DE102023126910A1 - Filter arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a filter arrangement (10), comprising: I) a vehicle module (12) for receiving a filter module (14), comprising: a receiving space (16) for receiving a filter module (14), a supply unit (18), and a filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16) of the vehicle module (12), comprising: an ionization device (20), a filter insert (22), comprising a multi-layer filter medium (24), comprising as a first polarization element (26) an electrically conductive first conductor layer (28) and a filter layer (30), and an electrical contacting system (32) for connecting the ionization device (18) and/or the filter insert (22) to the supply unit (18), wherein the filter arrangement (10) comprises a second polarization element (34) as a component of the vehicle module (12) or the filter module (14), wherein the electrical connection between the supply unit (18) and the filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16) arranged filter module (14) takes place at least partially via a first contact element (36) and/or a second contact element (38), wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C.

Description

The invention relates to a filter arrangement, in particular for use in vehicles, as well as a vehicle module and a filter module for a corresponding filter arrangement.

Modern filtration technology now offers numerous efficient alternatives and further developments to the well-known processes for separating unwanted components from fluid flows, which are mostly based on essentially mechanical separation, usually on a partially permeable filter element, which can, for example, consist of a porous material.

One of these developments, which is used particularly for gas purification, is so-called electrostatic precipitation, whereby the devices used are also referred to as electrostatic precipitators. In these electrostatic precipitators, the particles to be removed are first ionized by an electrode and then deposited on an oppositely charged collecting electrode. Such electrostatic precipitators are used primarily in industrial plants.

However, other requirements are placed on the performance characteristics of cabin air filters, particularly for use in vehicles, whereby, for example, the reliable separation of pollen and/or particulate matter and/or odors and/or exhaust gases is also desired.

To meet these requirements for cabin air filters, the concept of electrostatic separation, which in many cases is not strictly speaking filtration, was combined with mechanical separation processes to obtain high-performance filter elements. By combining conventional filter materials with an ionization device, the separation efficiency of filters can in many cases be significantly increased. For the purpose of clear identification, the corresponding filter elements are referred to as electrostatic precipitators with filter functionality within the scope of the present invention. However, it has been observed that the separation efficiency of such filter elements can decrease over the service life of the filter element, which is often attributed to a reduction in the electrostatic charge in the filter material over time.

To solve this problem, it was proposed to design electrostatic precipitators with filter functionality in such a way that, by applying a voltage to two polarization elements in the filter insert, a polarization of the filter material can be induced via the creation of an electric field. In combination with an ionization device, this polarization of the filter material can enable efficient separation, which can advantageously be maintained over the entire service life of the filter element. Background information on the basic technology can be found, for example, in WO 2007/135232 A1 or the EP 3 448 540 B1 revealed.

Particularly advantageous embodiments of these electrostatic precipitators with filter functionality can be achieved if the polarization elements are at least partially integrated into the filter medium installed in the filter insert. For this purpose, individual layers of a multi-layer filter medium can be designed as electrically conductive layers. Such an electrically conductive conductor layer of the filter medium can, for example, together with a second polarization element arranged on the vehicle or together with a second electrically conductive conductor layer, cause the polarization of a dielectric filter material. By at least partially integrating the polarization elements into the filter medium and thus the filter insert, high-performance filter inserts are obtained which, in particular, have an advantageous weight and make it possible to reduce or even completely eliminate the requirements for the equipment required on the vehicle if no vehicle-side polarization elements need to be provided to realize the polarization of the dielectric layer.

Regardless of the arrangement of the polarization elements, it is necessary to ensure reliable and durable electrical contact between the vehicle-side voltage and/or current source and the parts of the filter module, in particular the ionization device and/or the filter insert. The contact must be suitable to ensure sufficient electrical contact even under the loads typically encountered in vehicle use, especially for the high voltages regularly applied. Furthermore, it is desirable that the filter modules used in such filter arrangements can be designed to be reversibly and non-destructively replaceable. Accordingly, the necessary electrical contact must also allow for easy and reliable connection to the vehicle's voltage and/or current source for this replaceable design of the filter module.

In the course of developing corresponding filter arrangements, the inventors have Experiments have been conducted with contacting via metallic spring elements. However, these experiments have shown that these metallic spring elements are not only sometimes disadvantageous from a cost perspective, but that in many cases they are also difficult to reliably fix in the vehicle module. A particularly serious disadvantage, however, is that such metallic spring elements are not optimally suited for establishing contact with the intended filter modules in a durable manner due to the large differences in material properties, such as hardness, and the usually sharp edges.

The disadvantages described above are particularly relevant because, according to the inventors, there is a strong desire to reduce the proportion of metallic components in the filter modules, particularly in the replaceable filter inserts, in order to both save raw materials and optimize the weight of the filter inserts. For this reason, it is desirable to realize the electrical connectivity in the filter module, at least in the filter insert, as far as possible using conductive plastics, which can be applied to film-like substrates, for example, using printing processes. The inventors have found that the metallic contact springs used in the tests are not suitable for achieving the necessary contact in the transition from the vehicle module to the filter module due to the different material properties and the comparatively sharp edges, if they act on potentially very thin contact surfaces made of electrically conductive plastic. This can lead to irreversible damage to the contact, particularly in the event of mechanical stress during driving or when changing the filter module, as a result of which the functionality of the filter arrangement is no longer guaranteed.

The primary object of the present invention was to eliminate or at least mitigate the disadvantages of the prior art.

In particular, it was an object of the present invention to provide a filter arrangement in which the electrical contact between the vehicle module and the filter module can be made particularly reliably, in particular even when the filter module is designed as a reversibly and non-destructively replaceable filter module.

One object of the present invention was to provide a filter assembly with particularly robust and durable electrical contact. In this respect, it was particularly desirable that the contact elements used for contacting could be mounted particularly reliably and securely in the filter assembly.

In addition, it was an object of the present invention that the filter arrangement to be specified should allow a long-lasting, secure connection to the vehicle-side voltage and/or current source, even when using filter modules which have an electrical contact made of conductive plastic, without damaging the electrical contact made of conductive plastic.

Furthermore, it was an object of the present invention that the specified filter assembly should be manufacturable in the most time- and cost-efficient manner possible. In this respect, it was a desirable requirement that the specified filter assembly, or the filter modules or filter inserts used therein, should be able to be manufactured with an advantageously low weight.

It was a supplementary object of the present invention to also provide an advantageous filter module or an advantageous vehicle module for use in the filter arrangement to be specified.

The inventors of the present invention have now found that the objects described above can be achieved if, in a filter arrangement comprising a vehicle module and a filter module arranged therein, the electrical contact between the electrical supply unit and the filter module is made at least partially via contact elements which are at least partially formed from an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, as defined in the claims.

By using such an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, a low-wear electrical contact can be achieved, which in particular does not require any sharp edges and, in terms of its material properties, is particularly well-matched to the combination with electrical contact systems made of an electrically conductive plastic. The elastomeric material can build up a spring force, particularly when inserting a replaceable filter module, which enables secure contact, with the elastomeric nature of the contact elements contributing synergistically to at least partially compensating for the mechanical stresses occurring during vehicle operation. The inventors have found that corresponding elastomeric con Contact elements can be manufactured or installed in a particularly time- and cost-efficient manner, whereby a suitable geometry of the contact elements can advantageously ensure that these can be firmly fixed in the filter arrangement in the long term, for example through a combination of positive and non-positive locking, the latter being particularly favored by the elastomeric properties of the material.

