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

Abstract

An apparatus for irradiating airflow in a vehicle, comprising a filter unit configured to be coupled to a recirculation air duct connected to a manifold of an air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end; and a filter disposed in the inlet end of the filter unit and comprising an outer high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media. The apparatus further comprises a plurality of ultraviolet light transmissive strands, each having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being disposed in a spaced apart manner in an interface region between the outer HEPA media filter and an inner activated carbon filter or HEPA filter, the proximal end being connectable to an ultraviolet light emitting source such that ultraviolet light is transmitted through the transmissive strands into the interface region. The transmissive strands are configured to receive emitted ultraviolet light substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating air passing through the filter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the irradiation treatment of air within the air circulation system of a vehicle, and more specifically, to air purification for use with cooling and environmental control systems on an aircraft. Background Technology

[0002] This section provides background information relating to this disclosure and is not necessarily prior art. Cabin air systems in exemplary vehicles and aircraft are designed to provide a comfortable cabin environment. In some exemplary aircraft, the cabin is pressurized to allow passengers and crew to breathe normally. Air enters the passenger area from a top-mounted distribution outlet that extends the length of the aircraft cabin and creates airflow within it. The air supplied to the cabin comprises a mixture of recirculated air from inside the cabin and air from outside the aircraft. Air is exhausted through return air vents positioned along the length of the cabin, ensuring a continuous supply and exhaust of air to and from the passenger area.

[0003] Other modes of transportation, such as trains and buses, have air circulation systems that circulate air to ensure passenger comfort. Many vehicles have a central air unit that circulates both outside air introduced into the vehicle and air recirculated within the vehicle, where pollutants and airborne particles may be present. Airborne particles comprise complex mixtures of organic and inorganic matter, including bacteria, germs, various airborne viruses, and other substances small enough to remain suspended in the air. Passenger exposure to these airborne particles poses a risk of infection and transmission.

[0004] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that all the aforementioned issues likely represent significant considerations regarding the overall operations of airlines or other transportation operators. Therefore, there remains a persistent need for an improved and cost-effective method for air circulation within vehicles.

[0005] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the technology that may be related to the various aspects of this disclosure, which will be described and / or claimed below. This discussion is intended to help provide the reader with background information to better understand the various aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements should be interpreted in this context and not as an admission of prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This section provides a general overview of this disclosure, rather than a full disclosure of its entire scope or all its features.

[0007] According to various aspects, an apparatus for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle includes a filter unit coupled to a recirculated air duct connected to the air circulation system. A filter is arranged at the inlet end of the filter unit and includes an external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter and an internal activated carbon filter media defining an internal volume. The apparatus also includes a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams, each having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being arranged at intervals in the interface between the external HEPA media filter and the internal activated carbon filter, the proximal end being connectable to a UV light emission source such that UV light is transmitted through the transmission beams into the interface region between the external HEPA media filter and the internal activated carbon filter. The UV light transmission beams can receive emitted UV light substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm to irradiate the air passing through the filters.

[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 duct connected to the air circulation system. The method includes positioning the distal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams at intervals along the outer surface of an activated carbon filter, and positioning the activated carbon filter within a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter such that the distal ends of the plurality of UV light transmission beams are arranged along the interface region between the outer HEPA media filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes fixing the filter including the UV light transmission beams relative to the filter unit and connecting the proximal end of each of the plurality of UV light transmission beams to a UV light emitting source such that UV light emitted by the emitting source is transmitted through the transmission beams to the interface region between the outer HEPA media filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes activating the UV light emitting source to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm and 253 nm, which is transmitted through the transmission beams for irradiating air entering the air circulation system through the filter.

[0009] Other application areas will become apparent from the description herein. The descriptions and specific examples in the overview are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0010] Various modifications to the features described above relating to various aspects of this disclosure exist. Other features may also be incorporated into these different aspects. These modifications and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features discussed below relating to one or more of the illustrated embodiments may be incorporated individually or in any combination into any of the above aspects of this disclosure. Again, the brief overview given above is intended only to familiarize the reader with certain aspects and context of this disclosure and is not limited to the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

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

[0012] Figure 1 The illustrations of a vehicle including an airplane according to this disclosure have a passenger air distribution system that receives air from an air circulation system.

