WO2009115650A1

WO2009115650A1 - Improved device for generating ions in a gaseous medium

Info

Publication number: WO2009115650A1
Application number: PCT/FR2008/000391
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joël MERCIER
Original assignee: Genie Et Environnement Sarl
Priority date: 2008-03-20
Filing date: 2008-03-20
Publication date: 2009-09-24

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for generating negative and/or positive ions (25), to be used in a gaseous medium and including at least one needle (11), a means for applying a continuous or alternating voltage (26) between two portions of the one or each needle (11), and a control means (27) for driving the voltage application means (26), characterised in that the control means (27) includes a means for detecting at least one physical parameter, and electronic or computer means for analysing and storing the control parameters in order to directly or indirectly actuate the control means (27) based on the predetermined and stored control parameters or based on control parameters adapted to particular situations identified by a present or virtual operator or by information from the detection means, thus generating one or more operation cycles of said ion generation device according to the particular situation(s) to be treated.

Description

"IMPROVED DEVICE FOR GENERATING IONS IN A GASEOUS ENVIRONMENT"

The present invention relates to the general technical field of ion generation for the treatment of gaseous media, food products, pollutants or medical instruments. Negative ion generators are likely to modify the molecular structure of a gaseous medium, including ambient air. It is therefore necessary to provide evidence of harmless devices and systems for generating ions.

The present invention relates in particular to a device for generating ions in gaseous media.

The invention will find its application in particular for the maintenance of the safety and / or asepsis of various places, especially inside any enclosed or semi-enclosed space by ion generation, in particular negative ions in said space. A device according to the invention can also be used in the context of certain medical diagnoses.

The device of the invention is in no way limiting in that has its shape, its dimensions or its support.

Applicant has already proposed in WO-A-0074188 a negative oxygen ion generator having a single or a plurality of needles with an ion emissive end surrounded by a sheath of specific composite materials as well as means for apply tension between two body parts of each needle. The device according to this document gives overall satisfaction and presents a particularly advantageous selection of materials and the specific provisions for the application of the device and its regulation. In the case of this prior document, as for the other existing devices, it is necessary to maintain the activity of the ion generator for a long enough time insofar as the lifetime of the anions is limited in time and time. Ozone production, which is more effective than other ions, for example in the treatment of air, must generally be avoided in the presence of humans and with regard to certain materials.

Current systems therefore require a prolonged operation to obtain a permanent production of anions in a controlled and controlled way. The prolonged use of existing non-performing systems in terms of the materials used, the manufacturing quality of the emitting needles, or the power supply are likely to create various forms of danger to health and human presence . It is worth mentioning the production of ozone and / or other peroxidants or free radicals. The energy consumption and the impaired life of these non-performing systems are also obvious drawbacks.

Another disadvantage of these known systems lies in the sedimentation of particles on and around the anion producing elements. This sedimentation greatly alters the aesthetics and reinforces the risk of malfunction and consequently the dangers for the human presence, related to the fouling of the emitting points of the anion production elements. The production of ozone, peroxidants and free radicals is then increased in proportions dangerous for humans, while the production of anions becomes inoperative.

The present invention is then intended to provide ion generator devices to overcome the limitations mentioned above.

The object of the present invention is also to provide more efficient ion generating devices, in particular by making their operation more flexible, scalable and adaptable to different constraints.

Another object of the present invention is to propose ion generator devices that can be integrated wholly or partly into a separate system, possibly mobile or portable, with a view to restoring the hygiene or the quality of the device. air.

Another object of the present invention is to provide ion generators whose flexibility of use and operation does not affect the safety of operators or persons moving in the vicinity of said ion generating devices.