The above-mentioned objects are accordingly achieved by the subject matter of the invention as defined in the claims. Preferred embodiments of the invention emerge from the subclaims and the following statements.

Such embodiments, which are referred to as preferred below, are combined in particularly preferred embodiments with features of other embodiments referred to as preferred. Combinations of two or more of the embodiments referred to as particularly preferred below are therefore very particularly preferred. Likewise preferred are embodiments in which a feature of one embodiment referred to as preferred to some extent is combined with one or more further features of other embodiments referred to as preferred to some extent. Features of preferred vehicle modules and filter modules result from the features of preferred filter arrangements.

1. I) ein Fahrzeugmodul zur Aufnahme eines Filtermoduls, insbesondere eines elektrostatischen Abscheiders mit Filterfunktionalität, umfassend:
   • I.i) einen Aufnahmeraum zur Aufnahme eines Filtermoduls, wobei der Aufnahmeraum abschnittsweise von einer Wandung umgeben ist und eine Einführöffnung zur Einführung des Filtermoduls in den Aufnahmeraum aufweist,
   • I.ii) eine Versorgungseinheit, wobei die Versorgungseinheit dazu eingerichtet ist, eine elektrische Spannung an ein im Aufnahmeraum angeordnetes Filtermodul bereitzustellen, und
2. II) ein im Aufnahmeraum des Fahrzeugmoduls angeordnetes Filtermodul, umfassend:
   • II.i) eine Ionisationsvorrichtung zur Ionisation von Bestandteilen eines zu filternden Fluids,
   • II.ii) einen Filtereinsatz, umfassend ein mehrlagiges Filtermedium, umfassend als erstes Polarisationselement eine elektrisch leitfähige erste Leiterlage und eine Filterlage, wobei die Filterlage zumindest eine dielektrische Lage umfasst, und
   • II.iii) ein elektrisches Kontaktierungssystem zur Verbindung der Ionisationsvorrichtung und/oder des Filtereinsatzes mit der Versorgungseinheit,

wobei die Filteranordnung als Bestandteil des Fahrzeugmoduls oder des Filtermoduls ein zweites Polarisationselement umfasst, wobei die Filteranordnung dazu eingerichtet ist, dass mittels der von der Versorgungseinheit bereitgestellten elektrischen Spannung zwischen dem ersten Polarisationselement und dem zweiten Polarisationselement ein auf die dielektrische Lage wirkendes elektrisches Feld erzeugt werden kann,
wobei die elektrische Verbindung zwischen der Versorgungseinheit und dem im Aufnahmeraum angeordneten Filtermodul zumindest teilweise über ein erstes Kontaktelement und/oder ein zweites Kontaktelement erfolgt,
wobei das erste Kontaktelement und/oder das zweite Kontaktelement ein elektrisch leitfähiges elastomeres Kunststoffmaterial umfasst oder daraus besteht, wobei das elastomere Kunststoffmaterial bei 20 °C einen spezifischen elektrischen Widerstand von 10⁵ Ω*m oder weniger aufweist.The invention particularly relates to a filter arrangement comprising:

1. I) a vehicle module for accommodating a filter module, in particular an electrostatic precipitator with filter functionality, comprising:
   • Ii) a receiving space for receiving a filter module, wherein the receiving space is partially surrounded by a wall and has an insertion opening for inserting the filter module into the receiving space,
   • I.ii) a supply unit, wherein the supply unit is designed to provide an electrical voltage to a filter module arranged in the receiving space, and
2. II) a filter module arranged in the receiving space of the vehicle module, comprising:
   • II.i) an ionization device for ionizing components of a fluid to be filtered,
   • II.ii) a filter insert comprising a multi-layer filter medium comprising, as a first polarization element, an electrically conductive first conductor layer and a filter layer, wherein the filter layer comprises at least one dielectric layer, and
   • II.iii) an electrical contact system for connecting the ionisation device and/or the filter insert to the supply unit,

wherein the filter arrangement comprises a second polarization element as a component of the vehicle module or the filter module, wherein the filter arrangement is configured such that an electric field acting on the dielectric layer can be generated by means of the electrical voltage provided by the supply unit between the first polarization element and the second polarization element,
wherein the electrical connection between the supply unit and the filter module arranged in the receiving space is made at least partially via a first contact element and/or a second contact element,
wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C.

The filter arrangement according to the invention serves to filter fluids and is therefore particularly designed for filtering air. In this respect, the filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in vehicles. A filter arrangement according to the invention is therefore particularly relevant, wherein the filter arrangement is an air filter system, preferably an interior air filter system, particularly preferably an interior air filter system for vehicles, in particular for land vehicles. A filter arrangement according to the invention is therefore additionally or alternatively also particularly relevant, wherein the fluid to be filtered is an air mixture, preferably an air mixture guided from the outside into the interior of a vehicle through a vehicle ventilation system.

A filter arrangement according to the invention is relevant for essentially all embodiments, wherein the vehicle module is installed in a vehicle, preferably in a passenger car or a truck, particularly preferably a passenger car.

The vehicle-side component, i.e. the vehicle module, comprises a receiving space delimited by a wall, in which the filter module is arranged and from which the filter module as a whole or only the filter insert can be removed through the insertion opening, preferably reversibly and non-destructively.

1. iv) ein Gehäuse, wobei der Aufnahmeraum im Gehäuse angeordnet ist, wobei das Gehäuse bevorzugt zumindest teilweise von der Wandung gebildet wird.

For a secure arrangement of the filter module and for the purpose of advantageous Shielding the filter module from external influences, a filter arrangement according to the invention, wherein the receiving space is essentially completely surrounded by the wall, apart from the insertion opening and fluid inlets and fluid outlets for the fluid to be filtered. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the vehicle module additionally comprises:

1. iv) a housing, wherein the receiving space is arranged in the housing, wherein the housing is preferably formed at least partially by the wall.

To promote the reversible and non-destructive replaceability of the filter module or filter insert and to reduce the susceptibility to errors during the replacement process, the inventors propose that the receiving space be designed with guide rails or a comparable guide structure in order to reliably fix the filter module inside the receiving space in a desired position, in which, in particular, the desired electrical contact can be made. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the vehicle module comprises one or more guide structures, in particular guide rails, for guiding and/or stabilizing the electrostatic precipitator in the receiving space.

In order to ensure a reliable fit and good contact, particularly during driving, the inventors propose that means can be provided with which the filter module can be fixed in the receiving space, for example using mechanical blocking elements. In addition, the receiving space can also be provided with a removal mechanism which promotes the removal of the filter module from the receiving space when it is changed, in order to make the changing process faster and less prone to errors, wherein an assisted removal function can also reliably prevent, in particular, unintentional damage to the contact elements. Thus, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the vehicle module comprises a fixing mechanism, wherein the fixing mechanism is configured to fix the filter module arranged in the receiving space. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the vehicle module comprises a removal mechanism, wherein the removal mechanism is configured to effect or promote the removal of the filter module arranged in the receiving space from the vehicle module.

