System and method for indicating ultraviolet disinfection

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems and methods for indicating ultraviolet disinfection. In an example, a protective assembly for visually indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection of an area is described. The protective assembly includes a modified protective bumper that is attachable to one or more surfaces in the area such that the modified protective bumper covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The modified protective bumper includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color that is different from the first color and visible under ambient lighting conditions when exposed to UV light.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Ultraviolet (UV) light is one existing solution used to sanitize or otherwise disinfect surfaces within an aircraft, as UV light can generally be effective at sanitizing exposed surfaces. After a surface is disinfected (using UV light or other solutions), it can be desirable to provide a visual indicator that a passenger, crew member, or other individual knows that the surface has been disinfected.

[0002] Existing solutions for indicating that a surface has been disinfected include photoluminescent indicators. However, these existing solutions generally do not provide a visual indication that disinfection has been performed to a satisfactory level. Further, the visual indication provided by these existing solutions can not be visible without black light or other visual aids. Further still, some existing photoluminescent indicators can include materials that charge and luminesce when exposed to light sources other than UV light. Thus, there can be instances in which cabin lighting or other forms of lighting present in an aircraft (other than UV light) are capable of causing existing photoluminescent indicators to luminesce, even when the photoluminescent indicators are not exposed to UV light, thereby inaccurately indicating that a surface has been disinfected when it can not have been.

[0003] What is needed is a device that provides an easier-to-understand, more accurate indication of when a surface has been disinfected by UV light. SUMMARY

[0004] In an example, a protective assembly for visually indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection of an area is described. The protective assembly includes a retrofitted protective bumper that is attachable to one or more surfaces in the area such that the retrofitted protective bumper covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The retrofitted protective bumper includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color that is different from the first color and visible under ambient lighting conditions when exposed to UV light.

[0005] In another example, a method is described. The method includes exposing a retrofitted protective bumper to ultraviolet (UV) light using a light emitter device configured to emit UV light, where the retrofitted protective bumper is attached to one or more surfaces in an area such that the retrofitted protective bumper covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces, and where the retrofitted protective bumper includes a photochromic plastic material having a first color. The method also includes causing the photochromic plastic material to change from the first color to a second color that is different from the first color and visible under ambient lighting conditions in response to the exposure, and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0006] In another example, a method is described. The method includes mechanically coupling a retrofitted protective buffer to a support attached to one or more surfaces in an area such that the retrofitted protective buffer covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The retrofitted protective buffer includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0007] In another example, an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection kit is described. The UV disinfection kit includes a light emitter device configured to emit UV light. The UV disinfection kit also includes a retrofitted protective buffer, where the retrofitted protective buffer is an insert configured to be mechanically coupled to a support attached to one or more surfaces in an area such that the retrofitted protective buffer covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The retrofitted protective buffer includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to UV light, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0008] In another example, a protective assembly for visually indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection of an area. The protective assembly includes a retrofitted protective buffer attachable to one or more surfaces in the area such that the retrofitted protective buffer covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The retrofitted protective buffer includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to UV light. The photochromic plastic material includes one or more photochromic polymers present in a combined amount of at least 5 weight percent. The photochromic plastic material also includes at least one of a colloidal metal or a non-photochromic polymer.

[0009] The features, functions, and benefits can be achieved independently in various examples or can be combined in yet other examples. Examples can be better understood and appreciated from the following detailed description and by reference to the following drawings: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] The novel features described herein are set forth with particularity in the claims that follow. These descriptive examples, however, merely exemplify the illustrative examples of the disclosure and are not intended to limit or restrict the disclosure in any way. The illustrative examples of this disclosure are described in detail in the following description and in the attached drawings:

[0011] Figure 1 A protective assembly for visually indicating UV disinfection of an area implemented in accordance with an example is depicted.

[0012] Figure 2 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations. Figure 1 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations.

[0013] Figure 3 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations. Figure 1 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations.

[0014] Figure 4 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations. Figure 1 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations.

[0015] Figure 5 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations. Figure 1 depicts a protective assembly according to example implementations.

