order to facilitate electrical power application, a pair of
electrical prongs 34 extend outwardly from therear surface 32 for operational engagement with a conventional electrical outlet. Theelectric prongs 34 are each formed of like dimensions, so that the air filtration device may be connected to an electrical outlet without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings. Accordingly, thedevice 10 may be oriented properly, with theprongs 34 above thevents 30, no matter what orientation a polarized socket is mounted to the outlet E. Further, the prong arrangement allows thedevice 10 to be mounted in the lower of the two sockets in an outlet pair, without regard to the dimensional differences between the socket openings. The location of theprongs 34 with respect to the top of thehousing 12 ensures that the uppermost socket in a socket pair will remain available for use by other devices when thedevice 10 is in operation, as seen in FIG. 8. - A
bumper member 36 is provided below theelectrical prongs 34 for abutment with a vertical surface or wall W against which thedevice 10 is mounted, as seen in FIGS. 7 and 8. Thebumper member 36 assists a user in orienting thedevice 10 with respect to a wall surface W. Further, thebumper member 36 may be formed from resilient material. Aresilient bumper member 36 absorbs and dampens vibrations from thehousing 12 to reduce or prevent their transmission to the wall W which reduces the noise associated with an operationalair filtration device 10. - Turning now to FIGS. 4, 5 and6, the internal components of the
device 10 are illustrated. It will be appreciated that in order to filter air, an air flow path is defined through thehousing 12, afilter 40 is provided and a device is provided to move the air. As seen in FIG. 5, the air flow path, illustrated by arrows, is defined by air movement generated within thedevice 10, from theair inlet 16, through thedevice 10 and outwardly through thevents 30. Animpeller 54 is provided to move air through thedevice 10. Theimpeller 54 is a basket-like structure having two mounting rings 55 separated by a plurality of vanes 57 that are curved to draw air from outside theimpeller 54 and drive the air outwardly through the side of theimpeller 54. - The
impeller 54 is rotated by anelectric motor 46. As seen in FIG. 5, themotor 46 includes anarmature 56 attached to theimpeller 54. Electrical excitation of themotor 46 causes thearmature 56 to rotate, thereby rotating theimpeller 54. - As also seen in FIGS. 4, 5 and6, a
filter 40 is provided for filtering incoming air. Thefilter 40 can be directional in that a particular surface can be facing incoming air so that contaminated air is drawn through thefilter 40 in a direction optimal for air filtration. Oneuseful filter 40 includes afront filtration surface 41, arear scrim 43 and is charcoal activated. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the filtration art that other filter compositions may be used. In particular, some filters may be configured to remove bathroom odors and some filters may be configured to remove kitchen odors. Other types of filters may include an increased charcoal content for smoke filtration. It is contemplated that various types of filters may be used with the presentair filtration device 10 without reducing the effectiveness of any of the filters or the overall filtering efficacy of thedevice 10. Thefilter 40 is formed with anotch 42 in one comer, as will be explained in greater detail hereinafter. - An
internal baffle plate 60 is provided to provide a surface for mounting thefilter 40 and to direct air inwardly toward the impeller. A conicalinner surface 62 is provided in thebaffle plate 60 to provide a nozzle effect to increase the effectiveness of thefiltration device 10. A locatingsurface 43 is formed as a raised rib in a lower comer of thebaffle plate 60 corresponding to thenotch 42 in thefilter 40 for orienting the filter in thehousing 12. Anicon 44 is applied to thebaffle plate 60 adjacent the locatingsurface 43, for visual indication of proper filter orientation. As also illustrated in FIG. 4, theair filtration device 10 is configured for mounting against an electrical outlet E mounted on a wall W. - As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the air flow path is defined through the
housing 12 and illustrated by arrows. Atmospheric air enters theair filtration device 10 through theair inlet grill 16 and then travels through thefilter 40 for contaminant removal. With reference to FIG. 4, the air travels down the conicalinner surface 62 fo theinternal baffle plate 60 and enters aplenum 63 containing the rotatingimpeller 54. Theimpeller 54 draws the air along the flow path to an area within the rotating vanes 57 and the air is directed then outwardly through the rotating vanes 57 through theplenum 63 and eventually out through thevents 30 in thecurved side wall 28. - Another feature of the present invention is a filter change indicator providing the ability to determine in general when the
filter 40 should be replaced. Under normal operation, thefilter 40 should be replaced after a predetermined period of time. It may be presumed that the time period of filter contamination coincides with the operating period of theimpeller 54 and therefore themotor 46. In a first embodiment of the filter change indicator, a timing circuit 48 is provided in thewiring 50 that connects theswitch 25 to themotor 46. As also seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, therocker 24 operates a remotely disposedswitch 25, with therocker 24 projecting through thecontrol panel 22. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such a timing circuit is a basic electronic device and can be configured in any number of ways. The timing circuit is also in electrical communication with theindicator lamp 26 which illuminates upon electrical excitation of themotor 46. When the timing circuit 48 has reached the end of a predetermined time period, theindicator light 26 is caused to pulsate, or flash, which is an indication that thefilter 40 should likely be replaced. The timing circuit 48 also includes a reset switch 49 which allows an operator or owner to reset the timer once the filter is replaced. - Optionally, the
device 10 may be provided without a timing circuit 48 as illustrated in FIG. 6. In such a case, a second or mechanical filter change indicator, as illustrated in FIGS. 11-14, may be utilized. More particularly, an indicator member is movably supported by thehousing 12 and preferably comprises adate wheel 64 rotatably supported intermediate thecontrol panel 22 and theflat front portion 29 of thehousing 12. Thedate wheel 64 includes a substantially cylindricalouter wall 66 defining a substantially annular indicia ring 68 supported for rotation about alongitudinal center axis 69.Indicia 70, preferably symbols representing months of the year arranged in successive chronological order, are supported on anouter surface 72 of theindicia ring 68. Theouter wall 66 further defines a substantially annulargripping ring 74 includes disposed relative to theindicia ring 68. The grippingring 74 concludes a gripping surface, most preferably in the form of a plurality of alternatingprojections 76 and recesses 78 for providing improved frictional engagement or gripping of thedate wheel 64 by a user and thereby facilitating rotational movement of thewheel 64. - A
