What it does
This modular air purifier uses vertical laminar airflow to create safe and comfortable inner spaces. Its closed-loop design recirculates air without external exhaust, reducing energy loss and lowering the risk of airborne contamination.
Your inspiration
This device adopts vertical laminar flow (VLF), a proven method used in cleanrooms and surgical spaces. VLF provides uniform top-to-bottom airflow, reducing airborne particles and maintaining stable cleanliness. The system adapts this mechanism for everyday use, offering safe and efficient circulation. Unlike systems with external exhaust, it recirculates indoor air to reduce energy loss. With HEPA filters and flow control, it enables continuous purification. Developed in response to post-pandemic needs, it supports safer shared spaces and aims to reconnect people through clean, technology-integrated spatial design.
How it works
This vertical laminar flow device was inspired by air management systems in hospital operating rooms and clean benches. It is designed to maintain indoor air quality by generating a continuous, unidirectional stream of clean air from top to bottom. A Sirocco fan mounted at the top pushes air downward toward filtration components. In testing, the fan demonstrated the basic ability to generate vertical airflow. Air purification occurs in two stages: first, air passes through a UVC LED photosterilization module that disinfects microorganisms and viruses. Then, it flows through a HEPA filter at the bottom, which removes fine particles and residual contaminants. The HEPA filter is positioned for easy replacement. This top-down laminar flow directs contaminants downward, preventing accumulation or spread, and supports clean, stable conditions for environments requiring precision or close human interaction.
Design process
To verify the basic structure and performance of the vertical laminar flow device, an initial mock-up prototype was built using aluminum panels and profiles. The first version applied 4040-standard profiles, but although structurally stable, it proved too heavy. For improved mobility and assembly, 3030-standard lightweight profiles were used instead. Initially, a single-sided support structure was considered, but profile deflection and instability occurred during application. As a result, a four-point box frame was later designed to improve both internal airflow consistency and mechanical strength. Airflow testing was conducted by installing a sirocco fan to simulate air discharge. While the fan functioned as expected, the lack of a chamber caused air to concentrate on one side, preventing even distribution. This revealed the need for improved design in fan layout, chamber structure, and internal ducting for future development.
How it is different
This device differs fundamentally from conventional air purifiers in both concept and function. While typical purifiers perform localized filtration with limited airflow control, this vertical laminar flow system generates consistent top-to-bottom airflow, creating a uniform clean air layer throughout the space. It enables rapid isolation of contaminants and controlled particle descent, unlike general dilution ventilation. The closed-loop circulation structure recirculates indoor air without external exhaust, minimizing energy loss while maintaining airflow speed, direction, and cleanliness. By incorporating cleanroom-level technologies—such as fan configuration, filter layout, and materials—into everyday environments, the device combines professional performance with practical usability, offering a unique and innovative solution.
Future plans
In the future, this device will incorporate user-centered features such as filter replacement alerts, air quality sensor-based automatic control, and mobile connectivity to enhance convenience. Customized models for various environments—such as schools, hospitals, and public facilities—are also planned, along with mobile versions for flexible use. A multi-device network system is under consideration to efficiently manage large spaces. Additionally, the design will be refined to blend seamlessly into residential settings, and the structure and materials will be optimized for mass production to support commercialization.
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