U.S. patent application number 15/506103 was filed with the patent office on 2017-08-24 for window air filter.
The applicant listed for this patent is 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY. Invention is credited to Liang Cheng, Nicolas A. Echeverri, Andrew R. Fox, Changwen Li, Jonathan M. Lise, Kannan Seshadri.
Application Number | 20170241193 15/506103 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55400394 |
Filed Date | 2017-08-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170241193 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fox; Andrew R. ; et
al. |
August 24, 2017 |
WINDOW AIR FILTER
Abstract
The present disclosure generally relates to adjustably sized air
filter systems capable of use in a window opening. The present
disclosure also related to methods of making and using these
adjustably sized air filter systems.
Inventors: |
Fox; Andrew R.; (Oakdale,
MN) ; Echeverri; Nicolas A.; (Woodbury, MN) ;
Lise; Jonathan M.; (Woodbury, MN) ; Li; Changwen;
(Shanghai, CN) ; Cheng; Liang; (Shanghai, CN)
; Seshadri; Kannan; (Woodbury, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY |
St. Paul |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55400394 |
Appl. No.: |
15/506103 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2015 |
PCT Filed: |
August 24, 2015 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US15/46483 |
371 Date: |
February 23, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62206928 |
Aug 19, 2015 |
|
|
|
62041496 |
Aug 25, 2014 |
|
|
|
62041499 |
Aug 25, 2014 |
|
|
|
62041500 |
Aug 25, 2014 |
|
|
|
62041501 |
Aug 25, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01D 2265/04 20130101;
B01D 2279/40 20130101; B01D 46/0002 20130101; B01D 46/4227
20130101; B01D 46/0032 20130101; E06B 2007/023 20130101; B01D
46/521 20130101; F24F 2003/1635 20130101; F24F 2003/1657 20130101;
F24F 2221/20 20130101; B01D 46/10 20130101; B01D 2279/35 20130101;
F24F 13/28 20130101; F24F 13/18 20130101; B01D 2275/203 20130101;
B01D 46/442 20130101; E06B 7/03 20130101; E06B 7/02 20130101; B01D
46/523 20130101; F24F 3/1603 20130101; B01D 46/46 20130101; B01D
46/448 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E06B 7/03 20060101
E06B007/03; B01D 46/52 20060101 B01D046/52; B01D 46/00 20060101
B01D046/00; E06B 7/02 20060101 E06B007/02 |
Claims
1. A window filter assembly, comprising a frame assembly
comprising: first and second end frame members; and first and
second side frame members; wherein the first and second side frame
members are configured to couple with the first and second end
frame members; and a filter media assembly that is attachable to at
least one of the side frame members and the end frame members;
wherein the window filter assembly is expandable from a collapsed
state to an expanded state.
2. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the first and second side frame members are expandable.
3. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the side frame members include at least one of a spring-loaded
mechanism permitting lengthwise adjustment, a telescoping mechanism
permitting lengthwise adjustment, a ratcheting mechanism permitting
lengthwise adjustment, a friction fit permitting lengthwise
adjustment, two or more components that are slidable relative to
one another permitting lengthwise adjustment, a portion that nests
within another portion permitting lengthwise adjustment, and/or
threads to permit screw-like lengthwise adjustment.
4. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first
and second side frame members include multiple pieces or portions
and a length of each of the pieces or portions is less than the
total length of the side frame member in an expanded state.
5. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the side frame
members are tubular.
6. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the first and
second side frame members are configured to removably couple with
the first and second end frame members.
7. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein either the first
and second end frame members or the first and second side frame
members include apertures sized and shaped to receive the other of
the first and second end frame members or the first and second side
frame members.
8. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame
assembly is made of at least one of plastic, metal, paper, wood,
and/or cardboard.
9. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the end frame members and the side frame members include filter
media receivers configured to receive connectors mounted on the
filter media assembly.
10. The window filter assembly of claim 9, wherein the connectors
are at least one of pegs, teeth, hooks, or other mechanical
connections mechanism.
11. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein either the end
frame members or the side frame members include a female attachment
geometry and the other of the end frame members or the side frame
members include a male attachment geometry.
12. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the filter media
is held in place in or on the frame assembly by at least one of
open tubes, pockets, partial loops, adhesive strips, hook and loop
connection means, and/or a loop-engaging fastener material.
13. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the filter media
is at least one of an extended surface area media, pleated,
corrugated, scrunched, ruffled, crinkled, and/or a high surface
area media.
14. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the filter media
is self-supporting.
15. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the filter media
has an electrostatic charge.
16. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the filter media
includes at least one of porous foam, a nonwoven, paper, and/or
fiberglass.
17. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the filter media
is wire-backed.
18. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the first and second end frame members has lengthwise
adjustability.
19. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of
the first and second end frame members includes a spring-loaded
feature.
20. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the window
filter assembly can self-retain the shape of the selected expanded
and/or collapsed state.
21. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the window
filter assembly can be adjusted to fit windows of various
sizes.
22. The window filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the window
filter assembly has a size that can be adjusted to fit in a
partially open window.
23. A method of replacing filter media in the window filter
assembly of claim 1, comprising: removing one of the first and
second end frame members from the frame assembly; removing used
filter media; sliding unused filter media along the first and
second side frame members; attaching the unused filter media to one
of the first and second end frame members; attaching the unused
filter media to the other of the first and second end frame
members; and securing the previously removed one of the first and
second end frame members to form the complete frame assembly.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to air filters. In some
embodiments, it relates to adjustably sized air filter systems
capable of use in a window opening.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Windows exist in a large variety of sizes and can include
vertically or horizontally operable sashes to provide air flow
between an exterior and an interior of a building structure.
Occupants of a building structure often desire opening windows to
let fresh air into an interior of a home, business, or otherwise
enclosed space. However, in many locations, such as highly
populated areas of China, the outside air is more contaminated than
the indoor air. Novel filtering solutions are needed to let the
fresh aspects of the outdoor air in without letting in the
pollution or contaminants. Outdoor contaminants may include larger
particles such as pollen, dust, and mold spores and smaller
particles such as those forming PM.sub.25, bacteria, and viruses.
Gaseous outdoor pollutants such as odors, NO.sub.R, SO.sub.2,
ozone, and others may also be of concern in some locations.
SUMMARY
[0003] The inventors of the present disclosure recognized that a
need exists for a window filter that protects users from outside
air quality contaminants, allows fresh air get into the home
through windows, can be easily installed and used by consumers, is
versatile to fit most window sizes, and/or has minimal impact on
lighting and visibility. The inventors of the present disclosure
invented and discovered apparatuses and methods that address at
least some of these goals.
[0004] Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a
window filter assembly, comprising: (1) a frame assembly
comprising: first and second end frame members; and first and
second side frame members; wherein the first and second side frame
members are configured to couple with the first and second end
frame members; and (2) a filter media assembly that is attachable
to at least one of the side frame members and the end frame
members; wherein the window filter assembly is expandable from a
collapsed state to an expanded state.
[0005] In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second
side frame members are expandable. In some embodiments, at least
one of the side frame members include at least one of a
spring-loaded mechanism permitting lengthwise adjustment, a
telescoping mechanism permitting lengthwise adjustment, a
ratcheting mechanism permitting lengthwise adjustment, a friction
fit permitting lengthwise adjustment, two or more components that
are slidable relative to one another permitting lengthwise
adjustment, a portion that nests within another portion permitting
lengthwise adjustment, and/or threads to permit screw-like
lengthwise adjustment.
[0006] In some embodiments, each of the first and second side frame
members include multiple pieces or portions and a length of each of
the pieces or portions is less than the total length of the side
frame member in an expanded state. In some embodiments, the side
frame members are tubular. In some embodiments, the first and
second side frame members are configured to removably couple with
the first and second end frame members.
[0007] In some embodiments, either the first and second end frame
members or the first and second side frame members include
apertures sized and shaped to receive the other of the first and
second end frame members or the first and second side frame
members.
