Sure, It Purifies Air, but Can It Save the Galaxy? With its rectangular white body, round black eyes (a control and vent, really) and stubby feet, the Patrull air purifier from Ikea has been compared to a "Star Wars" robot. Part of Ikea's collection of home-safety products ("patrull" is Swedish for "patrol"), the appliance was introduced in Europe a few years ago, but has finally arrived in the United States. The unit, made of plastic, is said to be vigilant in filtering pollen, dust, dust-mite allergens and tobacco-smoke particles. Relatively small (it is a foot high) and easily portable (it weighs 11 pounds), it has three fan settings and a replaceable filter. It runs on low power (8 to 32 watts) and at a low volume (30 to 45 decibels), a plus for sensitive sleepers. Patrull is $96 and is available in Ikea stores only. Information: ikea.com.