Abstract:
Methods for cleaning a first group of electrodes contained within an air conditioner are provided. A second group of electrodes within the air conditioner has a cleaning device fastened therewith. The cleaning device engages the first group of electrodes. A method includes removing the second group of electrodes from the air conditioner, and replacing the second group of electrodes back into the air conditioner.

Description:
PRIORITY CLAIM  
       [0001]    This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/924,600 filed Aug. 8, 2001, to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 6,709,484 (Attorney Docket No. SHPR-01041US5), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/564,960 filed May 4, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,350,417 (Attorney Docket No. SHPR-01041US1), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/186,471, filed Nov. 5, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,977. 
     
    
     
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    This invention relates generally to devices that produce ozone and an electro-kinetic flow of air from which particulate matter has been substantially removed, and more particularly to cleaning the wire or wire-like electrodes present in such devices.  
         BACKGROUND  
         [0003]    The use of an electric motor to rotate a fan blade to create an air flow has long been known in the art. Unfortunately, such fans produce substantial noise, and can present a hazard to children who may be tempted to poke a finger or a pencil into the moving fan blade. Although such fans can produce substantial air flow, e.g., 1,000 ft 3 /minute or more, substantial electrical power is required to operate the motor, and essentially no conditioning of the flowing air occurs.  
           [0004]    It is known to provide such fans with a HEPA-compliant filter element to remove particulate matter larger than perhaps 0.3 μm. Unfortunately, the resistance to air flow presented by the filter element may require doubling the electric motor size to maintain a desired level of airflow. Further, HEPA-compliant filter elements are expensive, and can represent a substantial portion of the sale price of a HEPA-compliant filter-fan unit. While such filter-fan units can condition the air by removing large particles, particulate matter small enough to pass through the filter element is not removed, including bacteria, for example.  
           [0005]    It is also known in the art to produce an air flow using electro-kinetic techniques, by which electrical power is directly converted into a flow of air without mechanically moving components. One such system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,789,801 to Lee (1988), depicted herein in simplified form as FIGS. 1A and 1B. Lee&#39;s system  10  includes an array of small area (“minisectional”) electrodes  20  that is spaced-apart symmetrically from an array of larger area (“maxisectional”) electrodes  30 . The positive terminal of a pulse generator  40  that outputs a train of high voltage pulses (e.g., 0 to perhaps+5 KV) is coupled to the minisectional array, and the negative pulse generator terminal is coupled to the maxisectional array.  
           [0006]    The high voltage pulses ionize the air between the arrays, and an air flow  50  from the minisectional array toward the maxisectional array results, without requiring any moving parts. Particulate matter  60  in the air is entrained within the airflow  50  and also moves towards the maxisectional electrodes  30 . Much of the particulate matter is electrostatically attracted to the surface of the maxisectional electrode array, where it remains, thus conditioning the flow of air exiting system  10 . Further, the high voltage field present between the electrode arrays can release ozone into the ambient environment, which appears to destroy or at least alter whatever is entrained in the airflow, including for example, bacteria.  
           [0007]    In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, minisectional electrodes  20  are circular in cross-section, having a diameter of about 0.003″ (0.08 mm), whereas the maxisectional electrodes  30  are substantially larger in area and define a “teardrop” shape in cross-section. The ratio of cross-sectional radii of curvature between the maxisectional and minisectional electrodes is not explicitly stated, but from Lee&#39;s figures appears to exceed 10:1. As shown in FIG. 1A herein, the bulbous front surfaces of the maxisectional electrodes face the minisectional electrodes, and the somewhat sharp trailing edges face the exit direction of the air flow. The “sharpened” trailing edges on the maxisectional electrodes apparently promote good electrostatic attachment of particular matter entrained in the airflow. Lee does not disclose how the teardrop shaped maxisectional electrodes are fabricated, but presumably they are produced using a relatively expensive mold-casting or an extrusion process.  
           [0008]    In another embodiment shown herein as FIG. 1B, Lee&#39;s maxisectional sectional electrodes  30  are symmetrical and elongated in cross-section. The elongated trailing edges on the maxisectional electrodes provide increased area upon which particulate matter entrained in the airflow can attach. Lee states that precipitation efficiency and desired reduction of anion release into the environment can result from including a passive third array of electrodes  70 . Understandably, increasing efficiency by adding a third array of electrodes will contribute to the cost of manufacturing and maintaining the resultant system.  
           [0009]    While the electrostatic techniques disclosed by Lee are advantageous over conventional electric fan-filter units, Lee&#39;s maxisectional electrodes are relatively expensive to fabricate. Further, increased filter efficiency beyond what Lee&#39;s embodiments can produce would be advantageous, especially without including a third array of electrodes.  
           [0010]    The invention in applicants&#39; parent application provided a first and second electrode array configuration electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner having improved efficiency over Lee-type systems, without requiring expensive production techniques to fabricate the electrodes. The condition also permitted user-selection of safe amounts of ozone to be generated.  
           [0011]    The second array electrodes were intended to collect particulate matter, and to be user-removable from the transporter-conditioner for regular cleaning to remove such matter from the electrode surfaces. The user must take care, however, to ensure that if the second array electrodes were cleaned with water, that the electrodes are thoroughly dried before reinsertion into the transporter-conditioner unit. If the unit were turned on while moisture from newly cleaned electrodes was allowed to pool within the unit, and moisture wicking could result in high voltage arcing from the first to the second electrode arrays, with possible damage to the unit.  
           [0012]    The wire or wire-like electrodes in the first electrode array are less robust than the second array electrodes. (The terms “wire” and “wire-like” shall be used interchangeably herein to mean an electrode either made from a wire or, if thicker or stiffer than a wire, having the appearance of a wire.) In embodiments in which the first array electrodes were user-removable from the transporter-conditioner unit, care was required during cleaning to prevent excessive force from simply snapping the wire electrodes. But eventually the first array electrodes can accumulate a deposited layer or coating of fine ash-like material. If this deposit is allowed to accumulate, eventually efficiency of the conditioner-transporter will be degraded. Further, for reasons not entirely understood, such deposits can produce an audible oscillation that can be annoying to persons near the conditioner-transporter.  
