Apparatus and method for irradiating air of an air circulation system of a vehicle

Abstract

An apparatus and method for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes a filter unit configured to be coupled to a recirculation air conduit connected to a manifold of the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end, and a filter disposed in the inlet end of the filter unit and including a filter media wall having a shape defining an interior volume of the filter. The apparatus further includes a UV lamp disposed on an end plate configured to be mounted to position the UV lamp in the interior volume of the filter and the end plate against an open end of the filter. The UV lamp can be configured to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating air flowing through the filter into the air circulation system.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to irradiation treatment of air within an air circulation system of a vehicle, and more particularly, to air purification for use with cooling and environmental control systems on an aircraft. BACKGROUND

[0002] This section provides background information to the disclosure which is not necessarily prior art. Exemplary vehicles and aircraft cabin air systems are designed to provide a comfortable cabin environment. In some exemplary aircraft, the aircraft cabin is pressurized to enable passengers and crew to breathe normally. Air enters the passenger area from overhead distribution outlets extending along the length of the aircraft cabin and creates an airflow within the cabin. The air supplied to the cabin contains a mixture of air from within the cabin that is recirculated and air from outside the aircraft. The air is exhausted through return air outlets located along the length of the cabin, thereby continuously providing air to and exhausting air from the passenger area.

[0003] Other vehicles, such as trains and buses, have air circulation systems that circulate air to make passengers comfortable. There is a central air unit in many vehicles that can circulate both outside air that is introduced into the vehicle as well as air that is recirculated within the vehicle interior, where contaminants and atmospheric dust particles can be present in the air. Atmospheric dust particles include a complex mixture of organic and inorganic substances, including bacteria, germs, various airborne viruses, and other substances small enough to be suspended in the air, with passengers being exposed to atmospheric dust particles posing a risk of infection and contagion.

[0004] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all of the above issues can represent important considerations with respect to the overall operation of an airline or other vehicle operator. Accordingly, there is a continuing need for an improved, cost-effective method for circulating air within a vehicle.

[0005] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that can be related to various aspects of the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure to include only such aspects. The following SUMMARY

[0006] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0007] According to various aspects, an apparatus for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a vehicle includes a filter unit coupled to a recirculation air conduit coupled to the air circulation system. A filter is disposed in an inlet end of the filter unit and has a shape defining an interior volume of the filter. The apparatus further includes a UV lamp disposed on an end plate for mounting the UV lamp positioned in the interior volume of the filter and the end plate abutting an open end of the filter. The UV lamp can emit UV radiation between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating air flowing through the filter.

[0008] According to another aspect, a method for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a vehicle includes coupling a filter unit to a recirculation air conduit connected to the air circulation system. The method includes positioning a filter within an inlet end of the filter unit, the filter having a shape defining an interior volume of the filter. The method further includes mounting a UV lamp disposed on an end plate such that the UV lamp is positioned in the interior volume of the filter and the end plate is positioned to abut an open end of the filter. The method also includes powering an electrical connector of the UV lamp via a power connector disposed on the end plate to cause the UV lamp to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating a flow of air through the filter.

[0009] Other applications will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in the Summary are intended merely as illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0010] There are various improvements to the features noted above for various aspects of the disclosure. Other features can also be incorporated in these various aspects. These improvements and additional features can exist alone or in any combination. For example, various features discussed below with respect to one or more illustrated embodiments can be incorporated into any of the above-described aspects of the disclosure, alone or in any combination. Again, the brief summary presented above is intended merely as a summary of certain aspects and contexts of the disclosure, and is not intended to limit the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and are not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1 is an illustration of a vehicle, including an aircraft, in accordance with the present disclosure, having a passenger air distribution system receiving air from an air circulation system;

[0013] Figure 2is an illustration of an air circulation system of a vehicle according to the present disclosure, including an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiating an air stream to the air circulation system;

[0014] Figure 3 is an illustration of an air circulation system of a vehicle according to the present disclosure, including an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiating an air stream to the air circulation system; Figure 1 and Figure 2 is an illustration of an air circulation system of a vehicle according to the present disclosure, including an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiating an air stream to the air circulation system;