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

[0014] Figure 3 It is according to this disclosure for use in irradiating vehicles (e.g.) Figure 1 and 2 An illustration of an embodiment of an airflow device in an air circulation system (shown).

[0015] Figure 4 Based on this disclosure Figure 3 The illustration of the device depicts a beam of ultraviolet light transmission used for the filter;

[0016] Figure 5 Based on this disclosure Figure 4 The illustration shows a device in which a beam of ultraviolet light is located on a portion of a filter;

[0017] Figure 6 Based on this disclosure Figure 5 The assembly diagram of the device depicts the relative... Figure 3 The ultraviolet light transmission beam at the opening end of the filter in the device;

[0018] Figure 7 This is an assembly diagram of another embodiment of a filter including an ultraviolet light transmission beam according to the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 8 Based on this disclosure Figure 7 The illustrations of the embodiments depict a beam of ultraviolet light transmission arranged at the interface between the HEPA filter and the activated carbon filter.

[0020] Figure 9 This is an assembly diagram of another embodiment of a filter including an ultraviolet light transmission beam according to the present disclosure; and

[0021] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle, according to the present disclosure.

[0022] Throughout the various views of the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding components. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Embodiments of an apparatus for irradiating air within the air circulation system of a vehicle are described according to various aspects of this disclosure. The features, functions, and advantages discussed in the preceding sections may be implemented independently in various embodiments or may be combined in other embodiments. Other aspects of this disclosure can be seen with reference to the accompanying drawings and the embodiments described below.

[0024] In the example, an apparatus for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle includes a filter unit configured to be coupled to a recirculated air duct connected to the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end. A filter is arranged at the inlet end of the filter unit and includes an external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter and an internal activated carbon filter media defining an internal volume. The apparatus also includes a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams, each having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being arranged at intervals in the interface between the external HEPA media filter and the internal activated carbon filter, the proximal end being connectable to a UV light emission source such that UV light is transmitted through the transmission beams into the interface region between the external HEPA media filter and the internal activated carbon filter. The UV light transmission beams are configured to receive emitted UV light substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm to irradiate the air passing through the filters.

[0025] Reference Figure 1 The vehicle, including the aircraft 200, has a passenger air distribution system that receives air from the air circulation system. The air distribution system supplies air into the passenger area from a distribution outlet at the top, which extends the length of the aircraft cabin and creates 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. Air is continuously supplied to and exhausted from the passenger area of ​​the cabin by drawing in air through return air vents located near the floor along the length of the cabin.

[0026] Figure 2 It is a means of transportation (e.g.) Figure 1 The illustration shows an air circulation system 150 of the aircraft 200, including embodiments of means for radiating airflow to the air circulation system 150. The air circulation system 150 includes a recirculated air duct 152 (in which a recirculation fan may be arranged) connected to a mixing manifold 154, wherein the mixing manifold 154 receives a supply of outside air from the environmental control system (ECS) outside the aircraft 200 and also receives recirculated air via filtered input. The mixing manifold 154 also supplies two air distribution lines to supply recirculated air to passengers in the cabin.

[0027] Figure 3 Describing for vehicles (e.g.) Figure 1 Air circulation system 150 of aircraft 200 (e.g.) Figure 2 An embodiment of an apparatus 100 for irradiating air within an air circulation system (shown in the diagram). The apparatus 100 includes a filter unit 110 configured to be coupled to a recirculated air duct 152, which is connected to a mixing manifold 154 of the air circulation system 150, wherein the filter unit 110 has an inlet end 112. A filter 120 is arranged in the inlet end 112 of the filter unit 110 and includes an external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter 120A and an internal activated carbon filter 120B. Figure 3 (Not shown in the image). The device 100 also includes a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams, each having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end is arranged at intervals in the interface between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. The proximal end is connectable to a UV light emission source, allowing UV light to be transmitted through the transmission beams into the interface region between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. The device 100 also includes an end plate 130, which is configured to abut against the open end of the filter 120. The UV light transmission beams are configured to transmit UV light substantially between 222 nm and 253 nm for irradiating air that passes through the filter 120 into the air circulation system 150.

