Fluid sterilisation device

Abstract

A fluid disinfecting apparatus is disclosed. The fluid disinfecting apparatus comprises a housing comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid flow path between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. A UV treatment module is interposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet The UV treatment module comprises a sterilisation chamber configured to sterilise fluid contained therein. The sterilisation chamber comprises first and second UVC LED arrays wherein the first and second UVC LED arrays are positioned such that they are substantially opposite one another.

Description

FLUID STERILISATION DEVICEPRIORITY DOCUMENT

[0001] The present application claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2024902601 titled “FLUID STERILISATION DEVICE” and filed on 21 August 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to sterilisation of fluids, such as water.BACKGROUND

[0003] Reducing organisms in fluids such as water is vital for safety. One particular but non-limiting example is water disinfection in healthcare settings. Throughout Australia and countries worldwide, there is a requirement for facilities, such as hospitals, medical clinics, aged care facilities, childcare facilities, and mental health facilities, to provide tempered hot water (sometimes referred to as "warm water") for the purpose of reducing the risk of scalding and bums attributed to high temperature hot water. For example, in Australia the requirements are outlined in AS / NZ3500.

[0004] This requirement for tempered water (whilst reducing the likelihood of scalding) provides the ideal temperature for the colonisation of bacteria within the potable water supply. Of particular note is Legionella bacteria, the causative agent for Legionellosis or Legionnaires disease. When water containing Legionella is aerosolised through processes such as showering, there is a risk that it can be inhaled and Legionellosis can be the result.

[0005] Of further note are bacteria such as E.coli, pseudomonas aeruginosa, cryptosporidium, nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) (and variants thereof) which may proliferate in conditions created by the mandated design of potable water systems from standards applied.

[0006] The provision of safe and reliable hot, tempered, and cold water obviously becomes paramount when addressing the scalding requirement.

[0007] In addition to healthcare and childcare facilities, hotels, resorts, and residences can suffer from water supply systems which are infected with microorganisms. In many countries there may be little or no residual disinfectant, such as chloramine or chlorine compounds, used in the water supply making those systems particularly susceptible.

[0008] Other fluids that can be treated for infection in the past include blood, such as in dialysis.

[0009] There is a need for apparatus and methods for reliably disinfecting water and / or other fluids. Alternatively, or in addition, there is a need for apparatus and methods for disinfecting water and / or other fluids that overcome one or more of the disadvantages of known apparatus and methods.SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure arises from the inventor’s research and development using UVC LEDs to reduce heterotrophic plate count (HPC), Legionella and E. coli count in water systems.

[0011] In a first aspect, disclosed herein is a fluid disinfecting apparatus comprising: a housing comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid flow path between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. a UV treatment module interposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, the UV treatment module comprising a sterilisation chamber configured to sterilise fluid contained therein, the sterilisation chamber comprising first and second UVC LED arrays wherein the first and second UVC LED arrays are positioned such that they are substantially opposite one another.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the sterilisation chamber is advantageously configured to induce laminar flow of a fluid therethrough. Laminar flow of the fluid in the sterilisation chamber may be induced by a baffle positioned at a fluid inlet of the sterilisation chamber.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus further comprises a fluid flow switch interposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to sense a fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. The UV treatment module is operably coupled to the fluid flow switch for activation of the UV treatment module upon sensing of the fluid flow.

[0014] In certain embodiments, an internal cavity of the sterilisation chamber comprises a reflective surface.

[0015] In certain embodiments, a distance between the opposing first and second UVC LEDs is equal to or less than the sterilisation distance of the UVC LEDs in each UVC LED array.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber is at least about 3,000 pW / cm2, such as from about 3,000 pW / cm2to about 250,000 pW / cm2. Lor example, the UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber may be about 16,000 pW / cm2.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus comprises at least one UVC light sensor configured to measure the amount of UVC light generated within the sterilisation chamber. For example, one or each of the UVC UED array may comprise a UVC light sensor.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus further comprises a controller operably coupling the fluid flow switch with the UV treatment module to activate the UV treatment module upon sensing the flow of fluid. In certain other embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus does not comprise a fluid flow switch, in which case the UVC UED arrays are always on when the apparatus is in operation.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the controller is programmed to turn the fluid disinfecting apparatus on about every 30 minutes for about 10 seconds or about every 15 minutes for about 15 seconds to sterilise the sterilisation chamber. This ensures sterilisation of fluid within the sterilisation chamber even when the apparatus has not been activated by a flow sensed by the fluid flow sensor.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus further comprises a power supply cable for operably powering the UV treatment module.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the flow switch, UV treatment module, controller and power supply cable are a self-contained and unitary unit. The flow switch and UV treatment module are separate to the power supply and controller.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus is configured for connection to the internet via a built in Wi-Fi connection to provide an alarm if the UVC light sensor contained within the sterilisation chamber senses low or no UV irradiation. For example, the alarm may be triggered if the power to the apparatus goes off. This alarm can be configured to notify staff onsite or remotely.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the fluid disinfecting apparatus further comprises at least one LED indicator that can be selectively activated to provide an operational state of the fluid disinfecting apparatus.