The objects assigned to the invention are achieved by means of a device for generating negative and / or positive ions, intended for use in a gaseous medium and having at least one needle, DC voltage application means or alternatively between two parts of the or each needle and control means driving the voltage application means, characterized in that the control means comprise means for detecting at least one physical parameter and electronic means or computer for analyzing and memorizing control parameters for directly or indirectly operating the control means in function on the one hand predetermined and recorded control parameters or on the other hand as a function of control parameters adapted to particular situations identified by a present or virtual operator or by information from the detection means, thus generating one or more cycles operation of said ion generating device in adequacy with the particular situation or situations to be treated.

The appropriate control parameters are preferably included in parameter ranges compatible with optimal and secure operation of said ion generating device.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the detection means comprise at least one analog or digital sensor.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a fixed base and a separable and portable control member integrating at least a portion of the control means carried by an operator and capable of cooperating with the fixed base installed in an environment to be processed, to actuate the voltage application means if necessary and / or to remotely modify the stored control parameters, if necessary.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises quick connection means to a separate structure, thus facilitating its installation and replacement.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the device according to the invention, the detection means comprise means for determining the amount of ions produced. According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention is associated with a means for detecting the amount of ozone and / or other potentially harmful elements.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the device according to the invention, the control means are configured to allow the voltage application means to deliver at least two different voltage levels so as to produce ions of different nature.

A first voltage level is for example between 3.5 kV and 5.5 kV and a second voltage level is for example greater than 5.7 kV.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises means for inverting the sign of at least one of the voltage levels, in particular for generating positive ions.

The control means allow, for example, to actuate the inversion means according to one or more cycles of predetermined duration or calculated by the analysis means as a function of information from the detection means.

The device according to the invention is for example associated in the ion generation zone with a sensor of the presence sensor type, a pollution sensor, a closure sensor for access to the said zone and / or a reception sensor. a remote control signal.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a needle support plate and a cover plate having:

for each needle a sheath surrounding a body of the needle, an electrically conductive coating on one face facing the support plate

and an electrically insulating facade opposite the conductive coating, the voltage applying means being configured to apply an electrical voltage between the support plate and the conductive coating of the cover plate.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises at least one sediment collection plate at the emissive ends of the needles.

The collection plate has a light facing each needle and fins projecting from the inner face of the collection plate, said fins being inclined so as to converge at their distal end towards the needles.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the collection plate is removable and disposable.

The fixed or removable collection plate disposable or durable, is for example a metal support in the broad sense, paper in the broad sense, fabric or plastic.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the device according to the invention, the collection plate is metallic.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a cover covering the collection plate and provided with openings facing the free end of the needles.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises cleaning means of the heat source type or source of ultraviolet radiation whose operation is controlled by the control means to remove sedimented particles on the collection plate.

The cleaning means comprise by way of example at least one peripheral heating element located below the emitting end of each needle.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the heating element or elements are resistive blocks, for example made of ceramic-based material.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a switch block comprising a device as presented above.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of an electrical socket or any other means of supply including solar comprising a device as presented above.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of an electrical installation comprising at least two electrical elements of the switch block type or of the electrical plug type, characterized in that said elements share the same voltage application means. .

