Ultraviolet light cleaning system and method of use

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to ultraviolet light cleaning systems and methods of use. The cleaning system includes a UV light source configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light within a predetermined wavelength range and a target having a predetermined transparency to the predetermined wavelength range. The cleaning system can also include a contact element removably coupled to the target. The UV light source cleans the target, the target configured to cause movement of the contact element in response to a force being applied to the target. The cleaning system can also include one or more reflectors or absorbers coupled to or disposed relative to the target or the UV light source to control emission of UV light.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to ultraviolet light cleaning systems and methods of use. Background Technology

[0002] Many users may come into contact with equipment and furniture in areas such as retail spaces, airplanes, or other transportation vehicles. This makes cleaning the equipment between uses challenging, thus increasing the chances of undesirable factors such as dirt, bacteria, or viruses accumulating on the equipment and furniture. These undesirable factors can transfer between users who come into contact with the equipment and people who come into contact with them. Current solutions include completely replacing high-frequency contact elements or coating them with an antibacterial coating. Such solutions are time-consuming and do not allow for simple modifications. Therefore, systems and methods for cleaning equipment used by numerous parties remain needed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure provides a cleaning system, in one aspect of which the cleaning system includes: a target that is at least 30% transparent to UV light in the wavelength range from about 222 nanometers (nm) to about 300 nm; and a contact element that is removably coupled to the target and configured to cause movement of the contact element in response to a force being applied to the target.

[0004] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is at least about 30% transparent to UV light.

[0005] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target ranges from approximately 50% transparent to UV light to approximately 75% transparent to UV light.

[0006] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is formed of a transparent material with a UV transmittance of about 95% to about 99.15%.

[0007] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is formed of a transparent material of borosilicate glass.

[0008] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the thickness of the target is from about 0.2 millimeters (mm) to about 20 centimeters (cm).

[0009] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is directly coupled to the contact element via an adhesive, mechanical coupling, magnetic coupling, press-fit coupling, or a combination thereof.

[0010] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is indirectly connected to the contact element via a fixing device.

[0011] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the cleaning system further includes a component that is in direct contact with and removably coupled to each of the contact elements and the targets.

[0012] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the cleaning system also includes an ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light with a wavelength range from about 222 nm to about 254 nm.

[0013] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the cleaning system further includes a first reflector configured to reflect the UV light onto at least one surface of the target.

[0014] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the first reflector is formed of a fluoropolymer.

[0015] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the first reflector is formed of a material comprising a plurality of holes, each hole having a maximum diameter of less than 222 nm.

[0016] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target has at least one target absorber configured to absorb the UV light after it has passed through at least one surface of the target.

[0017] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target has a second reflector configured to reflect UV light received from the UV light source through the target in at least one direction to direct the UV light toward at least one other surface of the target.

[0018] This disclosure provides a cleaning system, in one aspect of which the cleaning system includes: an ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light in the wavelength range from about 222 nm to about 300 nm; a target that is at least 30% transparent to UV light in the wavelength range from about 222 nanometers (nm) to about 300 nm; and a contact element removably coupled to the target and configured to cause movement of the contact element in response to a force being applied to the target.

[0019] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is formed of a transparent material with a UV transmittance of about 95% to about 99.15%.

[0020] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the target is formed of a transparent material of borosilicate glass.

[0021] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the cleaning system further includes a non-transitory storage medium configured to store a plurality of logic executable by a processor and comprising at least one cleaning program.

[0022] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the cleaning system further includes a sensor configured to detect a triggering event, and the at least one cleaning procedure is configured to emit the UV light in response to the sensor detecting the triggering event.

[0023] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the sensor is associated with the target.

[0024] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the sensor is associated with the UV light source.

[0025] In conjunction with any of the above or below example cleaning systems, the sensor is selected from the following types: temperature sensor, pressure sensor, timer, and combinations thereof.

[0026] This disclosure provides a cleaning method, in some aspects of which the cleaning method includes: detecting a first triggering event via a sensor associated with a UV cleaning system; and in response to detecting the first triggering event, executing a cleaning procedure by a processor to clean a target. In one aspect, executing the cleaning procedure includes: activating a UV light source of the UV cleaning system for a predetermined time period, the UV light source being configured to emit UV light in the wavelength range of about 222 nm to about 300 nm to clean the target.

[0027] In conjunction with any of the above or below example methods, after the cleaning procedure is performed, the contact element connected to the target is engaged.

[0028] In one aspect, in conjunction with any of the example methods above or below, the method further includes storing a first time associated with the detection of the first triggering event and a second time associated with the execution of the cleaning procedure on a data storage device, the data storage device being wirelessly connected to the UV cleaning system.

[0029] In conjunction with any of the example methods above or below, activating the UV light source includes causing the UV light source to emit UV light to clean at least one of a plurality of surfaces of the target.

[0030] In conjunction with any of the example methods above or below, the method further includes: reflecting the UV light received from the UV light source by a reflector coupled to the target.

[0031] In one aspect, in conjunction with any of the example methods above or below, the method further includes: configuring the UV light source to emit the UV light to clean a first surface among a plurality of surfaces of the target; and configuring the reflector to reflect the UV light through a second surface among the plurality of surfaces to clean the second surface.

[0032] In conjunction with any of the example methods above or below, performing the cleaning procedure further includes: activating the UV light source for a predetermined time period, the UV light source being configured to emit wavelengths of a predetermined range to clean a plurality of targets within a predetermined proximity range of the UV light source.

[0033] In conjunction with any of the example methods above or below, the first triggering event is: a predetermined time associated with a schedule; activation of a contact element associated with a target; a predetermined time associated with the previous emission of UV light from the UV light source; or a combination thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0034] To gain a more detailed understanding of the above features, please refer to the examples (which have been briefly summarized above). Some of these examples are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 An example cleaning system according to some aspects of this disclosure is described.

[0036] Figure 2 A flowchart depicts a cleaning method according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0037] Figures 3A to 3D An example of the configuration of a cleaning system according to some aspects of this disclosure is described.

[0038] Figures 4A to 4F Various configurations of a cleaning system according to some aspects of this disclosure are described.

[0039] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a cleaning system according to some aspects of this disclosure is depicted, the cleaning system including a UV light source remotely arranged relative to a target system.

[0040] Figures 6A to 6C Examples of cleaning systems according to some aspects of this disclosure are described.

[0041] Figures 7A to 7E An example of a textured target is depicted according to some aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This disclosure relates to cleaning systems and methods for cleaning (e.g., sterilizing and disinfecting) one or more surfaces of a target using ultraviolet (UV) light. The cleaning system can be located in a variety of "installation environments," including public or private transportation (aerospace vehicles such as airplanes, spacecraft, and maritime transport vehicles, and non-aerospace vehicles such as buses, cars, trains, and ships), retail locations, financial institutions, non-gaming environments (e.g., esports), or other locations. In some examples, the cleaning discussed herein may include sterilization. As used herein, "sterilization" is a process that renders one or more surfaces of a component free of bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other living microorganisms. The "target" discussed herein is formed of one or more materials capable of being cleaned using UV light and is removably coupled to a contact element to provide a clean surface for the user to contact during use of the contact element. In this way, in embodiments, such a target can be modified, thereby saving labor and cost associated with replacing the contact element. The “contact elements” discussed here can be active elements that cause events such as opening or closing a door, flushing a toilet, locking or unlocking a door, or stationary elements such as countertops or furniture. Non-targeted contact elements can be touched by multiple parties; contact elements include seats, handles, levers, buttons, trash can lids, trays, countertops, touchscreens (GUIs), keyboards, or game consoles, in contrast to non-contact surfaces or low-frequency contact surfaces such as ceilings or other hard-to-reach surfaces. This can cause dirt, bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, mildew, and other harmful substances to spread between contact elements and between users of these contact elements and non-users who come into contact with them. In some examples, such contact elements can be found on aerospace vehicles such as commercial aircraft and can be stationary elements such as countertops. Contact elements may also include components of aircraft (such as those in the cabin, crew area, or cockpit) and other personal or commercial transportation vehicles, banking systems (ATMs), information or point-of-sale kiosk touchscreens and / or keyboards, card readers, or other surfaces or combinations of surfaces in retail stores, shopping malls, schools, offices, rental cars, ride-sharing, home-sharing, financial institutions, ATMs (in financial institutions or other locations), and gaming systems. As discussed herein, a “gaming system” is a system configured for use in non-gambling environments such as all-ages gaming halls or home systems, including esports systems. It is also anticipated that other contact elements used in businesses including hospitals, hotels / motels / resorts, or other locations may employ the systems and methods discussed herein.Therefore, contact elements removably coupled to the target may also include desktops, tabletops, keypads, computer mice, touchscreens / GUIs on kiosks or mobile devices, other areas of mobile devices and / or mobile device housings, hangers, seats, knives, cutlery, glassware, or other items that may be touched by multiple parties during use.

[0043] The target may include one or more surfaces, and the UV light source may be aimed at one or more surfaces of the target to clean them. According to this example, one or more reflectors or absorbers may be used to direct and / or reflect UV light toward and through the target. The target may include an indication or graphic symbol (such as a label including acrylic labels) or a combination of text and symbols to indicate that the target has been cleaned by UV light. In some embodiments, UV light may be used alone, while in others, UV light may be used in combination with one or more cleaning solvents to remove contaminants such as dirt and oil, as well as organisms such as viruses and bacteria, making it impossible for the cleaned surface to transfer biological contaminants between users who frequently touch the surface.

