Vehicle sterilization system and sterilization method

Abstract

A vehicle sterilization system and sterilization method, the sterilization method being applicable to the vehicle sterilization system, the sterilization method comprising: receiving a detection signal and, based on the voltage level of the detection signal, determining whether the vehicle's seat cushion covers a storage space in the vehicle compartment; when the seat cushion does not completely cover the storage space in the vehicle compartment, controlling a power supply unit to stop outputting electrical energy; and when the seat cushion covers the storage space in the vehicle compartment, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to a sterilization device to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the vehicle and items in the vehicle compartment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle sterilization system and method, and particularly to a technology for sterilizing a vehicle compartment using a photocatalyst. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, people have become increasingly concerned about environmental hygiene, leading to the emergence of various antimicrobial products. Vehicles like cars and motorcycles carry a variety of passengers and may pass through high-risk areas for pathogen transmission, such as hospitals and train stations. Consequently, there is a greater need for disinfection and sterilization. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a sterilization method applicable to a vehicle sterilization system, comprising the following steps: receiving a detection signal and, based on the voltage level of the detection signal, determining whether a vehicle seat cushion obstructs a passenger compartment; controlling a power supply unit to stop outputting power when the seat cushion does not completely obstruct the passenger compartment; and controlling the power supply unit to supply power to a sterilization device when the seat cushion obstructs the passenger compartment.

[0004] In one embodiment, the method of controlling a power supply unit to supply power to a sterilization device includes: after the sterilization device is driven for a predetermined period of time, controlling the power supply unit to stop supplying power to the sterilization device.

[0005] In one embodiment, the sterilization method further includes: when the vehicle stops driving at least one wheel, converting the thermal energy or kinetic energy of at least one wheel into recovered electrical energy through an electrical energy recovery device; and providing at least a portion of the recovered electrical energy to the sterilization device.

[0006] In one embodiment, the method of providing recovered electric energy to a sterilization device includes: providing a first portion of the recovered electric energy to the sterilization device; and charging a power supply unit using a second portion of the recovered electric energy.

[0007] In one embodiment, the sterilization method further includes: determining the remaining power ratio in the power supply unit; and when the remaining power ratio is less than a warning threshold, stopping providing the recovered power to the sterilization device and using the recovered power to charge the power supply unit.

[0008] In one embodiment, the sterilization method further includes: determining the concentration of volatile organic compounds in the vehicle compartment through a detector; and when the concentration of the volatile organic compounds is greater than a detection threshold, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to the sterilization device for at least a predetermined period of time.

[0009] In one embodiment, the sterilization device includes a first ultraviolet light source and a second ultraviolet light source, and the sterilization method further includes: determining the distance between a vehicle and a portable electronic device, wherein the vehicle and the portable electronic device are communicatively connected; when the distance is greater than a distance threshold, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source; and when the distance is less than or equal to the distance threshold, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to one of the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source.

[0010] In one embodiment, the sterilization device includes a first ultraviolet light source and a second ultraviolet light source, and the sterilization method further includes: obtaining the coordinates of a vehicle through a positioning device; connecting to a cloud server through the vehicle or a portable electronic device, wherein the vehicle and the portable electronic device are in communication with each other; when it is determined that the coordinates are within a marked area recorded in the cloud server, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source; when it is determined that the coordinates are outside the marked area, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to one of the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source.

[0011] In one embodiment, the sterilization method further comprises: when the sterilization device cannot obtain power from the power supply unit, driving the sterilization device by a battery, wherein the battery is different from the power supply unit.

[0012] This disclosure also relates to a vehicle sterilization system comprising a power supply unit and a sterilization device. The power supply unit is disposed in a vehicle. A seat cushion is disposed in the vehicle compartment. The sterilization device is disposed in the vehicle compartment. When the seat cushion does not completely cover the interior space of the vehicle compartment, the power supply unit stops supplying power to the sterilization device. When the seat cushion covers the interior space, the power supply unit supplies power to the sterilization device.

[0013] In one embodiment, the vehicle sterilization system further includes a controller. The controller is configured to control the power supply unit to supply power to the sterilization device for a predetermined period of time. After the predetermined period of time, the controller is further configured to control the power supply unit to stop supplying power to the sterilization device.

[0014] In one embodiment, the vehicle disinfection system further includes a controller and an energy recovery device. The controller is configured to control the power supply unit to conduct power to the disinfection device for a predetermined period of time. The energy recovery device is configured to convert thermal energy or kinetic energy of at least one wheel into recovered electrical energy when the vehicle stops driving the wheels. The controller is configured to provide at least a portion of the recovered electrical energy to the disinfection device.

[0015] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to provide a first portion of the recovered electric energy to the sterilization device, and to charge the power supply unit using a second portion of the recovered electric energy.

[0016] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to determine a remaining power ratio in the power supply unit and, when the remaining power ratio is less than a warning threshold, to stop supplying the recovered power to the sterilization device and to use the recovered power to charge the power supply unit.