According to an exemplary embodiment of the installation according to the invention, the voltage application means are remote from the electrical elements and are connected to them by a wired connection.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a light bulb comprising a base provided with bayonet connection means or by screwing and incorporating an ion generating device as presented above. According to an exemplary embodiment, the device according to the invention is designed as a module comprising means for connecting to at least one other module, so as to increase the generation of ions in certain applications or in certain environments to be treated.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a food processing system for preservation purposes, comprising a treadmill conveying the food products, a treatment chamber of the tunnel type, crossed by the carpet. rolling stock supporting the food products and at least one device as presented above, arranged in the treatment chamber so as to subject the food products to an ion-charged atmosphere or to an ion flow.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a heating or air conditioning system comprising at least one ion generating device as presented above.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a ventilation system of a vehicle or an aircraft comprising means for producing an air flow, ambient, heated or cooled, and means for conveying air towards localized locations, such as seats, characterized in that it comprises at least one ion generating device as presented above.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a preferably removable element of a seat or a part of a vehicle or aircraft cabin cover, comprising a device for generating a vehicle. ions as presented above. The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a protective mask comprising an ion generating device as presented above and a portable power supply means of the electric battery type possibly rechargeable, connected device audit.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved with the aid of a structural element of a pram or stroller for young children, comprising an ion generating device as presented above and a portable power supply means of the kind optionally rechargeable electric battery connected to said device.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of an installation for animals of the litter, cage, shelter, or parlor type comprising at least one ion generating device as presented above.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a medical installation comprising means for performing a medical diagnosis, comprising at least one ion generating device as presented above. Such an installation has the particular advantage, by the integration of a device according to the invention, of positively influencing the oxidative stress, mentioned for example in document EP-1 793 230 and of presenting improve the detection and prevention of risks related to degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and others. This detection and prevention can be carried out alone or jointly by means of cabin tests under cognitive stress conditions, performed by bleeding blood or expired air. The advantages of using the device according to the invention in this field are scientifically proven. The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a vehicle gas exhaust system element, comprising at least one enclosure through which the gases, of the type of expansion or silent pot, associated with at least one ion generating device as presented above, the needles produce ions inside the enclosure.

The invention and its advantages will become more apparent in the context of the description which follows, with exemplary embodiments given by way of nonlimiting illustration, with reference to the appended figures in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a device according to the invention with an example of external physiognomy,

FIG. 2 shows the example of FIG. 1 in an exploded view from above,

FIG. 3 is an exploded view from below,

FIGS. 4 and 5 show exemplary embodiments of the device according to the invention according to two variant embodiments of needles and means for applying tension to each needle, with means for collecting sediments,

FIG. 6 shows an example of a circuit incorporated in the voltage application means,

FIG. 7 schematizes an application of the device according to the invention to switch blocks or electrical outlets for the equipment of living quarters or the like, FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a protection mask according to the invention integrating an ion generation device according to the invention,

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a light bulb according to the invention integrating an ion generation device according to the invention,

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a food processing system according to the invention comprising ion generating devices according to the invention,

- And Figure 1 1 illustrates an embodiment of a gas exhaust system according to the invention, in particular for vehicles, comprising an ion generating device according to the invention.

The structurally and functionally identical elements present in several distinct figures are assigned a single reference.

He is known notably through the document WO-

A1 -00 74 188, a device of the invention employs one or more needles 1 1 having an emissive end 12 of ions when a potential difference is applied between two parts of the body 13 of the needle January 1.

Advantageously, the needle 1 1 is made of a material covered with a film of gold, brass, nickel, molybdenum, titanium, tungsten, platinum or an alloy of these materials. The constituent material and the resistivity of the needles 1 1 must be chosen so as to avoid any deterioration in time, in particular oxidation. Reference may be made to WO-A1-0074188 for further details. Each needle 11 is inserted through its body 13 in a sheath 4 of a material whose electrical resistivity is appropriate and preferably a value of about 10 ¹² ohms per meter. In particular, it is possible to use, for cladding, a composite material based on unsaturated polyester reinforced with glass fibers and possibly chlorophthalic resin.

More generally, any dielectric resistivity material between 10 ⁴ ohms per meter and 10 ¹⁶ ohms per meter can be used.

The needle 1 1 surrounded by its sheath 4 is subjected to the application of a voltage by voltage application means 26 adapted to establish an intense electric field at the emitting end 12 of the needles 1 1. A a certain level of potential difference, the tip 12 emits electrons able to negatively charge the ambient particles. If a reverse sign voltage is applied, an electron deficiency is produced and positive ions are generated.

Figures 4 and 5 show an embodiment of the sheath 4 surrounding the needles 1 1 and the application of a voltage V. This example will be explained in detail below.