[0016] Figure 6 depicts a perspective view of an aircraft according to example implementations.

[0017] Figure 7 shows a flowchart of an example method according to example implementations.

[0018] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of another example method according to example implementations. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The disclosed examples will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, disclosed examples are shown. Indeed, a variety of different examples can be described and should be understood to include any and all combinations of the elements incorporated herein.

[0020] The terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and “near” used herein, mean being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in particular with respect to the numerical parameters, can mean within 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 9%, 10% or less, and, in particular, can mean within 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10% or less of the stated value or percentage.

[0021] The elements depicted in the figures are not necessarily to scale as the emphasis is placed upon illustrating the examples.

[0022] In examples, described herein are systems and methods for visually indicating UV disinfection of an area, such as an area on an aircraft. In particular, the described systems and methods provide a retrofitted protective bumper that can be attached to one or more surfaces in the area such that the retrofitted protective bumper covers and protects at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The retrofitted protective bumper includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color that is different from the first color when exposed to ultraviolet light. The second color is visible under ambient lighting conditions and is visible under such ambient lighting conditions without a visual aid device (e.g., a black light source or other type of light source).

[0023] In the present disclosure, examples are primarily described in relation to an aircraft. However, it should be understood that in other implementations, the disclosed systems and methods can be implemented in vehicles other than an aircraft, such as aerospace vehicles (e.g., marine vehicles, rotary wing aircraft, spacecraft, etc.); transportation vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, boats, ships, subways, trains, amusement rides, etc.; and / or can be implemented in other environments and locations, such as in buildings including schools, theaters, commercial buildings, airports, etc. The disclosed systems can also be used in outdoor areas, such as amusement parks, amphitheaters, etc.

[0024] Bumpers, rubstrips, etc. can be prepared by extrusion, die casting, injection molding, etc.

[0025] Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 An example of a protective assembly 100 for visually indicating UV disinfection of an area is depicted. The protective assembly 100 includes a retrofitted protective bumper 102 that can be attached to one or more surfaces 104 in the area such that the retrofitted protective bumper 102 covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces 104. In Figure 1 In the example, the retrofitted protective bumper 102 is shown attached to the one or more surfaces 104.

[0026] In examples, the retrofitted protective bumper 102 is a rubstrip, corner bumper, or other type of protective bumper, and the one or more surfaces 104 are in an area of an aircraft (not shown) that is a high-traffic area (e.g., a main cabin that is frequently occupied by many passengers) or includes surfaces that are otherwise frequently exposed to humans or objects that contact, collide, or otherwise interact with the surfaces. For example, the retrofitted protective bumper 102 is attached to one or more surfaces 104 on a corner on an aircraft aisle floor or within or near an aircraft lavatory. Other examples are also possible.

[0027] To achieve a visual indication of UV disinfection of the area, the retrofitted protective buffer 102 includes a photochromic plastic material 106 that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to UV light 108, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions, thereby visually indicating UV disinfection of the area. In an example, the photochromic plastic material 106 can be configured to change back from the second color to the first color after a predetermined period of time. In an example, the predetermined period of time is 1 to 3 minutes, 2 to 5 minutes, or 4 to 7 minutes.

[0028] The visibility of the second color under ambient lighting conditions is superior to existing solutions for indicating disinfection, and in embodiments because a black light or other visual aid can not be needed in order to see the second color. Thus, after disinfecting the area with UV light 108, an individual can quickly and easily see that the photochromic plastic material 106 of the retrofitted protective buffer 102 has changed from the first color to the second color. Furthermore, the photochromic plastic material 106 of the retrofitted protective buffer 102 is less likely to change color when exposed to sunlight or other forms of lighting that can be present in an aircraft, other vehicle, building, or other environment (e.g., cabin lighting) compared to photo luminescent indicators used with existing solutions for indicating disinfection. Thus, the protective assembly 100 disclosed herein can reduce the opportunity for false indications of UV disinfection of the area.