[0024] In a second aspect, disclosed herein is a water disinfecting apparatus comprising the fluid disinfecting apparatus of the first aspect.

[0025] In a third aspect, provided herein is a device for disinfecting water in a residential water delivery system, the device comprising a water outlet in fluid connection with a water supply and in fluid connection with a fluid disinfecting apparatus of the first aspect, wherein the fluid disinfecting apparatus is configured to expose water flowing from the water supply to the water outlet to a dose of UVC radiation sufficient to disinfect the water.

[0026] In certain embodiments of the third aspect, the fluid disinfecting apparatus is located close to water outlet.

[0027] In certain embodiments of the third aspect, the fluid disinfecting apparatus disinfects water as it flows through the outlet.

[0028] In a fourth aspect, disclosed herein is a water outlet comprising a water valve, a water outlet and the water disinfecting apparatus of the second aspect in fluid connection with the water outlet and positioned upstream thereof.

[0029] In a fifth aspect, disclosed herein is a method for sterilising a fluid, the method comprising passing the fluid through the fluid disinfecting apparatus of the first aspect.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 is a top view of a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 2 is a cross-section view through D-D of a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure as shown in Figures 1 and 3;

[0033] Figure 3 is a cross-section view through C-C of a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and as shown in Figure 2;

[0034] Figure 4 is a cross-section view through A-A of a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and as shown in Figures 2 and 6;

[0035] Figure 5 is an end on view of the device for use in a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 6 is a side view of a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 7 is a cross-section view through A-A of a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and as shown in Figure 6;

[0038] Figure 8 shows results of turbulent kinetic energy modelling at a flow rate of 9L / min for a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with a baffle (A) and an apparatus without a baffle (B);

[0039] Figure 9 is a front view of a baffle for use in a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 10 is a bottom view of a baffle shown in Figure 9 for use in a fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 11 is a side view of a baffle shown in Figure 9 for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 12 is a plan view of a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 13 is an isometric view from one side of a bottom cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 14 is an isometric view from another side of a bottom cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 15 is a plan view of a cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 16 is a cross-section view through B-B of a cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and as shown in Figure 15;

[0047] Figure 17 is an isometric view from one side of a top cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 18 is an isometric view from another side of a top cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0049] Figure 19 is a cross-section view of a top cover for a circuit board for use in fluid disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure .

[0050] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the figures.DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0051] Referring now to Figures 1 to 7, there is shown a fluid disinfecting apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 comprises a housing 12 comprising a fluid inlet 14, a fluid outlet 16 and a fluid flow path 18 between the fluid inlet 14 and the fluid outlet 16. A UV treatment module 20 is fluidly interposed between the fluid inlet 14 and the fluid outlet 16. The UV treatment module 20 comprises a sterilisation chamber 22 configured to sterilise fluid contained therein. The sterilisation chamber 22 comprises first 24a and second 24b UVC LED arrays. As shown in Figures 2 and 8, the first UVC LED array 24a and the second UVC LED array 24b are positioned such that they are substantially opposite one another.

[0052] The apparatus 10 disinfects fluids by exposing the sterilisation chamber 22 to UVC radiation. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum with a wavelength range (100-400 nm) shorter than that of visible light (400-700 nm), but longer than x-rays (< 100 nm). UV radiation is divided into four distinct spectral areas including vacuum UV (100-200 nm), UVC (200-280 nm), UVB (280- 315 nm), and UVA (315-400 nm). Therefore, as used herein, the term “UVC” means UV radiation of 200-280 nm wavelength.