[0008] In some embodiments, the frame assembly is made of at least
one of plastic, metal, paper, wood, and/or cardboard.
[0009] In some embodiments, at least one of the end frame members
and the side frame members include filter media receivers
configured to receive connectors mounted on the filter media
assembly. In some embodiments, the connectors are at least one of
pegs, teeth, hooks, or other mechanical connections mechanism. In
some embodiments, either the end frame members or the side frame
members include a female attachment geometry and the other of the
end frame members or the side frame members include a male
attachment geometry. In some embodiments, the filter media is held
in place in or on the frame assembly by at least one of open tubes,
pockets, partial loops, adhesive strips, hook and loop connection
means, and/or a loop-engaging fastener material.
[0010] In some embodiments, the filter media is at least one of an
extended surface area media, pleated, corrugated, scrunched,
ruffled, crinkled, and/or a high surface area media. In some
embodiments, the filter media is self-supporting. In some
embodiments, the filter media has an electrostatic charge. In some
embodiments, the filter media includes at least one of porous foam,
a nonwoven, paper, and/or fiberglass. In some embodiments, the
filter media is wire-backed.
[0011] In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second
end frame members has lengthwise adjustability. In some
embodiments, at least one of the first and second end frame members
includes a spring-loaded feature.
[0012] In some embodiments, the window filter assembly can
self-retain the shape of the selected expanded and/or collapsed
state. In some embodiments, the window filter assembly can be
adjusted to fit windows of various sizes. In some embodiments, the
window filter assembly has a size that can be adjusted to fit in a
partially open window.
[0013] Some embodiments relate to a method of replacing filter
media in the window filter assembly of any of the preceding claims,
comprising: (1) removing one of the first and second end frame
members from the frame assembly; (2) removing used filter media;
(3) sliding unused filter media along the first and second side
frame members; (4) attaching the unused filter media to one of the
first and second end frame members; (5) attaching the unused filter
media to the other of the first and second end frame members; and
(6) securing the previously removed one of the first and second end
frame members to form the complete frame assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a window air filter in
accordance with principles of the present disclosure; FIG. 2A is a
cross-sectional view of a filter frame useful with the window air
filter of FIG. 1 in accordance with principles of the present
disclosure and partially unassembled
[0015] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of a filter frame useful
with a window air filter in accordance with principles of the
present disclosure including a spring loaded end frame;
[0016] FIG. 3A is a side view of a partially assembled window air
filter in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 3B is a side view of the window air filter of FIG. 3A
fully assembled in accordance with principles of the present
disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of a filter media useful
with the window air filter of FIG. 3B in accordance with principles
of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 4A is a perspective view a pleated filter media
assembly useful with window air filters of the present disclosure
and in an expanded condition;
[0020] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the pleated filter
media assembly of FIG. 4A, taken along the line 4B-4B;
[0021] FIG. 4C is a side view of a portion of the pleated filter
media assembly of FIG. 4A in a collapsed condition;
[0022] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a window air filter in
horizontally opening window transitioning from a collapsed state to
an expanded state in accordance with principles of the present
disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the window air filter of
FIG. 5A in an expanded state;
[0024] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a window air filter in
vertically opening window transitioning from a collapsed state to
an expanded state in accordance with principles of the present
disclosure; and
[0025] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the window air filter of
FIG. 6A in an expanded state.
[0026] The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may
be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular
components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details
disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely
as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to
variously employ the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The present disclosure will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
exemplary embodiments are shown. The scope of this disclosure,
however, may be embodied in many different forms and should not be
construed as limited to the embodiments set forth or shown
herein.