[0044] Contact elements can be removably attached to a target formed of a UV-transparent material. As discussed herein, "UV transparent" as used with respect to the target material means a material that is transparent or transmittant (capable of transmission) to at least a predetermined percentage (%) of ultraviolet (UV) light within a predetermined wavelength range. As used herein, "about" means within + / - 5% of a set value, maximum value, or minimum value. For example, an X% UV-transparent target is transparent to X% of wavelengths within a predetermined wavelength range. The predetermined wavelength range is discussed below.

[0045] As used herein, "removable coupling" means that the target can be coupled to and detached from the contact element without damaging the contact element. In some examples, the target can be detached from the contact element without damage. Removable coupling allows the target to be replaced if it is damaged, is part of a routine maintenance program, or is to be remodeled to reflect a different or updated brand or cleanliness indicator. Removable coupling between the target and the contact element can be via adhesives, mechanical couplings such as clips, clamps, hooks, threads, or pins, magnetic couplings, or a combination of multiple types of couplings. In some examples, the target is removably coupled to the contact element via a direct coupling, where the target is in direct contact with the contact element. In this example, if the contact element is a moving element, applying force to the target causes the contact element to perform the actions discussed herein.

[0046] In other examples, the target is removably coupled to the contact element via an intermediate element, such that each of the target and the contact element is in direct contact with the intermediate element but not with each other. The intermediate element can be formed of various materials chosen to prevent damage to the target or the contact element. In this example, if the contact element is a moving element, applying a force to the target causes the intermediate element to apply a force to the contact element, causing the contact element to perform the actions discussed herein.

[0047] In other examples, the target may be removably coupled to a fixing device, which may be directly and removably coupled to the contact element or indirectly and removably coupled to the contact element. In this example, an intermediate element may or may not be used. The fixing device may be configured in various ways, as discussed below, such that applying a force to the target causes the fixing device to apply a force to the contact element, thereby causing the contact element to perform the functions discussed herein. In some examples, the target may include one or more reflectors or absorbers that may be removably or permanently coupled to the target. In other examples, one or more reflectors or absorbers may be included within the target. Reflectors and / or absorbers may be used to direct light toward one or more surfaces of the target, as discussed in detail below. In some examples, one or more reflectors or absorbers may be coupled to or positioned relative to a UV light source to direct UV light emitted from the UV light source.

[0048] The cleaning systems discussed herein, including those involving targets, can be configured in various ways. In some examples, UV light can be continuously applied, that is, until the UV target is removed and replaced. Therefore, as used herein, "continuous irradiation" refers to a system configured to turn on (activate) a UV light source and continuously clean a UV target for a predetermined period of time, which may be long enough to include one or more 24-hour periods covering time periods when the target is in contact with more than one user. In some examples, continuous irradiation includes instances where a UV light source is activated, for example, 24 hours a day, during the working hours of the environment in which the target is located, or when the target is in front of a person, to continuously clean the target. For example, continuous irradiation can be used to clean targets associated with contact elements such as touchscreens (GUIs), countertops, desktops, or other surfaces, where, commercially, continuously cleaning the associated target to keep it clean may be more effective.

[0049] This continuous irradiation example contrasts with other examples, such as discrete or periodic irradiation examples, in which the UV light source can be manually or automatically turned on and off at various intervals for predetermined time periods according to a schedule. In other examples that can be combined with the other examples herein, the discrete irradiation example may include a cleaning system in which the UV light source can be turned on (activated) via one or more triggering mechanisms determined by one or more sensors associated with the cleaning system.

[0050] As discussed herein, sensors or other system components can be “associated” with a cleaning system by being removably coupled, permanently coupled, or integrally formed with any other component of the cleaning system to detect one or more triggering events. “Permanently coupled” components, such as sensors, can be formed separately from the cleaning system, then subsequently coupled to it, and used multiple times, but cannot be removed from the cleaning system without damaging it. “Integral” components of the cleaning system (including integral components of the target or UV light, such as reflectors or absorbers) can be molded, cast, or otherwise incorporated into the cleaning system or its components.

[0051] Example Cleaning Environment

[0052] Figure 1 A cleaning system 100 according to some aspects of this disclosure is depicted. The cleaning system 100 includes a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light within a predetermined wavelength range toward a target 104. The target 104 is removably coupled to a contact element 112. In one example, the predetermined wavelength range is from about 200 nanometers (nm) to about 400 nm. In another example, the predetermined wavelength range is from about 200 nm to about 230 nm. In yet another example, the predetermined wavelength range is from about 222 nm to about 254 nm. In yet another example, the predetermined wavelength range is from about 235 nm to about 280 nm. In still another example, the predetermined wavelength range is from about 315 nm to about 400 nm.

[0053] The UV light source 102 can be configured in various ways and may or may not include one or more reflectors or absorbers for directing UV light toward the target 104. In one example, the UV light source 102 includes a mercury vapor lamp. In another example, the UV light source 102 includes multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In yet another example, the UV light source 102 is an excimer lamp.

[0054] In some examples, target 104 may be formed of a material that is at least 20% UV transparent within a predetermined wavelength range emitted by UV light source 102. In other examples, target 104 may be formed of a material that is at least 30% UV transparent within a predetermined wavelength range emitted by UV light source 102. In still other examples, target 104 may be formed of a material that is at least 40% UV transparent within a predetermined wavelength range emitted by UV light source 102. Target 104 may be formed of silicon glass, quartz, or other materials having a predetermined percentage of UV transparency within a predetermined wavelength range. In embodiments, target 104 includes glass with a transmittance greater than about 85%, or from about 85% to about 99.99%, or from about 90% to about 99.50%, or from about 95% to about 99.15%, or from about 99% to about 99.15% within any wavelength range discussed herein (including at 222 nm). Examples of suitable glasses include borosilicate glass such as Corning® 7980.

[0055] Target 104 may have an indication attached to or etched therein, which indicates via text, graphics, or a combination thereof (e.g., an acrylic label) that target 104 is to be cleaned by UV light. Target 104 is removably attached to contact element 112, such that target 104 can be removed and replaced according to a maintenance schedule or in case of damage. In other examples, if contact element 112 is damaged, target 104 can be detached from contact element 112, and after repair / refurbishment, target 104 can be reattached to a different contact element or contact element 112.

[0056] Target 104 may be removably and directly coupled to contact element 112 via an adhesive (which may be pressure or heat activated), a mechanical coupling such as a snap-fit, clamp, hook, thread, or pin, a magnetic coupling, or a combination of one or more types of couplings. Target 104 may have different geometries and may have a thickness from about 0.2 mm to about 20 cm, as discussed in detail below. As discussed above, target 104 may also be removably coupled to component 106, which may or may not include intermediate elements or movable fixing devices discussed in detail below. When component 106 is used in conjunction with target 104 and contact element 112, applying a force to target 104 causes movement of component 106, which in turn causes movement of contact element 112. Contact element 112 may be a stationary or moving element as discussed above, and may be formed from one or more of polymers, elastomers, metals, alloys, organic materials, composite materials, or combinations of materials.

[0057] The cleaning system 100 may also include one or more sensors 110, a server computer 108 having a non-transitory storage medium configured to store multiple executable logics, a mobile device 116, and one or more data storage units 114. The multiple logics include at least one cleaning program. Each cleaning program includes parameters such as which UV light source 102 is activated (if the cleaning system 100 includes more than one UV light source 102), a predetermined time period for activating the UV light source 102, a predetermined wavelength or wavelength range to be emitted by the UV light source 102, one or more triggering mechanisms associated with the activation and deactivation of the UV light source 102, continuous illumination instructions, and / or other parameters depending on the configuration and use of the cleaning system 100. In some aspects of this disclosure, the usage of the cleaning system 100 (including the executed cleaning programs and their execution parameters, such as execution time and other factors)) can be stored in the data storage units 114 and further analyzed. The stored data can be used, for example, to improve or modify the cleaning programs or develop additional cleaning programs.

[0058] One or more sensors 110 may be configured to detect trigger events, and at least one cleaning procedure is configured to emit UV light from the UV light source 102 in response to the sensor 110 detecting the trigger event. In one example, sensor 110 is associated with target 104. In another example, sensor 110 is associated with UV light source 102. It can be associated with one or both of target 104 or UV light source 102 by being removably coupled, permanently coupled, or integrally formed with target 104 or UV light source 102. In some examples, sensor 110 may be coupled to a reflector or absorber that is coupled to target 104 or UV light source 102, located close to but not coupled to target 104 or UV light source 102, or integrally formed with target 104 or UV light source 102. In another example, sensor 110 may be a separate remote element configured to detect use of the target or other trigger events. According to this example, sensor 110 may be one or more of a temperature sensor, pressure sensor, timer, and combinations thereof.

[0059] Mobile device 116 may be a telephone, tablet, wearable device (watch, jewelry, head-up display, clothing, glasses, etc.), personal data assistant, laptop computer, or hybrid device. Mobile device 116 may be used to communicate with server computer 108 and / or data storage 114 to trigger activation of cleaning system 100 and / or record and analyze operation of cleaning system 100.