[0015] Figure 4 is an illustration of an air circulation system of a vehicle according to the present disclosure, including an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiating an air stream to the air circulation system; Figure 3 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a UV lamp assembly of the apparatus in

[0016] Figure 5 is an illustration of an embodiment of a UV lamp and end plate in the apparatus of Figure 3 according to the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 6 is an illustration of an embodiment of a UV lamp and end plate relative to an open end of a filter in the apparatus of Figure 3 according to the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 7 is an illustration of the apparatus in Figure 3 wherein the illustrated UV lamp can be removed to allow for replacement; and

[0019] Figure 8 is an illustration of a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle according to the present disclosure.

[0020] Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Exemplary embodiments now will be described more fully herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. In accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, embodiments of an apparatus for irradiating treatment of air within an air circulation system of a vehicle are described. Features, functions, and advantages discussed in the previous section can be implemented independently or in combination in various embodiments. Further aspects of the present disclosure can be seen with reference to the embodiments described below with reference to the drawings.

[0022] In one example, an apparatus for irradiation treatment of air within an air circulation system of a vehicle includes a filter unit configured to be coupled to a recirculation air conduit connected to a manifold of the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end, and a filter disposed at the inlet end of the filter unit, including an outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media and optionally an inner activated carbon filter media defining an interior volume of the filter. The apparatus further includes a UV lamp disposed on an end plate configured to be mounted to position the UV lamp in the interior volume of the filter with the end plate abutting the open end of the filter, wherein the UV lamp is configured to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiation of a flow of air passing through the filter into the air circulation system.

[0023] Reference is made to Figure 1 A vehicle, including an aircraft 200, has a passenger air distribution system that receives air from an air circulation system. The air distribution system provides air that enters the passenger area from overhead distribution outlets extending along the length of the aircraft cabin and creates an airflow within the cabin. The air supplied to the cabin contains a mixture of recirculated air from within the cabin and air from outside the aircraft. The air is exhausted through return air vents positioned near the floor along the length of the cabin, thereby continuously providing air to and removing air from the cabin passenger area.

[0024] Figure 2 is a diagram of an air circulation system 150 of a vehicle, such as Figure 1 An aircraft 200, is shown. The air circulation system 150 includes an embodiment of an apparatus for irradiation of a flow of air into the air circulation system 150. The air circulation system 150 includes a recirculation air conduit 152 (a recirculation fan can be disposed in the recirculation air conduit) connected to a mixing manifold 154 of the air circulation system 150, where the mixing manifold 154 receives an external air supply from outside the aircraft 200 from an environmental control system (ECS) and also receives recirculated air through a filtered input. The mixing manifold 154 also supplies two air distribution lines to supply circulation air to passengers in the cabin.

[0025] Figure 3 is depicted. The air circulation system 150 (such as Figure 1 is depicted. The air circulation system 150 (such as Figure 2An embodiment of the apparatus 100 for irradiation treatment of air within an air circulation system 150 (shown in phantom) is shown. The apparatus 100 includes a filter unit 110 configured to be coupled to a recirculation air conduit 152 connected to a mixing manifold 154 of the air circulation system 150, where the filter unit 110 has an inlet end 112. A filter 120 is disposed in the filter unit 110 and has a filter media wall having a shape defining an interior volume 122 (see Figure 6 ) of the filter 120. The apparatus 100 further includes a UV lamp 140 (see Figure 4 ) disposed on an end plate 130 configured to be mounted to position the UV lamp 140 in the interior volume 122 of the filter 120 and with the end plate 130 abutting the open end of the filter 120, where the UV lamp 140 is configured to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiation of the air stream passing through the filter into the air circulation system 150.

[0026] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes the filter unit 110 coupled to the recirculation air conduit 152 connected to the mixing manifold 154 of the air circulation system 150 for supplying recirculation air to the mixing manifold 154. The filter 120 is disposed at the inlet end 112 of the filter unit 110, where the filter 120 can have a circular, rectangular, or triangular shape and have an outer media wall through which air is drawn, where the shape of the filter defines an interior volume 122 through which air passes through the media of the filter 120 to the interior volume 122. The filter 120 is disposed on the filter unit 110 and configured to be coupled to the filter unit 110, such as via tabs 114.