1. iii) ein Deckelelement zum Verschließen der Einführöffnung,

wobei die Filteranordnung bevorzugt dazu eingerichtet ist, dass das Filtermodul im Aufnahmeraum mit dem Deckelelement gegen ein elastomeres Kontaktelement vorgespannt werden kann.For even better fixation of the filter module and optimized protection against environmental influences, the inventors propose that the receiving space be provided with a cover. Such a cover also protects vehicle occupants, in particular, from unwanted contact with high-voltage components. In a synergistic manner, the use of a cover element in combination with the elastomer contact elements also allows the elastomer contact elements to be prestressed against the complementary contact surfaces of the electrical contact, thereby achieving particularly reliable contact that does not fail even under greater mechanical stress. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the vehicle module additionally comprises:

1. iii) a cover element for closing the insertion opening,

wherein the filter arrangement is preferably designed so that the filter module in the receiving space can be prestressed with the cover element against an elastomeric contact element.

The vehicle module comprises a supply unit which is intended to supply the vehicle module and in particular the filter module arranged therein with the electrical energy required for operation. In principle, the supply unit can either comprise a dedicated voltage and/or current source or comprise a connection to a central voltage and/or current source present in the vehicle. Accordingly, an example of a filter arrangement according to the invention is one in which the supply unit comprises a voltage source, preferably a high-voltage source, or wherein the supply unit is designed to be connected to an external voltage source, preferably a high-voltage source, preferably to a voltage and/or current source arranged in the vehicle.

The ionization device to be provided according to the invention and the complementary polarization system of the polarization elements will in practice often require different voltages or currents, especially if the polarization elements are fully integrated into the multi-layer filter medium. For this purpose, the supply unit can in principle be designed such that it provides optimized voltages or currents to the different components of the filter module. With a view to the simplest possible design of the vehicle module, the supply unit can, however, also be designed such that it only provides one voltage and/or one current, for example to the ionization device. In this case, the filter module can, in particular, use an integrated voltage divider in the electrical contacting system can be optimized such that the voltage applied to the polarization elements in the filter module is adapted. For some embodiments, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the supply unit is designed to provide two or more different, preferably exactly two different, electrical voltages and/or electrical currents to a filter module arranged in the receiving space, wherein the supply unit additionally comprises at least one further contact element for electrically contacting the filter module arranged in the receiving space. However, particularly when using a voltage divider in the filter module, a filter arrangement according to the invention is alternatively particularly preferred, wherein the supply unit is designed to provide exactly one electrical voltage and/or one electrical current to a filter module arranged in the receiving space.

What is essential for the invention is that the electrical contact between the vehicle module, or its supply unit, and the filter module, in particular its ionization device and at least the first polarization element, is made via contact elements, of which at least one, but preferably both, are made of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic, although it is also possible for more than two contact elements to be present. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and the second contact element, preferably the first contact element, the second contact element, and all further contact elements, comprise or consist of the electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material.

At least in principle, it is conceivable that the contact elements, in addition to the electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, also comprise other materials, for example macroscopic fillers, glass fibers, or similar reinforcements. The elastomeric plastic material can also surround a non-elastomeric material. However, those skilled in the art will understand that, within the scope of the present invention, the advantageous conductivity properties and the advantageous elasticity are desired and that, against this background, it is expedient to make the contact elements as largely as possible from the corresponding plastic material. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element, preferably the first contact element, the second contact element, and all further contact elements, consist of the electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material to a mass fraction of 80% or more, preferably of 90% or more, particularly preferably of 95%, or, particularly preferably, substantially entirely.

Elastomers are known to those skilled in the art based on their specialist knowledge and are commercially available from numerous suppliers. Corresponding elastomeric plastics are often also referred to as rubber and can be obtained, for example, by vulcanizing vulcanizable rubber mixtures. Thus, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the elastomeric plastic material is a rubber material.

The electrical conductivity properties of such elastomeric plastic materials can be adjusted in accordance with expert understanding via the additives added to the vulcanizable rubber mixtures, with high contents of conductive carbon black in particular resulting in advantageous electrical conductivities. In this respect, the inventors propose that, for the electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, a plastic that is as conductive as possible should be selected in order to form a contact with the lowest possible resistance, for example, which comprises a high proportion of conductive carbon black as a filler. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less, preferably 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less, particularly preferably 10 ² Ω*m or less, at 20°C.

From a manufacturing and handling perspective, it is preferable to design the contact elements of the same type. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and the second contact element, preferably the first contact element, the second contact element, and all other contact elements, comprise the same elastomeric plastic material.

The inventors propose that, among the elastomeric plastic materials, the subclass of thermoplastic elastomeric plastic materials is particularly suitable for the purposes of the invention, since these materials are particularly easy to process due to their thermoplastic properties. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the elastomeric plastic material is a thermoplastic elastomeric plastic material.

Thermoplastic elastomeric plastic material, also known as TPE, is known to those skilled in the art and is commercially available from various manufacturers. The macroscopic The thermoplasticity of the plastic material can be achieved both by mixing thermoplastics with elastomers and by using corresponding block copolymers, some of whose blocks correspond to elastomers or thermoplastics. Thus, an example is a filter arrangement according to the invention, wherein the elastomeric plastic material comprises a rubber material, preferably in a mixture with a thermoplastic. Alternatively, an example is a filter arrangement according to the invention, wherein the elastomeric plastic material comprises one or more block copolymers of a thermoplastic polymer and an elastomer.

With regard to the mechanical properties of the elastomeric plastic material, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a tensile strength according to DIN 53504:2009 in the range of 5 to 15 MPa, preferably in the range of 7 to 12 MPa.

According to the inventors' assessment, the basic position of the contact elements in the filter arrangement will result in particular from the positioning of the supply unit. This can be provided, for example, in the rear part of the receiving space or in the cover element. The latter has the advantage that access to the receiving space by opening the cover element usually interrupts the power supply to the filter module, thereby reducing a potential health risk from the applied high voltage. Thus, an example of a filter arrangement according to the invention is one in which the supply unit is arranged on the side of the vehicle module facing away from the insertion opening, or in which the supply unit is arranged in the cover element.

It can be seen as an advantage of the present invention that it is not determined whether the specific contact elements are structurally connected to the vehicle module or the filter module.

The integration of the elastic contact elements into the filter module has the advantage that the contact elements can be particularly easily replaced together with the filter module. Particularly in the case of high applied voltages and pronounced mechanical loads during operation, this has the advantage that wear on the elastic contact elements is less significant, since they can usually be easily replaced at regular maintenance intervals. In this case, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element, preferably the first contact element and the second contact element, are components of the filter module.

Arranging the contact elements as part of the vehicle module offers the advantage that the replaceable filter modules can be designed with a simpler structure, and in particular, the waste generated during replacement can be reduced. Alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is therefore preferred, wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element, preferably the first contact element and the second contact element, are components of the vehicle module.

When the contact elements are designed as part of the vehicle module, the exact position is expediently determined from the position of the supply unit, analogous to the above explanations. Thus, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element, preferably the first contact element, the second contact element, and all further contact elements, are arranged on the side of the wall facing away from the insertion opening. Alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element, preferably the first contact element, the second contact element, and all further contact elements, are arranged in the cover element.

Due to the elastomeric nature of the specifically designed contact elements, it is advantageously possible to fix them with a force-fitting component. Particularly when using thermoplastic elastomers, it is also advantageously possible to promote a positive or even material-locking connection by temporarily heating the plastic material. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element, preferably the first contact element, the second contact element, and all further contact elements, are fixed in the vehicle module or filter module in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting and/or material-locking manner, preferably in a form-fitting and additionally force-fitting manner and additionally or alternatively in a form-fitting manner.