           [0013]    Thus, there is a need for a mechanism by a conditioner-transporter unit that can be protected against moisture pooling in the unit as a result of user cleaning. Further, there is a need for a mechanism by which the wire electrodes in the first electrode array of a conditioner-transporter can be periodically cleaned. Preferably such cleaning mechanism should be straightforward to implement, should not require removal of the first array electrodes from the conditioner-transporter, and should be operable by a user on a periodic basis.  
           [0014]    The present invention provides a method and apparatus.  
         SUMMARY  
         [0015]    Applicants&#39; parent application provides an electro-kinetic system for transporting and conditioning air without moving parts. The air is conditioned in the sense that it is ionized and contains safe amounts of ozone. The electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner disclosed therein includes a louvered or grilled body that houses an ionizer unit. The ionizer unit includes a high voltage DC inverter that boosts common 110 VAC to high voltage, and a generator that receives the high voltage DC and outputs high voltage pulses of perhaps 10 KV peak-to-peak, although an essentially 100% duty cycle (e.g., high voltage DC) output could be used instead of pulses. The unit also includes an electrode assembly unit comprising first and second spaced-apart arrays of conducting electrodes, the first array and second array being coupled, respectively, preferably to the positive and negative output ports of the high voltage generator.  
           [0016]    The electrode assembly preferably is formed using first and second arrays of readily manufacturable electrode configurations. In the embodiments relevant to this present invention, the first array included wire (or wire-like) electrodes. The second array comprised “U”-shaped or “L”-shaped electrodes having one or two trailing surfaces and intentionally large outer surface areas upon which to collect particulate matter in the air. In the preferred embodiments, the ratio between effective radii of curvature of the second array electrodes to the first array electrodes is at least about 20:1.  
           [0017]    The high voltage pulses create an electric field between the first and second electrode arrays. This field produces an electro-kinetic airflow going from the first array toward the second array, the airflow being rich in preferably a net surplus of negative ions and in ozone. Ambient air including dust particles and other undesired components (germs, perhaps) enter the housing through the grill or louver openings, and ionized clean air (with ozone) exits through openings on the downstream side of the housing.  
           [0018]    The dust and other particulate matter attaches electrostatically to the second array (or collector) electrodes, and the output air is substantially clean of such particulate matter. Further, ozone generated by the transporter-conditioner unit can kill certain types of germs and the like, and also eliminates odors in the output air. Preferably the transporter operates in periodic bursts, and a control permits the user to temporarily increase the high voltage pulse generator output, e.g., to more rapidly eliminate odors in the environment.  
           [0019]    Applicants&#39; parent application provided second array electrode units that were very robust and user-removable from the transporter-conditioner unit for cleaning. These second array electrode units could simply be slid up and out of the transporter-conditioner unit, and wiped clean with a moist cloth, and returned to the unit. However, on occasion, if electrode units are returned to the transporter-conditioner unit while still wet (from cleaning), moisture pooling can reduce resistance between the first and second electrode arrays to where high voltage arcing results.  
           [0020]    Another problem is that over time the wire electrodes in the first electrode array become dirty and can accumulate a deposited layer or coating of fine ash-like material. This accumulated material on the first array electrodes can eventually reduce ionization efficiency. Further, this accumulated coating can also result in the transporter-conditioner unit producing 500 Hz to 5 KHz audible oscillations that can annoy people in the same room as the unit.  
           [0021]    In a first embodiment, the present invention extends one or more thin flexible sheets of MYLAR or KAPTON type material from the lower portion of the removable second array electrode unit. This sheet or sheets faces the first array electrodes and is nominally in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first and second array electrodes. Such sheet material has high voltage breakdown, high dielectric constant, can withstand high temperature, and is flexible. A slit is cut in the distal edge of this sheet for each first array electrode such that each wire first array electrode fits into a slit in this sheet. Whenever the user removes the second electrode array from the transporter-conditioner unit, the sheet of material is also removed. However, in the removal process, the sheet of material is also pulled upward, and friction between the inner slit edge surrounding each wire tends to scrape off any coating on the first array electrode. When the second array electrode unit is reinserted into the transporter-conditioner unit, the slits in the sheet automatically surround the associated first electrode array electrode. Thus, there is an up and down scraping action on the first electrode array electrodes whenever the second array electrode unit is removed from, or simply moved up and down within, the transporter-conditioner unit.  
           [0022]    Optionally, upwardly projecting pillars can be disposed on the inner bottom surface of the transporter-conditioner unit to deflect the distal edge of the sheet material upward, away from the first array electrodes when the second array electrode unit is fully inserted. This feature reduces the likelihood of the sheet itself lowering the resistance between the two electrode arrays.  
           [0023]    In a presently preferred embodiment, the lower ends of the second array electrodes are mounted to a retainer that includes pivotable arms to which a strip of MYLAR or KAPTON type material is attached. The distal edge of each strip includes a slit, and each strip (and the slit therein) is disposed to self-align with an associated wire electrode. A pedestal extends downward from the base of the retainer, and when fully inserted in the transporter-conditioner unit, the pedestal extends into a pedestal opening in a sub-floor of the unit. The first electrode array-facing walls of the pedestal opening urge the arms and the strip on each arm to pivot upwardly, from a horizontal to a vertical disposition. This configuration can improve resistance between the electrode arrays.  
           [0024]    Yet another embodiment provides a cleaning mechanism for the wires in the first electrode array in which one or more bead-like members surrounds each wire, the wire electrode passing through a channel in the bead. When the transporter-conditioner unit is inverted, top-for-bottom and then bottom-for-top, the beads slide the length of the wire they surround, scraping off debris in the process. The beads embodiments may be combined with any or all of the various sheets embodiments to provide mechanisms allowing a user to safely clean the wire electrodes in the first electrode array in a transporter-conditioner unit.  