[0029] In one example, the photochromic plastic material 106 is a photochromic plastic formulation comprising at least a portion of the modified protective buffer 102, for example, by adding a photochromic masterbatch to a non-photochromic plastic. For example, at least 50% of the modified protective buffer 102 consists of one or more photochromic polymers (e.g., high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and / or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)). More specifically, one or more photochromic polymers account for about 50% to about 100%, or about 75% to about 100%, or about 85% to about 100% of the total solid weight of the photochromic plastic formulation. As another example, the photochromic plastic formulation comprises one or more photochromic polymers present in a combined amount of at least 5% by weight, and further comprises colloidal metals and / or non-photochromic polymers, such as non-photochromic plastic materials. That is, a specific amount of one or more photochromic polymers is combined with the remaining materials constituting the modified protective buffer 102. In embodiments, the photochromic plastic formulation comprises one or more photochromic polymers in an amount of about 5% to about 25%, or about 10% to about 30%, or about 15% to about 35% of the total solid weight of the photochromic plastic formulation. To facilitate this, for example, the photochromic plastic material 106 may be in the form of photochromic plastic particles, which are mixed into a molten composition comprising at least one non-photochromic plastic (e.g., a polyethylene polymer) and / or comprising colloidal metals, and then the composition is formed into a modified protective buffer 102. Other examples are also possible.

[0030] In another example, the modified protective buffer 102 includes a coating of photochromic plastic material 106. For example, the coating may be arranged adjacent to the outer surface of a non-photochromic substrate or structure (e.g., a non-photochromic plastic or metal). The photochromic plastic material 106 may constitute at least a threshold percentage of the coating, such as 50%. Further, the coating may be arranged adjacent to at least a threshold percentage of the outer surface of the non-photochromic substrate or structure, such as 95%-100% of the outer surface. In these and other examples described above, the photochromic plastic material 106 may be substantially homogeneous.

[0031] In the example, the UV light 108 is selected to have a wavelength in the range of about 200 nanometers to about 280 nanometers, or about 222 nanometers to about 280 nanometers, or about 222 nanometers to about 254 nanometers, or about 222 nanometers to about 240 nanometers, or about 240 nanometers to about 280 nanometers.

[0032] In the example, and as Figure 1 As shown, the light emitter device 110 is configured to emit UV light 108. Figure 1The photochromic plastic material 106 is shown with a first color, while the light emitter device 110 has begun to expose the photochromic plastic material 106 to UV light 108. The light emitter device 110 can be a UV wand or other UV light source. As the light emitter device 110 emits UV light 108 in the area, pathogens can be killed, thereby sanitizing the area. In some cases, for example, pathogens on the surface can be killed immediately after or within a predetermined period of time (e.g., a few seconds to a few minutes) after the light emitter device 110 is moved (e.g., swept) across the surface.

[0033] Both the light emitter device 110 and the retrofitted protective bumper 102 can be included in a UV sanitizing kit 112. In examples, the UV sanitizing kit 112 also includes other devices or features, such as one or more fasteners or other devices for directly or indirectly attaching the retrofitted protective bumper 102 to one or more surfaces 104. Other examples are also possible.

[0034] In implementations, the retrofitted protective bumper 102, including but not limited to the photochromic plastic material 106, is designed / selected to meet one or more regulations associated with the aircraft, other vehicle, building, other indoor or outdoor location in which the retrofitted protective device bumper 102 is located. For example, the retrofitted protective bumper 102 is non-flammable (e.g., composed of a material that does not ignite, burn, release flammable vapors, etc. when exposed to fire or heat) and / or otherwise must meet applicable flammability test standards as set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

[0035] Figure 2 Next, a perspective view of the protective assembly 100 is depicted with the photochromic plastic material 106 exposed to / after UV light 108 and after the first color has changed to a second color.

[0036] In examples, the first color is selected to substantially match a color of the aircraft interior, other mode of transportation, or building, or the first color is selected for aesthetic value. For example, the first color is selected to substantially match a color of a corner or aisle of the aircraft, or the color is selected for aesthetic value. In other examples, the first color is a clear, transparent color, and the second color is a red, blue, purple, or yellow color to sufficiently distinguish from the first color.

