Ceiling Tile With Built-In Air Flow Mechanism

What is this patent about?

’336 is related to the field of ceiling-mounted air circulation and lighting systems, specifically addressing the need for improved air quality and efficient lighting in indoor environments. Traditional HVAC systems often struggle to provide uniform air distribution, while separate lighting solutions may lack energy efficiency and thermal management. The patent aims to integrate these functions into a single unit that fits within the standard dimensions of a ceiling tile.

The underlying idea behind ’336 is to combine an axial fan with LED lighting within a standard ceiling tile form factor, creating a self-contained air circulation and illumination system. The key inventive insight is to use the fan to actively cool the LED lights, improving their lifespan and efficiency, while simultaneously circulating air within the room. Furthermore, the addition of a UV light source within a shielded chamber allows for air decontamination as it passes through the unit.

The claims of ’336 focus on an air circulation device comprising a housing, a fan, a vent, and a baffle that defines an airway between the fan and the vent. Critically, the claims require a UV kill chamber mounted within this airway, including a UV light source and a UV shield to prevent UV light from escaping. This combination provides both air circulation and decontamination within a compact, ceiling-mountable unit.

In practice, the fan draws air into the device, and the baffle directs this airflow across the LED lighting to dissipate heat. The air then passes through the UV kill chamber, where the UV light irradiates and neutralizes airborne contaminants. The UV shield ensures that the harmful UV rays are contained within the chamber, preventing exposure to occupants of the room. The purified and circulated air is then expelled through the vent.

This design differentiates itself from prior approaches by integrating air circulation, lighting, and air purification into a single, easily installed unit. Unlike traditional ceiling fans or separate air purifiers, ’336 provides a compact and efficient solution that addresses multiple needs simultaneously. The active cooling of the LED lights also improves their performance and longevity, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective lighting solution.