           [0025]    Other features and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description in which the preferred embodiments have been set forth in detail, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0026]    [0026]FIG. 1A is a plan, cross-sectional view, of a first embodiment of a prior art electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system, according to the prior art;  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 1B is a plan, cross-sectional view, of a second embodiment of a prior art electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system, according to the prior art;  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 2A, with the second array electrode assembly partially withdrawn depicting a mechanism for self-cleaning the first array electrode assembly, according to the present invention;  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 3 is an electrical block diagram of the present invention;  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 4A is a perspective block diagram showing a first embodiment for an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 4B is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4A;  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 4C is a perspective block diagram showing a second embodiment for an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 4D is a plan block diagram of a modified version of the embodiment of FIG. 4C;  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 4E is a perspective block diagram showing a third embodiment for an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;  
         [0036]    [0036]FIG. 4F is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4E;  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an electrode assembly depicting a first embodiment of a mechanism to clean first electrode array electrodes, according to the present invention.  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 5B is a side view depicting an electrode cleaning mechanism as shown in FIG. 5A, according to the present invention;  
         [0039]    [0039]FIG. 5C is a plan view of the electrode cleaning mechanism shown in FIG. 5B, according to the present invention;  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a pivotable electrode cleaning mechanism, according to the present invention;  
         [0041]    [0041]FIGS. 6B-6D depict the cleaning mechanism of FIG. 6A in various positions, according to the present invention;  
         [0042]    [0042]FIGS. 7A-7E depict cross-sectional views of bead-like mechanisms to clean first electrode array electrodes, according to the present invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0043]    [0043]FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system  100  whose housing  102  includes preferably rear-located intake vents or louvers  104  and preferably front and side-located exhaust vents  106 , and a base pedestal  108 . Internal to the transporter housing is an ion generating unit  160 , preferably powered by an AC:DC power supply that is energizable or excitable using switch S 1 . Ion generating unit  160  is self-contained in that other than ambient air, nothing is required from beyond the transporter housing, save external operating potential, for operation of the present invention.  
         [0044]    The upper surface of housing  102  includes a user-liftable handle member  112  to which is affixed a second array  240  of electrodes  242  within an electrode assembly  220 . Electrode assembly  220  also comprises a first array of electrodes  230 , shown here as a single wire or wire-like electrode  232 . In the embodiment shown, lifting member  112  upward lifts second array electrodes  240  up and, if desired, out of unit  100 , while the first electrode array  230  remains within unit  100 . In FIG. 2B, the bottom ends of second array electrode  242  are connected to a member  113 , to which is attached a mechanism  500  for cleaning the first electrode array electrodes, here electrode  232 , whenever handle member  112  is moved upward or downward by a user. FIGS. 5A-7E, described later herein, provide further details as to various mechanisms  500  for cleaning wire or wire-like electrodes  232  in the first electrode array  230 , and for maintaining high resistance between the first and second electrode arrays  220 ,  230  even if some moisture is allowed to pool within the bottom interior of unit  100 .  
         [0045]    The first and second arrays of electrodes are coupled in series between the output terminals of ion generating unit  160 , as best seen in FIG. 3. The ability to lift handle  112  provides ready access to the electrodes comprising the electrode assembly, for purposes of cleaning and, if necessary, replacement.  
         [0046]    The general shape of the invention shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B is not critical. The top-to-bottom height of the preferred embodiment is perhaps 1 m, with a left-to-right width of perhaps 15 cm, and a front-to-back depth of perhaps 10 cm, although other dimensions and shapes may of course be used. A louvered construction provides ample inlet and outlet venting in an economical housing configuration. There need be no real distinction between vents  104  and  106 , except their location relative to the second array electrodes, and indeed a common vent could be used. These vents serve to ensure that an adequate flow of ambient air may be drawn into or made available to the unit  100 , and that an adequate flow of ionized air that includes safe amounts of O 3  flows out from unit  130 .  
         [0047]    As will be described, when unit  100  is energized with S 1 , high voltage output by ion generator  160  produces ions at the first electrode array, which ions are attracted to the second electrode array. The movement of the ions in an “IN” to “OUT” direction carries with them air molecules, thus electro kinetically producing an outflow of ionized air. The “IN” notion in FIGS. 2A and 2B denote the intake of ambient air with particulate matter  60 . The “OUT” notation in the figures denotes the outflow of cleaned air substantially devoid of the particulate matter, which adheres electrostatically to the surface of the second array electrodes. In the process of generating the ionized air flow, safe amounts of ozone (O 3 ) are beneficially produced. It may be desired to provide the inner surface of housing  102  with an electrostatic shield to reduces detectable electromagnetic radiation. For example, a metal shield could be disposed within the housing, or portions of the interior of the housing could be coated with a metallic paint to reduce such radiation.  
         [0048]    As best seen in FIG. 3, ion generating unit  160  includes a high voltage generator unit  170  and circuitry  180  for converting raw alternating voltage (e.g., 117 VAC) into direct current (“DC”) voltage. Circuitry  180  preferably includes circuitry controlling the shape and/or duty cycle of the generator unit output voltage (which control is altered with user switch S 2 ). Circuitry  180  preferably also includes a pulse mode component, coupled to switch S 3 , to temporarily provide a burst of increased output ozone. Circuitry  180  can also include a timer circuit and a visual indicator such as a light emitting diode (“LED”). The LED or other indicator (including, if desired, audible indicator) signals when ion generation is occurring. The timer can automatically halt generation of ions and/or ozone after some predetermined time, e.g., 30 minutes. indicator(s), and/or audible indicator(s).  
         [0049]    As shown in FIG. 3, high voltage generator unit  170  preferably comprises a low voltage oscillator circuit  190  of perhaps 20 KHz frequency, that outputs low voltage pulses to an electronic switch  200 , e.g., a thyristor or the like. Switch  200  switchably couples the low voltage pulses to the input winding of a step-up transformer T 1 . The secondary winding of Ti is coupled to a high voltage multiplier circuit  210  that outputs high voltage pulses. Preferably the circuitry and components comprising high voltage pulse generator  170  and circuit  180  are fabricated on a printed circuit board that is mounted within housing  102 . If desired, external audio input (e.g., from a stereo tuner) could be suitably coupled to oscillator  190  to acoustically modulate the kinetic airflow produced by unit  160 . The result would be an electrostatic loudspeaker, whose output air flow is audible to the human ear in accordance with the audio input signal. Further, the output air stream would still include ions and ozone.  