spacing wall 80 extends peripherally around theflat front portion 29 of thehousing 12 in a forward direction toward thecontrol panel 20 and thedoor 18. Thespacing wall 80 includes anupper portion 82 having aviewing window 84 formed therein. A portion of the indicia ring 68 is visible through theviewing window 84 thereby permitting the user to view a limited portion of theindicia 70 therethrough. A portion of the annulargripping ring 74 preferably extends upwardly through theviewing window 84 for facilitating engagement by a user. Apointer 86 is preferably formed within an upper surface of acontrol panel 22 for alignment with one of theindicia 70, thereby facilitating reading of the appropriate symbol within theviewing window 84. - The
date wheel 64 is rotatably supported on an axial 90 extending rearwardly from an inner surface of thecontrol panel 22. Theaxle 90 passes through an aperture 92 formed within thebaffle plate 60. A semi-annular recess is formed within the baffle plate concentrically with respect to the aperture 92first guiding ring 96 extending frontwardly from thedate wheel 64. As may be appreciated, receipt of thefirst guiding ring 96 within therecess 94 facilitates relative positioning of thedate wheel 64 relative to thebaffle plate 60. Theaxle 90 is received within an aperture 98 formed within thedate wheel 64 concentrically relative to theouter wall 66. - An annular
second guiding ring 100 extends rearwardly from thedate wheel 64 and is concentrically received within acounterbore 102 formed within apost 104 extending forwardly from an inner surface of thefront portion 29 of thehousing 12. Receipt of thering 100 within thebore 102 further assists in proper location of thedate wheel 64 within thehousing 12. It should be further noted that a conventional fastener, such as ascrew 106, passes through abore 108 in thepost 104, and is threadably received within a threadedbore 110 of theaxle 90. As such, thescrew 106 secures thedate wheel 64 andbaffle plate 60 intermediate thehousing 12 andcontrol panel 22. - An
indexing device 112 is operably associated with thedate wheel 64 for rotationally and releasably retaining thedate wheel 64 in one of a plurality of set positions. The set positions are associated with theindicia 70 supported by thedate wheel 64. In the preferred embodiment, each set position is associated with one of the symbols representing the months of the year. Theindexing device 112 includes a plurality of radially outwardly extending indexing recesses 114 formed within a substantially cylindricalinner wall 116. Theinner wall 116 is concentrically disposed within theouter wall 66. Aresilient finger 118 extends frontwardly from the inner surface of thefront portion 29 of thehousing 12 and is receivable within any one of a plurality of indexing recesses 114 for releasably securing thedate wheel 64 in one of the set positions and preventing inadvertent rotation therefrom. More particularly, theindexing finger 118 is biased radially outwardly relative to theinner wall 116 such that thefinger 118 is securable within therecesses 114. - In operation, it may be readily appreciated that positioning of the
date wheel 64 relative to theviewing window 84, and more particularly with respect to thepointer 86, alters theparticular indicia 70 visible to the user. The user simply rotates thedate wheel 64 to a desired time as represented by theindicia 70 for projected filter replacement. The particular month appearing within thewindow 84 serves to remind the user when thefilter 40 requires replacement. - Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, in operation, the
air filtration device 10 of the present invention is plugged into an electrical outlet usingelectrical prongs 34 in a generally conventional manner. Therear surface 32 of thehousing 12 is closely adjacent to the electrical outlet E and may abut the electrical outlet E. Thebumper member 36 abuts the wall W or outlet E or indeed, any vertical surface to which thedevice 10 may be fixed in order to provide proper orientation of thedevice 10 with respect to the wall surface W and, if thebumper member 36 is resilient, to provide a damping effect for motor vibrations that may be transmitted from thehousing 12 during operation. Once adevice 10 is against the wall W therocker 24 is moved into an “on” position, which causes theswitch 25 to provide electrical excitation to themotor 46 which, in turn, causes theimpeller 54 to rotate, thereby drawing atmospheric air inwardly through theair inlet grill 16. The atmospheric air is drawn through thefilter 40, and is caused to travel along the air flow path as defined in FIGS. 5 and 6. As the air passes through thefilter 40 contaminants are removed and the filtered air travels intermediate the vanes 57 of theimpeller 54 and is expelled through thevents 30 formed in thecurved side surface 28. As seen in FIG. 7, and as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the filtered air is dispersed along an approximately 315° curve and the wall W acts as a baffle to enhance air dispersion from thedevice 10. Therefore, theair filtration device 10 of the present invention draws air from a generally focused source of contaminated air and provides a dispersed wave of filtered air to enhance the effectiveness of the filter operation. It should be noted that the relationship of thedevice 10 and the wall LW, along with the vent location, is illustrated in FIG. 8. - As previously stated, the present invention provides a user with visual enhancements with respect to filter replacement. With reference to FIG. 9, a filter is shown spaced a distance from the
baffle plate 60 to which it is to be mounted. As can be seen, thefilter 40 includes anotch 42 formed in a lower right hand comer of thefilter 40. Thebaffle plate 60 includes theicon 44 which is preferably shaped as a keyhole, yet may be shaped in any configuration imaginable. By orienting thenotch 42 when thefilter 40 is in place, as seen in FIG. 10, thefilter 40 is oriented properly with respect to air flow. Should thefilter 40 be inserted in a reverse manner, theicon 44 would not be visible, because thenotch 42 would not be in a position to allow the user to see theicon 44. Additionally, the locatingsurface 43 acts to physically orient thefilter 40. Therefore, the combination of thenotch 42, theicon 44, and the locatingsurface 43 allows someone replacing the filter to easily determine when the filter is in proper orientation with respect to air flow. - By the above, the present invention provides a compact air filtration device that provides enhanced effectiveness, the ability to determine when a filter should be replaced, and a visual indication of proper filter orientation with respect to air flow.