[0053] When organisms are exposed to sufficient amounts of UVC radiation, their DNA is disrupted leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions, thus disinfecting the fluid that is exposed to the UVC radiation. UVC light has been scientifically proven to kill bacteria for 70+ years (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov / pmc / articles / PMC2789813 / ). Up until recently UVC light has been generated by mercury vapour lamps and traditionally placed on the inlet water to buildings due to the size of the lamps, power requirements, slow startup and maintenance requirements. New developments in UVC light from LEDs provide a number of advantages such as:• Instantaneous activation• Low power requirements• Small size - typically 3.5 mm x 3.5 mm x 1.2 mm• UVC LEDs can last up to 10,000 hours.

[0054] There is no limitation to the type or nature of the fluid that can be treated using the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10. As used herein, the term “fluid” includes a liquid or a gas. Exemplary fluids include water, air, oxygen, and blood. Fluids that can be treated using the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be used in healthcare, residential, food, cosmetic, medicine or pharmaceutical settings.

[0055] In one example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be used for ultraviolet blood irradiation (UBI). UBI has been used in the past to treat diseases including septicemia, pneumonia, tuberculosis, arthritis, asthma and poliomyelitis (Wu, X. et al., J Photochem Photobiol B. 2016 Apr; 157: 89-96.).

[0056] In another example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be used in HVAC systems to reduce contamination of water or other fluids used in the HVAC system. For example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be used in systems that incorporate a cooling tower that uses water.

[0057] In a further example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be used in water supply systems in healthcare settings or facilities, such as hospitals, medical clinics, aged care facilities, childcare facilities, and mental health facilities or it may be used for water systems in residential or commercial settings (such as hotels). For the purposes of further discussion, reference will now be made to use of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 in water supply systems in these settings. However, it will be appreciated that use of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is not limited to these settings or to disinfection of water.

[0058] An advantage of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 disclosed herein is that it can be retrofitted to existing water delivery systems. Water disinfecting apparatus are relatively easy to install in new constructions, but they are more difficult and time consuming to incorporate in existing healthcare facilities. For example, most water supply arrangements, e.g. taps, are mounted to a counter adjacent a sink and there may be limited places to mount or install a disinfecting apparatus below the counter in existing facilities.

[0059] Further, some options for disinfecting water are applied where the water comes into the facility which is typically remote from the outlet, such as a tap or shower head, where the water is dispensed such that there is a significant amount of piping between where the water is disinfected and then ultimately dispensed.

[0060] To date, there are many known methods for tempering water and reducing bacterial growth as follows:

[0061] Warm Water Systems

[0062] Existing systems available across the world for the provision of tempered water are generally warm water systems where delivered water is heated from ambient to circa 45 °C. These types of systems are excellent for providing tempered water however the problem is that water is never heated to a point where sterilisation of bacteria occurs, which is generally accepted as being greater than 60 °C for a period of 3 minutes or longer. As a result, a large number of legionella detections come from these types of systems.

[0063] TMV / POU TMVs

[0064] Thermostatic mixing valves (TMV) provide a method of tempering the delivered water from > 60 °C down to 45 °C to 50 °C using single / multiple thermostatic mixing valves which deliver tempered water to sanitary fixtures (basins, showers and the like). More recent designs have tended toward ‘point of contact’ TMV’s requiring one TMV at each outlet. The theory of POU TMV is that by putting the tempering point as close as possible to the outlet there is less likelihood of bacteria growing. These systems have various shortcomings and inherent problems, either from inadequacies of current technology, over complicated system designs, prohibitive system cost, difficult installation parameters or poorly managed maintenance procedures. Many facilities with this technology record positive legionella detections.

[0065] Chlorination

[0066] Chlorine and derivatives of chlorine are well known to provide sterilisation of some types of bacteria when maintained at a prescribed level in potable water systems. In some instances, chlorine is injected into a potable water system of a building as it enters the facility and is then circulated around the building in the water supply. Maintaining free chlorine levels within potable pipe networks is difficult and not always possible. Further, evidence shows chlorine and related variants cannot penetrate the protective layer of biofilm attached to the internal surface of a pipe, thus any bacteria within the biofilm can grow and enter the potable water network. Over chlorination can be fatal if swallowed. Many facilities test positive for legionella with this system.