         [0050]    Output pulses from high voltage generator  170  preferably are at least 10 KV peak-to-peak with an effective DC offset of perhaps half the peak-to-peak voltage, and have a frequency of perhaps 20 KHz. The pulse train output preferably has a duty cycle of perhaps 10%, which will promote battery lifetime. Of course, different peak-peak amplitudes, DC offsets, pulse train waveshapes, duty cycle, and/or repetition frequencies may instead be used. Indeed, a 100% pulse train (e.g., an essentially DC high voltage) may be used, albeit with shorter battery lifetime. Thus, generator unit  170  may (but need not) be referred to as a high voltage pulse generator.  
         [0051]    Frequency of oscillation is not especially critical but frequency of at least about 20 KHz is preferred as being inaudible to humans. If pets will be in the same room as the unit  100 , it may be desired to utilize an even higher operating frequency, to prevent pet discomfort and/or howling by the pet. As noted with respect to FIGS. 5A-6E, to reduce likelihood of audible oscillations, it is desired to include at least one mechanism to clean the first electrode array  230  elements  232 .  
         [0052]    The output from high voltage pulse generator unit  170  is coupled to an electrode assembly  220  that comprises a first electrode array  230  and a second electrode array  240 . Unit  170  functions as a DC:DC high voltage generator, and could be implemented using other circuitry and/or techniques to output high voltage pulses that are input to electrode assembly  220 .  
         [0053]    In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the positive output terminal of unit  170  is coupled to first electrode array  230 , and the negative output terminal is coupled to second electrode array  240 . This coupling polarity has been found to work well, including minimizing unwanted audible electrode vibration or hum. An electrostatic flow of air is created, going from the first electrode array towards the second electrode array. (This flow is denoted “OUT” in the figures.) Accordingly electrode assembly  220  is mounted within transporter system  100  such that second electrode array  240  is closer to the OUT vents and first electrode array  230  is closer to the IN vents.  
         [0054]    When voltage or pulses from high voltage pulse generator  170  are coupled across first and second electrode arrays  230  and  240 , it is believed that a plasma-like field is created surrounding electrodes  232  in first array  230 . This electric field ionizes the ambient air between the first and second electrode arrays and establishes an “OUT” airflow that moves towards the second array. It is understood that the IN flow enters via vent(s)  104 , and that the OUT flow exits via vent(s)  106 .  
         [0055]    It is believed that ozone and ions are generated simultaneously by the first array electrode(s)  232 , essentially as a function of the potential from generator  170  coupled to the first array. Ozone generation may be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the potential at the first array. Coupling an opposite polarity potential to the second array electrode(s)  242  essentially accelerates the motion of ions generated at the first array, producing the air flow denoted as “OUT” in the figures. As the ions move toward the second array, it is believed that they push or move air molecules toward the second array. The relative velocity of this motion may be increased by decreasing the potential at the second array relative to the potential at the first array.  
         [0056]    For example, if+10 KV were applied to the first array electrode(s), and no potential were applied to the second array electrode(s), a cloud of ions (whose net charge is positive) would form adjacent the first electrode array. Further, the relatively high 10 KV potential would generate substantial ozone. By coupling a relatively negative potential to the second array electrode(s), the velocity of the air mass moved by the net emitted ions increases, as momentum of the moving ions is conserved.  
         [0057]    On the other hand, if it were desired to maintain the same effective outflow (OUT) velocity but to generate less ozone, the exemplary 10 KV potential could be divided between the electrode arrays. For example, generator  170  could provide +4 KV (or some other fraction) to the first array electrode(s) and −6 KV (or some other fraction) to the second array electrode(s). In this example, it is understood that the +4 KV and the −6 KV are measured relative to ground. Understandably it is desired that the unit  100  operate to output safe amounts of ozone. Accordingly, the high voltage is preferably fractionalized with about +4 KV applied to the first array electrode(s) and about −6 KV applied to the second array electrodes.  
         [0058]    As noted, outflow (OUT) preferably includes safe amounts of O 3  that can destroy or at least substantially alter bacteria, germs, and other living (or quasi-living) matter subjected to the outflow. Thus, when switch S 1  is closed and  131  has sufficient operating potential, pulses from high voltage pulse generator unit  170  create an outflow (OUT) of ionized air and O 3 . When S 1  is closed, LED will visually signal when ionization is occurring.  
         [0059]    Preferably operating parameters of unit  100  are set during manufacture and are not user-adjustable. For example, increasing the peak-to-peak output voltage and/or duty cycle in the high voltage pulses generated by unit  170  can increase air flowrate, ion content, and ozone content. In the preferred embodiment, output flowrate is about 200 feet/minute, ion content is about 2,000,000/cc and ozone content is about 40 ppb (over ambient) to perhaps 2,000 ppb (over ambient). Decreasing the R2/R1 ratio below about 20:1 will decrease flow rate, as will decreasing the peak-to-peak voltage and/or duty cycle of the high voltage pulses coupled between the first and second electrode arrays.  
         [0060]    In practice, unit  100  is placed in a room and connected to an appropriate source of operating potential, typically 117 VAC. With S 1  energized, ionization unit  160  emits ionized air and preferably some ozone (O 3 ) via outlet vents  150 . The air flow, coupled with the ions and ozone freshens the air in the room, and the ozone can beneficially destroy or at least diminish the undesired effects of certain odors, bacteria, germs, and the like. The air flow is indeed electro-kinetically produced, in that there are no intentionally moving parts within unit  100 . (As noted, some mechanical vibration may occur within the electrodes.) As will be described with respect to FIG. 4A, it is desirable that unit  100  actually output a net surplus of negative ions, as these ions are deemed more beneficial to health than are positive ions.  