[0037] Figure 3 A perspective view of an example of the protective assembly 100 is depicted, in which the retrofitted protective bumper 102 includes an insert 114 configured to mechanically couple to a bracket 116 attached to one or more surfaces 104 (not shown). More specifically, in this example, the insert 114 includes a first end 118 and a second end 120, and the bracket 116 includes a first end 122 and a second end 124. The first end 118 of the insert 114 is configured to mechanically couple to the first end 122 of the bracket 116, and the second end 120 of the insert 114 is configured to mechanically couple to the second end 124 of the bracket 116. In this example, the bracket 116 is configured to attach to one or more surfaces 104 (not shown) using one or more fasteners 126. Figure 3In the example shown, the modified protective buffer 102 is an insert 114, and the insert 114 is configured to be mechanically coupled to a separate device—namely, a bracket 116. However, in other examples, such as in Figure 4 In the example shown, the modified protective buffer 102 may include both an insert 114 and a bracket 116, wherein the insert 114 is mechanically coupled to the bracket 116. The bracket 116 may be attached to one or more surfaces 104 before or after the insert 114 is coupled to the bracket 116. In other examples where the modified protective buffer 102 is an insert or an equivalent structure, the modified protective buffer 102 may be configured to be mechanically coupled (or otherwise coupled) to a different type of device than a bracket.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, the insert 114 includes an elongated, arched base 118 and a first pair of legs 120 projecting from the elongated, arched base 118 and defining a first channel 122 therebetween. The elongated, arched base 118 may have an arched or other generally circular shape to desirably protect one or more surfaces 104 and to desirably absorb contact. As further shown, the support 116 includes an elongated base 124 and a second pair of legs 126 projecting from the elongated base and defining a second channel 128 therebetween. The support 116 may be attached to one or more surfaces 104 via one or more fasteners 130 (e.g., screws or pins) to hold the support 116 against one or more surfaces 104. For example, the one or more fasteners 130 may take the form of a series of fasteners distributed along the length of the elongated base 124 within the second channel 128.

[0039] As further shown, the insert 114 is configured to snap into the second channel 128 of the bracket 116, such that the first pair of legs 120 and the second pair of legs 126 interlock. Specifically, each leg of the first pair of legs 120 and the second pair of legs 126 has a cantilever design for snap-fit ​​engagement. Other snap-fit ​​designs are also possible.

[0040] The modified protective buffer 102 is an implementation of insert 114 that is advantageous in cases where an existing, non-photochromic insert may already be attached to the bracket 116, because insert 114 can then be used to replace the existing, non-photochromic insert. Figure 3 The example structures of insert 114 and bracket 116 shown, as well as other possible example structures, can facilitate the effective replacement of existing, non-photochromic inserts by using a modified protective buffer (e.g., insert 114) with photochromic plastic material 106.

[0041] Figure 4An example of a protective assembly 100 is depicted, where the retrofitted protective bumper 102 includes an insert 114 and a bracket 116. As shown, the insert 114 and bracket 116 include the respective components described above, but in different forms than those shown in Figure 3

[0042] Figure 5 Another example of a top view of a protective assembly 100 is depicted, where the retrofitted protective bumper 102 includes an insert 114 that is configured to be mechanically coupled to a bracket 116. More specifically, the one or more surfaces 104 are surfaces of a corner (e.g., a wall), so the retrofitted protective bumper 102 protects the corner and acts as a way to determine that the area including the corner has been UV disinfected. The bracket 116 is shown as being attached to the one or more surfaces 104.

[0043] It should be appreciated that the insert 114 and bracket 116 described above can take other forms having other shapes and sizes.

[0044] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an aircraft 150 implemented in accordance with examples. As described above, the retrofitted protective bumper 102 Figure 6 (not shown in

[0045] Figure 7 is shown. The method 200 can include one or more operations, functions, or actions as shown in one or more of blocks 202-204. Figure 1 2

[0046] At block 202, the method 200 includes exposing a retrofitted protective bumper to UV light using a light emitter device configured to emit UV light, where the retrofitted protective bumper is attached to one or more surfaces in an area such that the retrofitted protective bumper covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces, and where the retrofitted protective bumper includes a photochromic plastic material having a first color.