[0028] One embodiment of a window air filter 20 in accordance with
principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 1. The window
air filter 20 is generally configured to be expandable by a user
from a collapsed, initial state (see, e.g., FIGS. 5A and 6A) to an
expanded, end-use state (see, e.g., FIGS. 5B and 6B), and to
self-retain the expanded state for installation and use in a window
opening. The window air filter 20 includes a filter media assembly
30 and a frame assembly 40. The frame assembly 40 includes opposing
first and second end frame members 32, 34 and first and second side
frame members 36, 38. Details on the various components are
provided below. In general terms, the filter media assembly 30 is
configured to readily transition between the collapsed and expanded
states by directing the end frame members 32, 34 toward or away
from each other as indicated by arrows "A". Upon transitioning the
filter media assembly 30 to a desired size or length in the
expanded state, the side frame members 36, 38 are manipulated to
secure the filter media assembly 30 in the selected expanded state.
The window air filter 20 does not require a fully rigid frame
permanently surrounding the filter media assembly 30 and can be
adjusted to fit window openings of various sizes.
[0029] The window air filter 20 is typically removably installed in
a partially opened window. The window air filter 20 includes a pair
of expandable side frame members 36, 38 that are configured to
couple with the end frame members 30, 32, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B,
which further allows the filter to fit a wide variety of window
sizes. The side frame members 36, 38 can be spring-loaded rods or
members to provide dimensional adjustability and further provide an
outward "holding" force to maintain the filter media assembly 30
placement within an open window. The filter media assembly 30 is
attachable to and slidable over the side frame members 36, 38 and
is adjustable as the window filter 20 is adjusted for length by a
user. The filter media assembly 30 includes a high surface area
filter media, for example, a filter media that is pleated,
crinkled, or ruffled to provide for expansion and contraction of
the filter media assembly 30 to correspond with the desired length
of the window air filter 20.
[0030] The expandable side frame members 36, 38 provide dimensional
adjustability to the window filter 20, which may be achieved by
spring-loading (as shown in FIG. 1), ratcheting mechanisms, or
friction fit, for example. The spring-loaded feature can improve
ease of use by helping hold the filter in place during use. The
side frame members 36, 38 can include or incorporate a wide variety
of other structures, components and/or mechanisms that allow a user
to adjust and select a length of the side frame members 36, 38. The
side frame members 36, 38 can include two or more components or
portions that are slidable relative to one another in a
telescoping-like fashion. Each of the side frame members 36, 38 can
include a first portion 36a can be at least partially nested within
a second portion 36b (identified for the first side frame 36 in
FIGS. 2A-2B). The first portion 36a and the second portion 36b can
be adjustable with respect to one another along a longitudinal
axis. In one embodiment, the portions 36a, 36b are spring-loaded to
be biased to extend away from each other. Alternatively, the
portions 36a, 36b can be frictionally adjustable or threaded for
screw-like adjustment. Regardless, the length of each of the
portions 36a, 36b is less than the total length of the side frame
member 36 in an extended state. The first and second portions 36a,
36b thus can be readily manipulated by a user (manually) from a
first arrangement in the collapsed state to a second arrangement in
the expanded state and any state in between.
[0031] The side frame members 36, 38 can assume a variety of forms,
and in some embodiments are substantially identical. In one
embodiment, the side frame members 36, 38 are tubular and have a
round in cross-section. Each of the side frame members 36, 38
define opposing, leading and trailing ends 42, 44 (identified for
the first side frame 36 in the view of FIG. 2A), with the trailing
end 44 optionally being permanently connected to a corresponding
one of the end frame members 32. Alternatively, both the leading
and trailing ends 42, 44 are removably coupled to the end frame
members 32, 34, respectively. In some embodiments, the end frame
members 32, 34 include side member receivers 46 for selective
connection of the side frame members 36, 38 to the end frame
members 32, 34. For example, the side member receivers 46 can form
apertures sized and shaped to receive (e.g., frictionally receive
one of the ends 42, 44 of the side frame members 36, 38. The end
frame members 32, 34 and the side frame members 36, 38 can
incorporate a wide variety of other complementary structures,
components, and/or mechanisms that promote mounted engagement. The
frame assembly 40 can be constructed of a relatively light weight
yet structurally rigid material such as, for example, plastic,
metal, paper, wood, and/or cardboard. The frame members 32-38 can
be completely disconnected and disassembled for storage or packing
and shipping.