[0060] Example methods for using cleaning systems

[0061] Figure 2A flowchart of cleaning method 200 is depicted. In operation 202, a trigger event is detected by a sensor associated with a UV cleaning system, which can be similar to... Figure 1 The cleaning system (202 - trigger event detected). In operation 204, in response to the detection of the first trigger event, a cleaning procedure is executed to clean the target removably coupled to the contact element (204 - cleaning procedure executed). As discussed herein, the target can be removably coupled directly to the contact element using intermediate elements, fixing devices, or a combination thereof.

[0062] Performing the cleaning procedure in operation 204 includes activating the UV light source of the UV cleaning system for a predetermined time period. In operation 206, the target (206 - target cleaning) is cleaned when the UV light source emits UV light toward the target. As discussed herein, the UV light source is configured to emit UV light in a predetermined wavelength range to clean at least one of a plurality of surfaces of the target. In some examples, the predetermined wavelength range may be from about 200 nm to about 360 nm. In other examples, the predetermined wavelength range may be from about 210 nm to about 320 nm. In some examples, the predetermined wavelength range may be from about 222 nm to about 300 nm. Triggering events may include: a sensor detecting a temperature rise or fall within a predetermined distance of the target or the UV light source; a pressure sensor detecting use of the target and the contact element below; a predetermined time associated with a schedule; activation of the contact element associated with the target; a predetermined time associated with previous emission of UV light from the UV light source; and combinations thereof.

[0063] In some examples, when a reflector connected to the target is present, operation 206 also includes reflecting UV light received from the UV light source through the reflector. In this example, the UV light source is configured to emit UV light to clean a first surface among a plurality of surfaces of the target. Additionally, in this example, one or more reflectors may be configured to reflect UV light back through the first surface to re-clean the first surface. In some examples, which can be combined with other examples herein, the reflector may be configured to reflect light through a second surface among a plurality of surfaces to clean the second surface.

[0064] In some examples, operation 204 further includes storing a first time associated with the detection of the first triggering event and a second time associated with the execution of the cleaning procedure on a data memory wirelessly connected to the UV cleaning system. In some examples, executing the cleaning procedure in operation 204 further includes activating a UV light source for a predetermined time period, the UV light source being configured to emit wavelengths within a predetermined range to clean multiple targets within a predetermined proximity range of the UV light source.

[0065] Additionally, in method 200, in operation 208, following the execution of the cleaning procedure, a contact element connected to the target is engaged (208 - target engages the contact element below). In operation 210, following engagement of the contact element in operation 208, the contact element is disengaged (210 - target disengages from the contact element below). If the contact element is a moving element, engagement of the target in operation 208 may cause movement of a lever, activation of a button, activation of a portion of a touchscreen / GUI, or other action. If the contact element is a stationary element, engagement of the target in operation 208 may include the user touching the target with their hand / arm, pen, or other tool. If the contact element is a moving element, disengagement of the target in operation 210 may be in response to the completion of an action. If the contact element is a stationary element, disengagement of the target in operation 210 may include the user removing their hand / arm or pen from the target.

[0066] In some examples, the cleaning procedure performed in operation 204 may cause the UV light source to be continuously activated. In this example, method 200, as indicated by the arrows from operation 210 to operation 206, continuously cleans the target with UV light while iterating the target engagement and disengagement from the contact element. In other examples, the cleaning procedure performed in operation 204 may cause the UV light source to be activated and deactivated in response to a triggering event. That is, the UV light source remains active and cleans the target until an optional second triggering event occurs in operation 212 (212 - second triggering event detected). The UV light source may be deactivated in operation 214 (214 - deactivate UV light source) and may subsequently be reactivated in response to a future triggering event, as indicated by the arrows from operation 214 to operation 202. In some examples, in operation 216, multiple data associated with the execution of the cleaning procedure in operation 204, as well as other data associated with any or all of operations 206-214, may be stored on a data storage device such as data storage device 114 for subsequent analysis or use, including predictive modeling (216 - storing data associated with cleaning).

[0067] The second triggering event in operation 212 may include: a sensor detecting a temperature rise or fall within a predetermined distance of the target or UV light source; a pressure sensor detecting use of the target and the contact element below; a predetermined time associated with a schedule; activation of the contact element associated with the target; a predetermined time associated with previous emission of UV light from the UV light source; and combinations thereof. In other examples, at operation 206, the UV light source may remain active throughout a series of cleaning events until maintenance of the cleaning system is scheduled, or until the environment in which the target is located is shut down (e.g., a retail store closes, an aircraft is grounded overnight, etc.) (in which case the UV light source is deactivated in operation 214).

[0068] The targets and contact elements discussed above can take various forms and combinations of removable couplings, as follows: Figures 3A to 3D As shown and discussed in the text.

[0069] Example components of target and contact elements

[0070] Figures 3A to 3D The present disclosure describes the components of the target and contact elements according to some aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A A first component 300A is shown, comprising a first target 302 removably coupled to a first contact element 304. The first target 302 is in direct contact with the first contact element 304 such that a first surface 302A of the first target 302 is directly coupled to a first surface 304A of the first contact element 304. The removable coupling between the first target 302 and the first contact element 304 can be via an adhesive (which can be pressure-activated or heat-activated), a mechanical coupling such as a snap, clamp, hook, thread, or pin, a magnetic coupling, or a combination of various types of couplings. Therefore, the first target 302 can be detached from the first contact element 304 and repaired or replaced without damaging the first contact element 304. For example, the first component 300A can be used, for example, with a contact element configured to be in direct contact with the target, and in areas without space constraints. An installation environment without spatial limitations is one configured to accept connections (in this example, direct connections) to a target (e.g., first target 302) of a contact element (e.g., first contact element 304) without interfering with user access to the installation environment of the first component 300A. The first component 300A can be used in installation environments where, for example, the first contact element 304 is a button, door handle, lever, gaming system component, or touchscreen (GUI).

[0071] In one example, such as Figure 3A As shown, the second surface 304B of the first contact element 304 can be aligned with the second surface 302B of the first target 302 along a common plane. In other examples, the first target 302 can be configured and aligned differently relative to the first contact element 304, wherein the first target 302 is configured to be coupled to the first contact element 304 such that a user intending to perform a function via the first contact element 304 (e.g., activating a button, handle, lever, or other contact element to, for example, open a door, open a chute (e.g., a garbage lid including rollers or wheels), flush a toilet (e.g., a flush button), press a button (e.g., a soap dispenser lid), or perform a banking function) contacts the first target 302 to perform the function without contacting the first contact element 304. Additionally, although in Figure 3AThe first target 302 is illustrated as having a rectangular geometry, but in other examples, the first target 302 may take other forms such as triangle, other polygonal forms, circle, sphere, cone or other geometric shapes or combinations of geometric shapes.

[0072] Figure 3B A second component 300B is shown, comprising a second target 308 removably coupled to a first contact element 304. The second component 300B depicts the use of a first intermediate element 306. The first intermediate element 306 can be used, for example, in space-constrained areas to improve accessibility to a user wishing to activate the first contact element 304. In other examples, the first intermediate element 306 can be used in conjunction with the second target 308 to facilitate cleaning of the second target 308 via relative positioning to a UV light source (not shown). In other examples, the first intermediate element 306 can be used to facilitate access to the second target 308 by a user with varying degrees of mobility. The first intermediate element 306 can be configured to directly contact each of the first contact element 304 and the second target 308. In this example, the first intermediate element 306 is directly and removably coupled to a first surface 304A of the first contact element 304. In another example, the first intermediate element 306 can slidably engage with the first surface 304A of the first contact element 304 and is configured to roll or slide along the first surface 304A. Additionally, in this example, the first intermediate element 306 can be directly and removably coupled to the first surface 308A of the second target 308. In this example, applying force to the second target 308 causes the first intermediate element 306 to apply force to the first contact element 304, causing the first contact element 304 to perform the actions discussed above. The first intermediate element 306 can be formed of fluorocarbons, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polymers, elastomers, metals, composites, organic materials (e.g., wood), and may or may not include a coating. The first intermediate element 306 can be removably coupled to each of the first contact element 304 and the second target 308 by similar or different types of couplings, which include one or more adhesives (which may be pressure or heat activated), mechanical couplings such as snaps, clamps, hooks, threads, or pins, magnetic couplings, or combinations of multiple types of couplings. The adhesives discussed herein can be configured such that the adhesive does not interfere with the use of the UV light source for cleaning the target.

[0073] The second target 308 can be detached from the first intermediate element 306 and repaired or replaced without damaging the second target 308 or the first intermediate element 306. In one aspect, such as... Figure 3BAs shown, the second surface 304B of the first contact element 304 can be aligned with the second surface 308B of the second target 308 along a common plane. In other examples, the second target 308 can be configured relative to the first contact element 304 along a different plane, wherein this configuration covers the first contact element 304, such that a user intending to perform a function via the first contact element 304 (e.g., activating a button, handle, lever, or other contact element to, for example, open a door, open a chute, flush a toilet, or perform a banking function) contacts the second target 308 to perform the function without directly contacting the first contact element 304. Additionally, although in Figure 3B The second target 308 is illustrated as having a rectangular geometry, but in other examples, the second target 308 may take other forms such as triangles, other polygonal forms, circles, spheres, cones, or other geometric shapes or combinations of geometric shapes.