[0047] At block 204, the method 200 includes causing, in response to the exposure, the photochromic plastic material to change from the first color to a second color different from the first color, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0048] ​​​In an example, the exposing as shown in block 202 is performed by exposing the retrofitted protective buffer to UV light having a wavelength in a range of about 200 nanometers to about 280 nanometers.

[0049] In an example, the exposing as shown in block 202 is performed by exposing the retrofitted protective buffer to UV light having a wavelength in a range of about 222 nanometers to about 254 nanometers. Other ranges are also possible.

[0050] In an example, the exposing as shown in block 202 is performed by exposing the retrofitted protective buffer attached to one or more surfaces in an aisle or corner of an aircraft to UV light.

[0051] In an example, the causing as shown in block 204 is performed by causing the photochromic plastic material to change from a first color to a second color that is visible under ambient lighting conditions without the need for a visual aid.

[0052] In an example, the retrofitted protective buffer is non-flammable.

[0053] Figure 8 An example of a flowchart of a method 300 that can be used with the protective assembly 100 and the UV sanitization kit 112 shown in Figure 1 , 2 , 3, 4, and 5 is shown. The method 300 can include one or more operations, functions, or actions as shown in block 302, although additional operations, functions, or actions are possible.

[0054] At block 302, the method 300 includes mechanically coupling a retrofitted protective buffer to a bracket attached to one or more surfaces in an area such that the retrofitted protective buffer covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces. The retrofitted protective buffer includes a photochromic plastic material that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to UV light, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV sanitization of the area.

[0055] In an example, the retrofitted protective buffer includes an elongated arcuate base insert and a first pair of legs projecting from the elongated arcuate base and defining a first channel therebetween, and the bracket includes an elongated base and a second pair of legs projecting from the elongated arcuate base and defining a second channel therebetween. In such an example, the coupling as shown in block 302 is performed by snap-fitting the insert into the second channel of the bracket such that the first pair of legs interlock with the second pair of legs to mechanically couple the insert to the bracket.

[0056] In instances, coupling as shown in block 302 is performed by mechanically coupling the reconfigured protective bumper to a bracket attached to one or more surfaces in an aisle or corner within the aircraft.

[0057] An apparatus or system can be used or configured to perform the logical functions presented in Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some cases, components of an apparatus and / or system can be configured to perform functions such that the components are actually configured and structured (using hardware and / or software) to implement such performance. In other instances, components of an apparatus and / or system can be set to be adapted, capable, or suitable to perform functions, e.g., when operated in a particular manner. Although Figure 7 and 8 blocks in

[0058] It should be understood that, for these and other processes and methods disclosed herein, the flow diagrams represent one possible implementation of the functions and operations of the present examples. In this regard, each block or portion of each block can represent a module, segment, or portion of program code, which includes one or more processor-executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process. The program code can be stored on any type of computer-readable medium or data storage, such as a storage device including a disk or hard drive. Further, the program code can be encoded in a machine-readable format on a computer-readable storage medium or on other non-transitory media or articles of manufacture. The computer-readable medium can include non-transitory computer-readable media or memory, such as, for example, a computer-readable medium that is not a transitory propagating signal (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium). For example, the computer-readable medium can include a non-transitory medium such as a secondary or persistent long-term storage (e.g., read only memory (ROM), optical disc, or magnetic hard disk). The computer-readable medium can also be any other volatile or non-volatile storage system. For example, the computer-readable medium can be considered tangible computer-readable storage media.

[0059] Further, Figure 7 and 8 Each block or portion of each block in may represent circuitry that is wired to perform the specific logical functions in the process. Alternative implementations include within the scope of the examples of the disclosure, where the functions can be performed in orders different from those shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, depending on the functionality involved.