[0032] In some embodiments, the end frame members 32, 34 are
identical. Optionally, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, one or more end
frame members 32, 34 can include a spring-loaded end cap 50 or
similar structure which provides a slight dimensional adjustability
for improving the ease of installation and removal of the product,
and for further providing an outward pushing force to help hold the
product in place during use. The optional spring-loaded or
adjustable end cap 50 also allows for easier installation if the
side frame members 36, 38 are locked in position after initial
sizing to the user's window. In one embodiment, the end frame
members 32, 34 are also slidably adjustable so that the window
filter 20 is extendable in a second direction perpendicular from
the first extendable direction formed by the side frame members 36,
38.
[0033] At least one of the end frame members 32, 34 is removable to
allow for user-replacement of the filter media assembly 30. The
removable end frame member(s) 32, 34 allow for simple and quick
filter media assembly 30 change/replacement. As illustrated in FIG.
3A, the filter media assembly 30 can be slid along the side members
36, 38 and attached to both end members 32, 34. The end members 32,
34 can include filter receivers 48. The filter media assembly 30
may include connectors 52 that facilitate the attachment and
removal of the filter media assembly 30 to the end frame members
32, 34. For example, the end frame members 32, 34 may have filter
receivers 48 configured to receive connectors 52 (e.g., pegs) which
are mounted on the filter media assembly 30. The connectors 52 can
include teeth, hooks, or other mechanism to provide or promote
attachment to filter receivers 48 of the end frame members 32, 34.
Regardless, the filter media assembly 30 can include connectors 52
suitable to be coupled with filter receivers 48. In other
embodiments, the end frame members 32, 34 may include a "female"
attachment geometry and the filter media assembly 30 may include
"male" attachment components.
[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the filter media assembly 30
attaches to the adjustable side frame members 32, 34. The filter
media assembly 30 is further depicted without the frame assembly 40
in FIGS. 3B and 3C. The filter media assembly 30 may include
attachments 54 such as open tubes, pockets, partial loops, or other
features that go entirely around the perimeter of the rods, or they
may include mechanical and/or adhesive features, such as adhesive
strips, hook & loop, loop-engaging material, etc., that are
attachable to portions of the side frame members 32, 34 and may not
require the filter media assembly 30 to wrap around the entire side
frame members 32, 34. As used herein, the term "loop-engaging" as
used herein relates to the ability of a hook element to be
mechanically attached to a loop material. For example, the hook
element may be in the shape of a mushroom (e.g., with a circular or
oval head enlarged with respect to the stem), a hook, a palm-tree,
a nail, a T, or a J. The loop-engageability of hook elements may be
determined and defined by using standard woven, nonwoven, or knit
materials. One exemplary commercially available loop-engaging
material is 3M.TM. Dual-Lock.TM. fastener.
[0035] The attachments 54 are illustrated as circular attachments
in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3C, sized and shaped to
accommodate circular side frame members 36, 38. As shown in FIGS.
3A-3C, the filter media assembly 30 can, in the presence of
loop-like side attachment structures 54, slide onto the side frame
members 36, 38 and attach to the end frame members 32, 34 of the
frame assembly 40. The side attachment structures 54 can be the
same or different material as the filter media 56. The combined
filter media assembly 30 and frame assembly 40 has the ability to
adjust in the length dimension to accommodate a variety of window
sizes.
[0036] The filter media assembly 30 can assume a wide variety of
forms useful for air filtration presently known, or in the future
developed. The filter media assembly 30 is preferably an extended
surface area filter, meaning that it has greater surface area than
a flat sheet which occupies the same two-dimensional area. The
extended surface area may be achieved by performing a defined
pleating operation, by corrugating the media, or by performing a
"scrunching" operation similar to how ruffled curtains are
constructed. For example, the filter media can be pleated,
crinkled, or ruffled, or otherwise include a suitable expanding and
contracting surface area. Regardless, the media is expandable to
accommodate a variety of window sizes.