- It will therefore be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of a broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those herein described, as well as many variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing description thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended or to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
Claims (16)
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/758,888 US6315821B1 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-01-11 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
US10/010,814 US6508868B2 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-11-13 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
CA002363130A CA2363130C (en) | 2001-01-11 | 2001-11-16 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
PCT/US2001/046367 WO2002055176A1 (en) | 2001-01-11 | 2001-12-04 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
TW090130892A TW508262B (en) | 2001-01-11 | 2001-12-13 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/563,821 US6328791B1 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2000-05-03 | Air filtration device |
US09/758,888 US6315821B1 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-01-11 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/563,821 Continuation-In-Part US6328791B1 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2000-05-03 | Air filtration device |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/010,814 Continuation US6508868B2 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-11-13 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20010037732A1 true US20010037732A1 (en) | 2001-11-08 |
US6315821B1 US6315821B1 (en) | 2001-11-13 |
Family
ID=25053498
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/758,888 Expired - Fee Related US6315821B1 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-01-11 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
US10/010,814 Expired - Lifetime US6508868B2 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-11-13 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/010,814 Expired - Lifetime US6508868B2 (en) | 2000-05-03 | 2001-11-13 | Air filtration device including filter change indicator |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6315821B1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2363130C (en) |
TW (1) | TW508262B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2002055176A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060075729A1 (en) * | 2004-08-20 | 2006-04-13 | He Mengtao P | Methods and apparatus for a low-profile air purifier |
US20150049311A1 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2015-02-19 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Image projection apparatus |
GB2577040A (en) * | 2018-09-05 | 2020-03-18 | Honeywell Int Inc | Thermostat comprising a moveable cover |
CN113237191A (en) * | 2021-05-28 | 2021-08-10 | 江西汇恒盛世能源科技有限责任公司 | Air conditioner filter screen cleaning reminding device |
CN113459772A (en) * | 2021-07-15 | 2021-10-01 | 东风云南汽车有限公司 | Intelligent air filtering and sterilizing system for new energy automobile |
Families Citing this family (56)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5975090A (en) | 1998-09-29 | 1999-11-02 | Sharper Image Corporation | Ion emitting grooming brush |
US6544485B1 (en) | 2001-01-29 | 2003-04-08 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electro-kinetic device with enhanced anti-microorganism capability |
US6350417B1 (en) * | 1998-11-05 | 2002-02-26 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electrode self-cleaning mechanism for electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner devices |
US6958134B2 (en) | 1998-11-05 | 2005-10-25 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner devices with an upstream focus electrode |
US6632407B1 (en) | 1998-11-05 | 2003-10-14 | Sharper Image Corporation | Personal electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner |
US6176977B1 (en) | 1998-11-05 | 2001-01-23 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner |
US20050210902A1 (en) | 2004-02-18 | 2005-09-29 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electro-kinetic air transporter and/or conditioner devices with features for cleaning emitter electrodes |
US7695690B2 (en) | 1998-11-05 | 2010-04-13 | Tessera, Inc. | Air treatment apparatus having multiple downstream electrodes |
US20030206837A1 (en) | 1998-11-05 | 2003-11-06 | Taylor Charles E. | Electro-kinetic air transporter and conditioner device with enhanced maintenance features and enhanced anti-microorganism capability |
US6585935B1 (en) | 1998-11-20 | 2003-07-01 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electro-kinetic ion emitting footwear sanitizer |
US6813149B2 (en) * | 2001-06-29 | 2004-11-02 | Intel Corporation | High capacity air-cooling systems for electronic apparatus and associated methods |
CN101069752A (en) * | 2002-05-20 | 2007-11-14 | 西奥多·A·M·阿尔茨 | Air decontamination devices |
US7326387B2 (en) * | 2002-05-20 | 2008-02-05 | Theodore A. M. Arts | Air decontamination devices |
US6749667B2 (en) | 2002-06-20 | 2004-06-15 | Sharper Image Corporation | Electrode self-cleaning mechanism for electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner devices |
US6979361B2 (en) * | 2002-07-17 | 2005-12-27 | Gueorgui Milev Mihayiov | End of service life indicator for fluid filter |