[0067] CuAg dosing systems

[0068] Similar to chlorine dosing systems, copper / silver acts as a bactericide killing some types of bacteria. Precise amounts of copper and silver are mixed and injected into a potable water supply as it enters a facility. This then kills some types of planktonic bacteria. Unfortunately, this does not kill bacteria residing within the biofdm attached to the inside of the potable water pipes where bacteria will continue to grow until they slough into the water flow and become an issue. Further this type of system has problems with turbid water. Many facilities test positive for legionella with this system.

[0069] Filtration

[0070] 100 micron or smaller fdtration is used to filter bacteria from potable water systems as it enters a facility. This method of reducing bacterial growth does not deal with bacteria already within the pipe / potable water network and will have no reduction in resultant bacterial counts. Many facilities test positive for legionella with this system.

[0071] The housing 12 can be formed from any suitable material such as metal, plastic, etc. The housing 12 may be custom designed and made from cast / forged material.

[0072] The fluid inlet 14 and fluid outlet 16 can be formed in respective ends of the housing 12 and may comprise threaded sections for connection to standard or existing plumbing. For example, male DN15 connectors are suitable. The fluid flow path 18 extends between the fluid inlet 14 and the fluid outlet 16. The fluid flow path 18 is generally rectangular in cross section and is defined on two opposing sides by housing walls 26a and 26b.

[0073] The UV treatment module 20 is fluidly interposed between the fluid inlet 14 and the fluid outlet 16 and comprises the sterilisation chamber 22 configured to sterilise fluid contained therein. The sterilisation chamber 22 comprises first 24a and second 24b UVC LED arrays. As shown in Figure 2, the first UVC LED array 24a and the second UVC LED array 24b are positioned such that they are substantially opposite one another. Thus, the fluid flow path 18 and the sterilisation chamber 22 are defined by opposing housing walls 26a and 26b and by the first UVC LED array 24a and the second UVC LED array 24b which respectively form the upper and lower walls 27a and 27b of the fluid flow path 18 and the sterilisation chamber 22.

[0074] Each of the first 24a and second 24b UVC LED arrays comprises a plurality of high strength UVC LEDs (for example, either 4 x LED, 5 x LED, 6 x LED, 7 x LED or 8 x LED) mounted on a metal circuit board 36 and located behind a UVC transparent window 28a and 28b each of which forms an upper wall 27a or a lower wall 27b of the fluid flow path 18 and the sterilisation chamber 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 24a and second 24b UVC LED arrays comprise 4 UVC LEDs spaced from one another by 34 mm. In other embodiments that are not illustrated, the first 24a and second 24b UVC LED arrays comprise 5 UVC LEDs or 7 UVC LEDs spaced from one another. The metal circuit boards 36 are designed to help dissipate heat from the LEDs 24a, 24b, thereby prolonging life. Alternatively, or in addition, a heat transfer paste or glue can be used on the back of the metal circuit board 36 to assist with heat dissipation.

[0075] Each UVC transparent window 28a and 28b is formed from 5 mm thick quartz glass panels (type JGS1). The 5 mm thickness allows the first 24a and second 24b UVC LED arrays to withstand up to 1800 kPa water pressure. A waterproof seal 30 is positioned between the sterilisation chamber 22 and each UVC transparent window 28a and 28b. Other materials that could be used to form the UVC transparent windows 28a and 28b include fused silica and sapphire.

[0076] The sterilisation chamber 22 is designed to ensure that water in the chamber is within sterilisation distance of the UVC LED arrays 24a and 24b for more than about 1 second. For example, for 9 LPM water flow the volume of the sterilisation chamber 22 is about 160 ml. The UVC transparentwindows 28a and 28b are on opposite sides of the sterilisation chamber 22 for maximum UVC light transmission. The UVC transparent windows 28a and 28b are spaced 36 mm apart which means that water passing through the sterilisation chamber 22 is no further than 36 mm away from the UVC sterilisation UEDs. This means that a distance between the opposing first 24a and second 24b UVC EED arrays is equal to or less than the sterilisation distance of the UVC LEDs in each UVC LED array 24a and 24b. This provides for minimum 3,000 pW / cm2to 250,000 pW / cm2of UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber 22. For example, the UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber 22 may be from about 10,000 pW / cm2to about 100,000 pW / cm2. In another example, the UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber 22 may be from about 10,000 pW / cm2to about 235,000 pW / cm2. Thus, the UVC LEDs 24a and 24b are specifically spaced to provide maximum and complete irradiation of water in the device for >1 second. By having the UVC LED arrays 24a and 24b opposing each other ensures all bacteria floating in the water supply are irradiated and there is no area of shadow within the water flow. This is in contrast with other known UVC type devices where there is potential for a shadow to be created by sediment or turbulence within the water flow resulting in bacteria in the shadow not being irradiated or not being exposed to UVC light for a long enough time frame.