[0060] Different examples of one or more systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein include a variety of components, features, and functionalities. It should be understood that a variety of examples of one or more systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein can include any combination or any sub-combination of any of the components, features, and functionalities of any other example of one or more systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein, and all such possibilities are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] Further, the present disclosure includes embodiments in accordance with the following examples:

[0062] 1. A protective assembly (100) for visually indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection of an area, the protective assembly (100) comprising:

[0063] a retrofitted protective buffer (102) attachable to one or more surfaces (104) in the area such that the retrofitted protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104),

[0064] wherein the retrofitted protective buffer (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color and visible under ambient lighting conditions when exposed to UV (108) light.

[0065] 2. The protective assembly (100) of example 1, wherein the second color is visible under ambient lighting conditions without visual aid devices.

[0066] 3. The protective assembly (100) of example 1 or 2, wherein the retrofitted protective buffer (102) is non-flammable.

[0067] 4. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-3, wherein the photochromic plastic material (106) is configured to change from the first color to the second color when exposed to UV light (108) having a wavelength range of about 200 nanometers to about 280 nanometers.

[0068] 5. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-4, wherein the photochromic plastic material (106) is configured to change from the first color to the second color when exposed to UV light (108) having a wavelength range of about 222 nanometers to about 254 nanometers.

[0069] 6. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-5, wherein the retrofitted protective buffer (102) further comprises a non-photochromic plastic material (106).

[0070] 7. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-6, wherein the retrofitted protective bumper (102) further comprises a colloidal metal.

[0071] 8. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-7, wherein the retrofitted protective bumper (102) comprises an insert (114) configured to be mechanically coupled to a bracket (116) attached to the one or more surfaces (104).

[0072] 9. The protective assembly (100) of example 8, wherein the insert (114) comprises an elongated arcuate base (118) and a first pair of legs (120) protruding from the elongated arcuate base (118) and defining a first channel (122) therebetween, and

[0073] wherein the bracket (116) comprises an elongated base (124) and a second pair of legs (126) protruding from the elongated base (124) and defining a second channel (128) therebetween.

[0074] 10. The protective assembly (100) of example 9, wherein the insert (114) is configured for snap-fit insertion into the second channel (128) of the bracket (116) such that the first pair of legs (120) interlock with the second pair of legs (126).

[0075] 11. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-10, wherein the retrofitted protective bumper (102) comprises an insert (114) mechanically coupled to a bracket (116),

[0076] wherein the bracket (116) is attachable to the one or more surfaces (104) via one or more fasteners (130) to hold the bracket (116) against the one or more surfaces (104).

[0077] 12. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-11, wherein the first color is selected to substantially match a color of an interior of an aircraft (150).

[0078] 13. The protective assembly (100) of any one of examples 1-12, wherein the one or more surfaces (104) to which the retrofitted protective bumper (102) is attachable comprise one or more surfaces (104) in an aisle or a corner of an aircraft (150).

[0079] 14. A method (200), comprising:

[0080] exposing (202) a retrofitted protective buffer (102) to ultraviolet (UV) light (108) using a light emitter device (110) configured to emit the UV light (108), wherein the retrofitted protective buffer (102) is attached to one or more surfaces (104) in an area such that the retrofitted protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104), and wherein the retrofitted protective buffer (102) includes a photochromic plastic material (106) having a first color; and

[0081] in response to the exposing, causing (204) the photochromic plastic material (106) to change from a color to a second color that is different from the first color, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0082] 15. The method (200) of example 14, wherein exposing (202) the retrofitted protective buffer (102) to the UV light (108) includes exposing the retrofitted protective buffer (102) to UV light (108) having a wavelength range of about 200 nanometers to about 280 nanometers.

[0083] 16. The method (200) of example 14, wherein exposing (202) the retrofitted protective buffer (102) to UV light (108) includes exposing a retrofitted protective buffer (102) attached to one or more surfaces (104) in an aisle or a corner within an aircraft (150) to UV light (108).

[0084] 17. The method (200) of example 14, wherein causing (204) the photochromic plastic material (106) to change from the first color to the second color includes causing the photochromic plastic material (106) to change from the first color to a second color that is visible under ambient lighting conditions without visual aids.