[0074] Figure 3C A third component 300C is shown, comprising a third target 312 removably coupled to the second contact element 314, to illustrate a second intermediate element 310 for use with a third target 312 and a second contact element 314 having a different geometry compared to the examples above and below. The second intermediate element 310 can be used, for example, in space-constrained areas to improve accessibility to a user wishing to activate the second contact element 314. In other examples, the second intermediate element 310 can be used in conjunction with the third target 312 to facilitate cleaning of the third target 312 via the relative position of a UV light source (not shown). In other examples, the second intermediate element 310 can be used to facilitate access to the third target 312 by a user with varying degrees of mobility. The second intermediate element 310 can be configured to make direct contact with each of the second contact element 314 and the third target 312. In this example, the first intermediate element 306 is directly and removably coupled to the first surface 314A of the second contact element 314 and the first surface 312A of the third target 312, such that applying a force to the third target 312 causes the second intermediate element 310 to apply a force to the second contact element 314, causing the second contact element 314 to perform the actions discussed above.

[0075] The second intermediate element 310 is in Figure 3CThe middle element is shown as having a crescent-shaped cross-section. The second intermediate element 310 can contact the first surface 312A of the third target 312 via the first contact feature 310A and the second contact feature 310B. In one aspect of the third component 300C, a plurality of etched features (not shown here) can be formed on the first surface 312A of the third target 312, located between the first contact feature 310A and the second contact feature 310B, and are visible to the user. The second intermediate element 310 can be formed of a fluorocarbon, polymer, elastomer, metal, composite, organic material (e.g., wood), or a combination thereof, and may or may not include a coating. The first intermediate element 306 can be removably coupled to each of the second contact element 314 and the third target 312 by similar or different types of couplings, which include adhesives (which may be pressure or heat activated), mechanical couplings such as snaps, clamps, hooks, threads, or pins, magnetic couplings, or combinations of multiple types of couplings.

[0076] The third target 312 can be detached from the second intermediate element 310 and repaired or replaced without damaging either the third target 312 or the second intermediate element 310. The configuration of the third target 312 and the second contact element 314 such that the third target 312 covers the second contact element 314, allowing a user intending to perform a function via the second contact element 314 (e.g., activating a button, handle, lever, or other contact element to open a door, open a chute, flush a toilet, or perform a banking function) to contact the third target 312 to perform that function without directly contacting the second contact element 314. Figure 3C In this embodiment, the third target 312 is illustrated as having a disk-shaped geometry. However, in other respects, the third target 312 may take other forms such as triangles, other polygonal forms, circles, spheres, cones, or other geometric shapes or combinations of geometric shapes.

[0077] Figure 3D A fourth component 300D is shown, comprising a fourth target 316 removably coupled to the third contact element 318, to illustrate the use of the first fixing device 320. The first fixing device 320 can be used, for example, in space-constrained areas to improve accessibility to a user wishing to activate the third contact element 318. In other examples, the first fixing device 320 can be used in conjunction with the fourth target 316 to facilitate cleaning of the fourth target 316 via relative positioning to a UV light source (not shown). In other examples, the first fixing device 320 can be used to facilitate access to the fourth target 316 by a user with varying degrees of mobility. The first fixing device 320 can be configured to make direct contact with each of the third contact element 318 and the fourth target 316.

[0078] In the fourth component 300D, the first fixing device 320 is directly and removably coupled to the first contact point 318A of the third contact element 318 and the first contact point 316A of the fourth target 316, such that applying a force to the fourth target 316 causes the first fixing device 320 to move, thereby causing the fourth target 316 to directly apply a force to the third contact element 318, causing the third contact element 318 to perform the actions discussed above. In other examples, an intermediate element (not shown here) may be used in conjunction with the first fixing device 320 such that applying a force to the fourth target 316 causes movement of the first fixing device 320. The movement of the first fixing device 320 applies a force to the third contact element 318, thus causing movement of the third contact element 318. As shown herein, a force applied to the fourth target 316 in the direction of the arrow can cause movement of the third contact element 318 in a direction perpendicular to the arrow. In other examples, depending on factors including the function of the third contact element 318, force can be applied to the fourth target 316 in other directions, causing the first fixing device 320 to cause the third contact element 318 to move in various directions.

[0079] The first fixing device 320 may be formed of fluorocarbons, polymers, elastomers, metals, composites, organic materials (e.g., wood), or combinations thereof, and may or may not include a coating. The first fixing device 320 may be configured using one or more pivot points, springs, sliders, magnets, or other features or combinations thereof, such that when force is applied to the fourth target 316 in one or more directions, movement of the first fixing device 320 can ultimately cause activation of the third contact element 318. The first fixing device 320 may be removably coupled to each of the third contact element 318 and the fourth target 316 by means of mechanical couplings such as adhesives (which may be pressure or heat activated), mechanical couplings such as snaps, clamps, hooks, threads, or pins, magnetic couplings, or similar or different types of couplings such as combinations of multiple types of couplings.

[0080] The fourth target 316 can be detached from the first fixing device 320 and repaired or replaced without damaging the fourth target 316 or the first fixing device 320. The configuration of the fourth target 316 and the third contact element 318 such that the fourth target 316 covers the third contact element 318, allowing a user intending to perform a function via the third contact element 318 (e.g., activating a button, handle, lever, or other contact element to, for example, open a door, open a chute, flush a toilet, or perform a banking function) to contact the fourth target 316 to perform that function without directly contacting the third contact element 318. Additionally, although in Figure 3DThe fourth target 316 is illustrated as having a spherical geometry, but in other examples, the fourth target 316 may take other forms such as a triangle, other polygonal forms, a circle, a sphere, a cone, or other geometric shapes or combinations of geometric shapes.

[0081] Example configuration of UV light source and target

[0082] Figures 4A to 4F The objectives of the cleaning system and various configurations of the UV light source according to some aspects of this disclosure are described. Figure 4A A first configuration 400A of UV light source 404 and target 402 is depicted. UV light source 404 may optionally include components that can be used with the above... Figure 1 The sensor 110 discussed herein is similar to the first sensor 414A. Target 402 includes a first surface 402A opposite to the second surface 402B, a third surface 402C opposite to the fourth surface 402D, and a fifth surface 402E opposite to the sixth surface 402F. And... Figures 4A to 4F The target 402 and UV light source 404 shown are depicted as having rectangular shapes. However, in other aspects of the cleaning system discussed herein, one or both of the target 402 and UV light source 404 may be formed into other geometric shapes or combinations of geometric shapes such as other polygons, triangles, circles, domes, spheres, ellipses, or asymptotes, such that the UV light source 404 is configured to emit UV light toward one or more surfaces of the target 402.

[0083] In some examples, target 402 includes a second sensor 414B as an alternative to or supplement to the first sensor 414A associated with UV light source 404. Target 402 may also include an indicator 406, which may be etched in or attached to a sixth surface 402F. Indicator 406 may include text, graphics, or a combination of text and graphics indicating that target 402 has undergone UV cleaning. In some examples, indicator 406 may also include, as appropriate, branding associated with the manufacturer of target 402, the owner of the environment in which target 402 is located, or other brands.

[0084] exist Figure 4AIn the example described herein, the UV light source 404 is positioned along a plane shared with the target 402, such that UV light emitted from the UV light source 404 is guided along the y-direction through the third surface 402C and through the target 402, allowing each of the surfaces (402A-402F) to be cleaned using the UV light source 404. In other examples discussed herein, the UV light source 404 and / or the target 402 may be configured such that less than all surfaces of the target 402 are cleaned by the UV light source. In other examples discussed herein, the UV light source 404 and / or the target 402 may be configured such that more than one surface of the target 402, but less than all surfaces, are directly cleaned by the UV light source. In these examples, one or more additional elements may be used to clean two or more surfaces of the target 402 with UV light to guide UV light from the UV light source 404 toward or through various surfaces of the target 402.

[0085] Figure 4B A second configuration 400B is depicted, showing a UV light source 404 and a target 402. The target 402 includes a first surface 402A opposite to the second surface 402B, a third surface 402C opposite to the fourth surface 402D, and a fifth surface 402E opposite to the sixth surface 402F. The target 402 may also include an indicator 406, which may be etched in or attached to the sixth surface 402F. The indicator 406 may include text, graphics, or a combination of text and graphics indicating that the target 402 has undergone UV cleaning. In some examples, the indicator 406 may also include, as appropriate, branding associated with the manufacturer of the target 402, the owner of the environment in which the target 402 is located, or other brands or indications.

[0086] The UV light source 404 also includes a UV light source reflector 416 disposed around the periphery of the UV light source 404. Figure 4B In the example, the UV light source 404 is arranged along a plane shared with the target 402, such that UV light emitted from the UV light source 404 is guided in the x-direction through the fifth surface 402E and through the target 402. The UV light source reflector 416 can be formed of a porous material as discussed herein, configured to guide light toward the fifth surface 402E of the target 402, such that the UV light emitted from the UV light source 404 cleans the fifth surface 402E, which can subsequently be touched by a user. In one aspect, the UV light source reflector 416 can be formed of a fluoropolymer. In another aspect, the UV light source reflector 416 can be formed of a material comprising a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes has a maximum diameter smaller than the minimum wavelength emitted by the UV light source 404.

[0087] In this example, the sixth surface 402F can also be cleaned via UV light source 404, but other surfaces may not be cleaned. Various UV light source and target configurations discussed herein can be selected to clean a variety of surfaces that a user will touch, while leaving surfaces that the user will not touch untouched. Surfaces that the user will not touch include those flush with walls or other surfaces, surfaces connected to contact elements, or other surfaces depending on the configuration. Although not explicitly stated... Figure 4B As shown, but there may be one or more sensors, and they may either be connected to the UV light source 404, the target 402, or be remotely set in an environment where the second configuration 400B is installed.