[0077] A UVC light sensor (not shown) is mounted on the metal circuit board 36 behind the UVC transparent window 28a and 28b to monitor the output of the LEDs 24a and 24b. The UVC light sensor is configured to measure the amount of UVC light generated by each UVC LED array 24a and 24b. The UVC light sensor will trigger an alarm once the amount of light within the sterilisation chamber 22 drops to below 70% of the initial value. This is not expected for around 7,000 hours of operation.

[0078] A temperature sensor 38 is also mounted on the metal circuit board 36 to ensure there is no overtemperature use of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 causing premature failure of the LEDs 24a and 24b.

[0079] The UVC LED arrays 24a and 24b each comprise a cover 40 housing the metal circuit board 36 and the LEDs 24a and 24b. The covers 40 are made from aluminium that is coated with a reflective coating. In one example, the aluminium is nickel plated and then silver plated. As well as housing the UVC LED arrays 24a and 24b, the covers 40 provide reflectivity and a heat sink to dissipate heat created by the operation of the LEDs 24a and 24b. The covers 40 also provide the opportunity to swap out any faulty LEDs 24a and 24b quickly and easily. The covers are attached to the sterilisation chamber 22 by up to 16 x screws. Each cover 40 comprises a recessed section 42 that is configured to house the UVC LED arrays 24a and 24b.

[0080] A gasket or sealing compound is located in a channel on the underside of each cover 40 and surrounding the circuit board 36 and is designed to seal the electronic components against the UVCtransparent window 28a and 28b and prevent water ingress to IP67 or similar waterproof protection. Different types of gaskets and sealing compounds to be used for this purpose are known to the skilled person. For example, the gasket may be an O-ring.

[0081] A fluid flow switch 32 is interposed between the fluid inlet 14 and the fluid outlet 16. The fluid flow switch 32 is configured to sense a fluid flow from the fluid inlet 14 to the fluid outlet 16. The UV treatment module 20 is operably coupled via a controller to the fluid flow switch 32 for activation of the UV treatment module 20 upon sensing of the fluid flow. The fluid flow switch 32 limits the on time of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 to when water flows through the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10. The fluid flow switch 32 provides a signal to the LED circuit to turn the LEDs 24a and 24b on or off based on the signal. Flow switch technology is readily available and can, for example, use the fluid flow to move a paddle or a shuttle / piston to create the signal or measure acoustic waves generated in a pipe using a piezo.

[0082] Advantageously, the sterilisation chamber 22 is configured to induce laminar flow of a fluid therethrough. Laminar flow of the fluid in the sterilisation chamber 22 can be induced by a baffle 34 positioned at the fluid inlet 14 of the sterilisation chamber 22. The baffle 34 is designed to reduce turbidity and increase laminar water flow through the sterilisation chamber 22 and greatly increase the efficacy of the UVC radiation. The baffle 34 shown in the illustrated embodiments is designed to not create any vortexes as water passes through the sterilisation chamber 22. The design of the baffle 34 was based on the results of computerised flow analysis. Analysis based on the insertion of a baffle within a 175 mm x 40 mm x 32 mm sterilisation chamber 22 with water flowing at 9 LPM greatly reduced turbulence within the chamber as shown in Figure 8. With no baffle 34 in place, approximately 75% of the chamber contained turbulent water but when the baffle 34 was added the turbulence reduced to around 15% of the sterilisation chamber 22 providing far smoother flow of water within the sterilisation chamber 22. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5, 7, 9, 10 and 11, the baffle 34 comprises a metal plate measuring 35.34 mm x 30 mm x 2.5 mm with 2.5 mm diameter holes spaced 2.8 mm apart. In this illustrated embodiment, the baffle 34 has 77 holes but it will be appreciated that the configuration of the baffle 34, including the dimensions of the plate, the dimensions of the holes, the spacing of the holes, etc. can be determined, at least in part, by optimising the configuration for specific sterilisation chambers 22. Each hole has a chamfer on either side of the hole and there is a chamfer on each side of the baffle 34. The baffle 34 is retained in position by slots machined into the side of the sterilisation chamber 22.