[0027] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes the emitter of the UV lamp 140 and the end plate 130 as shown in the exploded assembly view shown in Figure 4 . The emitter of the UV lamp 140 can include a UV bulb or a light transmissive conduit (such as a light pipe) that receives UV light emitted from a fiber optic UV emitter source or a UV light emitting diode (LED), or alternatively other suitable UV emitters. The UV lamp 140 (or transmissive element receiving emitted UV light) has a free end configured to be positioned within the interior volume 122 of the filter 120 (see Figure 6), the opposite end proximate to end plate 130, the opposite end including an electrical connector 142 of the ultraviolet lamp 140 that can be coupled to a power source connector for powering the ultraviolet bulb or alternatively to an ultraviolet light source. The ultraviolet lamp 140 can be mounted to the end plate 130 by fasteners inserted through a plurality of holes in a flange associated with the ultraviolet lamp 140. The assembly of the ultraviolet lamp 140 and the end plate 130 can further include a transparent lens 146 having a mounting flange with holes and two gaskets 144 positioned on opposite sides of the end plate 130 that are secured by fasteners for establishing a seal of the ultraviolet lamp 140 (located within the lens 146) relative to the end plate 130. An air vent can optionally be mounted through the end plate 130 into the volume enclosed by the transparent lens 146 so that any ozone or gas emissions can be drawn from the ultraviolet bulb or emitter in the event of a failure of the ultraviolet bulb to reduce the likelihood of ozone leaking into the air circulation system 150. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet lamp 140 is selected to produce or emit ultraviolet radiation at a predetermined power level of between 222 nanometers to 265 nanometers such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, mold, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the interior volume 122 of the filter 120.

[0028] In one embodiment, the device 100 includes an ultraviolet lamp 140 disposed on the end plate 130, as shown in Figure 5 . The ultraviolet lamp 140 is configured to be mounted to position the ultraviolet lamp 140 in the interior volume 122 of the filter 120 and with the end plate 130 abutting the open end of the filter 120, as shown in Figure 6 . The end plate 130 can be fastened to the end of the filter 120 by attachment via rivets, adhesives, or integrated into the end of the filter 120. The filter 120 can have a filter media wall formed in a cylindrical shape and include an outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media 120A and can optionally include an inner activated carbon filter media 120B that defines the interior volume 122 of the filter 120, as shown in Figure 6 . In some embodiments, the outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media 120A includes an outer annular portion of the filter 120 that forms a pleated cartridge of high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media. The optional inner activated carbon filter media 120B includes an inner annular portion of the filter 120 that includes activated carbon.

[0029] The ultraviolet lamp 140 is configured to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating the air stream entering into the air circulation system 150 through the filter 120. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet lamp 140 is configured to emit a frequency distribution of ultraviolet radiation substantially within a range of 222 nm to 265 nm, where the range is sufficient to result in a minimal amount of ozone production. Ultraviolet lamps 140 with wavelengths below 240 nm can produce ozone, while ultraviolet light emitting frequencies within a range of 240-265 nm can potentially destroy or reduce ozone levels, where an emission range of ultraviolet radiation up to a frequency of 265 nm potentially reduces or limits the range of ozone production from ultraviolet irradiation emitted at a low frequency, such that a frequency distribution within a range of 222 nm to 265 nm results in a minimal amount of ozone production. Additionally, the ultraviolet lamp 140 emits ultraviolet radiation of 222 nm to 265 nm at a predetermined power flux or an irradiance of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, mold, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the interior volume 122 of the filter 120.