US6875249B2 (en) * | 2002-10-08 | 2005-04-05 | Donaldson Company, Inc. | Motor vehicle filter structure having visual indicator of useful life |
US6912968B2 (en) * | 2003-03-04 | 2005-07-05 | Hunter Fan Company | Schedule indicator |
US20040231519A1 (en) * | 2003-05-19 | 2004-11-25 | Russell Hoffman | Novelty air freshener |
US7906080B1 (en) | 2003-09-05 | 2011-03-15 | Sharper Image Acquisition Llc | Air treatment apparatus having a liquid holder and a bipolar ionization device |
US7724492B2 (en) | 2003-09-05 | 2010-05-25 | Tessera, Inc. | Emitter electrode having a strip shape |
US7767169B2 (en) | 2003-12-11 | 2010-08-03 | Sharper Image Acquisition Llc | Electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system and method to oxidize volatile organic compounds |
US20060016333A1 (en) | 2004-07-23 | 2006-01-26 | Sharper Image Corporation | Air conditioner device with removable driver electrodes |
EP1778385B1 (en) * | 2004-08-16 | 2009-08-05 | LG Electronics, Inc. | Filter unit of air conditioner |
US7757340B2 (en) * | 2005-03-25 | 2010-07-20 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Soft-surface remediation device and method of using same |
US20060288516A1 (en) * | 2005-06-23 | 2006-12-28 | Sawalski Michael M | Handheld mechanical soft-surface remediation (SSR) device and method of using same |
US7368003B2 (en) * | 2005-06-24 | 2008-05-06 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Systems for and methods of providing air purification in combination with odor elimination |
US20060288495A1 (en) * | 2005-06-28 | 2006-12-28 | Sawalski Michael M | System for and method of soft surface remediation |
US7537647B2 (en) * | 2005-08-10 | 2009-05-26 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Air purifier |
US7887624B2 (en) * | 2005-10-11 | 2011-02-15 | Black & Decker Inc. | Gas concrete saw filtration system |
US7833322B2 (en) | 2006-02-28 | 2010-11-16 | Sharper Image Acquisition Llc | Air treatment apparatus having a voltage control device responsive to current sensing |
US7537648B1 (en) * | 2006-04-26 | 2009-05-26 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army | Filter service life estimator |
US7594960B2 (en) * | 2006-05-26 | 2009-09-29 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Method and apparatus for monitoring the condition of a flexible filter |
US7621978B2 (en) * | 2006-05-30 | 2009-11-24 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Filter timer |
WO2007143455A1 (en) * | 2006-05-30 | 2007-12-13 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Portable devices for mitigating accumulation and localized settling of airborne particulates |
US20090120298A1 (en) * | 2007-11-11 | 2009-05-14 | Chieh-Yuan Cheng | Air filter having function of indicating choked conditions |
US7779775B2 (en) * | 2008-03-14 | 2010-08-24 | Hunter Fan Company | Schedule indicator |
US8328894B2 (en) | 2008-08-20 | 2012-12-11 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dust prevention and removal device |
US8097067B2 (en) * | 2009-05-06 | 2012-01-17 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Runtime sensor for small forced air handling units |
US20100313748A1 (en) * | 2009-06-15 | 2010-12-16 | Middle Atlantic Products, Inc. | Method and system for smart air filter monitoring |
CN101927113B (en) * | 2009-06-18 | 2012-12-26 | 北京北分麦哈克分析仪器有限公司 | Visual filter capable of automatically blowing gas and filtering method thereof |
US20110030560A1 (en) * | 2009-08-04 | 2011-02-10 | Bohlen John R | Air cleaner with multiple orientations |
EP2470284A4 (en) * | 2009-08-25 | 2016-08-24 | Sunbeam Products Inc | Filter recognition system |
DE102010016519B4 (en) * | 2010-04-19 | 2014-07-10 | Rittal Gmbh & Co. Kg | filter Fans |
DE102010016788B4 (en) * | 2010-05-05 | 2012-01-19 | Miele & Cie. Kg | Filter, vacuum cleaner with such a filter and use of such a filter as a vacuum cleaner exhaust filter |
US9149031B2 (en) | 2013-09-13 | 2015-10-06 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Portable area repellent device |
US10378558B2 (en) | 2013-09-13 | 2019-08-13 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Air treatment chemical dispenser having angled dispersion of chemicals |
US9125245B2 (en) | 2013-10-22 | 2015-09-01 | General Electric Company | Microwave appliances and methods for operating the same |
US9352062B2 (en) | 2013-10-30 | 2016-05-31 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Wearable chemical dispenser |
USD802725S1 (en) | 2014-02-14 | 2017-11-14 | Access Business Group International Llc | Air treatment system |
USD846105S1 (en) | 2014-02-14 | 2019-04-16 | Access Business Group International Llc | Air treatment system |
USD773629S1 (en) * | 2014-04-04 | 2016-12-06 | Elica S.P.A. | Extractor fan |
US9352064B2 (en) | 2014-06-05 | 2016-05-31 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Wearable chemical dispenser |
CA3018596C (en) | 2016-03-24 | 2024-01-23 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Room air purifier with rfid reader |
USD851742S1 (en) | 2016-09-20 | 2019-06-18 | Hoffman Enclosures, Inc. | Support for a fan shroud |
USD859631S1 (en) | 2016-09-20 | 2019-09-10 | Hoffman Enclosures, Inc. | Fan shroud |
USD825046S1 (en) | 2017-01-09 | 2018-08-07 | Access Business Group International Llc | Air treatment system |
Family Cites Families (162)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1372251A (en) | 1920-02-28 | 1921-03-22 | Schnee Asa | Combined support, deflector, and housing for motor-driven fans |