[0085] 18. A method (300) comprising:

[0086] mechanically coupling (302) a retrofitted protective buffer (102) to a bracket (116) attached to one or more surfaces (104) in an area such that the retrofitted protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104),

[0087] wherein the retrofitted protective bumper (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0088] 19. The method (300) of example 18, wherein the retrofitted protective bumper (102) comprises an insert (114) having an elongated arcuate base (118) and a first pair of leg portions (120) projecting from the elongated arcuate base (118) and defining a first channel (122) therebetween,

[0089] wherein the bracket (116) comprises an elongated base (124) and a second pair of leg portions (126) projecting from the elongated base (124) and defining a second channel (128) therebetween, and

[0090] wherein mechanically coupling (302) the retrofitted protective bumper (102) to the bracket (116) comprises mechanically coupling the insert (114) to the bracket (116) using a snap-fit insertion of the insert (114) into the second channel (128) of the bracket (116) such that the first pair of leg portions (120) interlock with the second pair of leg portions (126).

[0091] 20. The method (300) of example 18 or 19, wherein mechanically coupling (302) the retrofitted protective bumper (102) to the bracket (116) attached to the one or more surfaces (104) comprises mechanically coupling the retrofitted protective bumper (102) to the bracket (116) attached to one or more surfaces (104) in an aisle or a corner within an aircraft (150).

[0092] 21. An ultraviolet (UV) disinfection kit (112) comprising:

[0093] a light emitter device (110) configured to emit UV light (108); and

[0094] a retrofitted protective bumper (102), wherein the retrofitted protective bumper (102) is an insert (114) configured to be mechanically coupled to a bracket (116) attached to one or more surfaces (104) in an area such that the retrofitted protective bumper (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104),

[0095] wherein the modified protective buffer (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to UV light (108), the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions, thereby visually indicating UV disinfection of the area.

[0096] 22. The UV disinfection kit (112) of Example 21, wherein the insert (114) comprises an elongated arcuate base (118) and a first pair of leg portions (120) projecting from the elongated arcuate base (118) and defining a first channel (122) therebetween,

[0097] wherein the cradle (116) comprises an elongated base (124) and a second pair of leg portions (126) projecting from the elongated base (124) and defining a second channel (128) therebetween, and

[0098] wherein the insert (114) is configured to be mechanically coupled to the cradle (116) by snap-fitting insertion of the insert (114) into the second channel (128) of the cradle (116) such that the first pair of leg portions (120) interlock with the second pair of leg portions (126).

[0099] 23. A protective assembly (100) for visually indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection of an area, the protective assembly (100) comprising:

[0100] a modified protective buffer (102) attachable to one or more surfaces (104) in the area such that the modified protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104),

[0101] wherein the modified protective buffer (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) that changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color when exposed to UV light (108), the photochromic plastic material (106) comprising:

[0102] one or more photochromic polymers present in a combined amount of at least 5 wt.%; and

[0103] at least one of the following:

[0104] a colloidal metal, or

[0105] a non-photochromic polymer.

[0106] 24. The protective assembly (100) of Example 23, wherein the photochromic plastic material (106) is substantially homogenous.

[0107] The description of the different advantageous arrangements has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the examples of the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different advantageous arrangements can provide different advantages as compared to other advantageous arrangements. The chosen embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the examples, the practical application, and to enable others skilled in the art to understand for themselves the disclosure of the examples with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated, without departing from the scope of the examples as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A protective component (100) for visually indicating an area by ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, the protective component (100) comprising: A modified protective buffer (102) is available for attachment to one or more surfaces (104) in the region, such that the modified protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104). The modified protective buffer (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) that, upon exposure to UV light (108), changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color, and the second color is visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicates UV sterilization of the area. The photochromic plastic material is configured to change from the second color back to the first color after a predetermined time period. The photochromic plastic material comprises a photochromic polymer in an amount of about 5% to about 35% of the total solid weight of the photochromic plastic material, and the photochromic polymer is selected from one or more of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU); and The second color is visible under ambient lighting conditions without visual aids.

2. The protective component (100) according to claim 1, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) is non-flammable.