[0030] As Figure 7As shown, the ultraviolet lamp 140 is further configured to be removably attached to the end plate 130 to allow removal of the ultraviolet lamp 140 and the electrical connector 142 and replacement with another ultraviolet lamp 140 and electrical connector 142. Because the ultraviolet lamp 140 is mountable to the end plate 130 by fasteners inserted through a plurality of holes in a flange associated with the ultraviolet lamp 140, the ultraviolet lamp 140 and the flange are separable from the end plate 130 and a replacement ultraviolet lamp 140 can be installed. Additionally, the apparatus 100 can be configured to provide a predetermined level of power to the ultraviolet lamp 140 for a predetermined period of time to cause a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air to flow through the air circulation system 150 and recirculate through the aircraft cabin prior to further flight operations of the aircraft 200. Additionally, the apparatus 100 can be configured to include a controller (not shown) that monitors an air flow sensor, mass flow sensor, or air particulate sensor disposed within the aircraft cabin to determine whether the amount of recirculated irradiated air flowing through the aircraft cabin is indicative of a minimum level for removal of atmospheric dust particles and contaminants and then cease power to the ultraviolet lamp 140. Similarly, the controller can monitor the sensor to determine whether the measured values are indicative of the presence of ozone or contaminant particles in the cabin air that exceed an acceptable threshold and then deactivate the ultraviolet lamp 140 to cease ultraviolet irradiation. Additionally, the controller can monitor the sensor to determine whether the amount of recirculated irradiated air flowing through the aircraft cabin is indicative of an insufficient level for removal of atmospheric dust particles and contaminants and then activate power to the ultraviolet lamp 140 to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiation of air flow through the filter 120 into the air circulation system 150.

[0031] According to another aspect, a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle can include coupling a filter unit to a recirculation air conduit connected to a manifold of the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end; and positioning a filter in the inlet end of the filter unit, the filter including an outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media and an optional inner activated carbon filter media defining an interior volume of the filter. The method further includes mounting an ultraviolet lamp disposed on an end plate relative to the filter unit such that the ultraviolet lamp is positioned in the interior volume of the filter and the end plate is positioned against an open end of the filter; and supplying power to an electrical connector of the ultraviolet lamp via a power connector disposed on the end plate to cause the ultraviolet lamp to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiation of air flow through the filter into the air circulation system.

[0032] As Figure 8As shown, one embodiment of a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle is provided. The method includes, at step 300, coupling a filter unit to a recirculation air conduit connected to a manifold of the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end. The method includes, at step 302, positioning a filter in the inlet end of the filter unit, the filter including an outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media and an optional inner activated carbon filter media defining an interior volume of the filter. The method further includes, at step 304, mounting a UV lamp disposed on an end plate relative to the filter unit such that the UV lamp is positioned in the interior volume of the filter and the end plate is positioned against the open end of the filter. The method can optionally include step 308 of coupling an electrical connector of the UV lamp to a power source or a UV light emitting source (e.g., a fiber optic UV light emitter) to the UV lamp. The method includes, at step 310, powering the electrical connector of the UV lamp via a power source connector disposed on the end plate to cause the UV lamp to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating a flow of air passing through the filter into the air circulation system. The method can optionally include step 312 of powering the UV lamp to emit the UV radiation at a predetermined power flux or at an irradiance of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter for a predetermined period of time such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculation air flows through the air circulation system and the aircraft cabin prior to further flight operations of the aircraft.

[0033] The example embodiments convey the full scope of the range to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that the example embodiments can be practiced without the specific details given. That is, the example embodiments can take other forms than the particular embodiments exemplified and the disclosed embodiments should not be construed as limited to the particular forms disclosed. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

[0034] Further, the present disclosure includes embodiments in accordance with the following clauses:

[0035] Clause 1. An apparatus (100) for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, comprising:

[0036] a filter unit (110) configured to be coupled to a recirculation air conduit (152) connected to the air circulation system (150), the filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112);

[0037] a filter (120) disposed at an inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110), the filter comprising a filter media wall having a shape defining an interior volume (122) of the filter (120); and

[0038] a UV lamp (140) disposed on the end plate (130) configured to be mounted to position the UV lamp (140) in the interior volume (122) of the filter (120) and the end plate (130) against the open end of the filter (120),

[0039] wherein the UV lamp (140) is configured to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating the flow of air through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150).

[0040] Clause 2. The apparatus (100) of clause 1, wherein the UV lamp (140) is configured to emit a frequency distribution of UV radiation in a range between 222 nm to 265 nm, wherein the range is sufficient to cause a minimum amount of ozone to be produced.