US2044832A (en) | 1934-06-26 | 1936-06-23 | Aeriet Air Conditioner Company | Air conditioner |
US2065970A (en) | 1935-12-28 | 1936-12-29 | William C Hartzell | Air purifier |
US2335056A (en) | 1942-03-16 | 1943-11-23 | Joseph B Grison | Portable air sterilizing and conditioning machine |
US2611068A (en) | 1946-04-12 | 1952-09-16 | William H Wellens | Pivotally mounted plug and vaporizer |
US2638644A (en) | 1947-10-25 | 1953-05-19 | John R Rauhut | Air-conditioning and humidifying apparatus |
US2746416A (en) * | 1954-06-23 | 1956-05-22 | Rex Metal Craft Inc | Filter clogging indicator |
US3474376A (en) | 1967-04-17 | 1969-10-21 | William A Preiss | Electric attachment plug |
US3458794A (en) | 1967-06-07 | 1969-07-29 | Westinghouse Electric Corp | Rechargeable device with rotatable plug |
US3600590A (en) | 1968-11-12 | 1971-08-17 | Harry Einstein | Gas measuring apparatus for detecting contaminants |
US3745750A (en) | 1971-01-11 | 1973-07-17 | J Arff | Air purifier |
US3757495A (en) | 1971-12-30 | 1973-09-11 | W Sievers | Portable air purifier |
US3860818A (en) | 1972-04-27 | 1975-01-14 | Texas Instruments Inc | Atmospheric pollution monitor |
US3776177A (en) | 1972-06-13 | 1973-12-04 | S Bryant | Service reminder apparatus |
US3860404A (en) | 1973-02-21 | 1975-01-14 | Stefan Jochimski | Filter apparatus with movement means |
US3948445A (en) | 1973-06-26 | 1976-04-06 | Andeweg Frits J | Material vapor generator with heat accelerated vapor release |
US3921568A (en) | 1973-07-25 | 1975-11-25 | William Joseph Fish | Self-adhering medication time reminder |
US4043776A (en) | 1974-07-15 | 1977-08-23 | Orel Jeannette V | Smoke sorbing device |
US3936284A (en) | 1974-08-16 | 1976-02-03 | Mason Engineering And Designing Corporation | Air filtering apparatus |
US4173995A (en) | 1975-02-24 | 1979-11-13 | International Harvester Company | Recirculation barrier for a heat transfer system |
US4040568A (en) | 1975-09-15 | 1977-08-09 | Simco, Inc. | Dispenser for vaporizable material accentuated by ambient air flow |
US4004361A (en) | 1975-09-19 | 1977-01-25 | The Raymond Lee Organization, Inc. | Vehicle oil change, filter change and tune up reminder device |
DE2618127C3 (en) | 1976-04-26 | 1984-08-09 | Franz 4834 Harsewinkel Boehnensieker | Device for killing germs contained in the ventilation air |
US4121529A (en) | 1976-09-20 | 1978-10-24 | B & B Insulation, Inc. | Buoyancy systems |
US4210429A (en) | 1977-04-04 | 1980-07-01 | Alpine Roomaire Systems, Inc. | Air purifier |
DE2730855B2 (en) | 1977-07-08 | 1979-12-13 | Globol-Werk Gmbh, 8858 Neuburg | Device for vaporizing active substances stored in cellulose plates or other solid carrier materials |
US4177045A (en) | 1978-07-10 | 1979-12-04 | Orel Jeannette V | Self-acting smoke sorbing device |
US4467263A (en) | 1983-01-31 | 1984-08-21 | Pittway Corporation | Rechargeable battery-powered flashlight system |
US5006779A (en) | 1984-07-26 | 1991-04-09 | Pittway Corporation | Electrical unit with multi-position switch |
US4647832A (en) | 1984-07-26 | 1987-03-03 | Pittway Corporation | Three position switch for portable, rechargeable device |
US4605425A (en) | 1985-05-06 | 1986-08-12 | Pall Corporation | Heaterless dryer having variable cycle |
US4666638A (en) | 1985-08-27 | 1987-05-19 | Remington Products, Inc. | Fragrance device |
DE3629559C2 (en) | 1985-11-16 | 1997-04-10 | Schlafhorst & Co W | Dedusting device for textile machines |
US4647831A (en) | 1986-04-04 | 1987-03-03 | John Zink Company | Rechargeable battery operated appliance system |
US4731520A (en) | 1986-06-24 | 1988-03-15 | Charles Of The Ritz Group Ltd. | Aroma diffuser apparatus |
US4804821A (en) | 1986-06-24 | 1989-02-14 | Environmental Fragrance Technologies, Ltd. | Aroma diffuser assembly |
US4701195A (en) | 1986-07-03 | 1987-10-20 | Amway Corporation | Room air treatment system |
US4737173A (en) | 1986-07-03 | 1988-04-12 | Amway Corporation | Room air treatment system |
US4859220A (en) | 1986-09-02 | 1989-08-22 | Teledyne Industries, Inc. | Cabinet controller |
DE3729980A1 (en) | 1986-09-10 | 1988-03-24 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | AIR PURIFIER |
USD295217S (en) | 1986-12-08 | 1988-04-12 | Environmental Fragrance Technologies, Ltd. | Fragrance diffuser wall unit |
US4743406A (en) | 1987-01-15 | 1988-05-10 | Steiner Company, Inc. | Self-contained air freshener and cartridge therefor |
USD307050S (en) | 1987-06-12 | 1990-04-03 | Environmental Fragrance Technologies, Ltd. | Aroma diffuser unit |
US4795883A (en) | 1987-07-08 | 1989-01-03 | Environmental Fragrance Technologies, Ltd. | Aroma generating apparatus and driver circuit |
US4839014A (en) | 1987-12-16 | 1989-06-13 | Park Sea C | Cleaner assembly, humidifier, gas alarm and detoxification system |
DE3803824A1 (en) | 1988-02-09 | 1989-08-17 | Gerhard Kurz | INSTALLATION DEVICE FOR SENSORS AND SENSORS |
JPH0718294Y2 (en) | 1988-02-10 | 1995-05-01 | アース製薬株式会社 | Heating evaporator |
US4849862A (en) | 1988-02-19 | 1989-07-18 | Mega/Erg Inc. | Suspended air purifier light fixture |
US4917862A (en) | 1988-04-15 | 1990-04-17 | Allan Kraw | Filter and method for removing mercury, bacteria, pathogens and other vapors from gas |
US4873422A (en) | 1988-05-05 | 1989-10-10 | Arvin Industries, Inc. | Wall mounted heater with plug mount and support |
KR910006887B1 (en) | 1988-06-15 | 1991-09-10 | 마쯔시다덴기산교 가부시기가이샤 | Dust detector for vacuum cleaner |
JP2769529B2 (en) | 1988-10-26 | 1998-06-25 | 朝日医理科株式会社 | Contact lens disinfector |