         [0061]    Having described various aspects of the invention in general, preferred embodiments of electrode assembly  220  will now be described. In the various embodiments, electrode assembly  220  will comprise a first array  230  of at least one electrode  232 , and will further comprise a second array  240  of preferably at least one electrode  242 . Understandably material(s) for electrodes  232  and  242  should conduct electricity, be resilient to corrosive effects from the application of high voltage, yet be strong enough to be cleaned.  
         [0062]    In the various electrode assemblies to be described herein, electrode(s)  232  in the first electrode array  230  are preferably fabricated from tungsten. Tungsten is sufficiently robust to withstand cleaning, has a high melting point to retard breakdown due to ionization, and has a rough exterior surface that seems to promote efficient ionization. On the other hand, electrodes  242  preferably will have a highly polished exterior surface to minimize unwanted point-to-point radiation. As such, electrodes  242  preferably are fabricated from stainless steel, brass, among other materials. The polished surface of electrodes  232  also promotes ease of electrode cleaning.  
         [0063]    In contrast to the prior art electrodes disclosed by Lee, electrodes  232  and  242 , electrodes used in unit  100  are light weight, easy to fabricate, and lend themselves to mass production. Further, electrodes  232  and  242  described herein promote more efficient generation of ionized air, and production of safe amounts of ozone, O 3 .  
         [0064]    In unit  100 , a high voltage pulse generator  170  is coupled between the first electrode array  230  and the second electrode array  240 . The high voltage pulses produce a flow of ionized air that travels in the direction from the first array towards the second array (indicated herein by hollow arrows denoted “OUT”). As such, electrode(s)  232  may be referred to as an emitting electrode, and electrodes  242  may be referred to as collector electrodes. This outflow advantageously contains safe amounts of O 3 , and exits unit  100  from vent(s)  106 .  
         [0065]    It is preferred that the positive output terminal or port of the high voltage pulse generator be coupled to electrodes  232 , and that the negative output terminal or port be coupled to electrodes  242 . It is believed that the net polarity of the emitted ions is positive, e.g., more positive ions than negative ions are emitted. In any event, the preferred electrode assembly electrical coupling minimizes audible hum from electrodes  232  contrasted with reverse polarity (e.g., interchanging the positive and negative output port connections).  
         [0066]    However, while generation of positive ions is conducive to a relatively silent air flow, from a health standpoint, it is desired that the output air flow be richer in negative ions, not positive ions. It is noted that in some embodiments, however, one port (preferably the negative port) of the high voltage pulse generator may in fact be the ambient air. Thus, electrodes in the second array need not be connected to the high voltage pulse generator using wire. Nonetheless, there will be an “effective connection” between the second array electrodes and one output port of the high voltage pulse generator, in this instance, via ambient air.  
         [0067]    Turning now to the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, electrode assembly  220  comprises a first array  230  of wire electrodes  232 , and a second array  240  of generally “U”-shaped electrodes  242 . In preferred embodiments, the number N1 of electrodes comprising the first array will preferably differ by one relative to the number N2 of electrodes comprising the second array. In many of the embodiments shown, N2&gt;N1. However, if desired, in FIG. 4A, addition first electrodes  232  could be added at the out ends of array  230  such that N1&gt;N2, e.g., five electrodes  232  compared to four electrodes  242 .  
         [0068]    Electrodes  232  are preferably lengths of tungsten wire, whereas electrodes  242  are formed from sheet metal, preferably stainless steel, although brass or other sheet metal could be used. The sheet metal is readily formed to define side regions  244  and bulbous nose region  246  for hollow elongated “U” shaped electrodes  242 . While FIG. 4A depicts four electrodes  242  in second array  240  and three electrodes  232  in first array  230 , as noted, other numbers of electrodes in each array could be used, preferably retaining a symmetrically staggered configuration as shown. It is seen in FIG. 4A that while particulate matter  60  is present in the incoming (IN) air, the outflow (OUT) air is substantially devoid of particulate matter, which adheres to the preferably large surface area provided by the second array electrodes (see FIG. 4B).  
         [0069]    As best seen in FIG. 4B, the spaced-apart configuration between the arrays is staggered such that each first array electrode  232  is substantially equidistant from two second array electrodes  242 . This symmetrical staggering has been found to be an especially efficient electrode placement. Preferably the staggering geometry is symmetrical in that adjacent electrodes  232  or adjacent electrodes  242  are spaced-apart a constant distance, Y1 and Y2 respectively. However, a non-symmetrical configuration could also be used, although ion emission and air flow would likely be diminished. Also, it is understood that the number of electrodes  232  and  242  may differ from what is shown.  
         [0070]    In FIG. 4A, typically dimensions are as follows: diameter of electrodes  232  is about 0.08 mm, distances Y1 and Y2 are each about 16 mm, distance X1 is about 16 mm, distance L is about 20 mm, and electrode heights Z1 and Z2 are each about 1 m. The width W of electrodes  242  is preferably about 4 mm, and the thickness of the material from which electrodes  242  are formed is about 0.5 mm. Of course other dimensions and shapes could be used. It is preferred that electrodes  232  be small in diameter to help establish a desired high voltage field. On the other hand, it is desired that electrodes  232  (as well as electrodes  242 ) be sufficiently robust to withstand occasional cleaning.  
         [0071]    Electrodes  232  in first array  230  are coupled by a conductor  234  to a first (preferably positive) output port of high voltage pulse generator  170 , and electrodes  242  in second array  240  are coupled by a conductor  244  to a second (preferably negative) output port of generator  170 . It is relatively unimportant where on the various electrodes electrical connection is made to conductors  234  or  244 . Thus, by way of example FIG. 4B depicts conductor  244  making connection with some electrodes  242  internal to bulbous end  246 , while other electrodes  242  make electrical connection to conductor  244  elsewhere on the electrode. Electrical connection to the various electrodes  242  could also be made on the electrode external surface providing no substantial impairment of the outflow airstream results.  
         [0072]    To facilitate removing the electrode assembly from unit  100  (as shown in FIG. 2B), it is preferred that the lower end of the various electrodes fit against mating portions of wire or other conductors  234  or  244 . For example, “cup-like” members can be affixed to wires  234  and  244  into which the free ends of the various electrodes fit when electrode array  220  is inserted completely into housing  102  of unit  100 .  