[0041] Clause 3. The apparatus (100) of clause 1, wherein the UV lamp (140) has a free end and an opposite end, the free end configured to be positioned within the interior volume (122) of the filter (120), the opposite end disposed proximate to the end plate (130), the opposite end comprising an electrical connector (142) of the UV lamp (140) coupled to an electrical power connector proximate to the end plate (130).

[0042] Clause 4. The apparatus (100) of clause 3, wherein the UV lamp (140) emits UV radiation between 222 nm to 265 nm at a predetermined power flux or irradiance such that the intensity of the UV radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, mold, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the interior volume (122) of the filter (120).

[0043] Clause 5. The apparatus (100) of clause 1, wherein the end plate (130) is configured to be mounted to the open end of the filter (120) by attachment via rivets, adhesives, or bonded to the open end of the filter.

[0044] Clause 6. The apparatus (100) of clause 3, wherein the filter (120) comprising the filter media wall is constructed of an outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media (120A) and an inner activated carbon filter media (120B).

[0045] Clause 7. The apparatus (100) of clause 6, wherein the outer HEPA media (120A) comprises an outer annular portion of the filter (120) that forms a folded cartridge comprised of high efficiency particulate air (HEPA), and wherein the inner activated carbon filter media (120B) comprises an inner annular portion of the filter (120) that contains activated carbon.

[0046] Clause 8. The apparatus (100) of clause 7, wherein the filter unit (110) comprises a filter housing in which the filter (120) is disposed.

[0047] Clause 9. The apparatus (100) of clause 8, wherein the filter housing is configured to be coupled to a recirculation air conduit (152) that connects to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) for supplying recirculation air to the manifold (154).

[0048] Clause 10. The apparatus (100) of clause 9, wherein the manifold (154) is a mixing manifold of the air circulation system (150) on the aircraft (200).

[0049] Clause 11. The apparatus (100) of clause 1, further comprising a lens (146) that encloses the ultraviolet lamp (140) and is secured to the end plate (130) to establish a sealed volume, and the apparatus further comprises a breather tube that extends through the end plate (130) into the sealed volume enclosed by the lens (146) for venting and exhausting ozone or gas emissions released in the event of a rupture or failure of the ultraviolet lamp (140) to inhibit ozone release into the air circulation system (150).

[0050] Clause 12. A method for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, comprising the steps of:

[0051] Step (300) coupling a filter unit (110) to a recirculation air conduit (152) that connects to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150), the filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112);

[0052] Step (302) positioning a filter (120) in the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110), the filter (120) comprising outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media (120A) and inner activated carbon filter media (120B) that defines an inner volume (122) of the filter (120);

[0053] Step (304), mounting the ultraviolet lamp (140) disposed on the end plate (130) relative to the filter unit (110) such that the ultraviolet lamp (140) is positioned in the interior volume (122) of the filter (120) and the end plate (130) is positioned against the open end of the filter (120); and

[0054] Step (310), supplying power to the electrical connector (142) of the ultraviolet lamp (140) via the power connector disposed on the end plate (130) to cause the ultraviolet lamp (140) to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating the flow of air through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150).

[0055] Clause 13. The method of clause 12, wherein the step of mounting the ultraviolet lamp (140) comprises the steps of:

[0056] positioning a free end of the ultraviolet lamp (140) within the interior volume (122) of the filter (120); and

[0057] positioning an opposite end of the ultraviolet lamp (140) proximate to the end plate (130) such that the end plate (130) is positioned against the open end of the filter (120), and

[0058] wherein the method further comprises the step (308) of coupling the electrical connector (142) of the ultraviolet lamp (140) to a power connector disposed on the end plate (130) to supply power to the ultraviolet lamp (140).

[0059] Clause 14. The method of clause 13, wherein the method further comprises the steps of:

[0060] disposing the ultraviolet lamp (140) to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm to 265 nm; and

[0061] supplying power to the ultraviolet lamp (140) via the supplied power at a predetermined power flux or irradiance such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, mold, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the interior volume (122) of the filter (120).