US5061296A (en) | 1988-12-01 | 1991-10-29 | Crs Industries, Inc. | Air purification system |
US5014338A (en) | 1988-12-21 | 1991-05-07 | Glucksman Dov Z | Portable air humidifier |
US5111529A (en) | 1988-12-21 | 1992-05-05 | Glucksman Dov Z | Portable air humidifier |
US4919693A (en) | 1989-03-29 | 1990-04-24 | Olney Richard A | Electrostatic air cleaner |
US4931224A (en) | 1989-05-09 | 1990-06-05 | Steiner Company, Inc. | Air freshener |
US4942841A (en) | 1989-06-15 | 1990-07-24 | Drucker Jr Jack L | Vehicle service reminder display |
US5220152A (en) | 1989-11-15 | 1993-06-15 | Doran Edward A | Rechargeable battery powered electrically heated lock thawing device with built-in battery charger |
US5089144B1 (en) | 1989-12-08 | 1996-11-12 | Nartron Corp | Filter condition indicator having moveable sensor and aggregate flow counter |
IT1248429B (en) | 1989-12-13 | 1995-01-16 | Michele Gazzano | APPARATUS FOR STERILIZATION OF ENVIRONMENTS THROUGH ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION |
USD328637S (en) | 1989-12-21 | 1992-08-11 | North American Philips Corporation | Air cleaner |
US4986901A (en) | 1990-02-12 | 1991-01-22 | Innova Pure Water Inc. | Bottled water cap with indicator and adaptor |
US4997381A (en) | 1990-02-26 | 1991-03-05 | Oh Tae J | Dual functional, electrical plug use in conjunction with an electric appliance |
GB2242931B (en) | 1990-03-19 | 1993-09-22 | Hitachi Ltd | Blower |
US5133788A (en) | 1990-04-10 | 1992-07-28 | Backus Alan L | Air filtering device |
US5036698A (en) | 1990-05-04 | 1991-08-06 | Allied-Signal Inc. | Method and apparatus for predicting life of air filter cartridges |
US5111477A (en) | 1990-05-07 | 1992-05-05 | Technical Concepts, L.P. | Fragrance diffuser |
USD325253S (en) | 1990-07-26 | 1992-04-07 | Technical Concepts, L.P. | Fragrance diffuser housing |
US5131932A (en) | 1990-09-11 | 1992-07-21 | Bionaire, Inc. | Filter replacement indicator |
US5250232A (en) | 1990-10-17 | 1993-10-05 | Bemis Manufacturing Company | Humidifier |
US5230723A (en) | 1990-11-14 | 1993-07-27 | Abatement Technologies | Portable filtration unit |
US5210818A (en) | 1990-12-10 | 1993-05-11 | Duracraft Corporation | Leak proof humidifier |
US5330722A (en) | 1991-02-27 | 1994-07-19 | William E. Pick | Germicidal air filter |
US5139546A (en) | 1991-06-04 | 1992-08-18 | Novobilski Carl G | Nail vapor and dust collection and treatment device |
US5160879A (en) | 1991-10-08 | 1992-11-03 | Curtis Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Safe, rechargeable, battery-containing power pack and method |
US5236477A (en) | 1991-11-05 | 1993-08-17 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Microcomputer-based control device |
USD338709S (en) | 1992-03-05 | 1993-08-24 | Pi-Chu Lin | Fan housing |
US5240478A (en) | 1992-06-26 | 1993-08-31 | Messina Gary D | Self-contained, portable room air treatment apparatus and method therefore |
US5377614A (en) | 1992-11-09 | 1995-01-03 | Glazer; Bradley M. | Reminder device for pill containers |
USD345010S (en) | 1993-02-16 | 1994-03-08 | Aktiebolaget Electrolux | Filter for use in a portable cutting machine |
USD357330S (en) | 1993-04-14 | 1995-04-11 | Rockitt & Colman Inc. | Electric air freshener with nightlight |
US5401178A (en) | 1993-09-03 | 1995-03-28 | Delta Electronics, Inc. | Integrated foldable electric plug connector |
US5378254A (en) | 1993-10-15 | 1995-01-03 | Vaportek, Inc. | Filter sensing apparatus and filter therefor |
USD360028S (en) | 1993-12-15 | 1995-07-04 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Air cleaner |
US5407469A (en) | 1993-12-20 | 1995-04-18 | Sunova Company | Improved air ionizing apparatus |
NO934765L (en) | 1993-12-22 | 1995-06-23 | Klean As | Device at wastewater treatment plant |
TW268155B (en) | 1994-02-24 | 1996-01-11 | Asian Micro Sources Inc | Collapsible plug device for battery charger |
US5634806A (en) | 1994-02-24 | 1997-06-03 | Asian Micro Sources, Inc. | Interchangeable collapsible plug device for battery charger |
US5800741A (en) | 1994-04-04 | 1998-09-01 | Holmes Products Corp. | Evaporative humidifier having wick filter with color change indicator |
US5494449A (en) | 1994-09-01 | 1996-02-27 | Chioo; Ming D. | Power supply device for portable computers |
USD379220S (en) | 1995-04-07 | 1997-05-13 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Air cleaner |
US5547615A (en) | 1995-05-10 | 1996-08-20 | Duracraft Corporation | Portable humidifier with bacteriastat dispenser |
US5613863A (en) | 1995-05-18 | 1997-03-25 | Motorola, Inc. | Power transformer |
US5601636A (en) | 1995-05-30 | 1997-02-11 | Appliance Development Corp. | Wall mounted air cleaner assembly |
US5679137A (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1997-10-21 | Honeywell Inc. | Optical dirty cell sensor for an electronic air cleaner |
US5769912A (en) | 1995-10-16 | 1998-06-23 | Mansur Industries Inc. | System and method of vapor recovery in industrial washing equipment |
USD374713S (en) | 1995-10-19 | 1996-10-15 | Jing Mei Industrial Holdings, Ltd. | Plug-in ionizer |
USD377213S (en) | 1995-10-24 | 1997-01-07 | Yih Chang Enterprise Co., Ltd. | Air cleaner |
DE19540304C2 (en) | 1995-10-28 | 1998-07-30 | Braun Ag | Device connector for electrical devices |
US5611967A (en) | 1995-11-20 | 1997-03-18 | Duracraft Corporatiion | Combination evaporative/warm mist humidifier |
US5616172A (en) | 1996-02-27 | 1997-04-01 | Nature's Quarters, Inc. | Air treatment system |