The voltage V is produced by means of an electrical circuit comprising the components illustrated in FIG. 6, including a filter 70 receiving a conventional power supply of the mains type with a voltage that may vary from 6 380 Volts and a frequency from 40 to 60 Hertz. . The filter 17 is followed by a control circuit 18 of the power supply and a voltage regulator 19 placed upstream of the transformer 21 at its primary circuit. The secondary of the transformer 21 is connected to a voltage multiplier 22 comprising a plurality of stages of multiplication of tension. This circuit is configured to deliver a voltage V of up to several kilovolts.

Thus, according to the invention, the voltage V produced comprises a first voltage level advantageously between 3.5 kV and 5.5 kV capable of generating negative air treatment ions and in particular negative oxygen ions (- O2) without producing ozone. This is advantageous especially in the case of human presence in the area to be treated.

The invention also makes it possible to deliver a second voltage level that is advantageously greater than 5.7 kV so as to generate ions that are more effective but are generally more harmful to humans, such as ozone.

Non-limiting relay phases, for example at 7 kV, 9 kV and 11 kV can be realized.

Voltages of 7 kV, 9 kV, and 1 1 kV were tested to validate actual effectiveness on volatile organic compounds, viruses, and other risk factors for contamination.

A control means in the form of an electrical circuit makes it possible to adapt the output voltage level V to be applied at the level of the hands 1 1.

Optionally, other voltage levels may be predetermined, in particular with a polarity inversion so as to produce a reverse-sign voltage V to generate positive ions. The generation of positive ions can allow, in a first phase of treatment, to strongly charge the particles in suspension by a positive charge so as to improve the efficiency of the sedimentation of the negative ions produced thereafter. The generations of cations can be made by automated cycles to the detection of new polluting elements, microporous up to 0.01 ppm, microbes, viruses and other allergenic phenomena or pollutants such as volatile organic compounds or other phenomena related to passive smoking.

Several ways to control the establishment of an operating cycle at one of the aforementioned voltage levels.

In the first place, the device of the invention advantageously comprises a plurality of sensors without type limitation, such as a pollution sensor, an anion sensor, a micro-dust sensor, micropollutants, odor sensors, human presence sensors, etc. , able to trigger operation in certain conditions of presence of polluting elements. The device may also comprise or combine a plurality of sensors allowing directly or indirectly to reveal the presence or absence of people in the volume to be treated.

Thus, in the case of a vehicle interior, a sensor detecting the closing of the doors reveals the absence of people in the passenger compartment and trigger operation at very high voltage, varying according to the recorded data and for example of the order of 7500 volts or 15000 volts per cycle, for the production of highly efficient ozone. The sensors in question may also be presence detectors.

In the case of an application relating to storage volumes or to closed enclosures such as the interior volume of a refrigerator or a storage box, a single-door door closing sensor can be used. The operating cycles can also be conditioned to the actuation of a manual control of the operator (for example by means of a remote control or a switch) or automated (for example by a computer control).

Hereinafter is described more specifically an embodiment of the ion generating device with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

In these figures, the device comprises a frame 16, for example of electrically insulating plastic material, assembled with a base 1 by current fixing means such as screws and defining an internal volume of incorporation of the active elements of the system.

More specifically, is reported on the base 1, a support plate 2 on which is mounted a plurality of needles 1 1 by adopting the technique "CMS" (surface mounted component) or any other method of integration in industrial manufacturing of electronic components (for example non-limiting, FLEX) or through mounting according to the integration requirements. The support plate 2 can also receive the circuit elements producing the voltage application means and the control means, not shown in the figures.

The support plate 2 is made of electrically conductive material (for example based on polycarbonate or flexible support) and cooperates with the base of the body 13 of the needles January 1.

A cover plate 3 is formed without contact but in superposition with the support plate 2. The cover plate 3 has at its inner face, facing the support plate 2, a coating 5 of electrically driver in electrical continuity with the sleeves 4 surrounding a portion of the body 13 of the needles 1 1. Can be used for the coating 5, a material equivalent to that mentioned above for the sheaths 4. The coating 5 is connected to the voltage application means 26 so as to create a potential difference V between the support plate 2 and the coating 5.