The filter arrangement according to the invention comprises a filter module arranged in the receiving space of the vehicle module, wherein the filter module is preferably arranged in the vehicle module in a reversible and non-destructively replaceable manner.

The filter assembly according to the invention comprises an ionization device as part of the filter module. In accordance with the understanding of those skilled in the art, this ionization device is a component of an electrostatic precipitator with a filter function, wherein the dielectric layers of the multilayer filter medium polarized between the first and second polarization elements interact with the ionization device and can, in particular, function as a collecting electrode. In other words, this is a filter assembly according to the invention, wherein the ionization device, the filter insert, and the second polarization element form an electrostatic precipitator with a filter function.

In the filter system according to the invention, the ionization device has the task of ionizing, for example, dirt particles in the fluid to be filtered and thus promoting the deposition of the dirt particles on the polarized filter layers of the multi-layer filter medium. Suitable ionization devices are known to those skilled in the art and are described, for example, in WO 2023/012166 A1 disclosed. For essentially all embodiments, electrical ionization devices are relevant, which are also known from other technological fields and can effect ionization, in particular, by means of a corona discharge. Such electrical ionization devices are far superior to other methods of ionization, in particular those using ionizing radiation, in terms of safety aspects as well as their handling and performance. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the ionization device is an electrical ionization device, wherein the ionization device is preferably configured to effect the ionization of components of the fluid to be filtered, at least partially, preferably essentially completely, by means of a corona discharge. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the ionization device does not comprise a radiation source for ionizing radiation.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the desired interaction between the ionization device and the multi-layer filter medium in the filter insert requires that the filter insert with the multi-layer filter medium acting as a collecting electrode should be placed downstream of the ionization device in the flow direction. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the ionization device is arranged in the filter arrangement such that the fluid to be filtered flows through it upstream of the filter insert, preferably directly upstream of the filter insert.

The filter insert to be used according to the invention comprises a multi-layer filter medium, which comprises at least one electrically conductive first conductor layer and preferably two electrically conductive conductor layers. This first conductor layer is intended to act as the first polarization element in the polarization of the filter layer provided in the multi-layer filter medium. The second polarization element can be designed, for example, as a metallic plate or grid in particularly simple constructions. Accordingly, with regard to the structural complexity, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the second polarization element is a metallic plate or a metallic grid.

In one embodiment, the second polarization element can be formed by an element separate from the filter insert, which can be arranged, for example, on the vehicle side, i.e., as part of the vehicle module. The advantage of this configuration can be seen in the fact that the second polarization element is relocated outside the filter insert or filter module. This not only reduces the weight of the filter inserts or filter modules used according to the invention, but also simplifies their structure, thereby facilitating design as a replaceable filter insert. In addition, the amount of waste generated when replacing a filter insert is reduced. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the second polarization element is not part of the filter insert or is a separate element from the filter insert.

Even though it may be advantageous for certain applications to provide the second polarization element outside the filter module to be used according to the invention, the inventors consider it particularly advantageous in practice to integrate the second polarization element into the preferably replaceable filter module and, in this respect, particularly preferably into the filter insert. While it would theoretically be conceivable to provide the second polarization element as a separate element from the multilayer filter medium, for example, again as a metallic plate, this is less preferred with regard to the overall weight. In this respect, the inventors consider it particularly advantageous for essentially all embodiments if the second polarization element for polarization is also integrated into the multilayer filter medium, so that the multilayer filter medium comprises a first conductor layer as well as a second conductor layer, and the filter layer can be arranged between this first conductor layer and the second conductor layer. A corresponding design of the multilayer filter medium is associated with only a slight increase in weight and leads to an advantageous polarization effect on the filter layer arranged directly between the conductor layers. In addition, this makes it possible to integrate all the parts required for the polarization effect into the replaceable filter insert without high additional costs and without requiring additional installation space. This advantageously means that when the filter insert is replaced, all the components required for the proper functioning of the polarization are replaced, thus advantageously enabling easy maintenance of the entire system. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the multi-layer filter medium additionally comprises an electrically conductive second conductor layer, wherein the filter layer is arranged between the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer, and wherein the second polarization element is formed by the second conductor layer.

In this case, the electrical contacting of the second conductor layer can expediently also be effected via the electrical contacting system as is the case for the first conductor layer, thus advantageously eliminating the need for additional contacting systems for electrically connecting the second conductor layer. In this case, it is a filter arrangement according to the invention, wherein the electrical contacting system is configured to allow a voltage difference to be applied between the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer.

The further components of the filter arrangement according to the invention, which can be assigned to the filter module or the electrostatic precipitator with filter functionality in addition to the ionization device, are the filter insert, which comprises the first conductor layer acting as the first polarization element and at least one dielectric layer to be polarized, as well as the second polarization element, which interacts with the first conductor layer to polarize the dielectric layer. The filter arrangement is designed such that a voltage difference can be applied between the first conductor layer acting as the first polarization element and the second polarization element, resulting in an electric field that can polarize the dielectric layer. In addition to the first conductor layer, the multi-layer filter medium also comprises at least one dielectric layer and optionally further layers. Further information on the layers of the multi-layer filter medium and on the electrical contacting system is disclosed below.

It can be seen as an advantage of the filter arrangement according to the invention that the multi-layer filter media to be used in the filter insert can be processed in the usual way and with usual devices, in particular by pleating and lamination. For most applications, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the filter insert comprises the multi-layer filter medium as a pleated filter medium. Preference is given to a filter arrangement according to the invention, wherein at least one of the sides of the pleated multi-layer filter medium, preferably at least two sides, particularly preferably at least the long sides, and most preferably all sides, are laminated with a lamination material, wherein the lamination material is preferably selected from the group consisting of textile fabrics, in particular nonwovens and felts.

To optimize maintainability and increase the service life of the filter arrangement, the inventors propose that at least the filter insert should preferably be designed as a replaceable filter insert, wherein it is advantageous to additionally or alternatively also design the ionization device and thus the entire filter module to be replaceable. In this respect, the ionization device and the filter insert can also be integrated into a common component which is replaceable in its entirety. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the ionization device is arranged in the vehicle module in a reversible and non-destructively replaceable manner, preferably independently of the filter insert and/or wherein the filter insert is arranged in the vehicle module in a reversible and non-destructively replaceable manner, preferably independently of the ionization device.

If the ionization device for ionizing components of the fluid to be filtered is not arranged in the vehicle module in a reversible and non-destructively replaceable manner, but is instead firmly connected to it so that the filter insert can be removed separately from the ionization device, a part of the supply line of the ionization device can advantageously be designed in such a way that it is also closed via an electrical contact of the filter module, so that if the filter insert is missing, the ionization device is also not connected to the supply unit.

The inventors have succeeded in identifying preferred embodiments for the multi-layer filter medium to be used according to the invention and its individual layers, in particular the conductor layers.

Firstly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first conductor layer is a first textile fabric, preferably a fabric which is at least partially provided with an electrically conductive capable first material coated or impregnated first textile fabric, and/or wherein the second conductor layer comprises a second textile fabric, preferably a second textile fabric coated or impregnated at least in sections with an electrically conductive second material.

