Systems and methods for simulating coughs and sneezes

Abstract

The present invention relates to pathogen cleaning and simulation of pathogen spreading. More particularly, some implementations of the described invention relate to systems and methods for spraying materials in a manner that mimics the spreading of pathogens from coughing or sneezing. Some implementations further relate to using a non-aerosol sprayer that produces both a mist and droplets of a mixture containing water, a fluorescent marker, a surfactant, and an antifoaming agent. In some cases, the pump sprayer defines an internal compartment that includes the mixture. In some cases, the sprayer further includes a pump mechanism that is configured to be pumped to compress a gas within the compartment and a release valve that is configured to release pressure within the compartment through a spray nozzle of the sprayer such that droplets and mist of the mixture are sprayed from the nozzle. Other implementations are also described.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to the spreading of pathogens and other materials. More particularly, some implementations of the described invention relate to systems and methods for spraying materials in a manner that mimics pathogen spreading through coughing or sneezing. Some implementations further relate to systems and methods for using a non-aerosol, manually-pressurized sprayer that is configured to simultaneously spray both a mist and droplets of a mixture containing a detectable marker (such as a fluorescent marker).BACKGROUND AND RELATED ART[0002]Many diseases are transmitted through the air. Indeed, several types of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens are regularly distributed through the raising of dust, coughing, sneezing, spraying of liquids, and / or through a variety of other similar manners that introduce pathogens into the air. Indeed, in some cases, when a person (or animal) coughs or sneezes, a mist and droplets of saliva and mu...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a system and method for spraying materials in a way that mimics the spreading of pathogens through coughing or sneezing. The system includes a non-aerosol sprayer that produces both mist and droplets of a mixture containing water, a marker, a surfactant, and / or an anti-foaming agent. The sprayer has an internal compartment with the mixture and a pump mechanism to compress gases within the compartment. After spraying, an ultraviolet light is used to determine where the droplets or mist settles. The system can be used in various applications, such as mimicking coughing or sneezing, simulating gum splatter, or any other action in which fluids are sprayed.

Problems solved by technology

While many such cleaners can be effective at killing or otherwise reducing the amount of pathogens on a surface, many cleaning techniques that use such cleaners are not without their shortcomings.

Thus, while systems and methods currently exist that are used to clean up after coughs and sneezes, challenges still exist, including those listed above.

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