         [0073]    The ratio of the effective electric field emanating area of electrode  232  to the nearest effective area of electrodes  242  is at least about 15:1, and preferably is at least 20:1. Thus, in the embodiment of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the ratio R2/R1≈2 mm/0.04 mm=50:1.  
         [0074]    In this and the other embodiments to be described herein, ionization appears to occur at the smaller electrode(s)  232  in the first electrode array  230 , with ozone production occurring as a function of high voltage arcing. For example, increasing the peak-to-peak voltage amplitude and/or duty cycle of the pulses from the high voltage pulse generator  170  can increase ozone content in the output flow of ionized air. If desired, user-control S 2  can be used to somewhat vary ozone content by varying (in a safe manner) amplitude and/or duty. cycle. Specific circuitry for achieving such control is known in the art and need not be described in detail herein.  
         [0075]    Note the inclusion in FIGS. 4A and 4B of at least one output controlling electrode  243 , preferably electrically coupled to the same potential as the second array electrodes. Electrode  243  preferably defines a pointed shape in side profile, e.g., a triangle. The sharp point on electrode(s)  243  causes generation of substantial negative ions (since the electrode is coupled to relatively negative high potential). These negative ions neutralize excess positive ions otherwise present in the output air flow, such that the OUT flow has a net negative charge. Electrode(s)  243  preferably are stainless steel, copper, or other conductor, and are perhaps 20 mm high and about 12 mm wide at the base.  
         [0076]    Another advantage of including pointed electrodes  243  is that they maybe stationarily mounted within the housing of unit  100 , and thus are not readily reached by human hands when cleaning the unit. Were it otherwise, the sharp point on electrode(s)  243  could easily cause cuts. The inclusion of one electrode  243  has been found sufficient to provide a sufficient number of output negative ions, but more such electrodes may be included.  
         [0077]    In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4C, each “U”-shaped electrode  242  has two trailing edges that promote efficient kinetic transport of the outflow of ionized air and O 3 . Note the inclusion on at least one portion of a trailing edge of a pointed electrode region  243 ′. Electrode region  243 ′ helps promote output of negative ions, in the same fashion as was described with respect to FIGS. 4A and 4B. Note, however, the higher likelihood of a user cutting himself or herself when wiping electrodes  242  with a cloth or the like to remove particulate matter deposited thereon. In FIG. 4C and the figures to follow, the particulate matter is omitted for ease of illustration. However, from what was shown in FIGS. 2A-4B, particulate matter will be present in the incoming air, and will be substantially absent from the outgoing air. As has been described, particulate matter  60  typically will be electrostatically precipitated upon the surface area of electrodes  242 . As indicated by FIG. 4C, it is relatively unimportant where on an electrode array electrical connection is made. Thus, first array electrodes  232  are shown connected together at their bottom regions, whereas second array electrodes  242  are shown connected together in their middle regions. Both arrays may be connected together in more than one region, e.g., at the top and at the bottom. It is preferred that the wire or strips or other inter-connecting mechanisms be at the top or bottom or periphery of the second array electrodes  242 , so as to minimize obstructing stream air movement.  
         [0078]    Note that the embodiments of FIGS. 4C and 4D depict somewhat truncated versions of electrodes  242 . Whereas dimension L in the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B was about 20 mm, in FIGS. 4C and 4D, L has been shortened to about 8 mm. Other dimensions in FIG. 4C preferably are similar to those stated for FIGS. 4A and 4B. In FIGS. 4C and 4D, the inclusion of point-like regions  246  on the trailing edge of electrodes  242  seems to promote more efficient generation of ionized air flow. It will be appreciated that the configuration of second electrode array  240  in FIG. 4C can be more robust than the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B, by virtue of the shorter trailing edge geometry. As noted earlier, a symmetrical staggered geometry for the first and second electrode arrays is preferred for the configuration of FIG. 4C.  
         [0079]    In the embodiment of FIG. 4D, the outermost second electrodes, denoted  242 - 1  and  242 - 2 , have substantially no outermost trailing edges. Dimension L in FIG. 4D is preferably about 3 mm, and other dimensions maybe as stated for the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B. Again, the R2/R1 ratio for the embodiment of FIG. 4D preferably exceeds about 20:1.  
         [0080]    [0080]FIGS. 4E and 4F depict another embodiment of electrode assembly  220 , in which the first electrode array comprises a single wire electrode  232 , and the second electrode array comprises a single pair of curved “L”-shaped electrodes  242 , in cross-section. Typical dimensions, where different than what has been stated for earlier-described embodiments, are X1≈12 mm, Y1≈6 mm, Y2≈5 mm, and L1≈3 mm. The effective R2/R1 ratio is again greater than about 20:1. The fewer electrodes comprising assembly  220  in FIGS. 4E and 4F promote economy of construction, and ease of cleaning, although more than one electrode  232 , and more than two electrodes  242  could of course be employed. This embodiment again incorporates the staggered symmetry described earlier, in which electrode  232  is equidistant from two electrodes  242 .  
         [0081]    Turning now to FIG. 5A, a first embodiment of an electrode cleaning mechanism  500  is depicted. In the embodiment shown, mechanism  500  comprises a flexible sheet of insulating material such as MYLAR or other high voltage, high temperature breakdown resistant material, having sheet thickness of perhaps 0.1 mm or so. Sheet  500  is attached at one end to the base or other mechanism  113  secured to the lower end of second electrode array  240 . Sheet  500  extends or projects out from base  113  towards and beyond the location of first electrode array  230  electrodes  232 . The overall projection length of sheet  500  in FIG. 5A will be sufficiently long to span the distance between base  113  of the second array  240  and the location of electrodes  232  in the first array  230 . This span distance will depend upon the electrode array configuration but typically will be a few inches or so. Preferably the distal edge of sheet  500  will extend slightly beyond the location of electrodes  232 , perhaps 0.5″ beyond. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the distal edge, e.g., edge closest to electrodes  232 , of material  500  is formed with a slot  510  corresponding to the location of an electrode  232 . Preferably the inward end of the slot forms a small circle  520 , which can promote flexibility.  