The term "textile fabric" is clear to those skilled in the art and refers to two-dimensional textile products that can be woven, warp-knitted, needle-punched, or knitted, for example. In accordance with the expert's understanding, non-textile, fiber-containing fabrics, such as paper and cardboard, in which the fibers are held together primarily by binding agents, for example, are not considered textile fabrics. Even though a wide range of textile fabrics could in principle be considered for the textile fabrics of the conductor layers, the inventors have been able to achieve the best performance characteristics with so-called "non-woven" fabrics, and in particular with spunbonded fabrics. A corresponding textile fabric made of a non-conductive material can advantageously be achieved by finishing the textile fabric with a conductive material, whereby, in the opinion of the inventors, a variety of possible processes are suitable in principle. A filter arrangement according to the invention is therefore preferred, wherein the first textile fabric and/or the second textile fabric, preferably the first textile fabric and the second textile fabric, is a nonwoven fabric, preferably a spunbonded fabric.

In practice, the person skilled in the art makes the distinction between an electrically conductive material and an electrically insulating material easily and on the basis of his or her expert and clear technical understanding of these terms. In this respect, a material is considered to be an electrically conductive material within the scope of the present invention in particular if its specific electrical resistance at 20°C is 10 ⁶ Ω*m or less, preferably 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less, particularly preferably 10 ⁴ Ω*m or less. Conversely, a material is considered to be an electrically insulating material within the scope of the present invention in particular if its specific electrical resistance at 20°C is 10 ⁷ Ω*m or more, preferably 10 ⁹ Ω*m or more, particularly preferably 10 ¹¹ Ω*m or more. Accordingly, metals and alloys, as well as carbon blacks, particularly conductive carbon black, and plastics made conductive by additives, are electrically conductive materials, whereas typical, unmodified plastics such as PET or PE are also electrically insulating materials, as are most glasses and ceramics. The specific electrical resistance of materials is a value that is well known to those skilled in the art and can be found in relevant tables for most materials. The measurement of the specific electrical resistance of other components is carried out in accordance with common practice, either according to DIN EN ISO 3915 from 1999, which is used in particular for particularly conductive materials, or according to IEC 60093 from 1993, which is used for high specific electrical resistances. The question of which of the two standards should be used depends on the specifications of the two regulations and the properties of the respective material being tested.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the electrical conductivity of conductor layers, for example, the first conductor layer, can in many cases, for example, when using composite materials, result from the presence of conductive material paths running through an otherwise largely insulating material. For example, a dielectric fleece whose fibers are coated with a thin layer of conductive carbon black can be an electrically conductive layer, even though the macroscopic resistivity of the composite material is relatively high due to the dielectric carrier material.

Furthermore, a filter arrangement according to the invention is additionally or alternatively preferred, wherein the first textile fabric and/or the second textile fabric, preferably the first textile fabric and the second textile fabric, consist of a plastic to a mass fraction of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more, particularly preferably 95% or more, very particularly preferably substantially 100%, based on the mass of the textile fabric, wherein the plastic is preferably selected from the group consisting of polyacrylonitriles, polyolefins, polyesters and mixtures of these plastics, particularly preferably polyacrylonitriles, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate and mixtures of these plastics, especially preferably polyethylene terephthalate.

Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the first conductor layer and/or the second conductor layer, preferably the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer, are produced or can be produced by equipping the respective textile fabric, in particular the nonwoven fabric, with the respective electrically conductive material using a process which is selected from the group consisting of impregnation, dip coating, in particular using a padding system, spray coating, application coating, in particular by means of a Dispersion in the kiss-coat process, and print coating.

Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the electrically conductive first material and/or the electrically conductive second material, preferably the electrically conductive first material and the electrically conductive second material, are selected from the group consisting of metals, conductive plastics and carbon, preferably carbon, in particular carbon black or graphene, wherein the electrically conductive material is particularly preferably identical for the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer.

Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the first conductor layer and/or the second conductor layer, preferably the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer, are electrically conductive as a result of the coating of the respective textile fabric at least over 80% or more of the area, preferably over 90% or more, particularly preferably over 95% or more, very particularly preferably over 98% or more, particularly preferably substantially over the entire area.

Even though the conductor layers can contribute to the filtration performance of the filter media, particularly when designed as textile fabrics, the inventors consider it advantageous if the conductor layers are designed with sufficient open pores so that they primarily restrict the air passage through the filter medium as little as possible. With regard to the weight of the conductor layers, at least when using textile fabrics, there is a conflict of objectives between the influence on the overall weight of the filter medium and a beneficial stabilizing effect of the conductor layers on the filter medium and thus an improvement in the mechanical properties. In this respect, the inventors have succeeded in identifying suitable basis weights for the textile fabrics with which this conflict of objectives can be resolved in an advantageous manner. Against this background, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first conductor layer and/or the second conductor layer, preferably the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer, have an air passage in the range of 500 to 30,000 L/(m ² s), preferably in the range of 2,000 to 20,000 L/(m ² s), at 200 Pa. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the first textile fabric and/or the second textile fabric, preferably the first textile fabric and the second textile fabric, have a basis weight in the range of 5 to 200 g/m ² , preferably in the range of 10 to 150 g/m ² , particularly preferably in the range of 15 to 50 g/m ² .

With regard to the general structure of the multi-layer filter medium, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the filter layer comprises one or more further layers, preferably further layers arranged between the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer, wherein the filter layer preferably comprises two or more dielectric layers, particularly preferably three or more dielectric layers.

Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein at least one of the dielectric layers, preferably all of the dielectric layers, consists of a dielectric plastic material to a mass fraction of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more, particularly preferably 95% or more, very particularly preferably substantially 100%, based on the mass of the dielectric layer. A filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the dielectric plastic material is selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, in particular polytetrafluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene-propylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene, polyesters, in particular polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonates, polyamides, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyacrylonitrile, and polylactides. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the dielectric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance at 20 °C of 10 ⁷ Ω*m or more, preferably 10 ⁹ Ω*m or more, particularly preferably 10 ¹¹ Ω*m or more.

For the majority of embodiments, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein at least one of the dielectric layers is a particle filter layer which comprises a third textile fabric. A filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the third textile fabric is a nonwoven fabric, wherein the third textile fabric is preferably selected from the group consisting of needle-punched nonwovens and meltblown nonwovens. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the particle filter layer has a basis weight in the range from 10 to 200 g/m ² , preferably in the range from 15 to 150 g/m ² , particularly preferably in the range from 20 to 110 g/m ² .

With regard to mechanical stability, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein at least one of the dielectric layers is a protective layer which comprises a fourth textile fabric. Particularly preferred is a multi-layer filter medium according to the invention, wherein the fourth textile fabric is a nonwoven fabric, preferably a spunbonded fabric.

Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the protective layer has an air flow rate in the range from 500 to 30,000 L/(m ² s), preferably in the range from 2,000 to 20,000 L/(m ² s), at 200 Pa. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the protective layer has a basis weight in the range from 15 to 400 g/m ² , preferably in the range from 50 to 200 g/m ² . In turn, additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the protective layer comprises one or more active ingredients selected from the group consisting of anti-allergenic active ingredients and biocidal active ingredients.

Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also particularly preferred, wherein the protective layer has a Gurley flexural rigidity, determined according to ASTM D6125-97, in the range from 0.4 to 40 mN, preferably in the range from 0.5 to 20 mN, particularly preferably in the range from 0.6 to 10 mN.

In the opinion of the inventors, a filter arrangement according to the invention is additionally or alternatively preferred for the majority of the embodiments, wherein the filter layer comprises an activated carbon layer, wherein the activated carbon layer comprises activated carbon in a mass fraction of 70% or more, based on the mass of the activated carbon layer.