[0083] The internal cavity of the sterilisation chamber 22 comprises a reflective surface. For example, a silver-plated coating provides a highly reflective internal surface within the sterilisation chamber 22 to provide maximum dispersal of UVC radiation within the sterilisation chamber 22 and ensure there are no areas of shadowing within the water flow. Silver also has known antibacterial benefits. Other materialsthat can be used to form the reflective surface in the internal cavity of the sterilisation chamber include chrome, polished aluminium and other polished metals.

[0084] The fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 further comprises a power supply cable for operably powering the UV treatment module 20. The power supply cable is external to the sterilisation chamber 22 and is designed to plug into a standard power supply. The power supply cable connects to a control module, with loT capability and power supply. The fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be connected to the internet via a built in Wi-Fi connection to provide an alarm if the UVC light sensor contained within the sterilisation chamber 22 senses low UV irradiation. This alarm can be configured to notify staff onsite or remotely.

[0085] The control module can be programmed to turn the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 on about every 15 minutes for about 15 seconds to sterilise the sterilisation chamber 22. This ensures sterilisation of fluid within the sterilisation chamber 22 even when the apparatus 10 has not been activated by a user.

[0086] A portable version of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 utilises the same sterilisation chamber 22 but uses a USB connection from a standard power bank power supply to run the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10. In the example of a hospital / aged care facility, the power bank will provide enough power for the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 to operate showers for approximately 2-3 weeks while a standard power supply is installed nearby. This portable operation also has potential within defence applications where a soldier could carry the device 10, power bank and empty water bottles which can be fdled from a water source and attached to the device 10 providing instant sterilisation of the water.

[0087] The flow switch 32, UV treatment module 20, controller and power supply cable may be a self- contained and unitary unit.

[0088] A control module may be connected to the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 via a cable. The control module may comprise:1. An AC / DC power supply and cord / plug.2. loT capability whereby the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is permanently connected to the internet and capable of generating warning / error messages on fault analysis or <70% UVC radiation output within the sterilisation chamber 22. The loT will issue SMS and email warnings as required to those on a notifiable list.3. There is programmable control capability to turn the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 on when not in use. This provides sterilisation of water within the sterilisation chamber 22 during periods oflittle / no use. It is envisaged that varying facilities will have different requirements, and this capability can be set during installation.4. Temperature monitoring for optimal performance of the LEDs 24a and 24b.5. UVC radiation monitoring to ensure optimal performance of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10.

[0089] As discussed, the fixed fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be monitored via loT to ensure correct UVC radiation dosage is supplied and ensuring bacterial sanitisation. Alternatively, or in addition, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be hard wired to a communications or monitoring system, such as a building management system (BMS) to allow monitoring of system performance or parameters such as UVC radiation dosage, etc.

[0090] The fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may further comprise at least one EED indicator that can be selectively activated to provide an operational state of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10.

[0091] The fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is suitable for disinfecting water and can therefore be used as a water disinfecting apparatus. In this context, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be retrofitted to any existing water outlet such as a drinking fountain, wash basin in a bathroom or ensuite, scrub sink in a hospital, kitchen sink, shower cubicle, etc. The fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be used for up to 9 LPM water flow and can be increased to 12 LPM or 15 LPM if required by adding more LEDs 24a and 24b and increasing the power supply.

[0092] When used as a water disinfecting apparatus, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be installed as close as possible to the point of use (POU) and thereby provide sanitation at the point where water is used. This is an important factor in providing bacteria free potable water in a facility. Previously, UVC radiation was created by mercury vapour lamps which were dangerous and large in size. This resulted in them being installed at the point of entry to buildings or near a hot water plant. This did not address the issue of bacteria already existing in the pipework of the building because the UVC steriliser installed on entry to the building will kill any incoming bacteria but will not stop bacteria already in pipes from growing. The use of a fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 as described herein at POU solves this issue.

[0093] The fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be part of a water outlet comprising a water valve and a water outlet with the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 in fluid connection with the water outlet and positioned upstream thereof.