[0028] In one embodiment, device 100 includes a filter unit 110 coupled to a recirculated air duct 152, which is connected to a mixing manifold 154 of an air circulation system 150. A filter 120 is disposed at the inlet end 112 of the filter unit 110, wherein the filter 120 may have a circular, rectangular, or triangular shape and an outer surface through which air is drawn in, wherein the filter shape defines an internal volume through which air passes through the medium of the filter 120 to reach the internal volume. An external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter 120A may include an outer annular portion of the filter 120 forming a pleated tube made of HEPA medium, and an internal activated carbon filter 120B may include an inner annular portion of the filter 120 containing activated carbon. The filter 120 may have a cylindrical shape and may include an external HEPA medium 120A and an internal activated carbon filter medium 120B defining the internal volume of the filter 120. More specifically, in some embodiments, the externally pleated high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium 120A includes an outer annular portion of the filter 120 that forms a pleated tube made of HEPA medium, and the internal activated carbon filter medium 120B includes an inner annular portion of the filter 120 containing activated carbon.

[0029] exist Figure 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the device 100 includes a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140, each ultraviolet light transmission beam having a distal end 140A and a proximal end, the distal ends 140A being arranged at intervals in the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B (see [link to documentation]). Figure 6 In this configuration, the near end can be connected to an ultraviolet light emission source, allowing ultraviolet light to be transmitted through a transmission beam into the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the ultraviolet light transmission beams 140 can cover or be arranged on the outer surface of the internal activated carbon filter 120B, such that the distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140 are positioned at intervals along the outer surface of the activated carbon filter 120B. Figure 6As shown, a transmission beam 140 covering the activated carbon filter 120B is then positioned within an external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter 120A, such that the distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet transmission beams 140 are arranged along the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. In some embodiments, the distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet transmission beams 140 are removably arranged between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B, such that they can be removed and replaced. The proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet transmission beams 140 is connected to an ultraviolet light emission source, such that ultraviolet light emitted by the emission source is transmitted through the transmission beam 140 into the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. The filter 120 including the ultraviolet transmission beams 140 is positioned relative to the filter unit 110, and an end plate 130 is positioned abutting against the open end of the filter 120.

[0030] The distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles 140 may each have different lengths, such that the distal ends 140A are positioned at different locations within the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. The distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles 140 may be positioned at various locations within the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B, such that ultraviolet light is scattered throughout the entire interface region 148. In some embodiments, the external HEPA media filter 120A is made of braided glass fiber, wherein transmitted ultraviolet light emitted at the interface region 148 is reflected and scattered by the braided glass fiber to disperse the UV light and irradiate the interface region 148 between the external HEPA media filter 120A and the internal activated carbon filter 120B. In some embodiments, the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles 140 are connected to form a single bundle positioned relative to the ultraviolet light source and may be connected to a connector near the end plate 130. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or irradiance of at least 1000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or degrade microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, molds, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the filter. In some embodiments, the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles 140 include optical fibers suitable for ultraviolet light optical fiber transmission. One such optical fiber is sold by Laser Components. Silica optical fiber. In some embodiments, the device 100 also includes an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (LED) as an ultraviolet light source, positioned proximal to a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles 140 including the optical fiber, wherein the ultraviolet LED emits ultraviolet light to the proximal end of the ultraviolet light transmission bundles 140, which transmits the ultraviolet light to an interface region 148 to irradiate air entering the air circulation system 150 through an external HEPA media filter 120A, an interface region 148, and an internal activated carbon filter 120B. An example could be the ultraviolet LED part number VPS134 sold by Boston Scientific. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light source is configured to emit a frequency distribution of ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, wherein this range is sufficient to result in the production of a minimum amount of ozone. Ultraviolet light sources with wavelengths less than 240 nm can generate ozone, while ultraviolet light sources with emission frequencies in the range of approximately 240 nm to 265 nm may potentially destroy or reduce ozone levels. Specifically, the emission range of ultraviolet radiation up to 265 nm potentially reduces or limits the amount of ozone produced by UV radiation emitted at lower frequencies, such that a frequency distribution in the range between 222 nm and 265 nm results in a minimum amount of ozone being generated within filter 120. Filter 120, including an ultraviolet light transmission bundle 140, is positioned relative to filter unit 110, and end plate 130 is positioned abutting the open end of filter 120. In some embodiments, Figure 6 The end plate 130 shown is configured to be attached to the end of the filter 120 by means of rivets, adhesives or bonding.