Activated carbon is known to those skilled in the field of filtration technology as an important material and is commercially available from numerous manufacturers. It is preferred that the activated carbon layer be composed of a high mass fraction of activated carbon, so that, for example, the proportion of fibers or other carrier materials in the activated carbon layer should be kept as low as possible. Based on the inventors' experiments, this achieves a particularly good separation effect or cleaning performance while simultaneously minimizing thickness and weight.

The inventors have found that particularly high-performance filter inserts can be obtained with activated carbon layers that are as pure as possible and which, apart from the binder, preferably consist essentially exclusively of activated carbon. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the activated carbon layer comprises activated carbon in a mass fraction of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more, particularly preferably 95% or more, based on the mass of the activated carbon layer. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the activated carbon is fixed in the activated carbon layer by a binder. The inventors have succeeded in identifying particularly preferred ranges for the selection of the activated carbon and for the dimensioning of the activated carbon layer, with which excellent filter performances have been achieved in their own experiments. Namely, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the activated carbon is particulate activated carbon, wherein the activated carbon preferably has an average diameter d50 in the range from 0.1 to 4 mm, preferably in the range from 0.2 to 2 mm. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the activated carbon has a specific surface area of 500 m ² /g or more, preferably of 1000 m ² /g or more, particularly preferably of 2000 m ² /g or more. In turn, additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the activated carbon layer has a basis weight in the range from 50 to 1000 g/m ² , preferably in the range from 100 to 600 g/m ² .

Regardless of whether only one conductor layer is integrated into the filter insert as part of the polarization system, or whether both polarization elements are integrated into the filter insert, in particular in the form of two conductor layers, a structure is required which distributes the voltage required for polarization, which is applied externally to the filter insert, to the polarization element(s) in the filter insert. In the context of the present invention, the corresponding structure is referred to as an electrical contacting system, which is designed to electrically connect the parts of the polarization system provided in the filter insert according to the invention, i.e. in particular the first conductor layer and optionally the second conductor layer, to an external voltage source, which can be a component of a vehicle module, for example. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the voltage source is a high-voltage source. Additionally or alternatively, with regard to positioning, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the electrical contacting system is connected to the lamination of the pleated filter medium, preferably by means of a material bond.

The electrical contacting system to be provided according to the invention can be designed by a person skilled in the art according to the respective application requirements as well as the design specifications of the filter arrangement. Regardless of the specific design of the electrical contacting system, it will usually comprise a first contacting element, which is intended to provide an electrically conductive contact to the first conductor layer of the multi-layer filter medium. clocking. For essentially all embodiments, a filter insert is preferred, wherein the electrical contacting system comprises a first contact point and a second contact point for contacting the voltage source.

Even if theoretically very simple designs of the electrical contacting system are conceivable, for example, which make use of cables, the inventors have designed a particularly advantageous electrical contacting system with a view to time- and cost-efficient production, which can be combined particularly efficiently with the conductor layer(s) by adhesive bonding using an electrically conductive plastic material. In the inventors' opinion, it is particularly advantageous if traditional electrical cabling is not used or is used only to a limited extent, but rather the contacting system is designed as largely as possible from components made of an electrically conductive plastic. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the electrically conductive components of the electrical contacting system are formed at least partially, preferably predominantly, particularly preferably substantially completely, from an electrically conductive plastic. A filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the electrically conductive plastic of the electrical contacting system has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁴ Ω*m or less, preferably 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less, particularly preferably 10 ² Ω*m or less, at 20 °C.

According to the inventors' assessment, these electrically conductive components, which preferably consist of an electrically conductive plastic, should be arranged on a preferably thin substrate which acts as a carrier and advantageously makes it possible to assemble the electrically conductive components of the electrical contacting system before attachment to the filter insert to be used according to the invention and to apply them in just a single step during the manufacturing process, for example to the lateral lamination of the filter insert. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the electrically conductive components of the electrical contacting system are conductive components arranged on a substrate and/or in a substrate. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the substrate is selected from the group consisting of electrically insulating films, preferably plastic films, wherein the average thickness of the substrate is preferably in the range from 20 to 500 µm, particularly preferably in the range from 80 to 150 µm.

The use of a thin substrate, in particular a film, in combination with conductive components made of plastic, advantageously allows the electrical contacting system to be designed not only in a particularly space-saving and lightweight manner, but also results in an electrical contacting system with a high degree of flexibility, in which the substrate and the conductive components lying thereon can be adapted particularly easily to the structural requirements of the filter insert to be used according to the invention.

The inventors' experiments have shown, in particular, that a corresponding electrical contacting system can be advantageously printed onto the substrate, although, at least theoretically, other additive manufacturing processes could also be considered. Thus, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the electrical contacting system can be produced by printing the substrate with an electrically conductive material, preferably an electrically conductive plastic, wherein the printing is preferably a screen printing process.

In particular, additive manufacturing processes advantageously make it possible to obtain an electrical contacting system which is provided with the electrically conductive components only on one side and consequently has a bottom side whose properties are largely influenced by those of the substrate, which can advantageously be designed as an electrically insulating substrate. With regard to attachment, a filter arrangement according to the invention is therefore preferred, wherein the electrical contacting system comprises the electrically conductive components of the electrical contacting system at least partially, preferably predominantly, particularly preferably substantially completely, preferably at least the contact points and the contacting elements, on the same side of the substrate.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the substrate is designed as a comparatively thin film, in the central region of which essential elements of the electrical contacting system are arranged, for example the contact points for the external voltage source or a potential voltage divider. The inventors propose that wing-like or tab-like projections can be formed on the sides, onto which the contacting elements intended for contacting the conductor layers are applied. When applying such a con By applying a contact system to the lateral lamination of a filter insert according to the invention, the wing-like tabs can be folded over particularly easily, so that they each contact the conductor layer and can then be glued, for example, with an electrically conductive adhesive in such a way that a materially integral connection is created through the plastic material without this connection being made more difficult by excessive mechanical stresses. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contacting element and/or the second contacting element, preferably the first contacting element and the second contacting element, are arranged on laterally projecting projections of the substrate, wherein the laterally projecting projections preferably have a deformation region and a contact region, wherein the contact region is preferably wider than the deformation region transversely to the longitudinal direction of the filter insert. A filter arrangement according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the laterally projecting projections are L-shaped. Additionally or alternatively, a filter insert according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the laterally projecting projections are designed to be reversibly and non-destructively deformable, in particular bendable, in the deformation region.

The filter inserts to be used according to the invention are intended to be combined with the ionization device in the filter arrangement according to the invention. The voltage required for ionization will generally be significantly higher than the polarization voltage necessary for polarization or the maximum applicable polarization voltage, which is limited, particularly when both polarization elements are integrated into the multi-layer filter medium, by the voltage at which undesirable breakdown occurs. One conceivable solution would be to provide different voltage sources for the ionization device and the filter insert. However, the inventors have recognized that such a provision of separate high-voltage sources is not possible in many cases or involves a high level of equipment complexity, so that a corresponding design is less preferred. For this purpose, it is proposed that the electrical contacting system be designed as a voltage divider, with which a voltage taken over from the ionization device can be adapted to the requirements of the filter insert. A filter arrangement according to the invention is therefore preferred, wherein the electrical contacting system is a voltage divider. For this purpose, the electrical contacting system can have contact points that are intended to be contacted directly or indirectly via the ionization device with an electrical potential difference that is designed for the ionization device. A resistance path is provided between these contact points, which preferably has a meandering contour. The voltage applied to the first contacting element or, if applicable, the second contacting element can advantageously be adjusted by positioning the contacting element along this resistance path, so that, for example, only a reduced voltage is applied between the two contacted conductor layers compared to the ionization device. Against this background, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein in the electrical contacting system the first contact point is electrically conductively connected to the second contact point via a resistance path, wherein the first contacting element is electrically conductively connected to the resistance path between the first contact point and the second contact point, and wherein the second contacting element is electrically conductively connected to the second contact point. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the resistance path is designed in a meandering shape. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the first contacting element and/or the second contacting element, preferably the first contacting element and the second contacting element, are connected to the resistance path such that the contact area between the resistance path and the contacting element is larger than the cross section of the resistance path orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the resistance path. Additionally or alternatively, a filter arrangement according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the second contacting element is not electrically conductively connected to the resistance path between the first contact point and the second contact point.