[0037] By "ruffled" is meant at least a portion gathered along at
least one edge to form a configuration comprising undulations. For
example, and as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the ruffled filter media
assembly 30 includes a plurality of ruffles, or undulations,
extending generally parallel to one another with each ruffle
extending between opposing side frame members 36, 38. Materials and
construction of the ruffled filter media assembly 30 are such that
the ruffled filter media assembly 30 can, in some embodiments, be
repeatedly transitioned between an expanded condition as in FIG. 3B
and a collapsed condition, with a spacing distance between and the
depth of successive ruffles in the expanded condition being greater
than that of the collapsed condition. The filter media assembly 30
can have the rectangular shape (that is specifically inclusive of a
square shape) shown, defining opposing ends 58a, 58b and opposing
sides 59a, 59b.
[0038] In another example, and as shown in FIGS. 4A through 4C,
filter media assembly 130 is pleated and includes a plurality of
pleats 60 each including a fold line 62 defining a pleat tip 64 and
a pair of adjacent panels 66. By "pleated" is meant at least a
portion of which has been folded to form a configuration comprising
rows of generally parallel, oppositely oriented folds. Aspects of
the materials and construction of the pleated filter media assembly
130 are akin to filter media assembly 30 and are such that the
filter media assemblies 30, 130 can, in some embodiments, be
repeatedly transitioned between an expanded condition as in FIG. 4B
and a collapsed condition as in FIG. 4C, with a spacing distance
between successive pleat tips 64 in the expanded condition being
greater than that of the collapsed condition. As a point of
reference, the "expanded condition" of the pleated filter media
assembly 130 as an individual component generally corresponds with
the "expanded state" of the window air filter 120, 220 (e.g., FIGS.
5B and 6B) as a whole, except that the window air filter 120, 220
includes additional components (described above) that retain the
pleated filter media assembly 130 in the particular size and shape
of the expanded state. In other words, while the pleated filter
media assembly 130 can be transitioned (e.g., stretched or
compacted) to any of a number of different "expanded conditions"
and "collapsed conditions. The window air filter 120, 220, as a
whole, can self-retain the shape of the selected expanded state and
collapsed state. The pleated filter media assembly 130 can have the
rectangular shape (that is specifically inclusive of a square
shape) shown, defining opposing ends 68a, 68b and opposing sides
70a, 70b.
[0039] Pleats can be formed in the filter media 72 (or in the
pleated filter media assembly 130) using various methods and
components as are well known in the art, e.g., to form a pleated
filter for use in applications such as air filtration., for example
those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,740,137 to Kubokawa et al. and
U.S. Pat. No. 7,622,063 to Sundet et al., the entire teachings of
both of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0040] The pleated filter media assembly 130, and similarly the
filter media assembly 30, can consist of a filter media or web 72
alone (as in the illustrated embodiment), or can include one or
more additional components or structures applied or assembled to
the filter media 72 so long as the resultant filter media assembly
130 can at least be transitioned from the collapsed condition to
the expanded condition without damaging a structural integrity of
the filter media assembly 30, 130, and optionally can be repeatedly
transitioned between the collapsed and expanded conditions without
damaging a structural integrity of the filter media assembly 30,
130. The filter media 72 of the assembly 30, 130 can be
self-supporting or non-self-supporting. For example, where the
pleated filter media assembly 130 consists of the pleated filter
media 72 alone, the filter media or web 72 can be self-supporting
or non-self-supporting. Where the pleated filter media assembly 130
consists of the pleated filter media or web 72 and a support
structure, the pleated filter media 72 can be non-self-supporting
with the addition supporting structure rendering the pleated filter
media assembly 130, as a whole, to be self-supporting. For example,
the filter media 72 can be wire-backed. A "self-supporting pleated
filter media or web" can describe a filter media or web that is
deformation resistant without requiring stiffening layers, adhesive
or other reinforcement in the filter media web. Alternatively,
"self-supporting" means that the pleated filter media generally
maintains its shape when subjected to an airstream as described,
for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,169,202 to Kubokawa, the entire
teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Alternatively, the term "self-supporting" refers to a web or media
having sufficient coherency and strength so as to be drapable and
handleable without substantial tearing or rupture, and when used
with respect to a pleated filter refers to a filter whose pleats
have sufficient stiffness so that they do not collapse or bow
excessively when subjected to the air pressure typically
encountered in force air ventilation systems. The term
"non-self-supporting" can denote an air filter media that is not
capable, in the absence of a support frame and/or a support grill,
of withstanding the forces encountered due to typical air flow.
