Georgia Patent of the Month – September 2023
Many new builds and existing buildings are working on adding or upgrading HEPA filters and air purifiers in an effort to reduce pathogen spread and support clean air. While this will help somewhat in reducing pathogen spread, it will not adequately or sufficiently satisfy the need. Air-Clenz Systems, LLC is developing a totally new approach to improve indoor air quality (IAQ).
At its core, the newly patented air treating device from Air-Clenz Systems is designed to capture, collect, and purify exhaled air, ensuring that potentially harmful airborne pathogens and contaminants are swiftly eliminated. Unlike traditional HVAC systems or air purifiers that rely on circulating and cleaning the air after it has already dispersed throughout a room, this invention focuses on capturing the exhaled air at its source—near the individual.
Key Features:
- Exhaled Air Collector: The device features an exhaled air collector with an adjustable exhaled air guide, positioned within inches to a few feet of the user. This strategic placement allows it to efficiently collect exhaled air, especially in settings like auditoriums, theaters, classrooms, or any confined spaces where individuals sit or stand.
- Air Suction Intake: An air suction intake, either at the bottom of the exhaled air collector or within it, directs the captured exhaled air towards the exhaled air purification chamber. The air suction force ensures that exhaled air is swiftly transported, reducing the risk of pathogens lingering in the air.
- Exhaled Air Purification: The exhaled air purification chamber is equipped with advanced filtration and purification mechanisms, including chemical microbicidal purification, UV-C light, mechanical microbicidal purification, and more. These technologies work in tandem to clean and purify the collected exhaled air.
- Portability and Versatility: Air-Clenz Systems’ invention offers flexibility in placement, allowing it to be easily moved to different tabletops, desks, or seating areas. Its design accommodates various room layouts and can be tailored to specific venue requirements.
The innovative approach of Air-Clenz addresses a pressing need for improved indoor air quality, especially in spaces where multiple individuals gather. By capturing exhaled air closer to its source, the device minimizes the dispersion of pathogens and contaminants, significantly reducing the risk of airborne transmission.
The company recognizes the importance of HVAC systems and has designed their technology to complement HVAC. HVAC systems have a fundamental design flaw when it comes to airborne disease: cross-flow and mixing. HVAC systems pull air across a room, from supply vents to returns. This cross-flow means potentially infection-laden exhaled breath is mixed with general room air and pulled past others in the same space. By integrating the Air-Clenz technology within HVAC systems, cross airborne contamination is effectively reduced and significantly increases clean air turns per hour in the room.
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