Abstract An arrangement by which unipolar air ions are realized. A mass of moving air is directed through an air duct, through the action of a fan or similar air pump. A needle electrode is mounted through the wall of the air duct and in the path of the moving air. The needle electrode is electrically insulated from the walls of the duct and from ground potential. A DC voltage supply applies a potential to the electrode and ground potential to the walls of the air duct. The potential applied to the electrode is such that it is just equal to the ionization field strength or exceeds this quantity by only a slight amount. As a result of the high concentration and density of field lines at the needle point of the electrode, ionization is realized so that ions of one polarity are attracted to the walls of the air duct and the ions of opposite polarity are directed through and out of the air duct. Deflection electrodes at the exit of the air duct deflect the ions of desired polarity and regulate the ion density of the ion stream.
An arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said duct means are electrically conductive, and said duct means and baffle walls are connected to ground.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
30 words
An arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said potential difference is just sufficient to cause said ionization, whereby to avoid at least substantial production of ozone and nitrous oxide.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
28 words
An arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said duct means are the air inlet ducts in a motor vehicle for admitting fresh air to the interior thereof.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
17 words
An arrangement as defined in claim 1, including means for regulating the velocity of the air streams.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
23 words
An arrangement as defined in claim 1, including voltage polarized deflection means for deflecting the ions generated from the main direction of motion.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
25 words
An arrangement as defined in claim 1, including voltage polarized screen means in the path of the air streams for trapping ions of predetermined polarity.