US5862737A (en) | 1996-04-10 | 1999-01-26 | Honeywell Consumer Products Inc. | Filter change indicator |
US5811004A (en) | 1996-04-30 | 1998-09-22 | Syratech Corporation | Water filtration cartridge |
US5800583A (en) | 1996-06-11 | 1998-09-01 | Amway Corporation | Air treatment system |
US5762667A (en) | 1996-06-11 | 1998-06-09 | Amway Corporation | Air treatment system |
USD388510S (en) | 1996-06-11 | 1997-12-30 | Amway Corporation | Air treatment unit with removable feet therefor |
US5925172A (en) | 1996-06-11 | 1999-07-20 | Amway Corporation | Air treatment system |
US5840092A (en) | 1996-06-11 | 1998-11-24 | Amway Corporation | Air treatment system |
US5803940A (en) | 1996-06-11 | 1998-09-08 | Amway Corporation | Air treatment system |
US5792230A (en) | 1996-07-03 | 1998-08-11 | Melard Manufacturing Corp. | Air register with filter element |
JPH1071323A (en) | 1996-08-30 | 1998-03-17 | Aqueous Res:Kk | Air cleaning filter and air cleaner for car |
DE29616815U1 (en) | 1996-09-26 | 1996-11-28 | Formosa Electronic Ind Inc | charger |
USD395146S (en) | 1996-10-25 | 1998-06-16 | Johnson Service Company | Desk top air diffuser for a personal environment system |
US5735918A (en) | 1996-11-19 | 1998-04-07 | Barradas; George | Combination air freshener and air filter |
US5914453A (en) | 1996-11-25 | 1999-06-22 | James; Terry Lynn | Air handler filter monitoring apparatus |
US5772732A (en) | 1996-11-25 | 1998-06-30 | James; Terry Lynn | Air handler filter monitoring apparatus and method |
USD396275S (en) | 1996-12-13 | 1998-07-21 | Reckitt & Colman Products Limited | Air treatment apparatus |
US5906509A (en) | 1996-12-16 | 1999-05-25 | Formosa Electronic Industries, Inc. | Charger with a replaceable electrical plug |
US5829993A (en) | 1996-12-16 | 1998-11-03 | Formosa Electronic Industries Inc. | Charger with a replaceable electrical plug |
US5879435A (en) | 1997-01-06 | 1999-03-09 | Carrier Corporation | Electronic air cleaner with germicidal lamp |
US5783117A (en) | 1997-01-09 | 1998-07-21 | Hunter Fan Company | Evaporative humidifier |
US5791921A (en) | 1997-01-09 | 1998-08-11 | Lee; Anthony | Easily operable universal adapter |
US6053482A (en) * | 1997-01-31 | 2000-04-25 | Holmes Products Corp. | Humidifier including a water filtration device |
US5819367A (en) | 1997-02-25 | 1998-10-13 | Yashima Electric Co., Ltd. | Vacuum cleaner with optical sensor |
US5876610A (en) | 1997-03-19 | 1999-03-02 | Clack Corporation | Method and apparatus for monitoring liquid flow through an enclosed stream |
US6045596A (en) | 1997-04-07 | 2000-04-04 | Medtek Devices, Inc. | Filter system to remove a contaminant from a fluid stream |
US5837207A (en) | 1997-04-17 | 1998-11-17 | Engineering Dynamics Limited | Portable germicidal air filter |
USD390940S (en) | 1997-04-22 | 1998-02-17 | Wen Jye Chen | Box for aromatics |
US5810908A (en) | 1997-05-02 | 1998-09-22 | Bemis Manufacturing Company | Electronic control for air filtering apparatus |
US5925320A (en) | 1997-06-04 | 1999-07-20 | Jones; John P. | Air purification system |
USD394100S (en) | 1997-07-29 | 1998-05-05 | Wanavit Group | Air cleaner |
US5967807A (en) | 1997-08-20 | 1999-10-19 | Formosa Electronic Industries Inc. | AC/DC electric adapter with the large and small plugs |
US5997619A (en) | 1997-09-04 | 1999-12-07 | Nq Environmental, Inc. | Air purification system |
US5986555A (en) | 1997-10-07 | 1999-11-16 | Robert N. Hamburger | Allergen detector system and method |
US6062880A (en) | 1997-11-03 | 2000-05-16 | International Components Corporation | Electrical Plug having pivotable blade assembly |
USD409741S (en) | 1997-11-12 | 1999-05-11 | Goldmaster Development Limited | Ventilating fan |
USD416613S (en) | 1997-12-03 | 1999-11-16 | Honeywell Inc. | Air cleaner |
USD402022S (en) | 1997-12-17 | 1998-12-01 | Hunter Fan Company | Air purifier |
USD400661S (en) | 1998-01-08 | 1998-11-03 | Li-Sheng Ko | Electronic air purifier |
USD399943S (en) | 1998-01-08 | 1998-10-20 | Li-Sheng Ko | Electronic air purifier |
USD400662S (en) | 1998-01-30 | 1998-11-03 | Davis Brian T | Heated volatile dispenser |
US6017375A (en) | 1998-02-02 | 2000-01-25 | Carrier Corporation | Air purifier unit |
JP3329258B2 (en) | 1998-02-04 | 2002-09-30 | ミツミ電機株式会社 | AC adapter |
US5968455A (en) | 1998-02-17 | 1999-10-19 | Brickley; James Lawrence | Ultraviolet air sterilization device and mobile unit incorporating sterilization device |
US6036757A (en) | 1998-07-10 | 2000-03-14 | Honeywell Inc. | Portable room air purifier |
USD416319S (en) | 1998-07-28 | 1999-11-09 | Rollins David A | Decorative air filter housing |
US5945038A (en) | 1998-08-07 | 1999-08-31 | Bemis Manufacturing Company | Humidifier wick assembly with float rod retainer |
US6042400A (en) | 1998-08-25 | 2000-03-28 | International Components Corp. | Power supply housing with foldable blades |
USD428862S (en) | 1998-08-25 | 2000-08-01 | International Components Corp. | Folding blade assembly |
US6059584A (en) | 1998-09-10 | 2000-05-09 | Ericsson, Inc. | Swiveling electrical plug assembly |
US6062884A (en) | 1998-09-11 | 2000-05-16 | Hybrinetics, Inc. | Rotationally activated multiple plug receptacle adapter |
USD416318S (en) | 1998-09-18 | 1999-11-09 | Circland Corp. | Air cleaner |
USD411001S (en) | 1998-10-02 | 1999-06-15 | The Sharper Image | Plug-in air purifier and/or light |
US6053968A (en) | 1998-10-14 | 2000-04-25 | Miller; Bob C. | Portable room air purifier |