[0094] In one example of a use, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is retrofitted to basins and showers.The retrofit fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be installed between a potable water supply of a buildingand a basin mixer or shower rose depending on application. Typically, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 will be installed under an ensuite basin and connected to the buildings cold and warm / hot water supply line to the basin, or for a shower, between the shower mixer water coming out of the spigot on the wall and the flexible hose supplying water to the shower rose. Typically, there are two wall fittings with isolation valves under a basin vanity providing either hot / warm or cold water. Connected to the wall fitting is a DN15 flexible hose with female connectors on both ends. This flexible hose screws onto the wall fitting and to the underside of the basin mixer. For connecting the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10, the flexible hose from the underside of the basin mixer screws onto the outlet end of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10. A second flexible connector then screws onto the inlet end (with flow switch) of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 and to the existing wall plug. Power for the device is plugged into the nearest wall socket and turned on.

[0095] In a standard ensuite basin, there will be 2 devices installed. One for the cold water supply and one for the warm / hot water supply.

[0096] In a shower, water for the shower typically exits the wall within a shower enclosure via a DN15 male wall spigot connector at approximately 1 ,8m in height or 0.4m to 1.0m in height for a disabled shower. This is connected to a flexible shower hose via a DN15 female connector. Typically, the shower hose is up to 1.2m long with DN15 female connections on both ends. At the opposite end of the hose a shower rose is screwed into the female DN15 hose. For connecting the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is connected to the existing wall connector via a custom wall fitting incorporating a holder for the shower rose. The flow switch entry end of the device is screwed to the underside of the wall fitting at approximately 1.8m height. The flexible shower hose with DN15 female connector is screwed to the outlet point of the device. For a retrofit installation power for the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is supplied via a power cable enclosed in a small plastic channel affixed to the wall and upwards into the ceiling space where it is then connected to the control module and a suitable power supply. For a new installation, power for the device is supplied via a power cable run from the ceiling space down the inside of the wall cavity, exiting at the water spigot. In the ceiling space the power cable is connected to the control module and a suitable power supply.

[0097] In each case, when a basin mixer or shower mixer handle is lifted or turned on, water flows from the buildings potable water supply which activates the flow switch 32 at the fluid inlet 14 of the apparatus 10 causing the sterilisation chamber 22 to activate. On activation multiple UVC LEDs 24a and 24b instantly turn on ensuring all water passing through the apparatus 10 is irradiated with UVC radiation at typically 200nm to 280nm for > 1 second.

[0098] Secondary sterilisation occurs when the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 is not in use. Typically, legionella can grow when water is stagnant. To prevent this possibility, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be pre-programmed to turn on for 15 seconds every 15 minutes or as set during installation.

[0099] In another example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be incorporated in a new basin mixer. New potable water mixers are designed to replace traditional commercially available mixers and are suitable for basin ensuites, kitchen mixers, scrub sink mixers within hospital facilities. Typical installation is no different to existing products except for the need for a nearby power outlet to which the mixer is plugged into. In this example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 incorporates a specially designed spout incorporating the sterilisation chamber 22. A laminar flow aerator may be positioned at the outlet 16 of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10.

[0100] Typically, there are two wall fittings with isolation valves under a basin vanity providing either hot / warm or cold water. Connected to the wall fitting is a DN15 flexible hose with female connectors on both ends. This flexible hose screws onto the wall fitting and to male inlets on the underside of the mixer. For connecting the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10, the flexible hoses from the underside of the basin mixer screw onto the outlet of the flow switches. A second flexible connector then screws onto the inlet end of the flow switch 32 of the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 and to the existing wall plug. A power cord and control module are attached to the underside of the mixer. This is plugged into the nearest wall socket and turned on.

[0101] In another example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be incorporated in a basin mixer fitted with a proximity switch. Typical installation is no different to existing products except for the need for a nearby power outlet to which the mixer is plugged into. When a proximity switch is used there is no handle to turn water on. Rather a user waves a hand in front of the mixer and water begins to flow. In this example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 does not require a fluid flow switch 32 and the sterilisation chamber 22 activates when the proximity switch is activated. On activation multiple UVC LEDs 24a and 24b instantly turn on ensuring all water passing through the device 10 is irradiated with UVC light at 275nm for >1 second.

[0102] Secondary sterilisation occurs when the device is not in use. Typically, legionella can grow when water is stagnant. To prevent this possibility the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 may be preprogrammed to turn on for 15 seconds every 15 minutes.