[0041] The particular filter media 72 selected for the filter media
assemblies 30, 130 can be particularly suited have particular
desired characteristics described herein. In some embodiments, an
electrostatic charge is optionally imparted into or on to
material(s) of the filter media 72. An electrostatically charged
media 72 may be used, of which many grades are available, and many
of which offer high efficiency with low pressure drop. Thus, the
filter media 72 can be an electret nonwoven web. Electric charge
can be imparted to the filter media 72 in a variety of ways as is
well known in the art, for example by hydrocharging, corona
charging, etc. (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,947,142
(mentioned above)). In other embodiments, the filter media 72 is
not electrostatically charged. Additional multi-functional media
grades, which incorporate activated carbon or other materials for
purifying gas-phase pollutants, may also be incorporated into the
filter structure. The filter media 72 can be constructed, for
example, from nonwoven fibrous media formed of thermoplastics or
thermosetting materials such as polypropylene, linear polyethylene
and polyvinyl chloride. Other suitable, non-limiting materials for
the filter media include porous foams, nonwovens, papers,
fiberglass, or the like. In some embodiments, the filter media 72
comprises a filter media that attracts and captures dust, allergens
such as pollen and mold spores, and fine particle pollution from
the outdoor air.
[0042] In another embodiment, the filter assembly 30 can include
both ruffled and pleated portions. The central portion of the
filter media 56 may include self-supporting or wire-backed pleats
which are connected to the side attachment structures 54, and the
side attachment structures 54 may form a ruffled structure when
installed over the side frame members 36, 38. In a further
embodiment, a single continuous piece of filter media 56 may be
used to form both ruffled edge attachment structures 54 and the
central pleated filter media 56 portion.
[0043] Other nonwoven webs useful with the filter media 72 can be a
high loft spunbond web, such as described, for example, in U.S.
Pat. No. 8,162,153 to Fox et al., the entire teachings of which are
incorporated herein by reference. In other embodiments, the filter
media 72 can be a low loft spunbond web, such as those described in
U.S. Pat. No. 7,947,142 to Fox et al., the entire teachings of
which are incorporated herein by reference. In yet other
embodiments, nonwoven webs useful with the filter media 72 are
generated by other techniques and/or have other characteristics,
such as the meltblown nonwoven webs disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,858,297 to Shah et al. (mentioned above). Other non-limiting
example of useful nonwoven web formats include bi-modal fiber
diameter meltblown media such as that described in U.S. Pat. No.
7,858,163, the entire teaching of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0044] FIG. 5 then illustrates the expandable filter fitted into
both a horizontal sliding window and a vertical sliding window. The
filter is installed by expanding it to the non-motion dimension of
the window and then partially closing one sash onto the filter
assembly. It is noted that a small gap may be created between the
two window segments, allowing air to flow from the outside between
the two window segments and bypassing the filter to gain entry to
the indoors. This bypass may be avoided by the use of a piece of
foam, weather-stripping, etc.
[0045] Embodiments include window filters suitable for sliding-type
windows, such as horizontal sliding windows and vertical sliding
windows (e.g. single and double hung). These sliding window types
appear to be the predominant types in both North America and the
China region, for example. FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a window air
filter 120 installed in a horizontally opening window 180 (i.e.,
having a horizontally operable sash 182). FIGS. 6A and 6B
illustrate a window air filter 220 installed in a window 280 having
a vertically operable sash 282. The window air filters 120, 220 are
sized for a wide variety of window dimensions in the dimension of
sliding window sash 182, 282 travels. The dimensional adjustability
of the window air filter 120, 220 in the longitudinal dimension of
the filter (indicated by the arrow) further allows adjustability to
fit a variety of window widths (the cross-direction of window
travel). The window air filter 120, 220 is sized for a partially
open window 180, 280. In some embodiments, only 10-30% of the
window area is blocked, leaving a large percentage of the window
area still open for light passage and visibility.