3. The protective component (100) according to claim 1, wherein the photochromic plastic material (106) is configured to change from the first color to the second color when exposed to UV light (108) in the wavelength range of about 200 nanometers to about 280 nanometers.

4. The protective component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) further comprises a non-photochromic plastic material (106).

5. The protective component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) further comprises colloidal metal.

6. The protective component (100) of claim 1, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) includes an insert (114) configured to be mechanically coupled to a bracket (116) attached to the one or more surfaces (104).

7. The protective component (100) according to claim 6, wherein the insert (114) comprises an elongated arched base (118) and a first pair of legs (120) protruding from the elongated arched base (118) and defining a first channel (122) therebetween, and The bracket (116) includes an elongated base (124) and a second pair of legs (126) protruding from the elongated base (124) and defining a second channel (128) therebetween.

8. The protective component (100) according to claim 7, wherein the insert (114) is configured to snap into the second channel (128) of the bracket (116) such that the first pair of legs (120) interlocks with the second pair of legs (126).

9. The protective component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) includes an insert (114) mechanically coupled to the bracket (116), The bracket (116) may be attached to one or more surfaces (104) via one or more fasteners (130) to hold the bracket (116) against the one or more surfaces (104).

10. The protective component (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) to which the one or more surfaces (104) are attached include one or more surfaces (104) in a passageway or corner within the aircraft (150).

11. A method (200) for indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, comprising: A modified protective buffer (102) is exposed (202) to UV light (108) using a light emitter device (110) configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light, wherein the modified protective buffer (102) is attached to one or more surfaces (104) in the region such that the modified protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104), and wherein the modified protective buffer (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) having a first color; and In response to the exposure, the photochromic plastic material (106) (204) changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicating UV disinfection of the area. The photochromic plastic material is configured to change from the second color back to the first color after a predetermined time period, and The photochromic plastic material comprises about 5% to about 35% of the total solid weight of the photochromic plastic material in the amount of a photochromic polymer, and the photochromic polymer is selected from one or more of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

12. A method (300) for indicating ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, comprising: The modified protective buffer (102) is mechanically coupled (302) to a support (116) of one or more surfaces (104) in the attachment area, such that the modified protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104). The modified protective buffer (102) includes a photochromic plastic material (106) that, upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color. This second color is visible under ambient lighting conditions and visually indicates UV disinfection of the area. The photochromic plastic material is configured to change from the second color back to the first color after a predetermined time period, and The photochromic plastic material comprises about 5% to about 35% of the total solid weight of the photochromic plastic material in the amount of a photochromic polymer, and the photochromic polymer is selected from one or more of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

13. An ultraviolet (UV) disinfection kit (112), comprising: A light emitting device (110) is configured to emit UV light (108); and A modified protective buffer (102), wherein the modified protective buffer (102) is an insert (114) configured to be mechanically coupled to a bracket (116) of one or more surfaces (104) in the attachment area, such that the modified protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104). The modified protective buffer (102) comprises a photochromic plastic material (106) that, upon exposure to UV light (108), changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color, the second color being visible under ambient lighting conditions, thereby visually indicating UV disinfection of the area. The photochromic plastic material is configured to change from the second color back to the first color after a predetermined time period, and The photochromic plastic material comprises about 5% to about 35% of the total solid weight of the photochromic plastic material in the amount of a photochromic polymer, and the photochromic polymer is selected from one or more of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

14. A protective component (100) for visually indicating an area for ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, the protective component (100) comprising: A modified protective buffer (102) is available for attachment to one or more surfaces (104) in the region, such that the modified protective buffer (102) covers at least a portion of the one or more surfaces (104). The modified protective buffer (102) includes a photochromic plastic material (106) that, when exposed to UV light (108), changes from a first color to a second color different from the first color, and is configured to change back from the second color to the first color after a predetermined time period. The photochromic plastic material (106) comprises: One or more photochromic polymers are present in a combined amount of at least 5% by weight, and said photochromic polymers are selected from one or more of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU); and At least one of the following: Colloidal metal, or Non-photochromic polymers.

Images