The cover plate 3 is also covered with a front 6 of electrically insulating material.

It is easily understood that the integration of the coating 5 in the cover plate 3 and the unitary character of the sheaths

4 with this plate 3, provide a great simplification of the manufacture and the structure of the device itself. The assembly is thus greatly simplified.

The entire device is closed by an electrically insulating cover 14 having a plurality of openings 15 allowing the passage of negative ions generated to the volume of air to be treated. The device may include means for forced circulation of air such as a fan.

According to another embodiment, the cover 14 may be insulating externally and internally conductive in order not to use the sheath 4 or other surrounding the needle in order to obtain the same qualities of life of the anions in accordance with the provisions described in WO-A1-0047188.

The structure of the cover plate 3, integrating the coating 5 and carrying the sleeves 4, can be used for a conventional operation of the ion generator with a single predetermined voltage level and therefore separately from the various voltage levels indicated above even if this case remains advantageous. Reference may also be made to the teaching of document WO-A1-0074188.

FIGS. 2 to 4 show an exemplary embodiment of means allowing the collection by sedimentation of the particles treated by the apparatus. Indeed, after the generation of negative ions, the particles tend to fall by simple gravity and dirty all or part of the device and its surrounding environment, by depositing a residual dust related to the production of anions.

To remedy this disadvantage, between the cover plate 3 and the cover 14 is inserted a collection plate 7 having openings 8 ensuring the passage of the needles 11 so that their emitting end 12 protrudes from the upper surface of the plate 7. The collection plate 7 further comprises fins 9 inclined towards the base of the needles 1 1 to form preferred reception surfaces of the sediments.

Advantageously, the fins 9 are inclined from 65 ° to 78 ° relative to the horizontal.

By forming the collection plate 7 easily removable, for example by simply clipping on the frame 16, it can easily be disassembled for washing. A collection plate made of plastic or metal material will be used. It is also conceivable to replace a filter or any other filter medium associated with or constituting the collection plate 7, the filter medium including a biological filter, biodegradable, bactericidal or fungicidal.

Alternatively, all or part of the collection plate 7 is made of an easily disposable material, including a paper coating, fabrics or other similar consumable material. In this way, as soon as the plate 7 is covered with sediment, it can be replaced. Another possibility of removing the sedimented particles is shown in FIG. 5, at which the collection plate 7 has disappeared and gives way to a plurality of heating blocks 10, advantageously made of ceramic material or any other material offering dielectric qualities. and similar chemicals.

Each of the blocks 10 is connected to a power supply capable of producing heating. Each block can for example dissipate a heat output of 10 watts but can vary for example between 5 watts and 15 watts depending on information read by a pollution sensor. By way of example, the blocks have a dimension of 1 to 2 mm in thickness, 5 to 10 mm in width and 15 to 20 mm in length.

The heating blocks 10 are placed on either side of each needle 11 and located slightly below the emitting ends 12. In this way, the sediments are collected on the upper surface of the blocks where they can be burned because of the thermal energy dissipated at the blocks 10. According to an exemplary embodiment, the operation of the heating blocks 10 is coupled to the operation of the needles January 1 with electronic management, alternating cycles or continuously and simultaneously.

To simplify the electrical circuit, the supply of the blocks 10 can be coupled to that of the voltage application means 26 to the hands 1 1. Optionally, the blocks 10 are powered by a high voltage supply equivalent to that used for the needles 1 1 and carried out in alternating current at high frequency, for example of the order of 7500 Hz and according to the industrial needs and according to the volume to be processed industrially, up to 75000 Hz. A conversion stage of ac current to direct current is used in parallel for the production of voltage V. It is understood that the heating blocks 10 may be replaced by other heating elements, without departing from the scope of the invention and in particular by any element with resistive properties capable of dissipating a Joule power near the emitting points 12.