In particularly preferred embodiments, in addition to the electrically conductive components of the contacting system, machine-readable information, for example in the form of a QR code, can also be provided on the substrate. In particular, if the electrical contacting system is applied to the side lamination of the filter insert, it is particularly easy to read from the outside. This makes it possible to provide the customer or the workshop with important information about the handling and/or installation of corresponding filter inserts. Furthermore, it is possible to access the machine-readable information marking already during the production of the filter inserts, for example, if the information stored therein contains instructions about the control of the devices and/or the material selection. A filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the electrical contacting system comprises a machine-readable information marking, preferably a matrix code or a QR code, wherein the machine-readable information marking comprises information and/or work instructions about the application position of the electrical contacting system in the filter insert and/or the process parameters for connecting the contact elements to the corresponding conductor layers by means of a corresponding adhesive.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the filter module comprising the ionization device and filter insert is designed to be powered by a single voltage source, preferably by a voltage divider in the electrical contact system as described above. In this embodiment of the filter module, the current required to power the ionization device can be tapped in the filter module via a voltage divider and adjusted to the polarization requirements. In this case, it is a filter arrangement according to the invention, wherein the filter arrangement comprises a first sub-circuit for powering the ionization device, and the filter arrangement comprises a second sub-circuit for polarizing the filter insert via the first polarization element and the second polarization element.
wherein the first sub-circuit and the second sub-circuit are electrically conductively connected to one another via a first contacting component and a second contacting component of the electrical contacting system, wherein the electrical contacting system comprises a voltage divider, wherein the voltage divider is configured such that a voltage U1 applied to the first sub-circuit causes a voltage U2 applied in the second sub-circuit, wherein U1 is greater than U2.

Particularly when the ionization device and the filter insert are designed as separable elements of a multi-part filter module, the above design with partial circuits requires internal contacting in the filter module, for example by leading the contacting components from the ionization device to the filter insert in order to contact the electrical contacting system there. In this case, the inventors propose that the internal contacting can also be advantageously realized using an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic, which is preferably designed as described above as preferred. Accordingly, a filter arrangement according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first contacting component and/or the second contacting component comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic, wherein the elastomeric plastic has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C.

1. i) einen Aufnahmeraum zur Aufnahme eines Filtermoduls, wobei der Aufnahmeraum abschnittsweise von einer Wandung umgeben ist und eine Einführöffnung zur Einführung des Filtermoduls in den Aufnahmeraum aufweist,
2. ii) eine Versorgungseinheit, wobei die Versorgungseinheit dazu eingerichtet ist, eine elektrische Spannung an einen im Aufnahmeraum angeordnetes Filtermodul bereitzustellen,

wobei die Versorgungseinheit für die elektrische Kontaktierung des im Aufnahmeraum angeordneten Filtermoduls zumindest ein erstes Kontaktelement und ein zweites Kontaktelement umfasst,
wobei das erste Kontaktelement und/oder das zweite Kontaktelement ein elektrisch leitfähiges elastomeres Kunststoffmaterial umfasst oder daraus besteht, wobei das elastomere Kunststoffmaterial bei 20 °C einen spezifischen elektrischen Widerstand von 10⁵ Ω*m oder weniger aufweist.The invention also relates to a vehicle module for use in a filter arrangement according to the invention, comprising:

1. i) a receiving space for receiving a filter module, the receiving space being partially surrounded by a wall and having an insertion opening for inserting the filter module into the receiving space,
2. ii) a supply unit, wherein the supply unit is designed to provide an electrical voltage to a filter module arranged in the receiving space,

wherein the supply unit for the electrical contacting of the filter module arranged in the receiving space comprises at least a first contact element and a second contact element,
wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C.

1. II.i) eine Ionisationsvorrichtung zur Ionisation von Bestandteilen des zu filternden Fluids,
2. II.ii) einen Filtereinsatz, umfassend ein mehrlagiges Filtermedium, umfassend als erstes Polarisationselement eine elektrisch leitfähige erste Leiterlage und eine Filterlage, wobei die Filterlage zumindest eine dielektrische Lage umfasst, und
3. II.iii) ein elektrisches Kontaktierungssystem zur Verbindung der Ionisationsvorrichtung und/oder des Filtereinsatzes mit einer Versorgungseinheit eines Fahrzeugmoduls,

wobei das elektrische Kontaktierungssystem für die elektrische Kontaktierung einer in einem Fahrzeugmodul eingesetzten Versorgungseinheit zumindest ein erstes Kontaktelement und ein zweites Kontaktelement umfasst,
wobei das erste Kontaktelement und/oder das zweite Kontaktelement ein elektrisch leitfähiges elastomeres Kunststoffmaterial umfasst oder daraus besteht, wobei das elastomere Kunststoffmaterial bei 20 °C einen spezifischen elektrischen Widerstand von 10⁵ Ω*m oder weniger aufweist.The invention also relates to a filter module, in particular an electrostatic precipitator with filter functionality, for use in a filter arrangement according to the invention comprising:

1. II.i) an ionization device for ionizing components of the fluid to be filtered,
2. II.ii) a filter insert comprising a multi-layer filter medium comprising, as a first polarization element, an electrically conductive first conductor layer and a filter layer, wherein the filter layer comprises at least one dielectric layer, and
3. II.iii) an electrical contact system for connecting the ionisation device and/or the filter insert to a supply unit of a vehicle module,

wherein the electrical contacting system for the electrical contacting of a supply unit used in a vehicle module comprises at least a first contact element and a second contact element,
wherein the first contact element and/or the second contact element comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C.

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Filteranordnung in einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform;
• 2 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäß einsetzbaren Filtermoduls in einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform; und
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung eines Deckelelements einer bevorzugten erfindungsgemäßen Filteranordnung in einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform.

The invention and preferred embodiments of the invention are explained and described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures:

• 1 a schematic representation of a filter arrangement according to the invention in a preferred embodiment;
• 2 a perspective view of a filter module usable according to the invention in a preferred embodiment; and
• 3 a schematic representation of a cover element of a preferred filter arrangement according to the invention in a preferred embodiment.

1 shows a schematic representation of a filter arrangement 10 according to the invention in a simplified representation of a preferred embodiment.

The illustrated filter assembly 10 is a vehicle air filter and comprises a vehicle module 12, which includes a receiving space 16 defined by a wall and a supply unit 18 with a high-voltage source. The receiving space 16 can be closed with a cover element 40 and, when closed, is accessible only via the fluid inlets through which the fluid to be filtered can enter the receiving space 16, as indicated by the wide arrows.