USD433493S (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2000-11-07 | The Rival Company | Air cleaner |
USD432222S (en) | 1999-02-25 | 2000-10-17 | Reckitt & Colman Products Limited | Electric evaporator device |
US6225907B1 (en) * | 1999-05-14 | 2001-05-01 | International Comfort Products Corporation (Usa) | Environmental control system incipient failure indicator apparatus |
JP3858516B2 (en) * | 1999-05-17 | 2006-12-13 | 株式会社デンソー | Filter replacement time warning device |
US6126460A (en) | 1999-07-30 | 2000-10-03 | Formosa Electronic Industries Inc. | Safety dual plug structure |
US6190442B1 (en) * | 1999-08-31 | 2001-02-20 | Tishken Products Co. | Air filter gauge |
USD434483S (en) | 1999-11-04 | 2000-11-28 | Sharper Image Corporation | Plug-in air purifier |
-
2001
- 2001-01-11 US US09/758,888 patent/US6315821B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2001-11-13 US US10/010,814 patent/US6508868B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-11-16 CA CA002363130A patent/CA2363130C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2001-12-04 WO PCT/US2001/046367 patent/WO2002055176A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2001-12-13 TW TW090130892A patent/TW508262B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060075729A1 (en) * | 2004-08-20 | 2006-04-13 | He Mengtao P | Methods and apparatus for a low-profile air purifier |
US7309387B2 (en) | 2004-08-20 | 2007-12-18 | The Dial Corporation | Methods and apparatus for a low-profile air purifier |
US20150049311A1 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2015-02-19 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Image projection apparatus |
US9606426B2 (en) * | 2013-08-13 | 2017-03-28 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Duct cover for an image projection apparatus |
GB2577040A (en) * | 2018-09-05 | 2020-03-18 | Honeywell Int Inc | Thermostat comprising a moveable cover |
CN113237191A (en) * | 2021-05-28 | 2021-08-10 | 江西汇恒盛世能源科技有限责任公司 | Air conditioner filter screen cleaning reminding device |
CN113459772A (en) * | 2021-07-15 | 2021-10-01 | 东风云南汽车有限公司 | Intelligent air filtering and sterilizing system for new energy automobile |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2363130A1 (en) | 2002-02-17 |
US20020040642A1 (en) | 2002-04-11 |
US6508868B2 (en) | 2003-01-21 |
CA2363130C (en) | 2003-06-03 |
TW508262B (en) | 2002-11-01 |
WO2002055176A1 (en) | 2002-07-18 |
WO2002055176A8 (en) | 2003-04-10 |
US6315821B1 (en) | 2001-11-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6315821B1 (en) | Air filtration device including filter change indicator | |
US6328791B1 (en) | Air filtration device | |
KR100508312B1 (en) | Air cleaner | |
US6494940B1 (en) | Air purifier | |
JPH0622457Y2 (en) | Indoor fountain and air purifier | |
US20070221061A1 (en) | Air purifier | |
US5795131A (en) | Fan air cleaner | |
US20100000413A1 (en) | Air filtration device | |
US6214074B1 (en) | Odor/air purifier mountable under a kitchen cabinet | |
CN111853993A (en) | Air cleaner | |
KR100775384B1 (en) | Air washer | |
JPH0620496B2 (en) | Air purifier | |
CN215765267U (en) | Oil fume treatment equipment | |
CN220269587U (en) | Silencer of air purifier | |
CN110906409B (en) | Filtering component and oil smoke purifier | |
CN219827282U (en) | Purifying fan | |
JP3191636B2 (en) | air purifier | |
JP2004125374A (en) | Air cleaner | |
JP2842323B2 (en) | air purifier | |
KR20040027497A (en) | Vertical type vacuum dust inhaler for removing fine dust in indoor air | |
KR20220053413A (en) | Multifuctional blower device | |
JP2000070348A (en) | Air cleaning device | |
JP2000070347A (en) | Air cleaning device | |
KR20090030667A (en) | Encoder unit | |
JPS6393317A (en) | Air cleaner |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTER-SILEX, INC., VIRGINIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:PILLION, LAWRENCE M.;SMITH, MICHAEL E.;REEL/FRAME:011830/0716 Effective date: 20010123 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WACHOVIA BANK, N.A., AS AGENT, NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: NOTICE OF GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTOR-SILEX, INC.;REEL/FRAME:013616/0753 Effective date: 20021217 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UBS AG, STAMFORD BRANCH, AS AGENT, CONNECTICUT Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTOR-SILEX, INC.;REEL/FRAME:019399/0687 Effective date: 20070531 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HAMILTON BEACH BRANDS, INC., VIRGINIA Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTOR-SILEX, INC.;REEL/FRAME:020174/0160 Effective date: 20070928 Owner name: HAMILTON BEACH BRANDS, INC.,VIRGINIA Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTOR-SILEX, INC.;REEL/FRAME:020174/0160 Effective date: 20070928 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HAMILTON BEACH BRANDS, INC., FORMERLY KNOWN AS HAM Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:UBS AG, STAMFORD BRANCH;REEL/FRAME:028309/0439 Effective date: 20120531 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NEW YORK Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HAMILTON BEACH BRANDS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:028372/0853 Effective date: 20120531 |
|
REMI | Maintenance fee reminder mailed | ||
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees | ||
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
|
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20131113 |