[0031] Reference Figure 7 This illustrates another embodiment of a filter (e.g., filter 120) including ultraviolet light transmission beams 140, which can be included in a device 100 for irradiating air in an air circulation system (e.g., air circulation system 150). The filter includes a filter unit 110 (or filter housing), multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams 140, a HEPA filter 120A, and an activated carbon filter 120B. Figure 8 As shown, the distal ends 140A of a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140 are positioned within the interface region 148 between the HEPA filter 120A and the activated carbon filter 120B, such that the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140 are arranged between the HEPA filter 120A and the activated carbon filter 120B. The proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140 pass through a sealed connection in the filter unit 110, wherein an ultraviolet light source can be positioned relative to (or connected to) the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140, such that ultraviolet light emitted by the light source is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams 140.

[0032] Additionally, device 100 may be configured to include a controller (not shown) that monitors components located in the aircraft cabin (e.g., Figure 1 Airflow sensors, mass flow sensors, or particulate air sensors within the aircraft 200 (shown) determine whether the recirculated irradiated airflow through the aircraft cabin indicates a minimum level for removing airborne particles and contaminants, and then deactivate power to the ultraviolet light source positioned relative to (or connected to) the multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams 140. Similarly, the controller can monitor sensors to determine whether measurements indicate the presence of ozone exceeding an acceptable threshold or the presence of contaminant particles in the cabin air, and then deactivate the ultraviolet emitter to stop ultraviolet irradiation. Alternatively, the controller can monitor sensors to determine whether the recirculated irradiated airflow through the aircraft cabin indicates an insufficient level for removing airborne particles and contaminants, and then activate power to the ultraviolet lamp to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm to irradiate the airflow entering the air circulation system 150 through the filter 120.

[0033] According to another aspect, a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle includes coupling a filter unit to a recirculation air duct connected to a manifold of the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end. The method further includes positioning the distal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams at intervals along the outer surface of an activated carbon filter, and positioning the activated carbon filter within a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter such that the distal ends of the plurality of UV light transmission beams are arranged along the interface region between the outer HEPA media filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes fixing the filter including the UV light transmission beams relative to the filter unit, and connecting the proximal end of each of the plurality of UV light transmission beams to a UV light emitting source such that UV light emitted by the emitting source is transmitted through the transmission beams to the interface region between the outer HEPA media filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes activating the UV light emitting source to emit UV radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted through the transmission beams for irradiating air entering the air circulation system through the filter.

[0034] like Figure 10The diagram illustrates one embodiment of a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a vehicle. The method includes step 300, coupling a filter unit to a recirculated air duct connected to a manifold of the air circulation system, the filter unit having an inlet end. The method includes step 302, positioning the distal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams at intervals along the outer surface of an activated carbon filter. The method further includes step 304, positioning the activated carbon filter within a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter such that the distal ends of the plurality of UV light transmission beams are arranged along the interface region between the outer HEPA media filter and the inner activated carbon filter. In step 306, the method includes fixing the filter comprising the UV light transmission beams relative to the filter unit and positioning an end plate against the open end of the filter. The method may optionally include step 308, providing a UV light source that emits UV radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm at a predetermined power level, such that the intensity of the UV radiation is sufficient to kill and / or degrade viruses, bacteria, and other airborne microorganisms. The method further includes, in step 310, connecting the proximal end of each of a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams to an ultraviolet light emitting source, such that activation of the emitting source causes ultraviolet light emitted by the emitting source to be transmitted through the transmission beams to the interface region between the external HEPA media filter and the internal activated carbon filter for irradiating airflow passing through the filter into the air circulation system. The method further includes, in step 312, activating the ultraviolet light emitting source to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted by the transmission beams for irradiating air passing through the filter into the air circulation system. The method may optionally include step 314, in which the ultraviolet light source is activated to emit ultraviolet light at a predetermined power level for a predetermined time period, such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the air circulation system and the aircraft cabin prior to further flight operations of the aircraft.