. According to another embodiment according to the invention, the needles 1 1 are based on a ceramic material or a polycarbonate having physico-chemical properties similar to metal needles. These needles 1 1 are thus adapted by a clean heating to destroy the sedimented particles. Such self cleaning cycles can be alternately controlled with ion production cycles, at a rate to be determined.

The sediment collection means indicated above, whether it be the collection plate 7 or the heating elements, can be implemented separately from the other characteristics previously described, in particular as regards the production of the cover plate 3 and the formation of a plurality of voltage operating cycles.

Finally, an example of incorporation into electric sockets or electrical switches of ion generation devices is given below.

In Figure 7, a pair of switch blocks 23 is shown, each having a switch 24 bistable configuration.

Each block 23 is furthermore provided with a device for generating ions, advantageously of small size, having one or more needles 11 mounted on the plates. support 2 and cover 3 indicated above and surmounted by a hood.

In order to limit the size of the switch blocks 23 and to centralize the control of the operation of the ion generating devices 25, the voltage application means 26 and the control means are offset at a centralized unit which can be incorporated into an electrical box. Om can also use a remote controller operating with RFID technology, PAD, LAN, CAN, WIFI, BLUETOOTH or ZIGBEE, with a range of up to 500 meters. The frequencies used are thus of the order of 2.4 GHz or more or of the order of 868 MHz or 915 MHz for certain environments At this level, the power supply of the sector is injected at the level of a transformer. supplying the voltage application means 26 which may be of the design described above with reference to FIG. 6.

The voltage applying means 26 receive $ p r _s IAI ^ urs control signals of the control means 27 incorporating e.g. an infrared receiver cooperating with a remote controller 28 operated by the operator or TOYF SN ^ He receiver operating with a different technology.

The control can also be operated by radiofrequency, laser or optical control.

The operation of each device 25 can also be conditioned by an action on the switch 24.

It will be noted that the invention described above can also be incorporated in a vehicle interior ceiling lamp or collective or individual lighting in the field of residential, industrial, agricultural or commercial premises, in a door or any part of the passenger compartment of cars, trucks, aircraft, ships, spacecraft or hyperbaric chambers.

The centralized management illustrated in FIG. 7 makes it possible to greatly reduce the implementation cost and only requires an additional wire connection between the voltage application means 26 and each block 23.

Figure 8 illustrates a protective mask 30 in section, partially integrating an ion generating device according to the invention. The protective mask 30 intended to cover the mouth and nose of a user involved in a polluted atmosphere, comprises a shell 31 conforming to the anatomy of the face and containing known filter material 32. The latter thus lets filtered air for breathing purposes. The support plate 2 and the conductive coating 5 make it possible to apply an electric field to the needle 1 1 surrounded by the sheath 4 according to the invention. These various components of the protective mask are assembled in particular by bonding, cold or hot pressure and or by mechanical assembly.

A wired connection 33 makes it possible to electrically power the ion generating device by means of a portable battery 34 which the user can lodge away from the mask, for example in his pocket.

FIG. 9 illustrates a bulb 40, operating for example at low voltage, comprising a base 41 terminating in a screw connection means 42. The bulb comprises an illuminating portion 43 mounted on the base 41. The latter advantageously incorporates a device ion generation according to the invention. The emitting end of the needle 1 1 and the corresponding end of the sheath 4 protrude on the face upper 41a of the base 41 on which is mounted the illuminating portion 43.

Figure 10 schematically illustrates a food processing system 50 having at least one ion generating device according to the invention. The treatment system 50 comprises a conveyor 51, of the treadmill type moving along the arrow A in a treatment tunnel delimited by walls 52. The ion generating devices are for example grouped together in the form of modules 54 fixed on the inner faces of the walls 52. Food products 53 are conveyed into the treatment tunnel via the conveyor 51 and are subjected to the ions produced before emerging on the opposite side of the treatment tunnel, possibly conditioned by means of additional means. .