[0088] exist Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the examples provided, the UV light source 404 is not directly coupled to the target 402. More precisely, the UV light source 404 can be described as being remotely positioned relative to the target 402. In some respects, the UV light source 404 can be configured to emit UV light to clean one or more surfaces of the target 402 in response to a triggering event detected by sensors (414A, 414B) or in response to a manual command. The remote position of the UV light source 404 relative to the target 402 can result in variations in the distance from the UV light source 404 to the target 402. These distances can vary from a few inches to several feet, depending on the type of contact element, the type of UV light source 404, the geometry of the target 402 or the contact element, the type of installation environment, or other factors or combinations thereof.

[0089] Figure 4C A third configuration 400C of UV light source 404 and target 402 is depicted. Target 402 and indicator 406 are similar to those described above. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The UV light source 404 is removably coupled to the target 402 at the third surface 402C. A third configuration 400C with a UV light source 404 removably coupled to the target 402 can be used when an environment with a cleaning system is configured to achieve this configuration, for example, the UV light source 404 is configured to be continuously on, in contrast to being on between uses and / or within a predetermined time period or in response to other triggers.

[0090] According to this example, the target reflector 418 may be removably or permanently attached to or integrally formed with the fourth surface 402D of the target 402. In one example, the target reflector 418 may be formed of a fluoropolymer. In another example, the target reflector 418 may be formed of a material comprising a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes has a maximum diameter smaller than the minimum wavelength emitted by the UV light source 404. UV light emitted from the UV light source 404 may be emitted along the x-axis and reflected by the target reflector 418. According to this example, the target reflector 418 may have a smooth surface or a textured surface opposite the UV light source 404. When the target reflector 418 includes a textured surface, it may reflect UV light emitted through the third surface 402C and / or the fifth surface 402E through one or more surfaces (402A, 402B, 402F). In another example, the target reflector 418 may be positioned along the z-axis, as shown below. Figure 4D As shown in the illustration. In other examples that can be combined with the other examples here, the target reflector 418 may be curved or arcuate along the z-axis, x-axis, or y-axis, or a combination thereof, and is used to guide UV light emitted through the third surface 402C and / or the fifth surface 402E through one or more surfaces (402A, 402B, 402F). As discussed above, one or more sensors (414A, 414B) may be present, and they may either be coupled to the UV light source 404, the target 402, or be remotely positioned in an environment where configuration 400B is installed and configured to cause activation and / or deactivation of the UV light source 404.

[0091] The surfaces (402A to 402F) of target 402 can be configured as smooth surfaces, wherein a "smooth" surface allows UV light to pass through the surface without reflecting UV light directed toward that surface. In other examples, one or more surfaces (402A-402F) can be configured with various patterns, which can be chemically etched, machined, or otherwise formed. These etchings can be part of indicator 406 (discussed above) to indicate the cleaning method used to clean the target and / or the brand as discussed above. In other examples that can be combined with the examples herein, one or more surfaces (402A-402F) of target 402 can be etched or otherwise patterned to additionally direct UV light toward other surfaces of target 402 to clean those surfaces. The following, in Figures 7A to 7E This was discussed in detail in China.

[0092] Figure 4D A fourth configuration 400D depicts the UV light source 404 and the target 402. The fourth configuration 400D is similar to... Figure 4AThe first configuration 400A has a UV light source 404 remotely positioned relative to a target 402 (e.g., not attached to the target 402). According to this example, a target reflector 412 may be removably or permanently attached to a fourth surface 402D of the target 402 or integrally formed with the fourth surface 402D. The target reflector 412 may be configured to be attached to the fourth surface 402D or other surfaces of the target, regardless of whether the surface is flat, curved, wavy, or otherwise configured. In one example, the target reflector 412 may be formed of a fluoropolymer. In another example, the target reflector 412 may be formed of a material comprising a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes has a maximum diameter smaller than the minimum wavelength emitted by the UV light source 404. UV light emitted from the UV light source 404 may be emitted along the x-axis and reflected by the target reflector 412. According to this example, the target reflector 412 may have a smooth surface or a textured surface. When the target reflector 412 includes a textured surface, it can reflect UV light emitted through the third surface 402C and / or the fifth surface 402E through one or more surfaces (402A, 402B, 402F). In another example, the target reflector 412 can be positioned along the z-axis, such as... Figure 4D As shown in the illustration. In other examples that can be combined with the other examples here, the target reflector 412 may be curved or arcuate along the z-axis, x-axis, or y-axis, or a combination thereof, and is used to guide UV light emitted through the third surface 402C and / or the fifth surface 402E through one or more surfaces (402A, 402B, 402F). As discussed above, one or more sensors 414A, 414B may be present, and they may either be coupled to the UV light source 404, the target 402, or be remotely positioned in an environment where a second configuration 400B is mounted and configured to cause activation and / or deactivation of the UV light source 404.

[0093] Figure 4E The fifth configuration 400E, depicting the UV light source 404 and the target 402, is shown. The fifth configuration 400E is similar to... Figure 4C The third configuration 400C. The UV light source 404 is removably coupled to the target 402 at the third surface 402C. Figure 4CIn contrast, target 402 includes target absorber 420, which is configured to absorb UV light emitted from UV light source 404. According to this example, target absorber 420 may be removably or permanently coupled to or integrally formed with fourth surface 402D of target 402. In one aspect, target absorber 420 may be formed of a fluoropolymer. In another example, target absorber 420 may be formed of a material comprising a plurality of pores, wherein each of the plurality of pores has a maximum diameter larger than the maximum wavelength emitted by UV light source 404. As discussed above, one or more sensors (414A, 414B) may be present, and they may either be coupled to UV light source 404 and target 402, or be remotely positioned in an environment where a second configuration 400B is mounted and configured to cause activation and / or deactivation of UV light source 404. For example, a fifth configuration 400E can be used when a contact element (not shown) removably coupled to target 402 is activated by a user touching one or more of surfaces 402A, 402B, 402E, or 402F of target 402. In this example, the third surface 402C may not be cleaned.

[0094] Figure 4F The sixth configuration 400F of the UV light source 404 and target 402 is depicted, and can be similar to... Figure 4CThe third configuration 400C differs in that the UV light source 404 is remotely positioned relative to the target 402 at the fifth surface 402E. Therefore, the UV light source 404 is configured to emit UV light through the fifth surface 402E. The target 402 in this configuration may include a light guiding element 408. As used herein, "light guiding element" 408 is intended to refer to a component for guiding UV light either toward or away from it. Thus, according to this example, the light guiding element 408 may be a reflector or an absorber. The light guiding element 408 may be removably or permanently attached to the fifth surface 402E of the target 402 or integrally formed with the fifth surface 402E. In one example, the light guiding element 408 may be formed of a fluoropolymer. In another example, the light guiding element 408 may be a reflector formed of a material comprising a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes has a maximum diameter smaller than the minimum wavelength emitted by the UV light source 404. UV light emitted from UV light source 404 can be emitted along the y-axis, and when light guiding element 408 has a textured surface configured to receive and reflect UV light, the UV light is reflected by light guiding element 408 through one or more of the target surfaces (402A, 402B, 402C, 402D). This reflection can also occur if light guiding element 408 is bent or arcuate along the z-axis, x-axis, or y-axis, or combinations thereof. In some examples, light guiding element 408 may include a textured surface and may also be arcuate or bent along one or more directions. For example, a sixth configuration 400F can be used when a user has the opportunity to simultaneously use contact elements (not shown) removably coupled to target 402 with various combinations of contact surfaces 402E, 402C, 402D, 402A, or 402B. For example, a sixth configuration 400F can be used when the contact element is a handle or lever, or, for example, when the sixth surface 402F is slidably engaged with another surface and cannot be touched by the user.

[0095] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a cleaning system 500 according to some aspects of this disclosure is depicted. The cleaning system 500 includes a UV light source 504 remotely arranged relative to a target 502 system. The UV light source 504 is configured to emit UV light toward a first surface 502A of the target 502. Figure 5In this example, target 502 is shown as having a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, target 502 may have other polygonal cross-sectional geometries, or triangles, circles, ellipses, crescents, or other geometric shapes or combinations thereof. In this example, the first surface 502A is parallel to and opposite to the second surface 502B. The distance between target 502 and UV light source 504 can vary. In one example, the distance between target 502 and UV light source 504 may be from about 3 inches to about 24 inches; in another example, the distance may be from about 6 inches to about 18 inches; and in yet another example, the distance may be from about 9 inches to about 12 inches. A third surface 502C of target 502 is parallel to and opposite to the fourth surface 502D. Target 502 includes a reflector 506 disposed between the first surface 502A and the second surface 502B. In this cross-sectional view, reflector 506 is shown in a curved form such that UV light emitted from UV light source 504 toward first surface 502A is emitted through first surface 502A and reflected back toward that surface and toward third surface 502C and fourth surface 502D, thus cleaning at least first surface 502A, third surface 502C, and fourth surface 502D. Reflector 506 is shown as arcuate in the direction toward the x-axis. In other examples, reflector 506 may be arcuate or otherwise curved along the z-axis, y-axis, or other combinations of axes. The UV target surface 506A of reflector 506 may be smooth. In other examples, the UV target surface 506A of reflector 506 may be textured to include various features designed to guide UV light toward the respective surfaces of target 502 in various directions.