         [0082]    The configuration of material  500  and slots  510  is such that each wire or wire-like electrode  232  in the first electrode array  230  fits snugly and friction ally within a corresponding slot  510 . As indicated by FIG. 5A and shown in FIG. 5C, instead of a single sheet  500  that includes a plurality of slots  510 , instead one can provide individual strips  515  of material  500 , the distal end of each strip having a slot  510  that will surround an associated wire electrode  232 . Note in FIGS. 5B and 5C that sheet  500  or sheets  515  may be formed with holes  119  that can attach to pegs  117  that project from the base portion  113  of the second electrode array  240 . Of course other attachment mechanisms could be used including glue, double-sided tape, inserting the array  240 —facing edge of the sheet into a horizontal slot or ledge in base member  113 , and so forth.  
         [0083]    [0083]FIG. 5A shows second electrode array  240  in the process of being moved upward, perhaps by a user intending to remove array  240  to remove particulate matter from the surfaces of its electrodes  242 . Note that as array  240  moves up (or down), sheet  510  (or sheets  515 ) also move up (or down). This vertical movement of array  240  produces a vertical movement in sheet  510  or  515 , which causes the outer surface of electrodes  232  to scrape against the inner surfaces of an associated slot  510 . FIG. 5A, for example, shows debris and other deposits  612  (indicated by x&#39;s) on wires  232  above sheet  500 . As array  240  and sheet  500  move upward, debris  612  is scraped off the wire electrodes, and falls downward (to be vaporized or collected as particulate matter when unit  100  is again reassembled and turned-on). Thus, the outer surface of electrodes  232  below sheet  500  in FIG. 5A is shown as being cleaner than the surface of the same electrodes above sheet  500 , where scraping action has yet to occur.  
         [0084]    A user hearing that excess noise or humming emanates from unit  100  might simply turn the unit off, and slide array  240  (and thus sheet  500  or sheets  515 ) up and down (as indicated by the up/down arrows in FIG. 5A) to scrape the wire electrodes in the first electrode array. This technique does not damage the wire electrodes, and allows the user to clean as required.  
         [0085]    As noted earlier, a user may remove second electrode array  240  for cleaning (thus also removing sheet  500 , which will have scraped electrodes  232  on its upward vertical path). If the user cleans electrodes  242  with water and returns array  240  to unit  100  without first completely drying  240 , moisture might form on the upper surface of a horizontally disposed member  550  within unit  100 . Thus, as shown in FIG. 5N, it is preferred that an upwardly projecting vane  560  be disposed near the base of each electrode  232  such that when array  240  is fully inserted into unit  100 , the distal portion of sheet  500  or preferably sheet strips  515  deflect upward. While sheet  500  or sheets  515  nominally will define an angle θ of about 90°, as base  113  becomes fully inserted into unit  100 , the angle θ will increase, approaching 0°, e.g., the sheet is extending almost vertically upward. If desired, a portion of sheet  500  or sheet strips  515  can be made stiffer by laminating two or more layers of MYLAR or other material. For example the distal tip of strip  515  in FIG. 5B might be one layer thick, whereas the half or so of the strip length nearest electrode  242  might be stiffened with an extra layer or two of MYLAR or similar material.  
         [0086]    The inclusion of a projecting vane  560  in the configuration of FIG. 5B advantageously disrupted physical contact between sheet  500  or sheet strips  515  and electrodes  232 , thus tending to preserve a high ohmic impedance between the first and second electrode arrays  230 ,  240 . The embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6D advantageously serves to pivot sheet  500  or sheet strips  515  upward, essentially parallel to electrodes  232 , to help maintain a high impedance between the first and second electrode arrays. Note the creation of an air gap  513  resulting from the upward deflection of the slit distal tip of strip  515  in FIG. 5B.  
         [0087]    In FIG. 6A, the lower edges of second array electrodes  242  are retained by a base member  113  from which project arms  677 , which can pivot about pivot axle  687 . Preferably axle  687  biases arms  677  into a horizontal disposition, e.g., such that θ≈90°. Arms  645  project from the longitudinal axis of base member  113  to help member  113  align itself within an opening  655  formed in member  550 , described below. Preferably base member  113  and arms  677  are formed from a material that exhibits high voltage breakdown and can withstand high temperature. Ceramic is a preferred material (if cost and weight were not considered), but certain plastics could also be used. The unattached tip of each arm  677  terminates in a sheet strip  515  of MYLAR, KAPTON, or a similar material, whose distal tip terminates in a slot  510 . It is seen that the pivotable arms  677  and sheet strips  515  are disposed such that each slot  510  will self-align with a wire or wire-like electrode  232  in first array  230 . Electrodes  232  preferably extend from pylons  627  on a base member  550  that extends from legs  565  from the internal bottom of the housing of the transporter-conditioner unit. To further help maintain high impedance between the first and second electrode arrays, base member  550  preferably includes a barrier wall  665  and upwardly extending vanes  675 . Vanes  675 , pylons  627 , and barrier wall  665  extend upward perhaps an inch or so, depending upon the configuration of the two electrode be formed integrally, e.g., by casting, from a material that exhibits high voltage breakdown and can withstand high temperature, ceramic, or certain plastics for example.  
         [0088]    As best seen in FIG. 6A, base member  550  includes an opening  655  sized to receive the lower portion of second electrode array base member  113 . In FIGS. 6A and 6B, arms  677  and sheet material  515  are shown pivoting from base member  113  about axis  687  at an angle θ=90°. In this disposition, an electrode  232  will be within the slot  510  formed at the distal tip of each sheet material member  515 .  