[0017] In one embodiment, the vehicle disinfection system further includes a controller and a detector. The controller controls the power supply unit to supply power to the disinfection device for a predetermined period of time. The detector, coupled to the controller, determines the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the vehicle cabin. When the VOC concentration exceeds a detection threshold, the controller controls the power supply unit to supply power to the disinfection device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the sterilization device includes at least one fluid generating element, at least one ultraviolet light source, and at least one photocatalyst element. The position of the at least one photocatalyst element corresponds to the at least one ultraviolet light source.

[0019] In one embodiment, the UV light source includes a first UV light source and a second UV light source, and the vehicle disinfection system further includes a controller. The controller is configured to determine the distance between the vehicle and the portable electronic device, wherein the vehicle and the portable electronic device are communicatively connected. When the distance is greater than a distance threshold, the controller controls the power supply unit to supply power to the first UV light source and the second UV light source. When the distance is less than or equal to the distance threshold, the controller controls the power supply unit to supply power to one of the first UV light source and the second UV light source.

[0020] In one embodiment, the UV light source includes a first UV light source and a second UV light source, and the vehicle sterilization system further includes a controller and a positioning device. The controller is configured to control a power supply unit to supply power to the sterilization device for a predetermined period of time. The positioning device is configured to obtain the coordinates of the vehicle. When the coordinates are within a marked area recorded in a cloud server, the controller is configured to control the power supply unit to supply power to the first UV light source and the second UV light source. When the coordinates are outside the marked area, the controller is configured to control the power supply unit to supply power to one of the first UV light source and the second UV light source.

[0021] In one embodiment, the sterilization device further includes a lighting circuit. The lighting circuit is coupled to the power supply unit and includes a circuit board and at least one lighting element. The circuit board is used to shield the ultraviolet light source, preventing the ultraviolet light generated by the ultraviolet light source from being exposed outside the sterilization device.

[0022] In one embodiment, the vehicle sterilization system further includes a controller and a battery. The controller is configured to control the power supply unit to provide power to the sterilization device for a predetermined period of time. The battery is coupled to the sterilization device. When the sterilization device is unable to obtain power from the power supply unit, the controller is configured to operate the sterilization device using the battery.

[0023] Accordingly, by installing a sterilization device in the vehicle compartment and using the configuration relationship between the seat cushion and the vehicle compartment to confirm the vehicle's status, the sterilization device can automatically deodorize and sterilize the vehicle to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the vehicle and the items in the compartment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1A Shown is a schematic diagram of a vehicle in which a vehicle sterilization system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is applied;

[0025] Figure 1B Shown is a schematic diagram of a vehicle in which a vehicle sterilization system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is applied;

[0026] Figure 2 Shown are schematic diagrams of a vehicle compartment and a storage space according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3 Shown is a schematic diagram of a sterilization device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4 Shown is a schematic diagram of a sterilization method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029]

Explanation of symbols

[0030] 100: Car sterilization system

[0031] 110: Power supply unit

[0032] 120: Sterilization device

[0033] 121: Shell

[0034] 122: Fluid generating element

[0035] 123: First UV light source

[0036] 124: Second ultraviolet light source

[0037] 125: Photocatalyst component

[0038] 126: Lighting circuit

[0039] 130: Controller

[0040] 140: Status judgment circuit

[0041] 150:Electric energy recovery device

[0042] 160: Detector

[0043] 170:Battery

[0044] 180: Positioning device

[0045] 200: Portable electronic devices

[0046] H10: Vehicle

[0047] H11: Seat cushion

[0048] H12: Carriage

[0049] H12a: Battery compartment

[0050] H13: Body

[0051] HS: Accommodation space

[0052] P: Circuit board

[0053] L: Lighting element

[0054] S401-S410: Steps DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The following drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present invention. For clarity, many practical details are included in the following description. However, it should be understood that these practical details are not intended to limit the present invention. In other words, in some embodiments of the present invention, these practical details are not essential. Furthermore, to simplify the drawings, some commonly used structures and components are depicted in simplified schematic form.

[0056] As used herein, when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled," it may refer to being "electrically connected" or "electrically coupled." "Connected" or "coupled" may also refer to the coordinated operation or interaction between two or more elements. Furthermore, while terms such as "first," "second," and so on are used herein to describe different elements, these terms are intended solely to distinguish between elements or operations described using the same technical terms. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, these terms are not intended to specify or imply an order or sequence, nor are they intended to limit the present invention.

[0057] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a vehicle disinfection system 100 and a vehicle H10 incorporating the same, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the vehicle H10 in which the vehicle disinfection system 100 is employed is a two-wheeled motorcycle, and is used to sterilize the storage space HS within the vehicle compartment H12 beneath the seat H11. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment; in other embodiments, the vehicle disinfection system 100 may also sterilize areas such as the windshield and trunk (not shown). Furthermore, the vehicle H10 may also be a three-wheeled motorcycle, an electric bicycle, or other types of transportation.

[0058] The vehicle sterilization system 100 includes a power supply unit 110 and a sterilization device 120. The power supply unit 110 may be an energy storage device or a power supply circuit with a battery, which can be plugged in the compartment H12 of the vehicle H10. The vehicle H10 is, for example, an electric car. The power supply unit 110 is used to provide electrical energy to the vehicle H10 to drive the power system of the vehicle H10. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the vehicle H10 may also be a transportation vehicle that uses gasoline as fuel. A seat cushion H11 is provided on the compartment H12. In some embodiments, the seat cushion H11 is pivotally connected to one end of the body H13 of the vehicle H10 so that it can be tightly installed above the compartment H12 to shield the accommodating space HS in the compartment H12, or it can also be rotated away from the compartment H12 (such as Figure 1B As shown), the accommodation space HS in the compartment H12 is exposed. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The positions of the components shown are for illustration only. The positions of the power supply unit 110 and the sterilization device 120 can be adjusted as needed. For example, the power supply unit 110 can be located outside of the compartment H12. In other embodiments, the power supply unit 110 can also be a built-in battery that cannot be removed.

[0059] The sterilization device 120 is installed in the compartment H12 adjacent to the power supply unit 110 and is coupled to the power supply unit 110. The conduction relationship between the sterilization device 120 and the power supply unit 110 can be controlled by a detection signal so that it can selectively receive the electrical energy provided by the power supply unit 110 and be driven. The sterilization device 120 includes at least one fluid generating element (for example, a fan or other element that can introduce gas from the outside), at least one ultraviolet light source, and a photocatalyst element. The ultraviolet light source is used to illuminate the photocatalyst element to generate active substances with high oxidizing power, such as negative oxygen ions, hydroxide ions, and hydrogen peroxide. The fluid generating element generates air convection to spread the aforementioned active substances in the accommodating space HS to achieve a sterilization effect. Since people in this field can understand the principle of photocatalytic sterilization, it will not be described in detail here. The structure of the sterilization device 120 will be described in detail in subsequent paragraphs. In other embodiments, the sterilization device 120 may also include multiple fluid generating elements to accelerate the dissemination of active substances and enhance air circulation.

[0060] Incidentally, this embodiment utilizes a photocatalyst element in conjunction with an ultraviolet light source for sterilization. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the sterilization device 120 may utilize other technologies for sterilization. For example, the sterilization device 120 may be a UV germicidal lamp or an ozone sterilizer, as long as the sterilization device 120 has a sterilization function.

[0061] Figure 2FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the carriage H12 and the accommodating space HS according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the power supply unit 110 includes one or more removable batteries (not shown), which can be disposed in a battery slot H12a in the vehicle compartment H12. The power supply unit 110 contacts the electrodes in the battery slot H12a to form an electrical connection with the vehicle H10. The top of the power supply unit 110 is exposed to the accommodating space HS, and the user can easily remove the power supply unit 110 to replace or repair the power supply unit 110. In other embodiments, the sterilization device 120 can be disposed on a wall surface inside the vehicle compartment H12 (i.e., the accommodating space HS) adjacent to the battery slot H12a, so that the power supply circuit of the vehicle H10 can be conveniently configured around the battery slot H12a, so that the power supply unit 110 and the sterilization device 120 are coupled to each other. Alternatively, the sterilization device 120 can also be disposed at other locations inside the vehicle compartment H12, and the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0062] In some embodiments, the vehicle disinfection system 100 further includes a controller 130. The controller 130 is coupled to the power supply unit 110 to drive other electronic components of the vehicle H10 using the power provided by the power supply unit 110. In other embodiments, the controller 130 may also be disposed within the power supply unit 110. In other words, the vehicle disinfection system 100 may include multiple interconnected controllers. For example, the vehicle H10 may include an electronic control unit (ECU) to drive other electronic components of the vehicle H10, and the power supply unit 110 may include a power supply controller.

[0063] In some embodiments, the vehicle disinfection system 100 further includes a status determination circuit 140. The status determination circuit 140 can be a detector that determines whether the seat cushion H11 is completely covered over the vehicle interior H12 and completely shields the accommodation space HS within the vehicle interior H12. For example, the status determination circuit 140 can determine whether the rotation angle of the seat cushion H11 falls within a predetermined range. If so, it indicates that the seat cushion H11 has completely shielded the accommodation space HS within the vehicle interior H12.

[0064] In other embodiments, the status judgment circuit 140 may be a switching circuit. When the hook (e.g., a U-shaped hook) at the bottom of the seat cushion H11 is embedded in a slot (e.g., a seat cushion buckle) in the compartment H12, the status judgment circuit 140 is turned on at the same time, that is, the status judgment circuit 140 can determine that the seat cushion H11 is completely covered on the compartment H12.

[0065] As mentioned above, the state determination circuit 140 generates a corresponding detection signal according to the state of the seat cushion H11. Figure 1AAs shown, when the seat cushion H11 completely covers the accommodating space HS in the vehicle compartment H12, the detection signal is at an enabling level (eg, low voltage). Figure 1B As shown, when the seat cushion H11 is not covered on the vehicle compartment H12 , the detection signal is at a disabled level (eg, high voltage).

[0066] The vehicle disinfection system 100 can automatically change or control whether the power supply unit 110 supplies power to the disinfection device 120 based on a detection signal (i.e., the status of the seat cushion H11). When the seat cushion H11 completely blocks the accommodating space HS of the vehicle interior H12, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to automatically supply power to the fluid-generating element and UV light source of the disinfection device 120 for sterilization based on an enable-level detection signal. Conversely, if the seat cushion H11 does not completely block the accommodating space HS of the vehicle interior H12, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to stop supplying power to the disinfection device 120 based on a disable-level detection signal. In short, the level of the detection signal automatically changes based on the status of the seat cushion H11, prompting the controller 130 to switch the electrical connection between the power supply unit 110 and the disinfection device 120. In other embodiments, the power supply unit 110 may also receive the detection signal and automatically supply or stop supplying power to the sterilization device 120 according to the level of the detection signal.

[0067] In one embodiment, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the sterilization device 120 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 60 minutes). After the predetermined period of time, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to stop supplying power to the fluid generating element and UV light source of the sterilization device 120. For example, if the vehicle H10 is an electric scooter, when the user begins riding the vehicle H10 (at which point the seat H11 must be closed onto the vehicle compartment H12), the sterilization device 120 can receive power from the power supply unit 110 and perform at least one sterilization cycle. The duration of the sterilization cycle may depend on the size of the vehicle compartment H12 and / or the performance of the sterilization device 120. When the sterilization cycle is complete, the controller 130 (which can be the scooter's electronic control unit or the power controller of the power supply unit 110) stops supplying power to the sterilization device 120.

[0068] In some embodiments, the vehicle sterilization system 100 may further include an energy recovery device 150. The energy recovery device 150 is coupled to the controller 130 and is used to convert the heat energy and / or kinetic energy generated by the wheel into recovered electrical energy when the vehicle H10 stops providing power to at least one wheel (but the vehicle H10 may be in a coasting state and the wheels continue to rotate). The controller 130 is used to provide at least a portion of the recovered electrical energy to the power supply unit 110 to drive the sterilization device 120, or to provide the recovered electrical energy directly to the sterilization device 120. The energy recovery device 150 has various forms and structures. Since people skilled in the art can understand the operating principle of the energy recovery device 150, it will not be described in detail here.

[0069] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the controller 130 may record the amount of recovered electric energy generated by the electric energy recovery device 150 and distribute the recovered electric energy to the power supply unit 110 and the sterilization device 120. For example, when a user rides the vehicle H10, the controller 130 may control the power supply unit 110 to provide a first portion (e.g., 50%) of the recovered electric energy to the sterilization device 120, and retain a second portion (e.g., the remaining 50%) of the recovered electric energy in the power supply unit 110 to charge the power supply unit 110.

[0070] In other embodiments, the recycled power can also be directly provided to the sterilization device 120. For example, when the controller 130 detects that the energy recovery device 150 is generating recycled power, the controller 130 directly inputs at least a portion of the recycled power to the sterilization device 120 and controls the power supply unit 110 to temporarily stop supplying power to the sterilization device 120. In this way, the sterilization device 120 can operate independently using the recycled power for a period of time until the recycled power is exhausted.

[0071] The controller 130 can dynamically control the proportion of recycled energy allocated. In one embodiment, the controller 130 determines how to allocate the recycled energy by determining the proportion of the remaining energy in the power supply unit 110 to the maximum stored energy. For example, if the controller 130 determines that the proportion of the remaining energy in the power supply unit 110 to the maximum stored energy is less than a warning threshold (e.g., the current remaining energy is less than 10%), the controller 130 stops supplying recycled energy to the sterilization device 120 and uses all the recycled energy to charge the power supply unit 110.

[0072] In another embodiment, the vehicle sterilization system 100 can also determine whether to activate the sterilization device 120 based on the concentration of one or more specific gas molecules in the vehicle compartment H12. For example, the vehicle sterilization system 100 includes a detector 160, which is disposed in the vehicle compartment H12 or the storage space HS. The detector 160 is coupled to the controller 130 to detect the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the vehicle compartment H12 and output the detection result to the controller 130. When the concentration of VOCs is greater than a detection threshold (e.g., 0.400 mg / m3), the controller 130 actively controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the fluid generating element and the ultraviolet light source.

[0073] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of a sterilization device 120 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The sterilization device 120 includes a housing 121, a fluid generating element 122, a first ultraviolet light source 123, a second ultraviolet light source 124, a photocatalyst element 125, and a lighting circuit 126. The fluid generating element 122, the first ultraviolet light source 123, the second ultraviolet light source 124, and the lighting circuit 126 are coupled to the power supply unit 110 to receive electrical energy provided by the power supply unit 110. In this embodiment, the sterilization device 120 includes only two ultraviolet light sources. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the sterilization device 120 may also include more than three ultraviolet light sources.

[0074] In some embodiments, photocatalyst element 125 comprises titanium dioxide steel wool, which can be made from steel wool sprayed with a trace amount of titanium dioxide particles. Photocatalyst element 125 is positioned relative to fluid generating element 122 and first and second ultraviolet light sources 123, 124, so that first and second ultraviolet light sources 123, 124 can each illuminate at least a portion of photocatalyst element 125. When ultraviolet light irradiates photocatalyst element 125, it forms the aforementioned active substance with a high oxidizing ability.

[0075] In one embodiment, the photocatalyst element 125 is disposed around and covers the first ultraviolet light source 123 and the second ultraviolet light source 124 to maximize the formation of active substances. Figure 3 As shown, the cross-section of the photocatalyst element 125 is E-shaped and is used to cover the first ultraviolet light source 123 and the second ultraviolet light source 124. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the photocatalyst element 125 may also be of other shapes, as long as the photocatalyst element 125 can be irradiated by the first ultraviolet light source 123 and the second ultraviolet light source 124. Similarly, the present disclosure does not limit the number of photocatalyst elements 125. In other embodiments, the sterilization device 120 may also include a plurality of photocatalyst elements, and these photocatalyst elements are respectively arranged within the irradiation range of the first ultraviolet light source 123 or the second ultraviolet light source 124.

[0076] The housing 121 is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet. The air inlet and air outlet communicate with the interior and exterior of the sterilization device 120, respectively. For example, the air inlet is adjacent to the fluid-generating element 122, while the air outlet is located at an end away from the fluid-generating element 122. When the fluid-generating element 122 is operating, it draws in outside air through the air inlet, causing the air to flow through the photocatalyst element 125, which is illuminated by ultraviolet light. At this point, the active substances produced by the photocatalyst element 125 flow out of the air outlet along with the airflow, and are then distributed within the vehicle compartment H12, deodorizing and sterilizing the vehicle compartment H12 and items within it. Alternatively, when the air quality in the vehicle compartment H12 is poor, the fluid-generating element 122 draws in dirty air through the air inlet, allowing the dirty air to interact with the active substances to purify it. The purified air is then distributed into the vehicle compartment H12 through the air outlet.

[0077] The lighting circuit 126 includes a circuit board P and at least one lighting element L (e.g., an LED). In one embodiment, the circuit board P of the lighting circuit 126 is positioned above the first and second UV light sources 123, 124, and the photocatalyst element 125. The circuit board P completely shields the first and second UV light sources 123, 124, preventing the UV light from being exposed outside the sterilization device 120, thereby preventing harm to the human eye and preventing rapid oxidation of other materials within the vehicle compartment H12.

[0078] The vehicle disinfection system 100 also includes a built-in battery 170. Unlike the power supply unit 110, the battery 170 is located inside the vehicle H10 and is not exposed to the vehicle compartment HS. Even when the power supply unit 110 is removed from the vehicle H10, the vehicle H10 can still operate the controller 130 using power from the battery 170. In one embodiment, the lighting circuit 126 can be coupled to the battery 170. When the seat cushion H11 is not obstructing the vehicle compartment H12's vehicle compartment HS (e.g., when the user opens the seat cushion H11), the controller 130 controls the battery 170 to supply power to the lighting element L of the lighting circuit 126. Therefore, even if the lighting circuit 126 cannot receive power from the power supply unit 110 (or the power provided by the power supply unit 110 is insufficient for the lighting circuit 126 to operate), the lighting circuit 126 can still be driven by the battery 170 and automatically illuminate, allowing the user to clearly see items within the vehicle compartment H12. For example, when the vehicle H10 is turned off, the power stored in the power supply unit 110 is exhausted, or the power supply unit 110 is removed from the vehicle H10 , the lighting circuit 126 can still operate using the power provided by the battery 170 .

[0079] Furthermore, if the sterilization device 120 is unable to receive power from the power supply unit 110 (e.g., if the vehicle H10 is turned off, the power supply unit 110 is depleted, or the power supply unit 110 is removed from the vehicle H10), the controller 130 can also control the battery 170 to supply power to the sterilization device 120 to perform the sterilization process. In other words, when the user leaves the vehicle H10, even if the power supply unit 110 is powered off, the vehicle sterilization system 100 can still use the battery 170 to drive the sterilization device 120 for sterilization.

[0080] In some embodiments, the vehicle disinfection system 100 can selectively change the operating mode of the disinfection device 120 based on the positional relationship between the user and the vehicle H10. For example, the user's portable electronic device 200 (e.g., a mobile phone) can communicate with the controller 130 of the vehicle H10 via wireless transmission technology (e.g., Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), or WiFi). The controller 130 can determine the distance between the vehicle H10 and the portable electronic device 200, for example, by determining the estimated distance based on the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI). In some embodiments, the "distance determination" action can also be performed by the portable electronic device 200, which then notifies the controller 130 of the determination result.

[0081] As mentioned above, when the distance is determined to be greater than the distance threshold (e.g., greater than 10 meters), the controller 130 controls the sterilization device 120 to operate in a stronger first sterilization mode. The controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source 123 and the second ultraviolet light source 124, so that the first ultraviolet light source 123 and the second ultraviolet light source 124 simultaneously emit ultraviolet light to illuminate the photocatalyst element 125. At this time, the photocatalyst element 125 can produce a larger amount of active substances. On the other hand, when the distance is less than or equal to the distance threshold (e.g., the distance is between 5 and 10 meters), the controller 130 controls the sterilization device 120 to operate in a weaker second sterilization mode. The controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to only one of the first ultraviolet light source 123 and the second ultraviolet light source 124, for example, only to the first ultraviolet light source 123, but not to the second ultraviolet light source 124. In other words, if the distance between the vehicle H10 and the portable electronic device 200 is too close, the sterilization device 120 will be controlled to a weaker sterilization mode to prevent the user from being affected by the ultraviolet light when approaching the vehicle H10.

[0082] In other embodiments, the vehicle sterilization system 100 further includes a positioning device 180 (e.g., a GPS signal transceiver). The positioning device 180 is coupled to the controller 130 to obtain the current coordinates of the vehicle H10. The vehicle H10 can be connected to a cloud server (e.g., a network map server) in real time or periodically to determine the current location and area of the vehicle H10. In some embodiments, the vehicle H10 can also be connected to the cloud server through a communication connection between the portable electronic device 200. The cloud server provides relevant information of the marked area (e.g., a nearby medical hospital area, or an area with a high epidemic risk) to the controller 130. When the controller 130 determines that the current coordinates are within a marked area recorded in the cloud server, the controller 130 can automatically control the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the sterilization device 120 to perform the sterilization procedure immediately.

[0083] Continuing with the above, in some other embodiments, a cloud server can also remotely control the vehicle disinfection system 100 to execute the disinfection process. Specifically, the controller 130 outputs the current coordinates of the vehicle H10 to the cloud server. The cloud server then determines whether the vehicle H10 is within a marked area based on built-in map information. If the vehicle H10 is within any of the marked areas, the cloud server issues a command to the controller 130, instructing it to activate the disinfection device 120 to perform the disinfection process. Conversely, if the vehicle H10 is not within any of the marked areas, the cloud server does not activate the disinfection device 120 to perform the disinfection process.

[0084] In some other embodiments, the vehicle H10 can also switch the sterilization mode of the sterilization device 120 based on its current coordinates. Specifically, after obtaining the current coordinates via the aforementioned positioning device 180, the controller 130 connects to the cloud server to determine the current location and area of the vehicle H10. When the controller 130 determines that the current coordinates are within the marked area recorded by the cloud server, the controller 130 drives the sterilization device 120 to operate in the first, more robust sterilization mode. Conversely, when the controller 130 determines that the current coordinates are not within the marked area recorded by the cloud server (i.e., the current coordinates are outside the marked area), the controller 130 drives the sterilization device 120 to operate in the second, less robust sterilization mode. This allows the sterilization device 120 to more thoroughly sterilize the vehicle compartment H12 when the vehicle H10 is parked or traveling in a high-risk epidemic area. Furthermore, when the vehicle H10 is parked or traveling in a non-high-risk epidemic area, the power consumed by the sterilization device 120 can be reduced.

[0085] For example, vehicle H10 can connect to a cloud server every 30 minutes to confirm whether its current coordinates are within a marked area, dynamically switching the sterilization mode of sterilization device 120. When vehicle H10's current coordinates change from outside the marked area to within the marked area, controller 130 switches sterilization device 120 to the first sterilization mode. At this point, controller 130 can also enable sterilization device 120 to immediately execute the sterilization process.

[0086] Furthermore, the controller 130 can drive the positioning device 180 to obtain the current coordinates when the vehicle H10 is started, thereby determining whether the sterilizer 120 should operate in the first or second sterilization mode. Alternatively, the controller 130 can drive the positioning device 180 to obtain the current coordinates and determine the sterilization mode for the sterilizer 120 some time after the vehicle H10 receives the ignition shutdown command and before the power supply unit 110 completely stops supplying power. This way, the next time the user starts the vehicle H10, the controller 130 can control the sterilizer 120 to operate in the previously determined sterilization mode.

[0087] Continuing with the above, the cloud server can also remotely control the sterilization mode in which the sterilization device 120 operates. Specifically, the controller 130 transmits the current coordinates of the vehicle H10 to the cloud server. The cloud server then uses built-in map information to determine whether the vehicle H10 is within a marked area. If the vehicle H10 is within the marked area, the cloud server outputs a mode control signal to the controller 130, which then activates the sterilization device 120 to operate in the first sterilization mode. Otherwise, the cloud server remotely controls the sterilization device 120 to operate in the second sterilization mode.

[0088] Figure 4 The flowchart shows a sterilization method applied to a vehicle sterilization system 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In step S401, the controller 130 determines whether the seat cushion H11 blocks the storage space HS of the vehicle compartment H12. In step S402, if the seat cushion H11 does not block the storage space HS of the vehicle compartment H12, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to stop supplying power to the sterilization device 120. Conversely, if the seat cushion H11 blocks the storage space HS of the vehicle compartment H12, in step S403, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the fluid generating element 122 and ultraviolet light sources 123 and 124 of the sterilization device 120. In some embodiments, the power supply unit 110 can automatically supply or stop power to the sterilization device 120 based on the level of the received detection signal.

[0089] In step S404 , when the sterilization device 120 performs a sterilization process based on the power provided by the power supply unit 110 , the controller 130 may control the power supply unit 110 to stop outputting power to the sterilization device 120 after the sterilization device 120 performs the sterilization process for a predetermined period of time.

[0090] In addition, during the process of starting the vehicle H10, the controller 130 can also perform the following steps according to different states or conditions: In step S405, when the vehicle H10 stops driving the wheels and converts the thermal energy and / or kinetic energy of the wheels into recovered electric energy through the electric energy recovery device 150, the controller 130 selectively provides the recovered electric energy to the sterilization device 120, and / or uses the recovered electric energy to charge the power supply unit 110.

[0091] In step S406, the controller 130 obtains the concentration of one or more specific gas molecules (e.g., volatile organic compounds) in the vehicle compartment H12 via the detector 160. When the concentration of the one or more specific gas molecules exceeds a detection threshold, the controller 130 controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the sterilization device 120 to execute the sterilization process.

[0092] In step S407, the controller 130 determines whether the distance between the vehicle H10 and the portable electronic device 200 is greater than a distance threshold. In step S408, when the distance between the vehicle H10 and the portable electronic device 200 is greater than the distance threshold, the controller 130 controls the sterilization device 120 to operate in the first sterilization mode. In step S409, when the distance between the vehicle H10 and the portable electronic device 200 is less than or equal to the distance threshold, the controller 130 controls the sterilization device 120 to operate in the second sterilization mode. As described in the aforementioned embodiment, the number of UV light sources enabled in the first sterilization mode is greater than the number of UV light sources enabled in the second sterilization mode. In the second sterilization mode, the sterilization device 120 may only drive some of the UV light sources.

[0093] In step S410, after obtaining the current coordinates of vehicle H10 via positioning device 180, sterilization device 120 is activated or its sterilization mode is adjusted based on the relative relationship between the current coordinates of vehicle H10 and the marked area. For example, if the current coordinates are determined to be within a marked area, controller 130 controls power supply unit 110 to supply power to sterilization device 120 to execute the sterilization process.

[0094] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the controller 130 may also determine the distance between the current coordinates and the marked area to adjust the operating mode of the sterilization device 120. For example, if the controller 130 determines that the current coordinates fall within the marked area, or the distance between the current coordinates and the edge of the marked area is within a first range (e.g., less than 10 meters, or 5-10 meters), the controller 130 may control the sterilization device 120 to operate in the first sterilization mode. Conversely, if the controller 130 determines that the distance between the current coordinates and the edge of the marked area is within a second range (e.g., 10-20 meters), the controller 130 may control the sterilization device 120 to operate in the second sterilization mode.

[0095] In the aforementioned embodiment, the vehicle sterilization system 100, including the sterilization device 120, controller 130, status determination circuit 140, energy recovery device 150, detector 160, battery 170, and positioning device 180, is also part of the vehicle H10. Furthermore, as described in the aforementioned embodiment, the "controller 130" in steps S410-S411 is not limited to the electronic control unit of the vehicle H10; it may also be a processor or processing circuit built into the power supply unit 110.

[0096] In the aforementioned embodiment, the power supply status between the power supply unit 110 and the sterilization device 120 corresponds to the relative relationship between the seat cushion H11 and the vehicle interior H12. For example, when the seat cushion H11 completely covers the accommodation space HS within the vehicle interior H12, the detection signal is at an enabled level, and the controller 130 automatically controls the power supply unit 110 to supply power to the sterilization device 120. Conversely, when the seat cushion H11 does not completely cover the accommodation space HS within the vehicle interior H12, the detection signal is at a disabled level, and the controller 130 automatically controls the power supply unit 110 to stop supplying power to the sterilization device 120. In other words, the sterilization device 120 passively receives power and is driven. In other embodiments, the vehicle sterilization system 100 may also periodically determine the relative relationship between the seat cushion H11 and the vehicle interior H12 to actively change the power supply status between the power supply unit 110 and the sterilization device 120.