[0096] Depending on the curvature and / or texture of reflector 506, UV light can be reflected through an additional surface of target 502 (not shown in this view). According to this example, target 502 can be configured such that target 502 can be removed and reflector 506 reused during maintenance or refurbishment, or target 502 can be configured such that the entire assembly of target 502 and reflector 506 can be replaced. In other examples, UV light source 504 can be located at other positions relative to target 502 to clean the individual surfaces of target 502.

[0097] Example cleaning system configuration

[0098] Figures 6A to 6C Examples of cleaning systems according to some aspects of this disclosure are described. Figure 6AA side view of a first cleaning system 600A, including a UV light source 602, a reflector 608, a target 604, and an absorber 606, is shown. The target 604 is shown here with a rectangular geometry such that a first surface 604A is parallel to and opposite to a second surface 604B, and a third surface 604C is parallel to and opposite to a fourth surface 604D. The third surface 604C and the fourth surface 604D are perpendicular to each of the first surface 604A and the second surface 604B.

[0099] Reflector 608 is configured to guide UV light emitted by UV light source 602 through fourth surface 604D toward first surface 604A of target 604, thereby cleaning at least first surface 604A and fourth surface 604D. In an example where the distance between third surface 604C and fourth surface 604D is the width 628 of target 604 and greater than the width 630 of contact element 610, UV light can also be reflected upward through second surface 604B of target 604, thereby further cleaning second surface 604B. The tip 608A of reflector 608 is configured to be substantially coplanar with first surface 604A of target to clean first surface 604A with UV light emitted and reflected from UV light source 602. Target 604 is removably coupled to contact element 610 via second surface 604B of target 604. Contact element 610 may represent any contact element discussed herein, such as handle, lever, button, touchscreen, counter, or other type or combination of contact elements.

[0100] The absorber 606 is disposed adjacent to the third surface 604C of the target 604. In some examples, the absorber 606 may be removably attached to the target using an adhesive (which may be pressure-activated or heat-activated), a mechanical fastener such as a snap-fit, clamp, hook, thread, or pin, a magnetic fastener, or a combination of various types of fasteners. The absorber 606 is configured to absorb UV light emitted from the UV light source 602. When measured perpendicular to the first surface 604A, the thickness of the target 604 may be from about 0.2 mm to about 20 cm. In another example, when measured perpendicular to the first surface 604A, the thickness of the target 604 may be from about 0.2 mm to about 2 mm. In yet another example, when measured perpendicular to the first surface 604A, the thickness of the target 604 may be from about 1 mm to about 10 cm.

[0101] For example, when contact element 610 is a counter or other surface such that the user would be located on the same side of system 600A as third surface 604C and absorber 606, it can be used Figure 6AThe configuration shown includes an absorber 606 used to shield the user from reflected and emitted UV light. When the UV light source 602 is configured to continuously emit UV light, a first cleaning system 600A can be used.

[0102] Figure 6B A side view of a second cleaning system 600B, including a UV light source 602, a reflector 616, a target 604, a light guiding element 612, and an absorber 614, is shown. The target 604 is shown here with a rectangular side (sectional) geometry such that a first surface 604A is parallel to and opposite to a second surface 604B, and a third surface 604C is parallel to and opposite to a fourth surface 604D. The third surface 604C and the fourth surface 604D are perpendicular to each of the first surface 604A and the second surface 604B.

[0103] Reflector 616 is configured to direct UV light emitted by UV light source 602 toward first surface 604A of target 604. The tip 616A of reflector 616 is configured to be at a distance 618 above first surface 604A of target 604, as measured from first surface 604A to the tip 616A of reflector 616. In one example, distance 618 may be from about 0.20 in. to about 4.00 in. In another example, distance 618 may be from about 0.50 in. to about 2.50 in. In yet another example, distance 618 may be from about 0.75 in. to about 1.50 in. The position of the tip 616A of reflector 616 relative to first surface 604A of target 604 allows UV light to illuminate first surface 604A at an angle perpendicular to first surface 604A, contrasting with the shallower contact angle provided by coplanar reflector 608 in first cleaning system 600A.

[0104] The first surface 604A is cleaned by UV light emitted and reflected from the UV light source 602. The target 604 is removably coupled to the contact element 610 via the second surface 604B of the target 604. The contact element 610 may represent any contact element discussed herein, such as a handle, lever, button, touch screen, counter, or other type or combination of contact elements.

[0105] Compared to the first cleaning system 600A, the second cleaning system 600B includes an absorber 614 disposed parallel to a fourth surface 604D of the target 604. For example... Figure 6BAs shown, absorber 614 can be offset from the fourth surface 604D of the target to allow some UV light emitted from UV light source 602 to be reflected through the fourth surface 604D, while shielding at least surface 610A of contact element 610 from UV light. In one aspect, absorber 614 can be used to prevent UV light from being emitted upwards through the first surface 604A through the target 602 to shield a user from UV light. In another example, for instance, if target 604 extends beyond contact element 610 (e.g., if target 604 and contact element 610 have different geometries along surfaces removably coupled to each other), absorber 614 can also be used to prevent UV light from entering target 604 through a second surface 604B. This configuration can be used, for example, when contact element 610 is formed of a material that may be sensitive to direct UV light exposure, or when there may be users located where UV light would otherwise contact them.

[0106] The second cleaning system 600B may also include a light guiding element 612 disposed adjacent to the third surface 604C of the target 604. In some examples, the light guiding element 612 may be removably attached to the target using an adhesive (which may be pressure-activated or heat-activated), a mechanical fastener such as a snap-fit, clamp, hook, thread, or pin, a magnetic fastener, or a combination of various types of fasteners. On one hand, the light guiding element 612 is configured to absorb UV light emitted from the UV light source 602. On the other hand, the light guiding element 612 is configured to reflect UV light emitted from the UV light source 602 back into the target 604 to clean or re-clean the various surfaces of the target 604. The light guiding element 612 may be made of the various materials discussed above, depending on whether it is used as an absorber or a reflector. For example, Figure 6B The configuration shown can be used to control the direction of UV light and can be used to clean the touchscreen. In this example, the touchscreen, including the contact element 610, can be installed in an aircraft cabin or cockpit, in other means of transportation, used in a gaming system, or in kiosks, including retail kiosks, and in kiosks located in and associated with financial institutions. The second cleaning system 600b can be used for continuous lighting as discussed herein and in other examples.

[0107] Figure 6C A side view of a third cleaning system 600C, including a UV light source 602, a reflector 622, and a target 620, is shown. The target 620 is shown here with a rectangular side (sectional) geometry such that a first surface 620A is parallel to and opposite to a second surface 620B, and a third surface 620C is parallel to and opposite to a fourth surface 620D. The third surface 620C and the fourth surface 620D are perpendicular to... Figure 6C Each of the first surface 620A and the second surface 620B in the target. In other examples, the target may have a different cross-sectional geometry, such as a polygon, triangle, circle, semicircle, crescent, or other geometry or combination of geometry. The target 620 is removably coupled to the contact element 610 via the second surface 620B of the target 620. The contact element 610 may represent any contact element discussed herein, such as a handle, lever, button, touchscreen, counter, or other type or combination of contact elements.

[0108] In contrast to other examples herein, reflector 622 is disposed around two or more outer surfaces (e.g., 620C, 620D) to direct UV light emitted by UV light source 602 toward a first surface 620A of target 620 and to contain the emitted UV light. In other examples, reflector 622 may be disposed around the periphery of target 620. Reflector 622 may be removably or permanently attached to target 620 via adhesive, mechanical fastener, magnetic fastener, press-fit fastener, or a combination thereof. The top edge 622A of reflector 622 is substantially coplanar with the first surface 620A of target. The third cleaning system 600C is configured to be installed such that, except that the top edge 622A of reflector 622 is flush with the first surface 620A of target 620, both the top edge 622A of reflector 622 and the first surface 620A of target 620 are coplanar with the surface 626 of the mounting environment. As discussed above, the installation environment can be an aircraft, airplane, train, ship, car, retail location, restaurant, or other environment with a table, seat back, kiosk, wall, or other surface 626.

[0109] When measured perpendicular to the first surface 604A, the thickness of the target 604 can be from about 1 cm to about 20 cm. In another example, when measured perpendicular to the first surface 620A, the thickness of the target 620 can be from about 5 cm to about 15 cm. In yet another example, when measured perpendicular to the first surface 620A, the thickness of the target 620 can be from about 10 mm to about 20 cm.

[0110] Compared to continuous lighting, Figure 6C The configuration of the third cleaning system 600C shown can, for example, be used for intermittent UV cleaning. The thickness of the target 620 can be greater than the thickness of the targets shown in other examples; this thickness, combined with the absence of absorbers, allows more light to be reflected upwards from the target toward the first surface 620A, as indicated by the arrows. Figure 6C The image shows the use of Figures 7A to 7E Part 624 of target 602.

[0111] Example of a texture used to guide UV light

[0112] Figures 7A to 7E Examples of textured targets according to some aspects of this disclosure are depicted. Figures 7A to 7E All examples are shown Figure 6C Part 624, and shows the second surface 620B of target 620 when the second surface 620B is not a smooth surface (in Figures 7A to 7E Various options for the texture (identified as 702, 706, 710, and 714 respectively) are provided. In some examples, the textured surface discussed herein may extend over the entire second surface 620B. In other examples, the textured surface discussed herein may extend over a portion of the second surface 620B that is smaller than the entire second surface 620B.