In the receiving space 16, a filter module 14 for filtering the fluid to be filtered is arranged, which is designed as a one-piece filter module 14 and which can be removed reversibly and non-destructively from the receiving space 16 after opening the cover element 40.

The filter module 14 comprises an ionization device 20 on the upstream side for ionizing components of the fluid to be filtered using corona discharge. A filter insert 22 comprising a pleated and laminated multilayer filter medium 24 is arranged downstream of the ionization device 20 in the flow direction.

In the example shown the 1 The fluid to be filtered initially flows through the first conductor layer 28, which functions as the first polarization element 26 and, together with the second conductor layer 42, which forms the second polarization element 34, serves to polarize the filter layer 30 arranged between the first conductor layer 28 and the second conductor layer 42. In the preferred example of the 1 The filter layer 30 is again designed as a multi-layer filter layer 30, which, in addition to a dielectric particle filter layer, also comprises an activated carbon-rich activated carbon layer and an additional dielectric protective layer arranged between the particle filter layer and the activated carbon layer. In the example shown, both the first conductor layer 28 and the second conductor layer 42 and the filter layer 30 are formed as textile surfaces, namely nonwovens, wherein the electrical conductivity of the first conductor layer 28 and the second conductor layer 42 is each realized by a coating containing conductive carbon black.

The first conductor layer 28 and the second conductor layer 42 are electrically contacted via an electrical contacting system 32, so that an electrical voltage can be applied between them, as a result of which an electrical field is formed which can polarize the dielectric layers of the filter layer 30.

Both the filter insert 22 and the ionization device 20 are supplied with electrical energy via the vehicle-side supply unit 18, the necessary contact being made in a contact area 44 which is 2 is shown more clearly. The electrical contact is made via a first contact element 36 and a second contact element 38, which are each fastened in the wall of the receiving space 16 by means of a positive and non-positive connection and are accordingly fixed on the vehicle side. The first contact element 36 and the second contact element 38 are of identical design and each consist essentially entirely of an electrically conductive thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), which has a specific electrical resistance of approximately 10 Ω*m at 20 °C. Due to the elastomeric nature of the contact elements, the filter module 14 can be efficiently prestressed in the receiving space 16 and thus additionally fixed.

2 shows a preferred filter module 14 with a preferred ionization device 20 and a filter insert 22 comprising a pleated multi-layer filter medium 24 provided with a lamination 46. Attached to the lateral lamination 46 is an electrical contact system 32 comprising a voltage divider printed from conductive plastic onto an insulating film substrate, the folded tabs of which electrically contact the first conductor layer 28 and the second conductor layer 42.

The ionization device 20 can be placed on the filter insert 22 so that the contacting components shown in the front part of the ionization device 20 contact the corresponding contact points of the electrical contacting system 32, wherein the contacting components are preferably also formed from the electrically conductive thermoplastic elastomer. In this arrangement, it is possible for filters module 14 is supplied via the supply unit 18 with only a high voltage matched to the ionization device 20, while the voltage required for polarization can be adjusted via the voltage divider.

3 shows a schematic representation of a cover element 40 of a preferred filter arrangement 10 according to the invention in a preferred embodiment, in which the supply unit 18 is arranged on the cover side (not shown). Accordingly, the cover element 40 also comprises the first contact element 36 and the second contact element 38, wherein the exemplary embodiment of the 3 is designed to directly contact the electrical contact system 32 of the filter insert 22 (indicated by dashed arrows). It follows that the ionization device 20 is supplied by a separate power supply, which can, for example, be arranged in the rear part of the receiving space 16.

Reference symbol

10

Filter arrangement

12

Vehicle module

14

Filter module

16

recording room

18

supply unit

20

Ionization device

22

filter insert

24

multi-layer filter medium

26

first polarization element

28

first conductor layer

30

Filter layer

32

electrical contact system

34

second polarization element

36

first contact element

38

second contact element

40

Cover element

42

second conductor layer

44

Contact area

46

Lamination

QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2007/135232 A1 [0006]
• EP 3 448 540 B1 [0006]
• WO 2023/012166 A1 [0047]

Claims (10)

Filter arrangement (10), comprising: I) a vehicle module (12) for receiving a filter module (14), comprising: II) a receiving space (16) for receiving a filter module (14), wherein the receiving space (16) is partially surrounded by a wall and has an insertion opening for inserting the filter module (14) into the receiving space (16), I.ii) a supply unit (18), wherein the supply unit is designed to provide an electrical voltage to a filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16), and II) a filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16) of the vehicle module (12), comprising: II.i) an ionization device (20) for ionizing components of a fluid to be filtered, II.ii) a filter insert (22) comprising a multi-layer filter medium (24), comprising as a first polarization element (26) an electrically conductive first conductor layer (28) and a filter layer (30), wherein the filter layer (28) comprises at least one dielectric layer, and II.iii) an electrical contacting system (32) for connecting the ionization device (18) and/or the filter insert (22) to the supply unit (18), wherein the filter arrangement (10) comprises a second polarization element (34) as a component of the vehicle module (12) or the filter module (14), wherein the filter arrangement (10) is configured such that an electric field acting on the dielectric layer can be generated between the first polarization element (26) and the second polarization element (34) by means of the electrical voltage provided by the supply unit (18), wherein the electrical connection between the supply unit (18) and the filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16) is made at least partially via a first contact element (36) and/or a second contact element (38), wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) comprises an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material or consisting of, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C. Filter arrangement (10) according to Claim 1 , wherein the first contact element (36) and the second contact element (38) are part of the filter module (14). Filter arrangement (10) according to Claim 1 , wherein the first contact element (36) and the second contact element (38) are part of the vehicle module (12). Filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , wherein the vehicle module (12) additionally comprises: iii) a cover element (40) for closing the insertion opening. Filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 3 or 4 , wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) are arranged in the side of the wall facing away from the insertion opening. Filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 4 or 5 , wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) are arranged in the cover element (40). Filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) are fixed in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting and/or material-fitting manner in the vehicle module (12) or filter module (14). Filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 7 , wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C. Vehicle module (12) for use in a filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 8 , comprising: i) a receiving space (16) for receiving a filter module (14), wherein the receiving space (16) is partially surrounded by a wall and has an insertion opening for inserting the filter module (14) into the receiving space (16), ii) a supply unit (18), wherein the supply unit (18) is designed to provide an electrical voltage to a filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16), wherein the supply unit (18) comprises at least a first contact element (36) and a second contact element (38) for electrically contacting the filter module (14) arranged in the receiving space (16), wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C. Filter module (14) for use in a filter arrangement (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 8 comprising: II.i) an ionization device (18) for ionizing components of a fluid to be filtered, II.ii) a filter insert (22) comprising a multi-layer filter medium (24) comprising as a first pola ization element (26) an electrically conductive first conductor layer (28) and a filter layer (30), wherein the filter layer (30) comprises at least one dielectric layer, and II.iii) an electrical contacting system (32) for connecting the ionization device (20) and/or the filter insert (22) to a supply unit (18) of a vehicle module (12), wherein the electrical contacting system (32) for electrically contacting a supply unit (18) used in a vehicle module (12) comprises at least a first contact element (36) and a second contact element (38), wherein the first contact element (36) and/or the second contact element (38) comprises or consists of an electrically conductive elastomeric plastic material, wherein the elastomeric plastic material has a specific electrical resistance of 10 ⁵ Ω*m or less at 20 °C.

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