         [0089]    Assume that a user had removed second electrode array  240  completely from the transporter-conditioner unit for cleaning, and that FIGS. 6A and 6B depict array  240  being reinserted into the unit. The coiled spring or other bias mechanism associated with pivot axle  687  will urge arms  677  into an approximate θ≈90° orientation as the user inserts array  240  into unit  100 . Side projections  645  help base member  113  align properly such that each wire or wire-like electrode  232  is caught within the slot  510  of a member  515  on an arm  677 . As the user slides array  240  down into unit  100 , there will be a scraping action between the portions of sheet member  515  on either side of a slot  510 , and the outer surface of an electrode  232  that is essentially captured within the slot. This friction will help remove debris or deposits that may have formed on the surface of electrodes  232 . The user may slide array  240  up and down the further promote the removal of debris or deposits from elements  232 .  
         [0090]    In FIG. 6C the user has slid array  240  down almost entirely into unit  100 . In the embodiment shown, when the lowest portion of base member  232  is perhaps an inch or so above the planar surface of member  550 , the upward edge of a vane  675  will strike the a lower surface region of a projection arm  677 . The result will be to pivot arm  677  and the attached slit-member  515  about axle  687  such that the angle θ decreases. In the disposition shown in FIG. 6C, θ≈45° and slitcontact with an associated electrode  232  is no longer made.  
         [0091]    In FIG. 6D, the user has firmly urged array  240  fully downward into transporterconditioner unit  100 . In this disposition, as the projecting bottommost portion of member  113  begins to enter opening  655  in member  550  (see FIG. 6A), contact between the inner wall  657  portion of member  550  urges each arm  677  to pivot fully upward, e.g., θ≈0°. Thus in the fully inserted disposition shown in FIG. 6D, each slit electrode cleaning member  515  is rotated upward parallel to its associated electrode  232 . As such, neither arm  677  nor member  515  will decrease impedance between first and second electrode arrays  230 ,  240 . Further, the presence of vanes  675  and barrier wall  665  further promote high impedance.  
         [0092]    Thus, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5A-6D depict alternative configurations for a cleaning mechanism for a wire or wire-like electrode in a transporterconditioner unit.  
         [0093]    Turning now to FIGS. 7A-7E, various bead-like mechanisms are shown for cleaning deposits from the outer surface of wire electrodes  232  in a first electrode array  230  in a transporter-converter unit. In FIG. 7A a symmetrical bead  600  is shown surrounding wire element  232 , which is passed through bead channel  610  at the time the first electrode array is fabricated. Bead  600  is fabricated from a material that can withstand high temperature and high voltage, and is not likely to char, ceramic or glass, for example. While a metal bead would also work, an electrically conductive bead material would tend slightly to decrease the resistance path separating the first and second electrode arrays, e.g., by approximately the radius of the metal bead. In FIG. 7A, debris and deposits  612  on electrode  232  are depicted as “x&#39;s”. In FIG. 7A, bead  600  is moving in the direction shown by the arrow relative to wire  232 . Such movement can result from the user inverting unit  100 , e.g., turning the unit upside down. As bead  600  slides in the direction of the arrow, debris and deposits  612  scrape against the interior walls of channel  610  and are removed. The removed debris can eventually collect at the bottom interior of the transporter-conditioner unit. Such debris will be broken down and vaporized as the unit is used, or will accumulate as particulate matter on the surface of electrodes  242 . If wire  232  has a nominal diameter of say 0.1 mm, the diameter of bead channel  610  will be several times larger, perhaps 0.8 mm or so, although greater or lesser size tolerances may be used. Bead  600  need not be circular and may instead be cylindrical as shown by bead  600 ′ in FIG. 7A. A circular bead may have a diameter in the range of perhaps 0.3″ to perhaps 0.5″. A cylindrical bead might have a diameter of say 0.3″ and be about 0.5″ tall, although different sizes could of course be used.  
         [0094]    As indicated by FIG. 7A, an electrode  232  may be strung through more than one bead  600 ,  600 ′. Further, as shown by FIGS. 7B-7D, beads having different channel symmetries and orientations may be used as well. It is to be noted that while it may be most convenient to form channels  610  with circular cross-sections, the cross-sections could in fact be non-circular, e.g., triangular, square, irregular shape, etc.  
         [0095]    [0095]FIG. 7B shows a bead  600  similar to that of FIG. 7A, but wherein channel  610  is formed off-center to give asymmetry to the bead. An off-center channel will have a mechanical moment and will tend to slightly tension wire electrode  232  as the bead slides up or down, and can improve cleaning characteristics. For ease of illustration, FIGS. 7B-7E do not depict debris or deposits on or removed from wire or wire-like electrode  232 . In the embodiment of FIG. 7C, bead channel  610  is substantially in the center of bead  600  but is inclined slightly, again to impart a different frictional cleaning action. In the embodiment of FIG. 7D, beam  600  has a channel  610  that is both off center and inclined, again to impart a different frictional cleaning action. In general, asymmetrical bead channel or through-opening orientations are preferred.  
         [0096]    [0096]FIG. 7E depicts an embodiment in which a bell-shaped walled bead  620  is shaped and sized to fit over a pillar  550  connected to a horizontal portion  560  of an interior bottom portion of unit  100 . Pillar  550  retains the lower end of wire or wire-like electrode  232 , which passes through a channel  630  in bead  620 , and if desired, also through a channel  610  in another bead  600 . Bead  600  is shown in phantom in FIG. 7E to indicate that it is optional.  
         [0097]    Friction between debris  612  on electrode  232  and the mouth of channel  630  will tend to remove the debris from the electrode as bead  620  slides up and down the length of the electrode, e.g., when a user inverts transporter-conditioner unit  100 , to clean electrodes  232 . It is understood that each electrode  232  will include its own bead or beads, and some of the beads may have symmetrically disposed channels, while other beads may have asymmetrically disposed channels. An advantage of the configuration shown in FIG. 7E is that when unit  100  is in use, e.g., when bead  620  surrounds pillar  550 , with an air gap therebetween, improved breakdown resistance is provided, especially when bead  620  is fabricated from glass or ceramic or other high voltage, high temperature breakdown material that will not readily char. The presence of an air gap between the outer surface of pillar  550  and the inner surface of the bellshaped bead  620  helps increase this resistance to high voltage breakdown or arcing, and to charring.  
         [0098]    Modifications and variations may be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the subject and spirit of the invention as defined by the following claims.