[0113] Figure 7A A first portion 624A with a target 620 is shown, the target 620 including a first surface 620A opposite a first textured surface 702. The first textured surface 702 includes a plurality of triangular structures having a first angle α and a second angle β and a height 704. In one example, the height 704 ranges from about 1 micrometer (μm) to about 0.1 millimeter (mm) (100 μm). In another example, the height 704 ranges from about 20 µm to about 80 µm. In yet another example, the height 704 ranges from about 30 µm to about 90 µm. In one example that can be combined with other examples herein, the first angle α ranges from about 30 degrees (°) to about 120°. In another example that can be combined with other examples herein, the first angle α ranges from about 45 degrees (°) to about 100°. In one example that can be combined with other examples herein, the first angle α ranges from about 75 degrees (°) to about 90°. In one example that can be combined with other examples herein, the second angle β ranges from about 20 degrees (°) to 85°. In another example that can be combined with other examples in this paper, the second angle β ranges from about 25 degrees (°) to about 60°. In another example that can be combined with other examples in this paper, the second angle β ranges from about 30 degrees (°) to about 45°. Although the triangular features of the first textured surface 702 are in Figure 7A The numbers are shown as having the same height 704, but in other examples, such as at least in the following... Figure 7B As discussed in the text, these features can be arranged in an orderly or random manner to form different heights.

[0114] Figure 7B The second portion 624B with a target is shown, the target including a first surface 620A opposite to the second textured surface 720. The second textured surface 702 includes a plurality of triangular structures with a first angle γ and a second angle β. Figure 7ACompared to the first textured surface 702, the second textured surface 720 includes multiple triangular structures of varying heights. In one example, the first height 722A of the first triangular feature 722 ranges from about 1 micrometer (μm) to about 0.1 millimeters (mm) (100 μm). In another example, the first height 722A ranges from about 20 µm to about 80 µm. In yet another example, the first height 722A ranges from about 30 µm to about 90 µm. Each adjacent triangular feature has a height smaller than that of its adjacent triangular structure. For example, the second height 724A of the second triangular feature 724 is smaller than the first height 722A. The third height 726A of the third triangular feature 726 is smaller than the second height 724A. The fourth height 728A of the fourth triangular feature 728 is smaller than the third height 726A. In one example, the height of each triangular feature may be about 10%-70% smaller than that of its adjacent counterparts. In another example, the height of each triangular feature may be about 15%-50% smaller than that of its adjacent counterparts. In another example, the height of each triangular feature can be approximately 20%-40% smaller than the height of its adjacent triangle. According to this example, compared to adjacent triangular features, the height of each triangular feature on the second textured surface 720 can be reduced (or increased) by an equal or different amount (%). In one example, UV light 730 can enter from a first direction along the x-axis. In other examples, UV light 730 can enter along other directions shown in the inserted coordinate system, which can be opposite to or perpendicular to the direction shown by UV light 730. If UV light 730 enters from a direction relative to... Figure 7B If the direction shown is directly opposite to the direction of entry, then the second textured surface 720 can alternatively include a series of triangular features with heights increasing from 722 to 728, and... Figure 7B The example shown in the image illustrates the contrast created by the reduced height.

[0115] In one example that can be combined with other examples in this document, the first angle γ ranges from about 30 degrees (°) to about 120°. In another example that can be combined with other examples in this document, the first angle γ ranges from about 45° to about 100°. In one example that can be combined with other examples in this document, the first angle γ ranges from about 75° to about 90°. In one example that can be combined with other examples in this document, the second angle δ ranges from about 20 degrees (°) to 85°. In another example that can be combined with other examples in this document, the second angle δ ranges from about 25 degrees (°) to about 60°. In one example that can be combined with other examples in this document, the second angle δ ranges from about 30 degrees (°) to about 45°.

[0116] Figure 7CA third portion 624C with a target 620 is shown, the target 620 including a first surface 620A opposite to a third textured surface 706. Compared to the first portion 624A, the third textured surface 706 is formed by a plurality of polygonal structures having a height 708. In one example, the height 708 ranges from about 1 micrometer (μm) to about 0.1 millimeter (mm) (100 μm). In another example, the height 708 ranges from about 20 µm to about 80 µm. In yet another example, the height 708 ranges from about 30 µm to about 90 µm.

[0117] Figure 7D A fourth portion 624D with target 620 is shown, target 620 including a first surface 620A opposite to the fourth textured surface 710. Compared to the third textured surface 706, the fourth textured surface 710 has multiple polygonal structures having either a first height 708 or a second height 712, the second height 712 being smaller than the first height 708. In one example, the second height 712 is about 10% to about 25% smaller than the first height 708. In another example, the second height 712 is about 26% to about 50% smaller than the first height 708. In yet another example, which can be combined with other examples herein, the second height 712 is about 51% to about 75% smaller than the first height 708. Although in Figure 7C The alternating first height 708 and second height 712 are shown in the illustration, but in other examples, the feature may be arranged in various height configurations that differ from the alternating spacing shown herein.

[0118] Figure 7EA fifth portion 624E with target 620 is shown, target 620 including a first surface 620A opposite to the fifth textured surface 714. Compared to the other textured surfaces discussed above, the fifth textured surface 714 includes a series of features, each having a smooth surface. The features of the fifth textured surface 714 have a height 716 and each have a width 718. In one example, the height 716 ranges from about 1 micrometer (μm) to about 0.1 millimeter (mm) (100 μm). In another example, the height 716 ranges from about 20 µm to about 80 µm. In yet another example, the height 716 ranges from about 30 µm to about 90 µm. In one example, the width 718 ranges from about 1 micrometer (μm) to about 0.1 millimeter (mm) (100 μm). In another example, the width 718 ranges from about 20 µm to about 80 µm. In yet another example, the width 718 ranges from about 30 µm to about 90 µm. In one example, the height-to-width ratio (716:718) ranges from approximately 4:1 to approximately 1:4. In another example, the height-to-width ratio (716:718) ranges from approximately 3:1 to approximately 1:3. In yet another example, the height-to-width ratio (716:718) ranges from approximately 2:1 to approximately 1:2.

[0119] Despite the characteristics of the fifth-zone textured surface 714 Figure 7E The features are shown as having the same height 716, but in other examples, these features may be arranged in an ordered or random manner to form different heights. In other examples, the features of the fifth textured surface 714 may be separated by grooves, which may be flat, angled, or circular. In some examples, Figures 7A to 7E The textures shown can be used in combination. In some examples, textures can be used to form indicators discussed herein, which may include graphics and / or text to indicate that the target is UV-cleaned and / or to indicate a brand identifier. Additionally, Figures 7A to 7E The textured surfaces discussed here are relative to their use on a target, but they can also exist in reflectors associated with a UV light source or target to guide UV light and thus clean various surfaces of the target. As mentioned above, relative to... Figure 7B The UV light discussed can enter along the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, or at angles in between these axes. Figure 7A and Figures 7C to 7E The target (620) shown in the figure depends on the configuration of the cleaning system equipped with the target (620).

[0120] Therefore, the cleaning systems and methods described herein can be used to disinfect targets, allowing users of contact elements connected to the target to directly contact the UV-cleaned target, rather than the contact element itself. The target is configured to be both repairable and replaceable, ensuring that the contact element remains undamaged when the target is removed for repair or replacement. The target can be customized to have reflectors, absorbers, or various geometries, textures, hues, or indicators for numerous applications associated with a wide range of contact elements and installation environments. Light guiding elements can also be included in the cleaning systems discussed herein as part of the UV light source, or remotely positioned relative to either or both the target and the UV light source. Depending on the location of the indicator and the user's visual ability, the user can see or, in some cases, perceive that the target has been UV-cleaned, thus enabling confidence in at least some aspects of the cleanliness of the installation environment in which the cleaning system is located.

[0121] Reference is made to various aspects in this disclosure. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific aspects described. Instead, it is contemplated that any combination of the above features and elements (whether or not related to different aspects) may be used to implement and practice the teachings provided herein. Furthermore, when elements of an aspect are described in the form of “at least one of A and B,” it will be understood that aspects including only element A, only element B, and elements A and B are contemplated respectively. Moreover, while certain aspects may achieve advantages over other possible solutions and / or over the prior art, whether a particular advantage is achieved by a given aspect does not limit this disclosure. Therefore, the aspects, features, aspects, and advantages disclosed herein are merely illustrative and should not be considered elements or limitations of the appended claims unless expressly stated in the claims. Similarly, references to “the invention” should not be construed as a generalization of any inventive subject matter disclosed herein and should not be considered elements or limitations of the appended claims unless expressly stated in the claims.

[0122] As those skilled in the art will understand, the aspects described herein can be implemented as systems, methods, or computer program products. Therefore, aspects can take the form of entirely hardware aspects, entirely software aspects (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or aspects combining software and hardware aspects, which are generally referred to herein as “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” Furthermore, the aspects described herein can take the form of computer program products implemented on one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code embodied thereon.

[0123] Program code implemented on a computer-readable storage medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, RF, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0124] Computer program code for performing the operations of various aspects of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java™, Smalltalk, and C++, and traditional procedural programming languages ​​such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0125] In this document, aspects of the present disclosure are described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to various aspects of the present disclosure. It will be understood that each block in a flowchart illustration or block diagram, and combinations of blocks in a flowchart illustration or block diagram, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate means for implementing the functions / actions specified in the blocks of the flowchart or block diagram.