[0035] Exemplary embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and none should be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0036] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments pursuant to the following provisions:

[0037] Clause 1. A device (100) for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, the device (100) comprising:

[0038] A filter unit (110) is configured to be connected to a recirculated air duct (152), which is connected to an air circulation system (150), and the filter unit (110) has an inlet end (112).

[0039] A filter (120) is arranged in the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110) and includes an external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter (120A) and an internal activated carbon filter (120B) that defines the internal volume of the filter (120).

[0040] Multiple ultraviolet (UV) light transmission beams (140), each UV light transmission beam having a distal end (140A) and a proximal end, the distal end (140A) being arranged at intervals in the interface between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B), and the proximal end being connectable to a UV light emission source, so that UV light is transmitted through the multiple UV light transmission beams (140) into the interface region (148) between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B); and

[0041] An end plate (130) is disposed on the open end of the filter (120) and has holes through which multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) extend.

[0042] The ultraviolet light transmission beam (140) is configured to receive ultraviolet light emitted substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm and transmit the ultraviolet light through the interface between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B) into the air in the air circulation system (150).

[0043] Clause 2. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the ultraviolet light is configured to emit a frequency distribution of ultraviolet radiation with a range substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, wherein such range is sufficient to cause the production of a minimum amount of ozone.

[0044] Clause 3. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the distal ends (140A) of a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) are positioned at different locations within the interface between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B) such that ultraviolet light is scattered across the entire interface, and wherein the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) are connected to a single bundle, which is connected to a connector near the end plate (130).

[0045] Clause 4. The device (100) according to Clause 3, wherein the ultraviolet light emitting source emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or irradiation of at least 1000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or degrade microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, molds and other contaminants in the air flowing through the internal volume of the filter (120).

[0046] Clause 5. The device (100) according to Clause 1, wherein each of the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) has a different length, such that the distal ends (140A) are positioned at different locations within the interface between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B).

[0047] Clause 6. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 1, wherein a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) include optical fibers suitable for optical fiber transmission of ultraviolet light.

[0048] Clause 7. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 6 further includes a UV light-emitting diode (LED) positioned near the end of a plurality of UV light transmission bundles (140) including an optical fiber, wherein the UV light-emitting diode emits UV light to the near end of the optical fiber, which transmits UV light to irradiate air entering the air circulation system (150) through an external HEPA media filter (120A), an interface region (148), and an internal activated carbon filter (120B).

[0049] Clause 8. The device (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the end plate (130) is configured to be mounted to the open end of the filter (120) by means of attachment or bonding via rivets, adhesives or glues.

[0050] Clause 9. The device (100) according to Clause 3, wherein the external HEPA medium (120A) includes an external annular portion of the filter (120) that forms a pleated tube made of HEPA medium.

[0051] Clause 10. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 6, wherein the internal activated carbon filter (120B) includes an internal annular portion of the filter (120) containing activated carbon.

[0052] Clause 11. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 10, wherein the filter unit (110) is configured to be coupled to a recirculated air duct (152) connected to a manifold (154) of an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, and wherein the filter unit (110) filters the recirculated air supplied to the manifold (154).

[0053] Clause 12. The device (100) according to Clause 11, wherein the manifold (154) is a mixing manifold of an air circulation system (150) on an aircraft (200).