The present invention also finds application in various areas of everyday life and health.

It is thus possible to use the device according to the invention for treating vehicle exhaust gases, to improve the performance of medical diagnostic apparatus, to equip baby implements such as beds or parks or to equip animal accessories of the necklaces type. Such an enumeration is not exhaustive.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the ion generating device according to the invention can also be configured to fit directly into an existing electrical outlet.

According to another exemplary embodiment, the ion generating device may be fitted in a non-removable manner with electrical subassemblies comprising at least one electrical socket and intended to be mounted in walls or in the floor of rooms. FIG. 11 illustrates another application, in which a device according to the invention is associated and integrated in a gas exhaust system 60, in particular for vehicles. The gases coming from an engine are conveyed via collection tubes 62 through an enclosure 61 following the arrow C, of the pressure-reducing or silent type, before being evacuated by an outlet tube 63.

The enclosure 61 is provided at its inlet and at its outlet with a filter 64 loaded with ions to complete the mechanical filtration. The filters 64 are charged with ions, for example cations, in particular by electrolysis, encapsulation, dry or wet impregnation or other known process. This technology is also used to load a film 65 covering the inner walls of the enclosure 61. The needles 1 1 are arranged and distributed over the enclosure 61 so as to have their emitting end in said enclosure 61. An excellent capture of the polluting particles penetrating into the chamber 61 is thus obtained.

It is obvious that such a gas treatment system also applies to any air exhaust system or treatment or air purification that can be found in industrial or hospital settings.

Naturally, the present invention is subject to many variations as to its implementation. Although several embodiments have been described, it is clear that it is not conceivable to exhaustively identify all the possible modes. It is of course conceivable to replace a means described by equivalent means without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Device for generating ions (25) negative and / or positive, for use in a gaseous medium and having at least one needle (1 1), means for applying tension (26) continuous or alternating between two parts the or each needle (1 1) and control means (27) controlling the voltage application means (26),

characterized in that the control means (27) comprise means for detecting at least one physical parameter and electronic or computer means for analyzing and storing control parameters for directly or indirectly actuating the control means (27). ) as a function, on the one hand, of predetermined and recorded control parameters or, on the other hand, as a function of control parameters adapted to particular situations identified by a present or virtual operator or by information coming from the detection means, thus generating a or several cycles of operation of said ion generating device in adequacy with the particular situation or situations to be treated.

2. Device according to claim 1,

characterized in that the appropriate control parameters are included in parameter ranges compatible with optimal and secure operation of said ion generating device.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2,

characterized in that the detection means comprise at least one analog or digital sensor.

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that it comprises a fixed base and a detachable and portable control member integrating at least a portion of the control means (27) carried by an operator and capable of cooperating with the fixed base installed in an environment to be treated, to actuate the voltage-applying means (26) remotely and / or to remotely modify the stored control parameters, if necessary.

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that it comprises means for quick connection to a separate structure, thus facilitating its installation and replacement.

6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to

5

characterized in that the detection means comprises means for determining the amount of ions produced.

7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6,

characterized in that it is associated with means for detecting the amount of ozone and / or other potentially harmful elements.

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the control means (27) is configured to allow the voltage application means (26) to deliver at least two different voltage levels so as to produce ions of different nature.

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that a first voltage level is between 3.5 kV and 5.5 kV and a second voltage level is greater than 5.7 kV.

Device according to claim 8 or 9,

characterized in that it comprises means for inverting the sign of at least one of the voltage levels, in particular for generating positive ions.

11. Device according to claim 10,

characterized in that the control means (27) can actuate the inverting means in one or more cycles of predetermined duration or calculated by the analysis means according to information from the detection means.

12. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 1 1,

characterized in that it is associated in the ion generation zone with a sensor of the presence sensor type, a pollution sensor, a sensor for closing access to the zone and / or a sensor for receiving a remote control signal . (28)

13. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 12,

Characterized in that it comprises a support plate (2) needles (1 1) and a cover plate (3) having: - for each needle (11) a sheath surrounding a body (13) of the needle (1 1),

an electrically conductive coating (5) on a face facing the support plate (2),

an electrically insulating facade (6) opposite the conductive coating (5), the voltage applying means (26) being configured to apply an electrical voltage between the support plate (2) and the conductive coating ( 5) of the cover plate (3).

14. Device according to any one of claims 1 to

13

characterized in that it comprises at least one collection plate (7) of sediments at the emitting ends of the needles (11).

Device according to claim 14,

characterized in that the collection plate (7) has a lumen (8) facing each needle (1 1) and fins (9) projecting from the inner face of the collection plate (7), said fins ( 9) being inclined so as to converge at their distal end towards the needles (1 1).

Device according to claim 14 or 15,

characterized in that the collection plate (7) is removable and disposable.

Device according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the collection plate (7) is made of paper, fabric or plastics material.

18. Device according to any one of claims 14 to 16,

characterized in that the collection plate (7) is metallic.

19. Device according to any one of claims 14 to 18,

characterized in that it comprises a cover (14) covering the collection plate (7) and provided with openings (15) facing the free end of the needles (1 1).

20. Device according to any one of claims 14 to 19,

characterized in that it comprises cleaning means of the heat source type or ultraviolet radiation source (to be validated) whose operation is controlled by the control means (27) to remove the particles sedimented on the collection plate (7). ).

21. Device according to claim 20,

characterized in that the cleaning means comprise at least one peripheral heating element located below the emitting end (12) of each needle (1 1).

22. Device according to claim 21,

characterized in that the one or more heating elements are resistive blocks, for example made of ceramic-based material.

23. Switch block (23) comprising a device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

24. Electrical socket comprising a device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

Electrical installation comprising at least two electrical elements of the switch block type according to claim 23 or of the plug type according to claim 24,

characterized in that said elements share the same voltage application means (26).

26. Electrical installation according to claim 25,

characterized in that the voltage application means (26) are remote from the electrical elements and are connected thereto by a wire connection.

27. Light bulb comprising a base provided with bayonet connection means or by screwing and incorporating an ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

28. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 22,

characterized in that it is in the form of a module, and in that it comprises means for connection to at least one other module, so as to increase the generation of ions in certain applications or in certain environment to be treated.

29. Food processing system for conservation purposes, comprising a treadmill conveying foodstuffs, a tunnel-like treatment chamber traversed by the treadmill supporting foodstuffs and at least one device according to any one of claims 1 to 22 or claim 28, arranged in the treatment chamber so as to subject the food products to an ion-charged atmosphere or to an ion flow.

Heating or air conditioning system comprising at least one ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

31. Ventilation system for a vehicle or an aircraft having means for producing an air flow, ambient, heated or cooled, and means for conveying air towards localized locations seat type, characterized in that it comprises at least one ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

32. Preferably removable element of a seat or part of a vehicle or aircraft cabin cover comprising an ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

33. A protection mask comprising an ion generating device according to any one of the claims

1 to 22 and a portable power supply means of the kind optionally rechargeable electric battery connected to said device.

34. Pram structural element or pushchair for young children, comprising an ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22 and a portable power supply means of the kind optionally rechargeable electric battery, connected to said device.

35. Installation or accessory for animals of the litter type, cage, shelter or parlor comprising at least one ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

36. A medical installation comprising means for performing a medical diagnosis, comprising at least one ion generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

37. A vehicle gas exhaust system (60) element comprising at least one gas-filled enclosure (61) of the booster or silencer type associated with at least one ion generating device according to the invention. any one of claims 1 to 22, the needles (1 1) produce ions inside the enclosure (61).