[0062] Clause 15. The method of clause 14, wherein the step of mounting the end plate (130) comprises attaching the end plate (130) to the open end of the filter (120) via attachment by rivets, adhesives, or bonding to the open end of the filter.

[0063] Clause 16. The method of clause 15, wherein the method further comprises coupling the filter housing to a recirculation air conduit (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200) for supplying the irradiated recirculation air to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200).

[0064] Clause 17. The method of clause 16, further comprising the step of powering the ultraviolet lamp (140): powering the ultraviolet lamp (140) at a predetermined power level such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce atmospheric dust particles and other microorganisms in the irradiated recirculation air.

[0065] Clause 18. The method of clause 17, further comprising the step (312) of powering the ultraviolet lamp (140): powering the ultraviolet lamp (140) at a predetermined power flux or irradiance for a predetermined period of time such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculation air flows through the manifold (154) and recirculates through the cabin of the aircraft (200) before the aircraft (200) is further flown.

[0066] Clause 19. The method of clause 18, further comprising the steps of:

[0067] monitoring the sensors disposed within the cabin of the aircraft (200) to determine whether the measurements of the recirculated irradiated air flow through the cabin of the aircraft (200) indicate a minimum level for removal of atmospheric dust particles and contaminants; and

[0068] subsequently, discontinuing powering the ultraviolet lamp (140).

[0069] Clause 20. The method of clause 19, further comprising the steps of:

[0070] monitoring the sensors disposed within the cabin of the aircraft (200) to determine whether the measurements of the recirculated irradiated air flow through the cabin of the aircraft (200) indicate an insufficient level for removal of atmospheric dust particles and contaminants; and

[0071] subsequently, powering the ultraviolet lamp (140) to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm to 265 nm for irradiating the air flow entering the air circulation system (150) through the filter (120).

[0072] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" can be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their

[0073] The foregoing description of the implementations has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. The various elements or features of a specific implementation are generally not limited to the specific implementation unless expressly specifically limited to such. Even though particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications in form and details can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. The various elements or features of a specific implementation can likewise be employed in other implementations. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, the apparatus (100) comprising: A filter unit (110) is configured to be coupled to a recirculated air duct (152) connected to the air circulation system (150), the filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112). A filter (120) is disposed at the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110), the filter comprising a filter media wall having a shape defining the internal volume (122) of the filter (120); as well as An ultraviolet lamp (140) is disposed on an end plate (130) and configured to position the ultraviolet lamp (140) within the internal volume (122) of the filter (120) with the end plate (130) abutting against the open end of the filter (120). The ultraviolet lamp (140) is configured to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating the airflow entering the air circulation system (150) through the filter (120); The device (100) further includes a lens (146) that encloses the ultraviolet lamp (140) and is fixed to the end plate (130) to establish a sealed volume, and the device further includes a vent tube that extends through the end plate (130) into the sealed volume enclosed by the lens (146) for ventilation and exhaust of ozone or gas emissions released in the event of a breakage or failure of the ultraviolet lamp (140), thereby suppressing ozone release into the air circulation system (150).

2. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The ultraviolet lamp (140) is configured to emit ultraviolet radiation in the range of 222 nm to 265 nm, which is sufficient to produce a minimum amount of ozone.

3. The device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The UV lamp (140) has a free end and a opposite end, the free end being configured to be positioned within the internal volume (122) of the filter (120), and the opposite end being arranged near the end plate (130), the opposite end including an electrical connector (142) of the UV lamp (140) coupled to a power connector near the end plate (130).

4. The device (100) according to claim 3, wherein, The ultraviolet lamp (140) emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm at a predetermined power flux or irradiance, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce microorganisms and other contaminants in the air flowing through the internal volume (122) of the filter (120).

5. The device (100) according to claim 3, wherein, The ultraviolet lamp (140) emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm at a predetermined power flux or irradiation, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce viruses, bacteria, germs, and mold in the air flowing through the internal volume (122) of the filter (120).

6. The device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The end plate (130) is configured to be attached to the open end of the filter (120) or combined with the open end of the filter by means of rivets or adhesives.