[0046] In accordance with principles of the present disclosure,
window air filters 120, 220 protect users from outside air quality
contaminants while allowing fresh air get into the home or building
structure through the windows 180, 280. In one example, by
incorporating an extendable surface area of filter media assembly
130 and by covering a moderate portion of the window 180, 280, in
combination with using a low pressure drop web 72 enabled by the
electrostatic charging, a reasonably low pressure drop can be
achieved for the window air filter 120, 220, and a moderate airflow
is provided through the window air filter 120, 220. The adjustable
frame assembly 140, 240 allows users to easily adjust the length of
the window air filter 120, 220 to fit their specific window size
180, 280. In one embodiment, the window air filter 120, 220
optionally includes a restraining strap or component to prevent it
from falling out the window (not shown).
[0047] With additional reference to FIGS. 1 through 3C, when the
user is ready to install the window air filter 120, 220 in the
window 180, 280, the user simply pull on the two end frame members
32, 34 to stretch the filter media assembly 130 to a desired size
corresponding with the window opening. The window air filter 120,
220 can be adjusted to the width of the window opening and the
operable sash 182, 282 of the window180, 280 snugly pressed against
one of the side frame members 36, 38 so that the window air filter
120, 220 fully occupies the opening space created by the window
sash 182, 282. The side members 36, 38 maintain their strength in
the expanded state to ensure the integrity of the window filter
120, 220, combining with the end frame members 32, 34 to
collectively define a frame that secures the filter media assembly
130. When the user desires to change the filter media assembly 130,
for example, when the filter media becomes at least partially
clogged or blocked by contaminants collected on the filter media,
the user can adjust the window sash to increase the window opening
size and push the end frame members 32, 34 towards each other to at
least partially collapse the window air filter 120, 220. The window
air filter 120, 220 can be removed from the window opening and one
of the end frame members 32, 34 disengaged, or uncoupled, from the
side frame members 36, 38 and the filter media assembly 30. For
example, as discussed above, the side frame members 36, 38 can be
disengaged from the frame receivers 46 of at least one of the end
frame 32, 34 and the filter media assembly 30 can be disengaged
from the filter receivers of both the end frames 32, 34. The filter
media assembly 30 can then be slidably or otherwise removed from
the side frame members 36, 38. Another filter media assembly 30 can
assembled to the frame members and the side frame members 36, 38
inserted or otherwise connected frame receivers 46 of the end frame
member 32, 34.
[0048] The air filter assembly of the present disclosure can be
used in a powered air filtration system such as, for example, that
described in U.S. Patent Application No. 62/041501, incorporated
herein in its entirety. The air filter assembly or media of U.S.
Pat. No. 62/206,928 can be used in the air filters of the present
disclosure.
[0049] The terms first, second, third and the like in the
description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between
similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or
chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used
are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the
embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of
operation in other sequences than described or illustrated
herein.
[0050] All references mentioned herein are incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
[0051] Moreover, the terms top, bottom, over, under and the like in
the description and the claims are used for descriptive purposes
and not necessarily for describing relative positions. It is to be
understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under
appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention
described herein are capable of operation in other orientations
than described or illustrated herein.
[0052] The recitation of all numerical ranges by endpoint is meant
to include all numbers subsumed within the range (i.e., the range 1
to 10 includes, for example, 1, 1.5, 3.33, and 10).
[0053] Those having skill in the art will appreciate that many
changes may be made to the details of the above-described
embodiments and implementations without departing from the
underlying principles thereof. Further, various modifications and
alterations of the present invention will become apparent to those
skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of
the invention. The scope of the present application should,
therefore, be determined only by the following claims and
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *