Ultraviolet light disinfection system and method with occupancy detection

Abstract

Disclosed herein are ultraviolet light disinfection systems and methods with occupancy detection. A system and method for disinfecting a target area includes an infrared (IR) sensor, a control unit, and one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps. The IR sensor is configured to generate thermal image data of the target area within a space. The control unit includes one or more processors and is communicatively connected to the IR sensor and the one or more UV lamps. The control unit is configured to determine an occupancy status of the target area based on the thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space. Each of the one or more UV lamps is configured to emit UV light toward the target area. The control unit is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps based on the determined occupancy status of the target area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection systems, such as UV light disinfection systems that can be used to disinfect structures and areas within vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Transportation vehicles, such as commercial aircraft, are used to transport passengers between different locations. Systems are currently being developed (e.g., using ultraviolet (UV) light) to sterilize or otherwise disinfect surfaces inside aircraft.

[0003] UV light disinfection systems typically include at least one UV lamp that emits UV light. Some UV light disinfection systems are installed within a space, and the UV lamp directs UV light into the space to disinfect or sterilize one or more components within the space. The space may be periodically occupied, allowing people to enter the space at different times. The system's detection of occupancy in the space takes into account whether the UV light disinfection system is being operated and / or the selection of the system's operating parameters (e.g., time). Most known occupancy detection methods rely on changing environments or scenes characterized by movement. For example, some sensors detect occupancy based on a person passing through a laser beam that extends beyond a threshold. Other sensors—such as cameras that generate visible image data and / or infrared (IR) (or thermal) image data—determine occupancy based on detected changes in the field of view. For example, existing passive IR sensors use differential IR over a wide area and record motion as occupancy detection via differential IR of a moving object.

[0004] A drawback of motion-dependent occupancy detection systems is that they may incorrectly classify occupied spaces as unoccupied when the environment is relatively static (e.g., unchanging). For example, various scenarios exist where people may be relatively calm or still over extended periods, such as sleeping, reading, watching videos, waiting to enter or leave a room, etc. Known occupancy detection systems may initially detect occupancy when people are active, but over time, unchanging scenarios normalize and occupancy is no longer detected. After misclassifying a space as unoccupied, a UV disinfection system can activate at least one UV lamp to emit UV light into the space.

[0005] Furthermore, some rooms equipped with UV light disinfection systems are configured to immediately deactivate the UV lamps upon detecting one or more occupants in the room to prevent them from receiving a certain dose of UV light. Even if the room occupancy is temporary, the UV lamps are automatically controlled to stop emitting UV light or reduce the power output of the UV light to a very low nominal level. In rooms or spaces that are periodically occupied, this drastic response to occupancy can interfere with the sterilization of components within the room or space by reducing the UV dose applied to components and prolonging the time required to reach a predetermined UV dose. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Even in static, unchanging environments, there is a need for a UV light disinfection system and method with accurate spatial occupancy detection. There is also a need for dynamically sterilizing rooms and spaces with periodic occupancy by adjusting the UV light irradiance based on room and space occupancy. For example, the irradiance could be modified in response to continuous room occupancy, but not in response to momentary room occupancy.

[0007] In view of this need, certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a disinfection system including an infrared (IR) sensor, a control unit, and one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps. The IR sensor is configured to generate thermal image data of a target area within a space. The control unit includes one or more processors and is communicatively connected to the IR sensor and the one or more UV lamps. The control unit is configured to determine the occupancy status of the target area based on the thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space. Each of the one or more UV lamps is configured to emit UV light into the target area. The control unit is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps based on the determined occupancy status of the target area.

[0008] Certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a disinfection method comprising receiving thermal image data generated by an infrared (IR) sensor and associated with a target area within a space at a control unit including one or more processors. The method includes determining, via the control unit, the occupancy status of the target area based on the thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space. The method further includes operating one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps via the control unit based on the occupancy status of the target area. The one or more UV lamps are configured to emit UV light into the target area.

[0009] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a disinfection system including an infrared (IR) sensor, a control unit, and one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps. The IR sensor is configured to generate thermal image data of a target area within a space. The IR sensor is calibrated such that the thermal image data indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components in the target area. The control unit includes one or more processors and is communicatively connected to the IR sensor and the one or more UV lamps. The control unit is configured to (i) determine the ambient temperature of the space based on sensor data generated by the IR sensor or a second sensor, (ii) determine a threshold temperature based on the ambient temperature of the space, and (iii) determine the occupancy status of the target area by comparing the absolute temperature of one or more components with the threshold temperature. Each of the one or more UV lamps is configured to emit UV light into the target area. The control unit is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps based on the occupancy status of the target area. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 The illustration shows a schematic block diagram of a disinfection system for sterilizing one or more components in a space, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 The illustration shows a perspective interior view of a disinfection system within a space according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 The illustration shows an end view of the housing of a disinfection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 4 The illustration shows an exposure view of the IR sensor of a disinfection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a graph depicting the threshold temperature as a function of the reference temperature, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 6 The illustration shows the field of view of an IR sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 7 A portion of a disinfection system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0017] Figure 8 The illustration shows a disinfection system according to an embodiment comprising multiple discrete UV lamp assemblies.

[0018] Figure 9 The illustration shows a flowchart of a disinfection method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of a method for determining the occupancy status of a target area according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control operation of a disinfection system over time according to multiple occupancy scenarios, based on one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 12 The illustration shows a flowchart of a disinfection method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 13 The illustration shows a perspective top view of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 14 The illustration shows a top plan view of the interior cockpit of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 15The illustration shows a perspective interior view of the interior cockpit of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The above description of the invention and the following detailed description of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As used herein, elements or steps referred to in the singular and preceded by the words "a" or "an" should be understood to not necessarily exclude a plurality of elements or steps. Furthermore, reference to "an embodiment" is not intended to exclude the existence of additional embodiments that also include the stated features. Moreover, unless expressly stated otherwise, an embodiment that "comprises" or "has" one or more elements having a particular condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0026] Certain embodiments of this disclosure provide a disinfection system and method for disinfecting (e.g., sterilizing, decontaminating, cleaning, etc.) one or more components within a space. The system includes one or more UV lamps, one or more sensors for occupancy detection, and a control unit having one or more processors. The control unit is communicatively connected to the one or more UV lamps and the one or more sensors. The disinfection system and method provide accurate occupancy detection of a space over extended periods, even in static, unchanging environments. At least one sensor in the system is an infrared (IR) sensor that monitors a target area within the space. The target area represents a zone or block occasionally occupied by one or more people. The IR sensor monitors the target area by generating thermal image data corresponding to or associated with the target area. The IR sensor is calibrated such that the thermal image data represents the absolute temperature of one or more components (e.g., objects and structures) within the target area.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the disinfection system and method are configured to determine occupancy using a reference temperature and the absolute temperature of one or more components within a target area. The reference temperature may be the ambient temperature of the space. The reference temperature may represent a measured temperature of a non-target area within the space. A non-target area may be predetermined or referred to as unoccupied, such as a ceiling area or another area that is inaccessible or at least not accessible to humans. The disinfection system and method compare the absolute temperature to a threshold temperature to determine occupancy. For example, if the absolute temperature of a component in the target area is higher than the threshold temperature, the target area is determined to be occupied. Conversely, if the absolute temperature of a component is not higher than the threshold temperature, the target area is determined to be unoccupied. The threshold temperature may be based on changes in the reference temperature. For example, the reference temperature may be used to determine (e.g., select, calculate, look up, etc.) the threshold temperature. The threshold temperature may be periodically updated over time based on monitored changes in the reference temperature. Determining and updating the threshold temperature over time based on the reference temperature allows the disinfection system to continuously calibrate and maintain IR detection, even for unchanging environments with one or more stationary occupants.

[0028] The threshold temperature is adjusted based on a reference temperature because the reliability of absolute temperature measurements by IR sensors can vary depending on the surrounding environment. The threshold temperature can be calibrated based on or using expected human skin temperature. Human skin temperature is affected by ambient temperature. For example, in a cool environment, human skin temperature will be lower than in a hot environment. Assuming the ambient temperature is 70°F, setting the threshold temperature to 85°F would be very effective because the absolute temperature of inanimate objects in the environment will typically be close to 70°F (below the threshold), while the absolute temperature of living objects, such as people in the environment, will be close to 98°F (above the threshold). However, if the ambient temperature is at or above 85°F, the same 85°F threshold will be less useful because inanimate objects in the area might trigger occupancy detection based on the heating of objects in the hot surrounding environment, even if no actual occupant is present. This could lead to false positive occupancy statuses, indicating that a space is occupied even when that space is not actually occupied. Conversely, if the threshold temperature is 85°F and the ambient temperature in the space is 40°F, a person's skin temperature may drop below the 85°F threshold, potentially leading to a false negative occupancy status. A false negative indicates that the space is not occupied, even though it is actually occupied. The disinfection systems and methods disclosed herein adjust or regulate the threshold temperature based at least on a reference temperature in the space to improve the accuracy of occupancy determination, thereby avoiding false negatives and false positives, regardless of movement within the environment.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the disinfection system and method are configured to adjust the output level of UV light emitted by one or more UV lamps based on the occupancy of a target area in space. The output level may refer to the intensity (e.g., luminance) or irradiance of the UV light. Irradiance may refer to the radiant flux received per unit area of ​​surface (e.g., power), which may be milliwatts per square centimeter (mW / cm²). 2 Measurements are taken in units of 1 / 3. In one or more embodiments, the output level of the UV light is adjusted such that the UV light has a full irradiance level when the target area is unoccupied. Operating at the full irradiance level provides a high bactericidal dose to one or more components in the target area. The system adjusts the UV light by reducing and changing the irradiance in response to periodic occupancy of the target area by one or more people. For example, during a period of continuous occupancy of the target area, the system may gradually reduce the irradiance level of the UV light in intervals of extended or continuous swirl. Ultimately, the system may deactivate the UV lamp to stop emitting UV light, or it may continuously emit UV light at a low irradiance level safe for human tissue during extended exposure periods.

[0030] Figure 1 The illustration shows a schematic block diagram of a disinfection system 100 for sterilizing one or more components within a space, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The one or more components can represent any object or structure to be sterilized with UV light. For example, the components can be structures within a vehicle, a fixed building, etc. As an example, the components can be passenger seats within a vehicle, a portion of a washroom (e.g., a toilet, sink, door handle, etc.), a counter or other such surface in a kitchen or living room.

[0031] The disinfection system 100 includes one or more UV lamps 104. The UV lamps 104 are positioned in a target area within a space and configured to emit UV light into the target area for disinfecting or sterilizing one or more components within the target area. Each UV lamp 104 includes one or more UV emitters 108 that generate UV light. For example, a UV lamp 104 may have multiple UV emitters 108. The UV emitters 108 are housed in a corresponding housing or enclosure of the UV lamp 104.

[0032] In a non-limiting example, at least some of the UV emitters 108 are excimer emitters having a gas enclosed in a tube. This gas may include or represent an inert gas, such as krypton chloride (KrCl). The UV emitter 108 can be operated by receiving high-voltage, high-frequency electrical energy from the excitation gas. The gas releases excitation energy in the form of UV photons. The UV emitter 108 can be configured to emit UV light in the far-UV spectrum and / or the UV-C spectrum. For example, the UV emitter 108 can emit UV light in the far-UV spectrum (such as from 200 nanometers (nm) to 230 nm) and / or UV light in the UV-C spectrum (such as from 230 nm to 280 nm). For example, the UV emitter can emit UV light at 222 nm. As another example, the UV emitter 108 can emit UV light at 254 nm. The UV emitter 108 can emit UV light in a narrow wavelength range centered on a specified wavelength (e.g., 222 nm). In a non-limiting example, the UV emitter 108 may be an excimer emitter, such as a KrCl excimer emitter. Alternatively, some UV lamps 104 may have different types of UV emitters relative to each other. Various types of UV emitters 108 and UV lamps 104 can be used in the disinfection system 100.

[0033] UV lamp 104 may optionally include one or more wavelength selective filters 110 configured to block UV light of one or more wavelengths emitted into a target area. For example, one or more UV light emitters 108 may be mounted within the housing of UV lamp 104, and the wavelength selective filter 110 may be attached to the housing extending through the path of UV light emitted from the one or more UV light emitters 108. The wavelength selective filter 110 may function as a bandpass filter (which absorbs or blocks light at wavelengths both above and below a transmission block, referred to as a bandpass block), a bandstop filter (which absorbs or blocks light only at wavelengths within a specified bandstop block), a short-pass filter (which absorbs or blocks light only at wavelengths above a transmission block), or a long-pass filter (which absorbs or blocks light only at wavelengths below a transmission block). The term transmission block broadly refers to the range of wavelengths of light that are allowed to pass through the wavelength selective filter according to the embodiments described herein. In one or more embodiments, the wavelength selective filter 110 may be designed as a bandpass filter that allows only a narrow range of UV wavelengths to be transmitted into the target area. The narrow wavelength range that allows light to pass through the filter may be in the far UV and / or UV-C spectral range, for example, a narrow range set between 200 nm and 280 nm. The width of the narrow wavelength range may be less than 20 nm, for example less than 10 nm or even less than 6 nm. The narrow wavelength range may be centered around a specified wavelength (e.g., 222 nm).

[0034] UV lamp 104 includes a power supply 112 that supplies electrical energy to one or more UV light emitters 108 to generate UV light. Power supply 112 may include a power cord for connection to an external power source. Optionally, power supply 112 may include an energy storage device, such as a battery pack, capacitor, etc. Power supply 112 may include only one of the power cord or the energy storage device, or it may have both components. Power supply 112 may include, or be connected to, control circuitry and / or switching devices, which may be controlled by control unit 106 to activate, deactivate, and / or dynamically adjust the power supplied to the UV light emitters 108 according to the operations and algorithms described herein. Figure 1 In the diagram, power supply 112 is shown as integrated with UV lamp 104, but alternatively, power supply 112 may be located remotely from one or more UV lamps 104. For example, power supply 112 may be a discrete and separate device electrically connected to one or more UV lamps 104 via corresponding electrical conductive leads, such that power supply 112 distributes electrical energy to UV lamps 104 to power UV light generation.

[0035] The disinfection system 100 includes one or more occupancy sensors 102 that monitor corresponding areas within a space. As described herein, sensor signals generated by the occupancy sensors 102 are analyzed to determine the occupancy status of at least a target area within the space.

[0036] Each occupancy sensor 102 is configured to monitor a corresponding block of space and generate a sensor signal over time, which can be analyzed to determine the occupancy of that block. The occupancy sensor 102 can use various mechanisms to detect when one or more people are present in the space. In one or more embodiments, the occupancy sensor 102 monitors temperature. In one embodiment, the disinfection system 100 includes an infrared (IR) sensor that generates thermal image data. The disinfection system 100 may include only one IR sensor, or it may have at least two IR sensors. Optionally, the disinfection system 100 may use at least one other type of occupancy sensor 102 to monitor temperature, such as a thermocouple, a thermistor, etc. In one embodiment, the disinfection system 100 includes a first occupancy sensor as an IR sensor and a second occupancy sensor as another IR sensor, a thermocouple, or a thermistor. Optionally, the disinfection system 100 may include additional types of occupancy sensors 102 that do not measure temperature, such as pressure sensors, photoelectric sensors, cameras that generate image data in the visible wavelength spectrum, acoustic sensors, optical sensors, or contact sensors. Occupancy sensor 102 can generate sensor signals at fixed intervals or in response to conditions that detect changes in the space, and transmit the sensor signals to control unit 106.

[0037] Control unit 106 is communicatively connected to one or more UV lamps 104 and one or more occupancy sensors 102 via wired and / or wireless communication paths. Control unit 106 generates control signals to control the operation of the UV lamps 104. The control signals can control the operation of the UV lamps 104 by controlling the presence and characteristics of electrical energy (e.g., voltage, current, phase, etc.) supplied to the UV light emitter 108. For example, control unit 106 can selectively activate the UV lamps 104 so that the UV light emitter 108 emits UV light. Control unit 106 can selectively deactivate the UV lamps 104 to prevent or stop the UV light emitter 108 from emitting UV light. The UV lamps 104 are active when emitting UV light and inactive when not emitting UV light. Control unit 106 can also modify, adjust, regulate, or change the output level of the UV light emitted by the UV lamps 104 by controlling the characteristics of the electrical energy supplied to the UV lamps 104 (e.g., voltage, frequency, pulse width, etc.). The control unit 106 can generate at least some control signals to control one or more UV lamps 104 based on sensor signals generated by one or more occupancy sensors 102. More specifically, according to one or more embodiments, the control unit 106 selectively controls the operation of the UV lamps 104 over time based on IR thermal image data generated by the IR sensors of one or more occupancy sensors 102.

[0038] Control unit 106 represents a hardware circuitry system including or connected to one or more processors 114 (e.g., one or more microprocessors, integrated circuits, microcontrollers, field-programmable gate arrays, etc.). Control unit 106 includes or is connected to a tangible and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory). For example, memory 116 may store programming instructions (e.g., software) executed by one or more processors 114 to perform the operations of control unit 106 described herein.

[0039] Figure 2 The illustration shows a perspective interior view of a disinfection system 100 within a space 202 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, at least some components of the disinfection system 100 are mounted within a housing 204 or enclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 204 is mounted to the ceiling 206 of the space 202. Alternatively, the housing 204 may be integrated into the ceiling 206 such that the housing 204 is flush with the ceiling 206, rather than suspended from the ceiling 206. Figure 2In the illustration, space 202 is depicted as a washroom, with ceiling 206 being part of the washroom. However, other spaces are also possible. For example, in one or more embodiments, the disinfection system 100 can monitor space 202 and emit UV light into it; space 202 can be any space inside or around a vehicle, building, structure, facility, etc. Furthermore, space 202 can be an enclosed area or room, but does not need to be enclosed.

[0040] Figure 2 The disinfection system 100 includes a UV lamp 104 and two occupancy sensors 102. The UV lamp 104 may include one or more UV emitters 108. The UV lamp 104 is disposed along the bottom panel 208 of the housing 204, and the UV emitters 108 face downward to emit UV light toward one or more components within a target area 210 of the space 202. The UV lamp 104 emits UV light within an illumination field 220, thereby defining an illumination area 222.

[0041] UV lamp 104 may be positioned (e.g., located and oriented) within space 202 to direct UV light toward one or more specific components within target area 210. Components receiving UV light may have surfaces that receive frequent contact from a person entering space 202. In the illustrated embodiment, components in target area 210 illuminated by UV light may include toilet 212, sink and surrounding countertop 214, and the door of space 202. Target area 210 represents a portion or block of space that may be occupied and used at least occasionally. For example, target area 210 may represent a space within space 202 that a person may enter and occupy during the daily use of space 202. Figure 2 The target area 210 surrounds the toilet 212, countertop 214, door, and intermediate space. If the outer shell 204 is located high enough above the floor of space 202, and most people will not enter space 202 unless standing on stairs or other structures, which is not part of the daily use of space 202, then the target area 210 may not surround the outer shell 204. One or more blocks of space 202 outside the target area 210 may be referred to as one or more non-target areas 216. Figure 2 The non-target area 216 shown is located near the target area 210. For example, the non-target area 216 is above the target area 210 and surrounds the housing 204. The non-target area 216 is predetermined or designated as an unoccupied area because it is not expected to be occupied. As described herein, the temperature of the non-target area 216, such as the temperature of the air or components within the non-target area 216, can be used to represent a reference temperature for occupancy detection. The reference temperature can represent the ambient temperature of the space.

[0042] although Figure 2 Only one UV lamp 104 is shown, but the disinfection system 100 may include multiple UV lamps 104 that emit UV light into the target area 210. The UV lamps 104 may be positioned to emit UV light toward different components. For example, one UV lamp 104 may emit UV light toward the toilet 212 or at least a portion of the toilet 212 (such as the toilet seat and / or flush actuator). A second UV lamp 104 may emit UV light toward the sink and countertop 214. A third UV lamp 104 may emit UV light toward the door for access to the space 202, particularly toward high-contact areas of the door, such as handles, push plates, and / or locking mechanisms for locking the door. Alternatively, two or more UV lamps 104 may be positioned to emit UV light toward a common target component, such that the illumination fields of the two or more UV lamps 104 overlap. Due to reduced shading and increased irradiance of received UV energy, components within the overlapping area may experience enhanced sterilization. When multiple UV lamps 104 are used, the UV lamps 104 can be spaced apart from each other, for example, located at different ends of the housing 204, or even mounted on a structure in the space 202 away from the housing 204. In an alternative embodiment, the multiple UV lamps 104 can be physically adjacent, but can be oriented differently to emit UV light in different directions from each other.

[0043] As described above, the disinfection system 100 includes one or more occupancy sensors 102. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, one or more occupancy sensors 102 include a first sensor 224 and a second sensor 226. The first sensor 224 is an IR sensor and is referred to herein as IR sensor 224 and first IR sensor 224. In the illustrated embodiment, the second sensor 226 is also an IR sensor and is referred to herein as second IR sensor 226. Each of the IR sensors 224, 226 is configured to use an IR signal to monitor (e.g., measure) the ambient temperature within a corresponding field of view 228. The field of view 228a of the first IR sensor 224 is directed into a target region 210 to monitor the temperature within the target region 210. The field of view 228b of the second IR sensor 226 is directed into a non-target region 216 to monitor the temperature within the non-target region 216. For example, the two IR sensors 224 can generate corresponding thermal image data associated with components located within their respective fields of view 228. The thermal image data generated by the first IR sensor 224 can represent the thermal properties of components (e.g., objects and structures) within the field of view 228a, and the thermal image data generated by the second IR sensor 226 can represent the thermal properties of components within the field of view 228b.

[0044] Now for reference Figure 3The illustration shows an end view of the housing 204 of a disinfection system 100 according to one embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, a first IR sensor 224 and a second IR sensor 226 are housed in the housing 204, similar to a UV lamp 104. For example, the first IR sensor 224 is primarily disposed within the housing 204, and its end 240 is aligned with an opening 242 through a bottom panel 208 of the housing 204. Optionally, the end 240 may protrude through the opening 242 to provide a clear view of a target area 210 below the housing 204. The second IR sensor 226 is primarily disposed within the housing 204, and its end 244 is aligned with an opening 246 through a side panel 248 of the housing 204. The end 244 may protrude through the opening 246. The opening 246 for the second IR sensor 226 may be positioned along the side panel 248 to enable the second IR sensor 226 to monitor... Figure 2 The non-target region 216 is shown.

[0045] The housing 204 may have a box-like shape to conceal most of the components of the disinfection system 100. For example, apart from the UV lamp 104 and IR sensors 224, 226, the control unit 106 (such as...) Figure 1 The hardware circuitry system (shown) can be housed within the housing 204. The housing 204 can have a relatively thin, low-profile shape to limit the area occupied within the space 202.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment, the disinfection system 100 does not include a housing 204. For example, one or more UV lamps 104 and IR sensors 224, 226 can be directly mounted to walls, ceilings, cabinets, mirrors, doors, etc., without needing to be located within a shared housing. The control unit 106 can be integrated with one of the UV lamps 104 or IR sensors 224, 226, or alternatively, it can be a discrete device installed separately. For example, the control unit device can be installed outside or inside space 202. Inside space 202, the control unit device can be stored behind a wall, ceiling, or floor, or it can be installed in, attached to, or behind a structure such as a non-essential component. One or more wires or wireless paths can extend from the control unit 106 to the UV lamps 104 and IR sensors 224, 226 to establish communication between the components of the disinfection system 100.

[0047] Figure 4An exposed view of an IR sensor 224 according to one embodiment is illustrated. The IR sensor 224 includes an array 250 of pixels 252. The pixels 252 in the array 250 are arranged in a grid of rows 254 and columns 256. In the illustrated embodiment, the IR sensor 224 has 16 pixels 252 in a 4x4 array 250. In another embodiment, the IR sensor 224 may optionally have more or fewer than 16 pixels 252. In a non-limiting example, the IR sensor 224 may be an Omron D6TMEMS thermal sensor. The pixels 252 are positioned to monitor different areas of a target region 210 relative to each other, and generate different portions of thermal image data corresponding to the different monitored areas of the target region 210. Optionally, Figure 2 The second IR sensor 226 shown can be with Figure 4 The IR sensor 224 shown is the same type of thermal sensor.

[0048] Now refer back Figure 1 and Figure 2 The control unit 106 of the disinfection system 100 determines the occupancy status of the target area 210 based on thermal image data generated by the first IR sensor 224 and a reference temperature of the space. The occupancy determination described herein is advantageous, at least in part, because it is independent of movement or changing environments. The disinfection system 100 can detect the presence of stationary individuals, such as sleeping individuals, even after prolonged periods of inactivity. Other stationary occupants are also possible. For example, in one example, a stationary occupant could be a seated individual or a standing individual. The disinfection system 100 can operate based on absolute temperature rather than movement, thus the risk of the disinfection system 100 being affected by static, normalized occupancy environments and recording false unoccupied states is negligible.

[0049] The thermal image data generated by the first IR sensor 224 indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components (e.g., objects, structures, etc.) positioned within the target area 210. For example, the IR sensor 224 can be calibrated for the thermal image data to provide absolute temperatures. The thermal image data can provide a mapping of multiple absolute temperature values ​​corresponding to different monitoring areas within the field of view 228a of the IR sensor 224.

[0050] Control unit 106 receives thermal image data generated by IR sensor 224. Control unit 106 also receives a reference temperature of the space. The reference temperature may be the ambient temperature of the space. In the illustrated embodiment, the reference temperature is determined based on thermal image data generated by a second IR sensor 226. For example, the second IR sensor 226 generates thermal image data associated with a non-target region 216. As described above, the non-target region 216 may be close to the target region 210, such that the non-target region 216 has a similar ambient temperature distribution to the target region 210. Figure 2 In this context, non-target region 216 is adjacent to and above target region 210. Non-target region 216 is pre-defined as unoccupied, therefore the thermal image data generated by the second IR sensor 226 is not expected to be correlated with the temperature of a person.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the second sensor 226 is not an IR sensor. Instead, the second sensor 226 can be a conventional resistance-based temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple or a thermistor. The second sensor 226 is located in the non-target region 216 and generates sensor data indicating the measured temperature within the non-target region 216. The control unit 106 receives the sensor data and uses the measured temperature as a reference temperature.

[0052] Control unit 106 is configured to determine a threshold temperature based on a reference temperature. Control unit 106 then compares the absolute temperature in target area 210, indicated by (or based on) thermal image data from IR sensor 224, with the threshold temperature to determine occupancy status. In one embodiment, if the absolute temperature in target area 210 is greater than the threshold temperature, control unit 106 determines that target area 210 is occupied (e.g., the occupancy status is occupied). Detecting an absolute temperature above the threshold indicates the presence of at least one person in target area 210. For example, the temperature of a person's skin measured in thermal image data exceeds the threshold temperature. If the absolute temperature within target area 210 is less than or equal to the threshold temperature, control unit 106 determines the occupancy status of target area 210 as unoccupied. An unoccupied status indicates that no one is in target area 210 at that time.

[0053] In one embodiment, the threshold temperature depends on a reference temperature. In one example, the control unit 106 selects the threshold temperature based on the reference temperature. In another example, the control unit 106 changes or adjusts the threshold temperature in response to a detected change in the reference temperature. Adjusting the threshold temperature ensures the accuracy of the occupancy detection process. For example, as mentioned above, a threshold temperature of 80°F works well in an environment of approximately 70°F because the skin temperature of living people in that environment will be higher than 80°F, while most inanimate objects will be lower than 80°F. However, if the ambient temperature rises to approximately 80°F or higher, eventually, the temperature of some inanimate objects may exceed the threshold temperature, thus falsely triggering an occupancy state. Furthermore, if the ambient temperature drops significantly, the skin temperature of a person may drop below the 80°F threshold temperature, thus falsely triggering an unoccupied state. Adjusting the threshold temperature based on the reference temperature reduces or eliminates the possibility of incorrect occupancy states. For example, the control unit 106 may lower the temperature threshold in response to a decrease in the reference temperature. The control unit 106 may increase the temperature threshold in response to an increase in the reference temperature.

[0054] The correlation between the measured reference temperature and the threshold temperature can be based on predictive modeling using an artificial intelligence agent or learning calibration based on historical and / or experimental data. The correlation can take into account the relationship between ambient temperature and the measured temperature of a person's skin. In one embodiment, once the correlation is determined, it can be characterized in a function (e.g., an equation or model), a lookup table, etc.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a graph 300 depicting a threshold temperature as a function of a reference temperature, according to one embodiment. The vertical axis 302 represents the threshold temperature, and the horizontal axis 304 represents the reference temperature. The illustrated trend line 301 represents the function. This function can be stored in the memory 116 of the control unit 106. For example, once the control unit 106 determines the reference temperature based on sensor data generated by the second sensor 226, the control unit 106 (or its processor 114) can input the reference temperature into the function used to calculate the threshold temperature. In a non-limiting example, if the reference temperature is 40°F, then based on the function, the threshold temperature might be 60°F. A reference temperature of 70°F can produce a threshold temperature of 85°F, and a reference temperature of 85°F can produce a threshold temperature of 92°F. Alternatively, as... Figure 5 As shown, the function may not be a linear relationship. Instead, the correlation or relationship can be stored in memory 116 as a lookup table or database containing a list of threshold and reference temperatures in matching pairs, rather than a mathematical function or equation.

[0056] The reference temperature is typically lower than the absolute temperature of a person, so the threshold temperature is usually a variable between the reference temperature and the person's temperature. The difference between the threshold temperature and the reference temperature may decrease as the reference temperature increases. This logic can also be extended to reference temperatures higher than the absolute temperature of a person's skin. In this case, the threshold temperature may be lower than the reference temperature, and occupancy may be detected if the absolute temperature is lower than the threshold temperature. However, occupied spaces in vehicles and buildings where occupancy detection is used for UV disinfection are typically not at or above 100°F.

[0057] For reference Figure 4 In one embodiment, the IR sensor 224 has an array 250 of pixels 252, which are positioned relative to each other to monitor different areas of the target region 210 and generate different portions of thermal image data corresponding to the different monitored areas of the target region 210. In other words, each of the pixels 252 can generate the absolute temperature of a different point or area in the target region 210. For example, the field of view 228a of the IR sensor 224 can essentially be an aggregation of the respective fields of view of the different pixels 252 in the array 250. Each of the sixteen pixels 252 can represent a sixteenth of a patch of field of view 228a and can generate approximately one-sixteenth of the thermal image data shown.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment illustrated, where the second sensor 226 is an IR sensor, a reference temperature is known to be determined as the average value of each pixel of the second IR sensor 226 for monitoring the non-target region 216. For example, if all pixels of the IR sensor 226 are directed to the non-target region 216, the reference temperature can be the average of the absolute temperatures generated by each pixel. If a given pixel is directed to the target region 210, the absolute temperature data from the given pixel directed to the target region 210 is not used to measure the reference temperature.

[0059] Control unit 106 can apply occupancy logic to the absolute temperature data generated by each pixel 252 of the first IR sensor 224 to determine the occupancy status of target region 210. Control unit 106 can determine the individual occupancy status of different monitoring areas within target region 210 by comparing the absolute temperature associated with the corresponding monitoring area to a threshold temperature. For example, control unit 106 can determine the individual occupancy status of the first area of ​​target region 210 by comparing the absolute temperature generated by the first pixel 252 pointing to the first area to a threshold temperature. Control unit 106 can determine the individual occupancy status of the second area of ​​target region 210 by comparing the absolute temperature generated by the second pixel 252 pointing to the second area to a threshold temperature. Control unit 106 can aggregate the individual occupancy statuses to make a final determination about the occupancy status of target region 210. For example, if any individual occupancy status indicates that the corresponding monitoring area of ​​the target region is occupied, control unit 106 determines that target region 210 is occupied. In one example, control unit 106 determines that the target region is unoccupied only if no individual occupancy status indicates that the corresponding monitoring area of ​​target region 210 is occupied.

[0060] Figure 6 The illustration shows a field of view 228a of an IR sensor 224 according to one embodiment. The field of view 228a is divided into a grid of sixteen squares, which represent regions 320 monitored by each individual pixel 252. For example, each region 320 is monitored by a different pixel 252 of the IR sensor 224. Figure 6 The field of view 228a includes various components within the interior cabin, including aisle 322, two rows or columns of passenger seats 326 on either side of aisle 322, and passenger storage compartments or storage boxes 328.

[0061] In one embodiment, the IR sensor 224 may be fixed in place such that components within the field of view 228a generally remain consistent over multiple time periods, although additional objects such as people may intermittently occupy the field of view 228a. Time periods may include days, weeks, and / or months. In one embodiment, the control unit 106 may determine a corresponding baseline temperature distribution for each monitoring area 320 based on thermal image data generated over time by the associated pixel 252. For example, the baseline temperature distribution may be used to determine the relative temperature difference between different monitoring areas 320. The control unit 106 may use the baseline temperature distribution during occupancy determination. In an example scenario, the baseline temperature distribution may be used to ignore absolute temperature data (e.g., thermal image data) determined to be irrelevant to occupancy determination. For example, one of the monitoring areas 320 may contain a coffee machine, heater, or some other actively powered device, causing the absolute temperature data generated by the associated pixel 252 to consistently be relatively high, e.g., above a threshold temperature. The control unit 106 may determine that the heat is not a product of at least one person in the monitoring area based on the magnitude or consistency of the measured absolute temperature and may ignore the additional data generated by that pixel 252. The baseline temperature distribution may optionally be used to at least slightly adjust the threshold temperature. For example, the threshold temperature can be adjusted individually (at least slightly) for each pixel based on the corresponding baseline temperature distribution, which can take into account the slight temperature gradient between pixels 252.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the disinfection system 100 may not include... Figure 2 The second sensor 226 is shown. In such an alternative embodiment, thermal image data from the IR sensor 224 can be used to determine both the absolute temperature and the reference temperature. For example, the IR sensor 224 can be spatially positioned and oriented such that the field of view 228a includes at least a portion of both the target region 210 and the non-target region 216. The control unit 106 can know which portion of the thermal image data generated by the IR sensor 224 corresponds to the target region 210 and which portion corresponds to the non-target region 216. Based on this knowledge, the control unit 106 can use thermal image data calibrated to the absolute temperature of the non-target region 216 as a reference temperature. A threshold temperature is then determined using the reference temperature. The control unit 106 uses a portion of the thermal image data associated with the target region 210 to determine one or more absolute temperatures compared to the threshold temperature to determine the occupancy status of the target region 210. The IR sensor 224 includes a plurality of pixels 252 in an array 250 (e.g., ...). Figure 4In the example of the IR sensor shown, a first subset of pixels 252 (e.g., one or more pixels 252) can be directed to the target region 210, and a second subset of pixels 252 (e.g., one or more pixels 252) can be directed to the non-target region 216. In one example, the first subset includes one or more pixels 252 in a corner of the IR sensor 224, and the second subset includes the remaining pixels 252 of the IR sensor. In one example, referencing... Figure 6 The target area 210 can be defined as the space below the storage box 328, and the non-target area 216 is the space aligned with and above the storage box 328. Line 330 defines the boundary between the two areas 210 and 216. The monitoring area 320a corresponding to one of the pixels 252 is entirely (or almost entirely) within the non-target area 216. The control unit 106 can separate the thermal image data generated by the pixel 252 of the monitoring area 320a from other thermal image data and can use the thermal image data from that pixel 252 to determine a reference temperature. Figure 6 Other monitoring areas 320 can be located within the target area 210. Optionally, more than one pixel 252 can define a subset that is directed to non-target areas 216.

[0063] In one or more embodiments, the control unit 106 operates one or more UV lamps 104 of the disinfection system 100 based on the determined occupancy status of the target area 210. For example, when one or more UV lamps 104 are activated (e.g., emitting UV light), in response to the occupancy status, the control unit 106 may deactivate the UV lamps 104 to prevent further UV light emission into the space, or may reduce the output level of one or more UV lamps 104. The control unit 106 may control the UV lamps 104 by generating a control signal that is transmitted to the circuitry within the UV lamps 104 and / or an external power supply device, such as a switching device. Alternatively, the control unit 106 may first reduce the output level of the emitted UV light (e.g., irradiance or intensity) and then deactivate the UV lamps 104 if the occupancy time exceeds a predetermined time period.

[0064] In one embodiment, in response to an indication that a target area is unoccupied, control unit 106 may operate one or more UV lamps 104 to emit UV light at a full irradiance level to sterilize one or more components. The full irradiance level may represent a full power setting or a high power setting, used to sterilize components in a space when the space is unoccupied. If the space remains unoccupied, control unit 106 may eventually deactivate the UV lamps 104 to stop emitting UV light at the full irradiance level after a predetermined sterilization period. For example, deactivating the UV lamps 104 after a specified period conserves energy. The specified period represents the duration of a sterilization cycle and may be on the order of minutes, such as 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, etc. The specified sterilization period may be selected based on the irradiance of the UV light, the distance between the UV lamps 104 and one or more components, and the desired dose of UV light to be applied to one or more components. For example, the UV dose depends on the UV light irradiance, the proximity of the UV light, and the duration of UV light exposure to one or more components. Therefore, the duration can be selected to achieve the desired dose without consuming additional energy. As an example, for UV lamps with lower irradiance and / or located at a greater distance from the target component to be sterilized, the specified time period can be longer to deliver a predetermined dose of UV light to the target component.

[0065] When one or more UV lamps 104 are inactive (e.g., not emitting UV light), the control unit 106 is programmable to maintain the UV lamps 104 inactive (e.g., inactive UV lamps 104) until it is determined that the target area 210 is unoccupied. For example, before activating the UV lamps 104 for a duty cycle, the control unit 106 may check the occupancy status of the target area 210. If the target area 210 is occupied, the control unit 106 delays the duty cycle until at least the space is no longer occupied. (References) Figure 11 and Figure 12 The additional UV control aspect of the control unit 106 based on occupancy status is described.

[0066] Figure 7 A portion of a disinfection system 100 according to another embodiment is illustrated. Figure 7 In the disinfection system 100, two IR sensors are included, which generate thermal image data of the target area 210. These two IR sensors include a first IR sensor 224 and a second IR sensor 402. The second IR sensor 402 differs from... Figure 2 The second IR sensor 226 shown is not directed to the target area 210. In one example... Figure 7The disinfection system 100 also includes a third IR sensor, which is positioned to monitor the temperature of the non-target area 216, such as Figure 2 The second IR sensor 226 in the middle.

[0067] The second IR sensor 402 is spaced apart from the first IR sensor 224 and oriented such that the field of view 404 of the second IR sensor 402 overlaps with the field of view 228a of the first IR sensor 224. For example, the fields of view of at least some pixels 252 of the first IR sensor 224 overlap with the fields of view of at least some pixels of the second IR sensor 402. The two IR sensors 224, 402 are communicatively connected to the control unit 106. The control unit 106 is configured to analyze the thermal image data generated by the first IR sensor 224 and the (second) thermal image data generated by the second IR sensor 402 to determine the occupancy status of the target region 210. For example, overlapping fields of view 228a, 404 can improve the accuracy of occupancy determination, particularly regarding the determination of occupancy within the target region 210 surrounded by the overlapping block 406 of the two fields of view 228a, 404.

[0068] Furthermore, due to parallax effects, the control unit 106 can determine the position of one or more components present in the overlapping area 406 within the space. This position can be a relative position to a wall or ceiling 408 on which two IR sensors 224, 402 are mounted. Figure 7 In the target area 210, object 410 is surrounded by overlapping blocks 406. Based on thermal image data generated by the two IR sensors 224, 402 corresponding to the overlapping blocks 406, control unit 106 can use parallax effects to determine the proximity of object 410 to IR sensors 224, 402 and / or walls or ceilings 408. Control unit 106 can use position and / or proximity data to notify and / or confirm occupancy determination. For example, if the absolute temperature of object 410 is determined to be above a threshold temperature, the object's position can be checked against the expected position of a person in the space, which can increase or decrease the confidence level of the determined occupancy status.

[0069] Furthermore, based on the known position of the IR sensors 224, 402 relative to the given UV lamp 104 illuminating the object 410, the control unit 106 can determine the proximity 412 of the object 410 to the UV lamp 104. Based on the proximity 412, the control unit 106 can control the operation of the UV lamp 104. For example, if the object 410 is farther from the UV lamp 104, the control unit 106 can control the UV lamp 104 to generate a higher (or greater) UV light output level than if the object 410 were closer to the UV lamp 104. The control unit 106 can incrementally control the UV lamp 104 based on the object 410 within different predetermined proximity ranges of the UV lamp 104. For example, the UV lamp 104 can be controlled to provide a first UV output level in response to the object 410 being within a first proximity range of the UV lamp 104, and a second UV output level in response to the object 410 being within a second proximity range of the UV lamp 104. The second proximity range can be farther from the UV lamp than the first proximity range, and the second UV output level can be higher than the first UV output level. By adjusting or modulating the UV light emitted based on the proximity 412 of object 410, the disinfection system 100 can provide a relatively consistent dose of UV light to components in the target area 210 without consuming excessive power to disinfect nearby components.

[0070] In one or more embodiments described herein, the disinfection system 100 can monitor a space and emit UV light into it. This space can be any space inside or around a vehicle, building, structure, facility, etc. The space can be an enclosed area or room, but does not need to be enclosed. Figure 2 In this context, space 202 is a lavatory. In embodiments where the disinfection system 100 is installed within a vehicle, the vehicle may be a passenger vehicle such as a bus, train, airplane, or ship. In commercial aircraft, the disinfection system 100 may be located in cargo areas, flight decks, lavatories, galleys, rest areas (e.g., crew and / or passenger rest areas), assembly areas, lavatory waiting areas, passenger seating areas (e.g., cabins), corridors, and other areas that can be occupied or accessed by individuals, passengers, crew, ground staff, and / or maintenance personnel. For example, Figure 2 The lavatory can be located inside a vehicle, such as the interior cabin of a commercial aircraft. Non-restricted examples of buildings or facilities where the disinfection system 100 can be installed include theaters, concert venues, arenas, places of worship, banquet halls, commercial enterprises, factories, hospitals, etc.

[0071] Figure 2 The washroom in this context refers to the room defining space 202, but the disinfection system 100 is not limited to a single room. For example, the disinfection system 100 can exist in any space, including spaces comprising multiple rooms, corridors, etc. Figure 2The illustrated lavatory example may include a disinfection system 100 that optionally includes one or more UV lamps located outside the space 202, such as in the galley, passenger seating area, etc. A control unit 106 may also control the operation of one or more UV lamps 104 located outside the lavatory. The disinfection system 100 may also include at least one occupancy sensor 102 located outside the lavatory to detect occupancy of another target area (e.g., galley, passenger seating area, etc.). The disinfection system 100 may be configured to disinfect the space 202 defined by the interior cabin of the vehicle, or alternatively, may disinfect only a portion of the interior cabin (e.g., only the lavatory). Optionally, the vehicle may have multiple disinfection systems 100 located at different locations within the interior cabin for disinfecting different parts and target components. For example, Figure 2 The disinfection system 100 in the lavatory shown may represent a first disinfection system, and a second disinfection system (same as or similar to the first disinfection system 100) may be installed in the passenger seating area.

[0072] Figure 8 The illustration depicts a disinfection system 100 according to an embodiment comprising multiple discrete UV lamp assemblies 500. The disinfection system 100 includes a first UV lamp assembly 500a and a second UV lamp assembly 500b. The first UV lamp assembly 500a is mounted on the ceiling 502 within a first room or block of an interior cabin 504 of a vehicle. The second UV lamp assembly 500b is mounted on the ceiling 502 within a second room or block of the interior cabin 504. The first room or block may be a kitchen 506, and the second room or block may be a corridor and / or a lavatory waiting area 508 adjacent to the kitchen 506. Each UV lamp assembly 500 includes at least one UV lamp 104 that emits UV light to a corresponding target area to disinfect components within the target area. The first UV lamp assembly 500a is spaced apart from the second UV lamp assembly 500b and has a different target area than the second UV lamp assembly 500b.

[0073] Optionally, the two UV lamp assemblies 500a and 500b may represent two UV lamps 104 of a single disinfection system 100. For example, the two lamp assemblies 500a and 500b may be communicatively connected to and operated by the same control unit, which operates the UV lamp assemblies 500a and 500b based on the occupancy status of the kitchen 506 and the restroom waiting area 508. Alternatively, the two UV lamp assemblies 500a and 500b may represent two discrete and independent disinfection systems 100 that do not communicate with each other or share components.

[0074] Figure 9 A flowchart 600 illustrating a disinfection method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. (Reference) Figures 1-9The method begins at 602, where thermal image data of the target area 210 is received. The thermal image data is generated by IR sensor 224. At 604, based on the thermal image data and a reference temperature, the occupancy status of the target area 210 is determined via control unit 106.

[0075] At 606, based on the occupancy status of the target area 210, one or more UV lamps 104 are operated via control unit 106. The one or more UV lamps 104 are operated to emit UV light into the target area 210 to sterilize one or more components within the target area 210. Optionally, when one or more UV lamps 104 are active and the occupancy status indicates that the target area 210 is occupied, the one or more UV lamps 104 are operated by (i) deactivating the UV lamps 104 to stop emitting UV light or (ii) reducing the output level of one or more UV lamps 104. Optionally, when one or more UV lamps 104 are inactive, the one or more UV lamps 104 are operated by maintaining the one or more UV lamps 104 inactive until the occupancy status indicates that the target area 210 is not occupied.

[0076] Figure 10 This is a flowchart 604 of a method for determining the occupancy status of a target area according to one embodiment. The flowchart is labeled 604 to indicate that the method describes... Figure 9 Step 604 of flowchart 600. At 620, a reference temperature is determined. Optionally, the reference temperature may be determined based on second thermal image data generated by (i) IR sensor 224 or (ii) second IR sensor 226. The second thermal image data is associated with a non-target area 216 designated as unoccupied.

[0077] At point 622, a threshold temperature is determined based on a reference temperature. The threshold temperature can be a function of the reference temperature. The method can include adjusting the threshold temperature based on changes in the reference temperature, such as increasing the threshold temperature based on an increase in the reference temperature, and decreasing the threshold temperature based on a decrease in the reference temperature.

[0078] At 624, the absolute temperature of the target region 210 is compared with a threshold temperature. The absolute temperature is indicated by thermal image data generated by the IR sensor 224. At 626, it is determined whether the absolute temperature is greater than the threshold temperature. If the absolute temperature is indeed greater than the threshold temperature, the method proceeds to step 628 and the occupancy status is determined to be occupied. On the other hand, if the absolute temperature is not greater than the threshold temperature, the method proceeds to step 630 and the occupancy status is determined to be unoccupied.

[0079] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram 750 illustrating the control operations 752 of a disinfection system 100 according to multiple occupancy scenarios over time. The occupancy scenarios are labeled A, B, C, and D. In each scenario, occupancy of a target area 210 is detected at time t0 by one or more occupancy sensors 102 (e.g., IR sensor 224). Each scenario includes corresponding bars 754A, 754B, 754C, and 754D, which represent the occupancy duration (or occupancy period) of the target area being occupied from time t0. As shown, the occupancy duration of scenarios A and D continuously increases, resulting in the shortest occupancy duration in scenario A and the longest occupancy duration in scenario D. The occupancy duration represents the time from an occupied state to an unoccupied state. For example, if the disinfection system 100 detects three people entering the space during a public time period, the occupancy duration will not end until all three people have left the space and no one else has entered. (See above regarding...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The occupancy status (e.g., occupied or unoccupied) of the target area 210 is determined based on thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space.

[0080] Control operation 752 represents a non-limiting example response of control unit 106 to different occupancy durations in four scenarios. Control operation 752 and any other response actions performed by control unit 106 may be based on control logic embedded in processor 114 or programming instructions stored in memory 116. Control operation 752 instructs control unit 106 how to adjust the irradiance of UV lamp 104 based on occupancy. In each scenario AD, it is assumed that UV lamp 104 operates at full irradiance level prior to initial occupancy detection at time t0. In the illustrated embodiment, control unit 106 may compare the monitored occupancy to multiple threshold time periods, which may be predetermined and stored in memory 116. Schematic diagram 750 illustrates a first threshold time period 760, a second threshold time period 762, and a third threshold time period 764, indicated by dashed lines intersecting the timeline. Each of the threshold time periods 760, 762, and 764 extends from time t0 to the time associated with the corresponding dashed line, such that the first threshold time period 760 is the shortest and the third threshold time period 764 is the longest.

[0081] In scenario A, it is determined that the target area is occupied, but the occupancy period 754A ends before the end of the first threshold time period 760. For example, a person might enter the target area and immediately leave, making the occupancy temporary. The duration of occupancy in scenario A may be only one second or a few seconds. For example, the first threshold time period 760 can be a value ranging from 1 second to 10 seconds, such as 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, etc., and it is shown that the duration of occupancy in scenario A is less than the first threshold time period 760. In one embodiment, in response to determining the situation shown in scenario A, where the target area is occupied for no more than the first threshold time period 760, the control unit 106 (e.g., one or more of its processors 114) is configured to operate the UV lamp 104 to emit UV light at the full irradiance level. For example, in such a short or temporary occupancy, the control unit 106 does not even adjust the power output of the UV lamp 104, because such temporary exposure to UV light does not pose any risk of harm to the occupant(s) in the space.

[0082] In scenario B, the occupied time period 754B exceeds the first threshold time period 760, but ends before the second threshold time period 762. In one embodiment, once the control unit 106 determines, based on sensor signals, that the occupied time period 706 has exceeded the first threshold time period, the control unit 106 controls the UV lamp 104 to reduce the irradiance of the UV light to a reduced irradiance level (e.g., a first reduced irradiance level) while continuing to emit UV light into the target area. The control unit 106 gradually reduces the irradiance of the UV lamp as the first threshold time period 760 is exceeded. In a non-limiting example, the total irradiance level may be 2 mW / cm². 2 The irradiance, and the first reduced irradiance level can be 1 mW / cm². 2 The irradiance. The first reduced irradiance level may be greater than the irradiance provided by the nominal lower power setting. Optionally, after determining that the space is no longer occupied at the end of the occupancy period 754B, the control unit 106 may increase (e.g., gradually increase) the irradiance of the UV lamp 104 to the full irradiance level to continue sterilizing the components in the space at the desired irradiance level. Operating the UV lamp 104 at the reduced irradiance level not only reduces the energy or intensity of the UV light that could potentially impact an occupant relative to the full irradiance level, but also reduces the energy consumption (e.g., power consumption) of the UV lamp 104. By reducing the irradiance level, the UV lamp 104 can operate for a longer period between charging (e.g., charging cycles) compared to operating the UV lamp 104 only at the full irradiance level.

[0083] In scenario C, the occupancy period 754C exceeds the first threshold period 760 and the second threshold period 762, but ends before the third threshold period 764. In response to determining that the occupancy period 754C exceeds the second threshold period 762, the control unit 106 controls the UV lamp 104 to further reduce the irradiance of the UV light to a second reduced irradiance level, while continuing to emit UV light into the target area. The first reduced irradiance level has a greater power (e.g., greater irradiance) than the second reduced irradiance level. For example, if the first irradiance level is 1 mW / cm²... 2 As described in the example above, the second irradiance level is less than 1 mW / cm². 2 For example, 0.5mW / cm 2 The second threshold time period 762 can be a value in the range of 3 to 20 seconds, such as 5 seconds, 10 seconds, etc. Optionally, after determining that the space is not occupied at the end of the occupancy period 754C, the control unit 106 can increase the irradiance of the UV lamp 104 (e.g., gradually increase) to the full irradiance level to continue sterilizing the components in the space at the desired irradiance level.

[0084] In scenario D, the occupancy period 754D exceeds the first threshold period 760, the second threshold period 762, and the third threshold period 764. In response to determining from sensor signals that the occupancy period 754D exceeds the third threshold period 764, the control unit 106 deactivates the UV lamp 104 to stop it from emitting UV light. For example, once the occupancy continues beyond the third threshold period 764, the control unit 106 completely shuts off the UV lamp 104 to terminate the sterilization process. In another embodiment, the control unit 106 can further reduce the UV light irradiance (e.g., to a level below a second reduced irradiance level) by selecting a nominal, minimum power setting for the UV lamp 104, instead of deactivating the UV lamp 104. The third threshold period 764 can be a value in the range of 10 to 40 seconds, such as 15 seconds, 20 seconds, etc. Optionally, after determining that the space is not occupied at the end of the occupancy period 754D, the control unit 106 may increase the irradiance of the UV lamp 104 (e.g., gradually increase) to the full irradiance level to continue sterilizing the components in the space at the desired irradiance level.

[0085] Referring to the example shown in schematic diagram 750, due to persistent occupancy, control unit 106 can adjust the irradiance of UV light based on detected occupancy in the target area by initially delaying any irradiance adjustment and then gradually reducing the irradiance once or more before finally disabling the UV lamp (or operating the UV lamp at a nominal low power setting). The number of gradual reductions may differ in different embodiments. For example, although... Figure 11The document describes two gradual decreases, but in another embodiment, control unit 106 uses only one irradiance decrease before disabling UV lamp 104. In such an embodiment, the first threshold time period 760 or the second threshold time period 762 may be omitted, and the third threshold time period 764 may represent the second threshold time period. The terms "first," "second," and "third" as used herein are used only to identify and distinguish multiple thresholds that can be used by disinfection system 100. In another embodiment, control unit 106 may utilize three or more irradiance decreases before disabling UV lamp 104.

[0086] In one or more other embodiments, the control unit 106 can more smoothly control the UV lamp 104 to gradually reduce its irradiance over time at a specified reduction rate, rather than a discrete, gradual decrease in UV irradiance while occupancy continues for more than a continuous time threshold. For example, upon detecting space occupancy, the control unit 106 can control the UV lamp 104 to continuously reduce its irradiance or power output over time at a specified reduction rate until the UV lamp 104 is eventually turned off, the irradiance reaches the nominal low power setting, or it is determined that the space is no longer occupied, whichever occurs first. Alternatively, as Figure 11 As shown, the control unit 106 can delay the reduction of irradiance until the occupied period exceeds the first threshold time period 760, instead of starting the sliding-scale reduction of UV irradiance immediately after the occupancy.

[0087] In one or more embodiments, the threshold time period and / or irradiance level of the UV light used for the control operations described above can be determined at least in part based on the wavelength or wavelength range of the UV light emitted by the UV lamp 104. In a non-limiting example, the UV lamp 104 may emit UV light at 222 nm, or emit UV light in a narrow wavelength range including 222 nm, such as from 200 nm to 225 nm. According to ACGIH, this wavelength and / or narrow wavelength range may be associated with a threshold limit value (TLV).

[0088] The wavelength or narrow wavelength range of the UV light emitted from the UV lamp 104 can be selected by the wavelength-selective filter 110. Figure 1 (As shown) Control. For example, wavelength selective filter 110 can be specifically designed and configured to emit only a predetermined wavelength or a narrow wavelength range. In one embodiment, once the wavelength or narrow wavelength range of the UV light from UV lamp 104 is known, control unit 106 can refer to a chart to determine the TLV of the UV light. Control unit 106 then selects other parameters for control operation based on the TLV of the UV light, such as a value for a reduced irradiance level, to avoid delivering a sterilization dose exceeding the TLV to the occupied space.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the wavelength and / or narrow wavelength range of the TLV is large enough to enable a useful dose of UV light for sterilization to be delivered to the area when it is occupied. For example, the TLV can be 23 mJ / cm². 2 Furthermore, the sterilization dose can range from 2 mJ / cm³. 2 Up to 20 mJ / cm 2 Within a range that ensures the sterilization dose does not exceed the TLV. Controlling the emitted UV light wavelength to have a relatively high TLV exceeding the sterilization dose allows for continued useful levels of irradiance within the nominally occupied space. In a non-limiting example, operating a 222nm UV lamp at a low power irradiance level of 1mW to illuminate an area allows for approximately 23 seconds of exposure before exceeding the maximum permissible exposure level. Operating the same UV lamp at a high (or full) power irradiance level of 10mW allows for 2.3 seconds of exposure before exceeding the maximum permissible exposure level. As a result, control unit 106 can... Figure 11 The first threshold time period 760 is set to a value less than 2.3 seconds (e.g., 2 seconds) to avoid exceeding permissible UV exposure levels or doses. By understanding the UV light exposure level, the disinfection system 100 can provide continuous UV light emission into the space at a fairly high power after detecting space occupancy, but only for a short, temporary amount of time. By initially delaying the irradiance reduction, the disinfection system 100 can provide enhanced sterilization of the nominally occupied area, relative to immediately stopping UV upon detecting occupancy. If the UV lamp 104 is gradually reduced to a low power irradiance level of 1 mW due to continuous space occupancy, the subsequent threshold time period can be set to a value less than 23 seconds (e.g., 20 seconds) to avoid exceeding permissible UV exposure levels or doses. Note that 23 mJ / cm² of 222 nm UV light is provided as an example. 2 The TLV value is given, but the actual TLV value of 222nm UV light may differ, for example, it may be greater than 23mJ / cm. 2 .

[0090] According to one or more embodiments, the control unit 106 can determine the periodic occupancy trend of a target area and can use the periodic occupancy trend to adjust the irradiance of UV light emitted by the UV lamp 104 over time. (Refer to the reference...) Figure 11Unlike the control operation 752 shown and described based on real-time occupancy data of the target area, the control unit 106 can also analyze historical occupancy data associated with the target area and / or similar spaces in similar but different vehicles or buildings. For example, historical occupancy data may include all sensor signals generated by one or more occupancy sensors 102 that monitored the target area over a previously extended time period (e.g., the previous month or year). One or more processors 114 of the control unit 106 can analyze the historical occupancy data to determine periodic occupancy trends in the target area. Periodic occupancy trends can indicate cyclical occupancy patterns within the target area, including the level of deviation from these patterns. Periodic occupancy trends can identify specific time periods during a day or week when the target area is typically unoccupied, and other time periods during a day or week when the target area is typically occupied. For example, on Mondays, the target area is typically unoccupied for one hour from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Periodic occupancy trends can also indicate occupancy density, such as the expected number of people in the target area at different times of day or week.

[0091] In one embodiment, at least one of the one or more processors 114 may represent or include a prediction module or feature that utilizes data analytics, machine learning, and / or artificial intelligence (AI). The prediction module may analyze historical data representing occupancy of a target area over time to "learn" and generate an occupancy trend. The occupancy trend may indicate the frequency with which people pass through the space over an extended time period (e.g., a day, a week, a month, a year, etc.). The prediction module may use the occupancy trend to predict upcoming occupancy cycles or periods before they are actually detected by occupancy sensors. The control unit may adjust the irradiance of the UV light based on the predicted upcoming occupancy cycle to strike a balance between providing sufficient UV dose for sterilization without harming people within the space.

[0092] By analyzing historical data, the prediction module can "learn" how a target area is typically occupied and then adjust the UV light irradiance based on the learned occupancy trend. Optionally, the prediction module can correlate historical occupancy data of the target area with historical (e.g., past) schedules, such as travel schedules when the space is located within a commercial vehicle. The prediction module can "learn" or identify how space occupancy relates to schedules. For example, if a trip is scheduled to begin at 6:00 AM and the vehicle has been stationary for at least several hours, the data might indicate that the space was occupied by a cleaning crew one hour before departure, and then remained unoccupied for a certain time interval until the travel crew occupies the space 30 minutes before departure. Using this information, the control unit 106 can schedule the sterilization process of the UV lamps 104 to occur within the interval between the cleaning crew leaving the space and the travel crew entering the space. Depending on the duration of this interval within the periodic occupancy trend, the control unit 106 can adjust one or more settings of the sterilization process. For example, if the interval is relatively short, the control unit 106 can increase the power of the UV lamps to increase the full irradiance level of the UV light. Due to the increased irradiance, the control unit 106 can also be shortened. Figure 11 One or more threshold time periods 760, 762, and 764 are used to avoid excessive UV exposure for any personnel entering the space during the sterilization process. Such adjustments to the sterilization start time, duration, UV irradiance, and threshold time periods based on periodic occupancy trends can be used to provide effective sterilization of components within the target area and ensure the safety of any personnel entering the target area during the disinfection process.

[0093] Figure 12 A flowchart 800 illustrating a disinfection method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. (Reference) Figures 1 to 12 The method begins at point 802, where UV light is emitted into the target area to perform a sterilization process. The UV light is directed toward one or more components in the target area to kill pathogens on the components and / or in the air. The UV light is generated by at least one UV lamp 104. The target area can be a block within an enclosed space, such as a commercial vehicle or a room within a building.

[0094] At 804, the target area is monitored via one or more occupancy sensors 102, which are configured to generate sensor signals indicating occupancy of the target area over time. (As mentioned above...) Figure 1 and Figure 2The occupancy status of the target area is determined based on thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space. At 806, sensor signals from one or more occupancy sensors 102 are analyzed via a control unit 106 including one or more processors 114. At 808, the irradiance of UV light emitted into the target area is adjusted over time based on the occupancy of the target area. The control unit 106 can control the adjustment of UV light emitted by the UV lamp 104 by generating a control signal transmitted to the UV lamp 104.

[0095] The following steps and operations of this method describe how the irradiance of UV light can be monitored. At 810, the control unit 106 determines whether the target area is occupied. If the target area is determined to be unoccupied, the method proceeds to 812, and UV light is emitted into the target area at a full irradiance level, which may represent a full power or high power setting. Alternatively, if the target area is determined to be occupied at 810, the process proceeds to 814, where the control unit 106 determines whether the occupancy of the target area lasts for at least a first threshold time period 760. If not, the process returns to 812, and the UV light continues to be emitted at a full irradiance level. Alternatively, if the occupancy lasts for at least the first threshold time period 760, the method proceeds to 816. At 816, the irradiance of the UV light is reduced, for example, to a first reduced irradiance level.

[0096] At 818, the control unit 106 determines whether the occupancy of the target area lasts at least for a second threshold time period 762 (which is longer than the first threshold time period 760). If not, once it is determined that the occupancy has ended, making the space unoccupied again, the UV irradiance is increased at 822. The UV irradiance may increase back to the full irradiance level. On the other hand, if the occupancy lasts at least for the second threshold time period 762, the method proceeds to 820, and the UV irradiance is again (e.g., a second time) reduced to an irradiance level lower than the previous irradiance level. Even at the second reduced irradiance level, the UV irradiance may still be greater than the nominal or lower limit irradiance level. From 820, the method proceeds to 824, and the control unit 106 determines whether the occupancy of the target area lasts at least for a third threshold time period 764 (which is longer than the second threshold time period 762). If not, once it is determined that the occupancy has ended, making the space unoccupied again, the UV irradiance is increased at 822. On the other hand, if the third threshold time period 764 is occupied for at least a sustained period, the method proceeds to 826 and stops the further emission of UV light into the target area. For example, the control unit 106 can deactivate or turn off the UV lamp 104.

[0097] Figure 13The illustration shows a perspective top view of an aircraft 910 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 910 includes a fuselage 918. The fuselage 918 of the aircraft 910 defines an interior cabin 930, which may include a cockpit, one or more work sections (e.g., a galley, carry-on baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger sections (e.g., first class, business class, and economy class coach sections), and a rear section where a rear rest area assembly can be located. The interior cabin 930 includes one or more lavatories, for example, Figure 14 The washroom shown is 1010.

[0098] While various embodiments have been discussed in conjunction with aircraft, it is worth noting again that other embodiments can be used in conjunction with, for example, other means of transportation (e.g., ships) or ground-based transportation (e.g., buses or trains). Alternatively, instead of aircraft, embodiments of this disclosure can be used with a variety of other means of transportation, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train carriages, boats, spacecraft, etc. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure can be used with fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

[0099] Figure 14 The illustration shows a top plan view of the interior cabin 930 of an aircraft 910 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. One or more lavatories 1010 may be located within the interior cabin 930. Each lavatory 1010 includes a lavatory floor 1012. The lavatory 1010 may include a floor assembly (e.g., floor assembly 1014) as described herein, which may be fixed within a portion of the fuselage. The floor assembly 1014 is configured to form part of a floor 1016 (e.g., lavatory floor 1012) in an enclosed space 1018 (e.g., an aircraft lavatory, a ship lavatory, or a lavatory in a ground-based vehicle such as a bus or train), or is positioned on or in the floor 1015 of the enclosed space 1018.

[0100] The embodiments of this disclosure are used for sterilizing various components within a space, such as the enclosed space 1018 in the interior cabin 530. Alternatively, instead of aircraft, the embodiments of this disclosure can be used in various other means of transportation, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train carriages, boats, etc. Furthermore, the embodiments of this disclosure can be used in fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

[0101] Figure 15 The illustration shows a perspective interior view of an aircraft interior cockpit 1100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cockpit 1100 includes an outer wall 1102 connected to a ceiling 1104. Windows 1106 may be formed within the outer wall 1102. A floor 1108 supports rows of seats 1110. Figure 8As shown, row 1112 may include two seats 1110 on either side of aisle 1113. However, row 1112 may include more or fewer seats 1110 than shown. Furthermore, the interior cabin 1100 may include more aisles than shown.

[0102] Passenger service unit (PSU) 1114 is anchored between the outer wall 1102 and the ceiling 1104 on either side of aisle 1113. PSU 1114 extends between the front and rear ends of interior cabin 1100. For example, PSU 1114 may be positioned above each seat 1110 in row 1112. Each PSU 1114 may include a housing 1116 that typically contains vents, reading lights, oxygen bag lowering panels, crew request buttons, and other such controls for each seat 1110 (or seat group) in row 1112.

[0103] The overhead storage unit 1118 is secured to the ceiling 1104 and / or outer wall 1102 above and inside the PSU 1114 on either side of the aisle 1113. The overhead storage unit 1118 is secured above the seat 1110. The overhead storage unit 1118 extends between the front and rear ends of the interior cabin 1100. Each storage unit 1118 may include a pivot box or storage bucket 1120 pivotally secured to a positioning plate (in...) Figure 15 (Hidden from view). The overhead storage unit 1118 can be positioned above and inside the lower surface of the PSU 1114. For example, the overhead storage unit 1118 is configured to pivot open to receive passenger carry-on luggage and personal belongings. (About...) Figures 1-5 The embodiments shown and described herein can be used to disinfect various structures shown within the interior cabin 1100, such as passenger seats 1110, the monument, storage box assembly 1118, components above and inside the lavatory, kitchen equipment and components, etc.

[0104] As used herein, the term "outer side" refers to a position further away from the center longitudinal plane 1122 of the interior cabin 1100 compared to another component. The term "inner side" refers to a position closer to the center longitudinal plane 1122 of the interior cabin 1100 compared to another component. For example, the lower surface of the PSU 1114 may be located on the outer side relative to the storage compartment assembly 1118.

[0105] As described herein, certain embodiments of this disclosure provide systems and methods that allow for effective disinfection of target areas or rooms, even when the space or room is occasionally occupied. Furthermore, certain embodiments of this disclosure provide systems and methods for accurately and reliably detecting the presence of one or more people in a space to which one or more UV lamps are directed, even when the environment is static over an extended period of time. Additionally, certain embodiments of this disclosure provide systems and methods for adjusting the irradiance of emitted UV light to ensure that the UV dose applied to people occupying the space or room is safe (e.g., less than the maximum permissible UV dose).

[0106] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments pursuant to the following provisions:

[0107] Clause 1. A disinfection system comprising:

[0108] Infrared (IR) sensor, configured to generate thermal image data of a target area within space;

[0109] A control unit, comprising one or more processors and communicatively connected to an IR sensor, is configured to determine the occupancy status of a target area based on thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space; and

[0110] One or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps are communicatively connected to a control unit, each of the one or more UV lamps being configured to emit UV light into a target area, wherein the control unit is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps based on the occupancy status of the determined target area.

[0111] Clause 2. The disinfection system according to Clause 1, wherein thermal image data generated by an IR sensor indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components located within a target area, wherein the control unit is configured to (i) determine a threshold temperature based on a reference temperature of the space, and (ii) determine an occupancy status by comparing the absolute temperature of one or more components with the threshold temperature.

[0112] Clause 3. The disinfection system according to Clause 2, wherein the control unit is configured to determine that a target area is occupied by at least one person in response to an absolute temperature exceeding a threshold temperature.

[0113] Clause 4. The disinfection system according to Clause 2 or Clause 3, wherein the control unit is configured to determine a threshold temperature as a function of a reference temperature.

[0114] Clause 5. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 2-4, wherein the control unit is configured to adjust the threshold temperature in response to a change in the reference temperature.

[0115] Clause 6. The disinfection system according to Clause 5, wherein the control unit is configured to perform one or both of the following: (i) decrease the threshold temperature in response to a decrease in the reference temperature, or (ii) increase the threshold temperature in response to an increase in the reference temperature.

[0116] Clause 7. A disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-6, wherein the IR sensor is positioned and oriented such that the field of view of the IR sensor surrounds both (i) the target area and (ii) the non-target area designated as unoccupied, wherein the IR sensor is configured to also generate thermal image data of the non-target area, and the control unit is configured to analyze the thermal image data of the non-target area to determine a reference temperature of the space.

[0117] Clause 8. The disinfection system according to Clause 7, wherein the IR sensor includes a pixel array, wherein a first subset of pixels in the array points to a target area and a second subset of pixels in the array points to a non-target area.

[0118] Clause 9. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-6 further includes a second sensor communicatively connected to the control unit, the second sensor being configured to generate a sensor signal indicating a reference temperature of the space.

[0119] Clause 10. The disinfection system according to Clause 9, wherein the second sensor is a second IR sensor, which is oriented to generate thermal image data of a predetermined unoccupied non-target area.

[0120] Clause 11. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-10, wherein, when one or more UV lamps are activated, in response to an occupancy status indicating that a target area is occupied, the control unit is configured to operate one or more UV lamps to perform one or more of the following: (i) stop emitting UV light or (ii) reduce the output level of one or more UV lamps.

[0121] Clause 12. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-11, wherein when one or more UV lamps are inactive, the control unit is configured to maintain one or more UV lamps inactive until an occupancy status indicates that the target area is not occupied.

[0122] Clause 13. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-12, wherein the IR sensor is a first IR sensor, and the disinfection system further includes a second IR sensor communicatively connected to the control unit and configured to generate second thermal image data of the target area.

[0123] The second IR sensor is spaced apart from the first IR sensor and oriented such that the field of view of the second IR sensor overlaps with that of the first IR sensor, and the control unit is configured to analyze both thermal image data and the second thermal image data to determine the occupancy status of the target area.

[0124] Clause 14. The disinfection system according to Clause 13, wherein the IR sensor includes a pixel array, wherein the field of view of at least some pixels in the array overlaps with the field of view of at least some pixels of a second IR sensor, and the control unit is configured to determine the position of one or more components present in the overlapping block of the two fields of view within a target area.

[0125] Clause 15. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-14, wherein the control unit is configured to aggregate thermal image data generated over time by IR sensors to determine a baseline temperature distribution of a target area, and to determine an occupancy status based at least in part on the baseline temperature distribution.

[0126] Clause 16. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-15, wherein the IR sensor comprises a plurality of pixels in an array, the pixels being positioned to monitor different zones of a target area relative to each other, wherein the control unit is configured to determine a corresponding baseline temperature distribution of each of the different zones monitored by the different pixels, and to determine an occupancy status based at least in part on the corresponding baseline temperature distribution of one or more of the different zones.

[0127] Clause 17. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-16, wherein the IR sensor includes a plurality of pixels in an array, the pixels being configured to generate different portions of thermal image data corresponding to different monitoring zones of the target area, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the individual occupancy status of each monitoring zone of the target area to determine the occupancy status of the target area.

[0128] Clause 18. A disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-17, wherein one or more UV lamps and an IR sensor are installed in one or more rooms, and the UV light emitted by the one or more UV lamps is configured to sterilize components located in the one or more rooms.

[0129] Clause 19. The disinfection system described in Clause 18, wherein one or more rooms are located inside the vehicle.

[0130] Clause 20. The disinfection system as described in Clause 19, wherein one or more rooms within the vehicle include one or more of a lavatory, a lavatory waiting area, a kitchen, a passenger seating area, a corridor, a flight deck, a cargo area, or a rest area.

[0131] Clause 21. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-20, wherein the reference temperature of the space is the ambient temperature of the space.

[0132] Clause 22. The disinfection system according to any one of Clauses 1-21, wherein the reference temperature of the space is the absolute temperature of objects in a non-target area within the space, wherein the non-target area is adjacent to the target area, has an ambient temperature distribution similar to that of the target area, and is intended to be unoccupied.

[0133] Clause 23. A method comprising:

[0134] Thermal image data generated by infrared (IR) sensors and associated with a target area in space is received at a control unit including one or more processors;

[0135] Based on thermal image data and the reference temperature of the space, the occupancy status of the target area is determined via a control unit; and

[0136] Based on the occupancy status of the target area, one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps are operated via a control unit, and the one or more UV lamps are configured to emit UV light into the target area.

[0137] Clause 24. The method according to Clause 23, wherein thermal image data generated by an IR sensor indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components positioned within a target area, and the method further comprises:

[0138] Determining a threshold temperature based on a spatial reference temperature, wherein determining the occupancy status of a target area based on thermal image data and a spatial reference temperature includes comparing the absolute temperature of one or more components with the threshold temperature.

[0139] Clause 25. The method according to Clause 24, wherein determining occupancy status includes determining that the target area is occupied by at least one person in response to a reference temperature exceeding a threshold temperature.

[0140] Clause 26. The method according to any one of Clauses 23-25, wherein the method further comprises determining a reference temperature of the space, wherein the reference temperature is determined based on second thermal image data generated by (i) an IR sensor or (ii) a second IR sensor, the second thermal image data being associated with a non-target area designated as unoccupied.

[0141] Clause 27. The method according to any one of Clauses 23-26, wherein operating one or more UV lamps based on occupancy status includes, when one or more UV lamps are activated and the occupancy status indicates that the target area is occupied, performing one or more of the following operations: (i) deactivating the UV lamps to stop emitting UV light or (ii) reducing the output level of one or more UV lamps.

[0142] Clause 28. The method according to any one of Clauses 23-27, wherein operating one or more UV lamps based on occupancy status includes maintaining one or more UV lamps inactive when they are inactive until the occupancy status indicates that the target area is not occupied.

[0143] Clause 29. A disinfection system comprising:

[0144] An infrared (IR) sensor is configured to generate thermal image data of a target area within a space. The IR sensor is calibrated such that the thermal image data indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components in the target area.

[0145] A control unit, comprising one or more processors and communicatively connected to an IR sensor, is configured to (i) determine the ambient temperature of a space based on sensor data generated by the IR sensor or a second sensor, (ii) determine a threshold temperature based on the ambient temperature of the space, and (iii) determine the occupancy status of a target area by comparing the absolute temperature of one or more components with the threshold temperature; and

[0146] One or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps are communicatively connected to a control unit, each of the one or more UV lamps being configured to emit UV light into a target area, wherein the control unit is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps based on the occupancy status of the target area.

[0147] Clause 30. The disinfection system according to Clause 29, wherein, when one or more UV lamps are activated, in response to an occupancy status indicating that a target area is occupied, the control unit is configured to operate one or more UV lamps to perform one or more of the following operations: (i) stop emitting UV light or (ii) reduce the output level of one or more UV lamps.

[0148] While various spatial and directional terms (e.g., top, bottom, below, middle, side, horizontal, vertical, front, etc.) may be used to describe embodiments of this disclosure, it should be understood that such terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the figures. These orientations may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed such that upper is lower, lower is upper, horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0149] As used herein, structures, constraints, or elements “configured to” perform a task or operation are structurally specifically formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to that task or operation. For clarity and to avoid confusion, objects that can only be modified to perform a task or operation are not “configured to” perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0150] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the various embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the scope of the various embodiments thereof. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters of the various embodiments of this disclosure, these embodiments are by no means restrictive but rather exemplary. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the above description. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure should be determined by reference to the appended claims, together with the full scope of their equivalents. In the appended claims and detailed description herein, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as concise English equivalents to the corresponding terms “comprising” and “wherein”. Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objectives. Furthermore, the limitations of the appended claims are not written in the form of means-plus-function, and are not intended to be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) (35 U.S.C. § 112(f)), unless and until such a claim is limited by the explicit use of the term “means for…” following a statement of function without any other structure.

[0151] This written description uses examples to disclose various embodiments of this disclosure, including the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of this disclosure, including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any of the included methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples as may be conceived by a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A disinfection system (100), comprising: The infrared sensor, i.e., the IR sensor (224), is configured to generate thermal image data of the target area (210) within the space (202); A control unit (106), including one or more processors (114) and communicatively connected to the IR sensor (224), is configured to determine the occupancy status of the target area (210) based on the thermal image data and a reference temperature of the space (202); and One or more ultraviolet lamps, i.e., one or more UV lamps (104), are communicatively connected to the control unit (106), each of the one or more UV lamps (104) being configured to emit UV light toward the target area (210), wherein the control unit (106) is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps (104) based on a determined occupancy state of the target area (210). The IR sensor (224) is positioned and oriented such that its field of view (228a) includes both (i) the target region (210) and (ii) a non-target region (216) designated as unoccupied, wherein the IR sensor (224) is configured to also generate thermal image data of the non-target region (216), and the control unit (106) is configured to analyze the thermal image data of the non-target region (216) to determine the reference temperature of the space (202); and The IR sensor (224) includes an array (250) of pixels (252), wherein a first subset of the pixels (252) in the array (250) points to the target region (210), and a second subset of the pixels (252) in the array (250) points to the non-target region (216).

2. The disinfection system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the thermal image data generated by the IR sensor (224) indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components disposed within the target area (210), wherein the control unit (106) is configured to (i) determine a threshold temperature based on the reference temperature of the space (202), and (ii) determine the occupancy status by comparing the absolute temperature of the one or more components with the threshold temperature.

3. The disinfection system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (106) is configured to determine that the target area (210) is occupied by at least one person in response to the absolute temperature exceeding the threshold temperature.

4. The disinfection system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (106) is configured to determine the threshold temperature as a function of the reference temperature.

5. The disinfection system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (106) is configured to adjust the threshold temperature in response to a change in the reference temperature, and wherein the control unit (106) is configured to perform one or both of the following: (i) reducing the threshold temperature in response to a decrease in the reference temperature, or (ii) increasing the threshold temperature in response to an increase in the reference temperature.

6. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a second sensor (226) communicatively connected to the control unit (106), the second sensor (226) being configured to generate a sensor signal indicating the reference temperature of the space (202), and wherein the second sensor (226) is a second IR sensor oriented to generate thermal image data of a predetermined unoccupied non-target area (216).

7. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, In response to the occupancy status indicating that the target area (210) is occupied when the one or more UV lamps (104) are activated, the control unit (106) is configured to operate the one or more UV lamps (104) to perform one or more of the following operations: (i) stop emitting the UV light or (ii) reduce the output level of the one or more UV lamps (104).

8. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, When the one or more UV lamps (104) are inactive, the control unit (106) is configured to keep the one or more UV lamps (104) inactive until the occupancy status indicates that the target area (210) is not occupied.

9. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the IR sensor (224) is a first IR sensor, and the disinfection system (100) further includes a second IR sensor (402), the second IR sensor (402) being communicatively connected to the control unit (106) and configured to generate second thermal image data of the target area (210). The second IR sensor (402) is spaced apart from the first IR sensor (224) and oriented such that the field of view (404) of the second IR sensor overlaps with the field of view (228a) of the first IR sensor (224), and the control unit (106) is configured to analyze both the thermal image data and the second thermal image data to determine the occupancy state of the target region (210), and the IR sensor (224) comprises an array (250) of pixels (252), wherein the field of view (228a) of at least some pixels (252) in the array (250) overlaps with the field of view (404) of at least some pixels of the second IR sensor (402), and the control unit (106) is configured to determine the position of one or more components present in the overlapping block (406) of the two fields of view within the target region (210).

10. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the IR sensor (224) comprises a plurality of pixels (252) in an array (250), the pixels (252) being positioned to monitor different areas (320) of the target area (210) relative to each other, wherein the control unit (106) is configured to determine a corresponding baseline temperature distribution of each of the different areas monitored by the different pixels (252), and to determine the occupancy status based at least in part on the corresponding baseline temperature distribution of one or more of the different areas (320).

11. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the IR sensor (224) comprises a plurality of pixels (252) in an array (250), the pixels (252) being configured to generate different portions of the thermal image data corresponding to different monitoring areas (320) of the target area (210), wherein the control unit (106) is configured to determine the individual occupancy status of each of the monitoring areas (320) of the target area (210) to determine the occupancy status of the target area (210).

12. The disinfection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more UV lamps (104) and the IR sensor (224) are installed in one or more rooms, and the UV light emitted by the one or more UV lamps (104) is configured to sterilize components located in the one or more rooms.

13. A method comprising: Thermal image data generated by an infrared sensor, i.e., an IR sensor (224), and associated with a target area (210) within space (202) is received at a control unit (106) including one or more processors (114); Based on the thermal image data and the reference temperature of the space (202), the occupancy status of the target area (210) is determined via the control unit (106); and Based on the occupancy status of the target area (210), one or more ultraviolet lamps, i.e., one or more UV lamps (104), are operated via the control unit (106), and the one or more UV lamps (104) are configured to emit UV light toward the target area (210); The IR sensor (224) is positioned and oriented such that the field of view (228a) of the IR sensor (224) includes both (i) the target area (210) and (ii) the non-target area (216) designated as unoccupied, wherein the IR sensor (224) is configured to also generate thermal image data of the non-target area (216), and the control unit (106) is configured to analyze the thermal image data of the non-target area (216) to determine the reference temperature of the space (202).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the thermal image data generated by the IR sensor (224) indicates the absolute temperature of one or more components disposed within the target area (210), and the method further comprises: Determining a threshold temperature based on the reference temperature of the space (202), wherein determining the occupancy status of the target area (210) based on the thermal image data and the reference temperature of the space (202) includes comparing the absolute temperature of the one or more components with the threshold temperature.

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