[0054] Clause 13. A method for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, comprising the steps of:

[0055] The filter unit (110) is connected (300) to the recirculation air duct (152), which is connected to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150), and the filter unit (110) has an inlet end (112).

[0056] Multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140A) are positioned at intervals (302) on the outer surface of the internal activated carbon filter (120B) of the filter (120);

[0057] The internal activated carbon filter (120B) is positioned (304) inside the external high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter (120A) of the filter (120), such that the distal ends (140A) of multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) are arranged along the interface region (148) between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B).

[0058] A filter (120) including an ultraviolet light transmission beam (140) is fixed (306) relative to the filter unit (110) and a positioning end plate (130) abuts against the opening end of the filter (120);

[0059] The proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) is connected (310) to an ultraviolet light emission source, such that ultraviolet light emitted by the emission source is transmitted through the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) to the interface region (148) between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B); and

[0060] The ultraviolet light source (312) is activated to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted through multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) to irradiate the air that passes through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150).

[0061] Clause 14. The method according to Clause 13, wherein the step of locating the distal end (140A) includes locating the distal end (140A) at different positions within the interface region (148) between the external HEPA media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B) such that ultraviolet light is scattered throughout the interface region (148), and wherein the method further includes the step of locating the proximal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140), the step of which includes connecting the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) into a single beam such that an ultraviolet light emitting source emits ultraviolet light into the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140).

[0062] Clause 15. The method according to Clause 14, wherein the step of activating the ultraviolet light emission source includes operating an ultraviolet light-emitting diode that emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm at a power flux or irradiation of at least 1000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation irradiating the air passing through the filter (120) is sufficient to kill and / or degrade microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, molds and other contaminants in the air flowing through the filter (120).

[0063] Clause 16. The method of Clause 14, wherein the method further comprises coupling a filter housing to a recirculation air duct (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200) to enable the supply of irradiated recirculated air to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200).

[0064] Clause 17. The method according to Clause 15 further includes the step of supplying power to the ultraviolet lamp to supply power to the ultraviolet lamp having a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter for a predetermined period of time, such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the manifold (154) and is recirculated through the cabin of the vehicle prior to further operation of the vehicle.

[0065] Clause 18. The method described in Clause 17 further includes the steps of: monitoring sensors arranged in the cabin of the vehicle to determine whether the recirculated irradiated airflow through the cabin of the vehicle indicates a minimum level for removing airborne particulates and contaminants, and then stopping power supply to the ultraviolet lamps.

[0066] Clause 19. The method of Clause 18 further includes monitoring sensors arranged in the cabin of the vehicle to determine whether measurements of the recirculated irradiated airflow through the cabin of the vehicle indicate insufficient levels for removing airborne particulates and contaminants, and then powering ultraviolet lamps to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm, thereby irradiating the airflow entering the air circulation system (150) through the filter (120).

[0067] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring performance in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as such. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0068] The above description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Various elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. Variations are also possible in many ways. Such variations should not be considered a departure from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A device (100) for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, the device (100) comprising: A filter unit (110) is configured to be connected to a recirculated air duct (152) which is connected to the air circulation system (150), and the filter unit (110) has an inlet end (112). The filter (120) is arranged in the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110) and includes an external high-efficiency particulate air media filter (120A) and an internal activated carbon filter (120B) defining the internal volume of the filter (120). Multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) are provided, each having a distal end (140A) and a proximal end. The distal end is arranged at intervals in the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B). The proximal end can be connected to an ultraviolet light emission source, so that ultraviolet light is transmitted through the multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) into the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B). as well as An end plate (130) is disposed on the open end of the filter (120) and has holes through which the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) extend, and wherein... The ultraviolet light transmission beam (140) is configured to receive ultraviolet light emitted between 222 nm and 265 nm and transmit the ultraviolet light into the air passing through the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B) and into the air in the air circulation system (150); and Each of the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) has a different length, such that the distal ends (140A) are positioned at different locations within the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air media filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B).