[0126] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing device or other means to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium make an article of writing including instructions that implement the functions / actions specified in the boxes of a flowchart or block diagram.

[0127] Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device to produce computer-implemented processing, such that the instructions executed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device perform the functions / actions specified in the boxes of a flowchart or block diagram.

[0128] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various aspects of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a portion of a module, segment, or code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than shown in the drawings. For example, depending on the function involved, two blocks shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or these blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order or out of order. It will also be noted that each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented by a system based on dedicated hardware or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions that performs the specified function or action.

[0129] In addition, this disclosure includes implementations according to the following terms:

[0130] 1. A cleaning system, the cleaning system comprising:

[0131] Target (104) is at least 30% transparent to UV light in the wavelength range from about 222 nanometers (nm) to about 300 nm; and

[0132] A contact element (112) is removably coupled to the target (104) and configured to cause movement of the contact element (112) in response to a force being applied to the target (104).

[0133] 2. The cleaning system according to Clause 1, wherein the target (104) is at least about 30% transparent to UV light.

[0134] 3. The cleaning system according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the target (104) is from about 50% transparent to UV light to about 75% transparent to UV light.

[0135] 4. The cleaning system according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the target (104) comprises a transparent material with a UV transmittance of about 95% to about 99.15%.

[0136] 5. The cleaning system according to Clause 4, wherein the transparent material comprises borosilicate glass.

[0137] 6. The cleaning system according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the thickness of the target (104) is from about 0.2 millimeters (mm) to about 20 centimeters (cm).

[0138] 7. The cleaning system according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the target (104) is directly connected to the contact element (112) via an adhesive, a mechanical coupling, a magnetic coupling, a press-fit coupling or a combination thereof.

[0139] 8. The cleaning system according to any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the target (104) is indirectly connected to the contact element (112) via a fixing device (106).

[0140] 9. The cleaning system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, the cleaning system further comprising a component (106) that is in direct contact with each of the contact element (112) and the target (104) and is removably coupled to each of the contact element (112) and the target (104).

[0141] 10. The cleaning system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, the cleaning system further comprising: an ultraviolet (UV) light source (102) configured to emit UV light with a wavelength range from about 222 nm to about 254 nm.

[0142] 11. The cleaning system according to Clause 9, further comprising: a first reflector (616) configured to reflect the UV light onto at least one surface of the target (104).

[0143] 12. The cleaning system according to Clause 11, wherein the first reflector (616) is formed of a fluoropolymer.

[0144] 13. The cleaning system according to Clause 11, wherein the first reflector (616) is formed of a material comprising a plurality of holes, each hole having a maximum diameter of less than 222 nm.

[0145] 14. The cleaning system according to Clause 9, wherein the target (104) includes at least one target absorber (420) configured to absorb UV light after UV light has passed through at least one surface of the target (104).

[0146] 15. The cleaning system according to Clause 10, wherein the target (104) includes a second reflector (612) configured to reflect UV light received from the UV light source (102) through the target (104) in at least one direction to direct the UV light toward at least one other surface of the target (104).

[0147] 16. A cleaning system, the cleaning system comprising:

[0148] An ultraviolet (UV) light source (102) is configured to emit UV light with a wavelength range from about 222 nm to about 300 nm;

[0149] Target (104) is at least 30% transparent to UV light in the wavelength range from about 222 nanometers (nm) to about 300 nm; and

[0150] A contact element (112) is removably coupled to the target (104) and configured to cause movement of the contact element (112) in response to a force being applied to the target (104).

[0151] 17. The cleaning system according to Clause 16, wherein the target (104) comprises a transparent material with a transmittance of about 95% to about 99.15%.

[0152] 18. The cleaning system according to Clause 17, wherein the transparent material comprises borosilicate glass.

[0153] 19. The cleaning system according to any one of Clauses 16 to 18, the cleaning system further comprising a non-transitory storage medium (108) configured to store a plurality of logic executable by a processor and including at least one cleaning program.

[0154] 20. The cleaning system according to any one of Clauses 16 to 19, the cleaning system further comprising a sensor (110) configured to detect a triggering event, and the at least one cleaning procedure being configured to emit the UV light in response to the sensor (110) detecting the triggering event.

[0155] 21. The cleaning system according to Clause 20, wherein the sensor (110) is associated with the target (104).

[0156] 22. The cleaning system according to Clause 20, wherein the sensor (110) is associated with the UV light source (102).

[0157] 23. The cleaning system according to Clause 20, wherein the sensor (110) is of a type selected from temperature sensors, pressure sensors, timers, and combinations thereof.

[0158] 24. A cleaning method, the cleaning method comprising:

[0159] The first trigger event is detected (202) by a sensor associated with the ultraviolet (UV) cleaning system; and

[0160] In response to detecting the first triggering event, the processor executes a cleaning procedure (204) to clean the target, wherein executing the cleaning procedure includes:

[0161] The UV light source of the UV cleaning system is activated for a predetermined time period, and the UV light source is configured to emit UV light with a wavelength range of about 222 nm to about 300 nm to clean the target.

[0162] 25. The method according to Clause 24, the method further comprising: after performing the cleaning procedure (204), engaging (208) the contact element connected to the target.

[0163] 26. The method according to clause 24 or 25, the method further comprising storing a first time associated with the detection of the first triggering event and a second time associated with the execution of the cleaning procedure on a data memory (114), the data memory (114) being wirelessly connected to the UV cleaning system.

[0164] 27. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 26, wherein activating the UV light source includes causing the UV light source to emit UV light to clean at least one of a plurality of surfaces of the target.

[0165] 28. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 27 further comprises: reflecting the UV light received from the UV light source by a reflector coupled to the target to clean the target (206).

[0166] 29. The method according to Clause 28, the method further comprising: configuring the UV light source to emit the UV light to clean a first surface of a plurality of surfaces of the target (206); and configuring the reflector to reflect the UV light through a second surface of the plurality of surfaces to clean the second surface (206).

[0167] 30. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 29, wherein performing the (204) cleaning procedure further comprises: activating the UV light source for a predetermined time period, the UV light source being configured to emit wavelengths of a predetermined range to clean a plurality of targets within a predetermined proximity range of the UV light source.

[0168] 31. The method according to any one of clauses 24 to 30, wherein the first triggering event comprises: a predetermined time associated with a schedule; activation of a contact element associated with a target; a predetermined time associated with previous emission of UV light from the UV light source; or a combination thereof.

[0169] While the foregoing relates to various aspects of this disclosure, other and additional aspects of this disclosure may be designed without departing from the essential scope of this disclosure, and the scope of such aspects is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cleaning system, the cleaning system comprising: An ultraviolet light source (102) is configured to emit ultraviolet light with a wavelength range from about 222 nanometers to about 300 nanometers; The target (104) is at least 30% transparent to ultraviolet light in the wavelength range from about 222 nm to about 300 nm; A contact element (112), removably coupled to the target (104), and configured to cause movement of the contact element (112) in response to a force being applied to the target (104); and A component (106) that is in direct contact with each of the contact elements (112) and the target (104) and is removably coupled to each of the contact elements (112) and the target (104). The target (104) includes at least one target absorber (420) configured to absorb ultraviolet light after it has passed through at least one surface of the target (104), thereby shielding the user from reflected and emitted ultraviolet light. The target absorber (420) is formed of a material comprising a plurality of pores, wherein each of the plurality of pores has a maximum diameter greater than the maximum wavelength emitted by the ultraviolet light source.

2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The target (104) is at least about 30% transparent to ultraviolet light.

3. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The target (104) comprises a transparent material with an ultraviolet light transmittance of about 95% to about 99.15%.

4. The cleaning system according to claim 3, wherein, The transparent material includes borosilicate glass.

5. The cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The thickness of the target (104) is about 0.2 mm to about 20 cm.

6. The cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The target (104) is directly connected to the contact element (112) via an adhesive, mechanical fastener, magnetic fastener, press-fit fastener or a combination thereof.

7. The cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The target (104) is indirectly connected to the contact element (112) via the component (106).

8. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The target absorber (420) is formed of a fluoropolymer.

9. The cleaning system of claim 1, further comprising a non-transitory storage medium (108) configured to store a plurality of logic executable by a processor and including at least one cleaning program, and the cleaning system including a sensor (110) configured to detect a trigger event, the at least one cleaning program being configured to emit the ultraviolet light in response to the sensor (110) detecting the trigger event.

10. The cleaning system according to claim 9, wherein, The sensor (110) is associated with the target (104).

11. The cleaning system according to claim 9, wherein, The sensor (110) is associated with the ultraviolet light source (102).

12. The cleaning system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein, The sensor (110) is a type selected from temperature sensors, pressure sensors, timers, and combinations thereof.

13. A cleaning method, the cleaning method comprising: The first triggering event is detected (202) by a sensor associated with the cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 12; and In response to detecting the first triggering event, the processor executes a cleaning procedure (204) to clean the target, wherein executing the cleaning procedure includes: The ultraviolet light source of the ultraviolet cleaning system is activated for a predetermined time period. The ultraviolet light source is configured to emit ultraviolet light with a wavelength range of about 222 nanometers to about 300 nanometers to clean the target.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising storing (216) a first time associated with the detection of the first triggering event and a second time associated with the execution of the cleaning procedure in a data memory (114), the data memory (114) being wirelessly connected to the cleaning system.

Images