7. The device (100) according to claim 3, wherein, The filter (120), including the filter media wall, is composed of an external high-efficiency particulate air medium (120A) and an internal activated carbon filter medium (120B).

8. The device (100) according to claim 7, wherein, The external high-efficiency particulate air medium (120A) includes an outer annular portion of the filter (120), the outer annular portion forming a pleated cylinder composed of the external high-efficiency particulate air medium, and wherein the internal activated carbon filter medium (120B) includes an inner annular portion of the filter, the inner annular portion containing activated carbon.

9. The device (100) according to claim 8, wherein, The filter unit (110) includes a filter housing, in which the filter (120) is disposed, wherein the filter housing is configured to be coupled to a recirculated air duct (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) for supplying recirculated air to the manifold (154), and the manifold (154) is a mixing manifold of the air circulation system (150) on the aircraft (200).

10. A method for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, wherein, The method includes the following steps: Step (300) involves coupling the filter unit (110) to a recirculated air duct (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150), the filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112). Step (302) Positioning the filter (120) in the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110), the filter (120) comprising an external high-efficiency particulate air medium (120A) and an internal activated carbon filter medium (120B) defining the internal volume (122) of the filter (120). Step (304) involves mounting a UV lamp (140) disposed on an end plate (130) relative to the filter unit (110) such that the UV lamp (140) is positioned within the internal volume (122) of the filter (120) and the end plate (130) is positioned against the open end of the filter (120), wherein a lens (146) is used to enclose the UV lamp (140) and fix it to the end plate (130) to establish a sealed volume; a vent tube extends through the end plate (130) into the sealed volume enclosed by the lens (146) for ventilation and exhaust of ozone or gas emissions in the event of a breakage or failure of the UV lamp (140), thereby suppressing ozone release into the air circulation system (150); and Step (310) Power is supplied to the electrical connector (142) of the ultraviolet lamp (140) via the power connector provided on the end plate (130) so that the ultraviolet lamp (140) emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating the airflow entering the air circulation system (150) through the filter (120).

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The steps for installing the ultraviolet lamp (140) include the following: Position the free end of the ultraviolet lamp (140) within the internal volume (122) of the filter (120); and Position the opposite end of the ultraviolet lamp (140) close to the end plate (130) so that the end plate (130) abuts against the open end of the filter (120), and The method further includes step (308): coupling the electrical connector (142) of the ultraviolet lamp (140) to a power connector disposed on the end plate (130) for supplying power to the ultraviolet lamp (140).

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: The ultraviolet lamp (140) is configured to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm; and The ultraviolet lamp (140) is powered by the supplied electricity at a predetermined power flux or irradiation such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce microorganisms and other contaminants in the air flowing through the internal volume (122) of the filter (120).

13. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: The ultraviolet lamp (140) is configured to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm; and The ultraviolet lamp (140) is powered by the supplied electricity at a predetermined power flux or irradiation such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or reduce viruses, bacteria, germs, and mold in the air flowing through the internal volume (122) of the filter (120).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The method further includes coupling a filter housing to a recirculation air duct (152) connected to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200) for supplying irradiated recirculated air to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200).

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step (312) of supplying power to the ultraviolet lamp (140): supplying power to the ultraviolet lamp (140) at a predetermined power flux or irradiation for a predetermined time period, such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the manifold (154) and is recirculated through the cabin of the aircraft (200) prior to further flight operations of the aircraft (200).

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising the following steps: The sensors installed in the cabin of the aircraft (200) are monitored to determine whether the measurements of the recirculated irradiated airflow through the cabin of the aircraft (200) indicate an insufficient level for the removal of atmospheric particulate matter and pollutants. Subsequently, the ultraviolet lamp (140) is powered to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating the airflow entering the air circulation system (150) through the filter (120); Sensors installed within the cabin of the aircraft (200) are monitored to determine whether measurements of the recirculated irradiated airflow through the cabin of the aircraft (200) indicate a minimum level for the removal of atmospheric particulate matter and pollutants; and Subsequently, power supply to the ultraviolet lamp (140) is stopped.

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