2. The apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet light is configured to emit a frequency distribution of ultraviolet radiation in the range of 222 nm to 265 nm, wherein such range is sufficient to cause the production of a minimum amount of ozone.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) are positioned at different locations within the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B), such that ultraviolet light is scattered across the entire interface region (148), and wherein the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) are connected to a single bundle, the single bundle being connected to a connector near the end plate (130).

4. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ultraviolet light emitting source emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or radiation of at least 1000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or degrade microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, molds and other contaminants in the air flowing through the internal volume of the filter (120).

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) comprise optical fibers suitable for ultraviolet light optical fiber transmission.

6. The apparatus (100) of claim 5 further includes an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (LED) positioned near the proximal end of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission bundles (140) including an optical fiber, wherein the ultraviolet light-emitting diode emits ultraviolet light to the proximal end of the optical fiber, the optical fiber transmitting ultraviolet light to irradiate air entering the air circulation system (150) through the external high-efficiency particulate air medium filter (120A), the interface region (148), and the internal activated carbon filter (120B).

7. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the external high-efficiency particulate air media filter (120A) includes an external annular portion of the filter (120), the external annular portion forming a pleated tube made of high-efficiency particulate air media.

8. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the internal activated carbon filter (120B) comprises an internal annular portion of the filter (120) containing activated carbon.

9. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the filter unit (110) is configured to be coupled to a recirculated air duct (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, and wherein the filter unit (110) filters the recirculated air supplied to the manifold (154), wherein the manifold (154) is a mixing manifold of the air circulation system (150) on an aircraft (200).

10. A method for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a vehicle, comprising the steps of: The filter unit (110) is connected (300) to the recirculation air duct (152), which is connected to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150), and the filter unit (110) has an inlet end (112). Multiple ultraviolet light transmission beams (140A) are positioned at intervals (302) on the outer surface of the internal activated carbon filter (120B) of the filter (120). The internal activated carbon filter (120B) is positioned (304) within the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) of the filter (120), such that the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) are arranged along the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B), wherein each distal end (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) has a different length, such that the distal ends (140A) are positioned at different positions within the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B). The filter (120) including the ultraviolet light transmission beam (140) is fixed (306) relative to the filter unit (110) and abuts against the opening end positioning plate (130) of the filter (120). The proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) is connected (310) to an ultraviolet light emission source, such that the ultraviolet light emitted by the ultraviolet light emission source is transmitted through the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) into the interface region (148) between the external high efficiency particulate air medium filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B); as well as The ultraviolet light source is activated (312) to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted through the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) to irradiate the air that passes through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150).

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of locating the distal end (140A) comprises locating the distal end (140A) at different positions within the interface region (148) between the external high-efficiency particulate air filter (120A) and the internal activated carbon filter (120B), such that ultraviolet light is scattered throughout the interface region (148), and wherein the method further comprises the step of locating the proximal end of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140), the step comprising connecting the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140) into a single beam such that the ultraviolet light emitting source emits ultraviolet light into the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission beams (140).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of activating the ultraviolet light emission source comprises operating an ultraviolet light-emitting diode that emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or radiation of at least 1000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation irradiating the air passing through the filter (120) is sufficient to kill and / or degrade microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, germs, molds and other contaminants in the air flowing through the filter (120).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the method further comprises coupling a filter housing to a recirculation air duct (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200) to enable the supply of irradiated recirculated air to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200).

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of: Power is supplied to the ultraviolet lamp for a predetermined period of time, supplying the ultraviolet lamp with a power flux or radiation of at least 1000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the manifold (154) and is recirculated through the cabin of the vehicle before further operation of the vehicle.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, further comprising the step of: The system monitors sensors arranged within the cabin of the vehicle to determine whether measurements of the recirculated irradiated airflow through the cabin indicate an insufficient level for removing airborne particles and contaminants, then supplies power to ultraviolet lamps to emit ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm, thereby irradiating the airflow entering the air circulation system (150) through the filter (120); and monitors sensors arranged within the cabin of the vehicle to determine whether the amount of recirculated irradiated airflow through the cabin indicates a minimum level for removing airborne particles and contaminants, then stops supplying power to the ultraviolet lamps.

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