[0103] In another example, the fluid disinfecting apparatus 10 can be a portable device. The portable device 10 is based on the design of the retrofit shower device except it has modified inlet 14 / outlet 16 points for connection to the thread on a standard water bottle. Power connection is via an 32V 0.5A power bank via a USB connector and cable. Typically, an empty IE water bottle is filled with water froma water source and screwed into the inlet 14 of the device 10. The full water bottle should be held vertically with the device 10 attached on to the top of it. An empty IL water bottle is then screwed into the outlet 16 of the device 10. Power from the power bank is connected and turned on. The device 10 with 2 x water bottles attached is then inverted until all water has transferred from one bottle to the other. This process is repeated several times allowing irradiation of the water as it passes through the device 10 and killing any bacteria in the water. The bottles can then be removed, with the water now suitable for drinking. The device 10 is turned off and power is disconnected.LEXICON

[0104] The following reference numbering is used throughout the description and figures:• Fluid disinfecting apparatus 10• Housing 12• Fluid inlet 14• Fluid outlet 16• Fluid flow path 18• UV treatment module 20• Sterilisation chamber 22• UCV LED array 24 o First UVC LED array 24a o Second UVC LED array 24b• Wall (of housing) 26 o Upper wall 26a o Lower wall 26bWalls 27 of the fluid flow path 18 and the sterilisation chamber 22o Upper wall 27a o Lower wall 27b• UVC transparent window 28 o Upper UVC transparent window 28a o Lower UVC transparent window 28b• Waterproof seal 30• Fluid flow switch 32• Baffle 34• Circuit board 36• Temperature sensor 38• Cover 40• Recessed section 42

[0105] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[0106] It will be understood that the terms “comprise” and “include” and any of their derivatives (e.g. comprises, comprising, includes, including) as used in this specification, and the claims that follow, is to be taken to be inclusive of features to which the term refers, and is not meant to exclude the presence of any additional features unless otherwise stated or implied.

[0107] In some cases, a single embodiment may, for succinctness and / or to assist in understanding the scope of the disclosure, combine multiple features. It is to be understood that in such a case, these multiple features may be provided separately (in separate embodiments), or in any other suitable combination. Alternatively, where separate features are described in separate embodiments, these separate features may be combined into a single embodiment unless otherwise stated or implied. This also applies to the claims which can be recombined in any combination. That is a claim may be amended to include afeature defined in any other claim. Further a phrase referring to “at least one of’ a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, “at least one of: a, b, or c” is intended to cover: a, b, c, a-b, a-c, b-c, and a-b-c.

[0108] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosure is not restricted in its use to the particular application or applications described. Neither is the present disclosure restricted in its preferred embodiment with regard to the particular elements and / or features described or depicted herein. It will be appreciated that the disclosure is not limited to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fluid disinfecting apparatus comprising: a housing comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid flow path between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; a UV treatment module fluidly interposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, the UV treatment module comprising a sterilisation chamber configured to sterilise fluid contained therein, the sterilisation chamber comprising first and second UVC LED arrays wherein the first and second UVC LED arrays are positioned such that they are substantially opposite one another.

2. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a fluid flow switch interposed between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and configured to sense a fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet and wherein the UV treatment module is operably coupled to the fluid flow switch for activation of the UV treatment module upon sensing of the fluid flow.

3. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of either claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sterilisation chamber is configured to induce laminar flow of a fluid therethrough.

4. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of claim 3, wherein laminar flow of the fluid in the sterilisation chamber is induced by a baffle positioned at a fluid inlet of the sterilisation chamber.

5. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein an internal cavity of the sterilisation chamber comprises a reflective surface.

6. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a distance between the opposing first and second UVC LEDs is equal to or less than the sterilisation distance of the UVC LEDs in each UVC LED array.

7. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber is at least about 3,000 pW / cm2.

8. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of claim 7, wherein the UVC light irradiation within the sterilisation chamber is from about 10,000 pW / cm2to about 250,000 pW / cm2.

9. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each UVC LED array comprises a UVC light sensor configured to measure the amount of UVC light generated by each UVC LED array.

10. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 9, further comprising a controller operably coupling the fluid flow switch with the UV treatment module to activate the UV treatment module upon sensing the flow of fluid.

11. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a power supply cable for operably powering the UV treatment module.

12. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of claim 11, wherein the flow switch, UV treatment module, controller and power supply cable are a self-contained and unitary unit.

13. The fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising at least one UED indicator that can be selectively activated to provide an operational state of the fluid disinfecting apparatus.

14. A water disinfecting apparatus comprising the fluid disinfecting apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A water outlet comprising a water valve, a water outlet and the water disinfecting apparatus of claim 14 in fluid connection with the water outlet and positioned upstream thereof.

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