[0097] The various elements, method steps or technical features in the aforementioned embodiments may be combined with each other and are not limited to the order of description in the text or the order of presentation in the drawings in this disclosure.

[0098] Although the present disclosure has been disclosed above in the form of implementation methods, it is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Anyone skilled in the art may make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present disclosure shall be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sterilization method, applicable to a vehicle sterilization system, characterized in that: Include: receiving a detection signal and determining, based on a voltage level of the detection signal, whether a seat cushion of a vehicle covers a storage space in a vehicle compartment; When the seat cushion does not completely cover the accommodating space in the vehicle compartment, controlling a power supply unit to stop outputting power; When the seat cushion covers the accommodating space in the vehicle compartment, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to a sterilization device; When the vehicle stops driving at least one wheel, converting the thermal energy or kinetic energy of the at least one wheel into recovered electric energy through an electric energy recovery device; providing at least a portion of the recovered electrical energy to the sterilization device; Determining a remaining power ratio in the power supply unit; as well as When the remaining power ratio is less than a warning threshold, the supply of the recovered power to the sterilization device is stopped, and the power supply unit is charged with the recovered power.

2. The sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that The method of controlling the power supply unit to supply power to the sterilization device includes: After the sterilization device is driven for a predetermined time, the power supply unit is controlled to stop supplying power to the sterilization device.

3. The sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that The method of providing the recovered electrical energy to the sterilization device comprises: providing a first portion of the recovered electrical energy to the sterilization device; and The power supply unit is charged using a second portion of the recovered electric energy.

4. The sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: Determining the concentration of a volatile organic compound in the vehicle compartment by a detector; and When the concentration of the volatile organic compound is greater than a detection threshold, the power supply unit is controlled to supply power to the sterilization device for at least a predetermined time.

5. The sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that The sterilization device includes a first ultraviolet light source and a second ultraviolet light source, and the sterilization method further includes: determining a distance between the vehicle and a portable electronic device, wherein the vehicle and the portable electronic device are in communication with each other; When the distance is greater than a distance threshold, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source; and When the distance is less than or equal to the distance threshold, the power supply unit is controlled to supply power to one of the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source.

6. The sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that The sterilization device includes a first ultraviolet light source and a second ultraviolet light source, and the sterilization method further includes: Obtaining a coordinate of the vehicle through a positioning device; Connecting to a cloud server via the vehicle or a portable electronic device, wherein the vehicle and the portable electronic device are in communication with each other; When it is determined that the coordinates are located within a marked area recorded in the cloud server, controlling the power supply unit to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source; as well as When it is determined that the coordinate is outside the marking area, the power supply unit is controlled to supply power to one of the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source.

7. The sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: When the sterilization device cannot obtain electric energy from the power supply unit, the sterilization device is driven by a battery, wherein the battery is different from the power supply unit.

8. A vehicle sterilization system, characterized in that: Include: A power supply unit is provided in a vehicle, wherein a seat cushion is provided on a compartment of the vehicle; and a sterilization device, disposed in the carriage; When the seat cushion does not completely cover a receiving space in the vehicle compartment, the power supply unit stops outputting power to the sterilization device; When the seat cushion covers the accommodating space, the power supply unit supplies power to the sterilization device; a controller for controlling the power supply unit to be connected to the sterilization device; as well as an energy recovery device for converting thermal energy or kinetic energy of at least one wheel into recovered electrical energy when the vehicle stops driving at least one wheel, wherein the controller is configured to provide at least a portion of the recovered electrical energy to the sterilization device; The controller is used to determine a residual power ratio in the power supply unit. When the residual power ratio is less than a warning threshold, the controller is used to stop providing the recovered power to the sterilization device and use the recovered power to charge the power supply unit.

9. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The controller is further used to control the power supply unit to be turned on to the sterilization device for a predetermined time, wherein after the predetermined time, the controller is further used to control the power supply unit to stop supplying power to the sterilization device.

10. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The controller is used for providing a first portion of the recovered electric energy to the sterilization device, and for charging the power supply unit with a second portion of the recovered electric energy.

11. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The controller is further used to control the power supply unit to be turned on to the sterilization device for a predetermined time; and The vehicle sterilization system also includes: a detector coupled to the controller for determining a concentration of volatile organic compounds in the vehicle compartment; When the concentration of the volatile organic compound is greater than a detection threshold, the controller is used to control the power supply unit to supply power to the sterilization device.

12. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The sterilization device includes at least one fluid generating element, at least one ultraviolet light source and at least one photocatalyst element, wherein a position of the at least one photocatalyst element corresponds to the at least one ultraviolet light source.

13. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The at least one ultraviolet light source includes a first ultraviolet light source and a second ultraviolet light source, and the vehicle sterilization system further includes: The controller is further configured to determine a distance between the vehicle and a portable electronic device, wherein the vehicle and the portable electronic device are in communication with each other; When the distance is greater than a distance threshold, the controller is used to control the power supply unit to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source; and When the distance is less than or equal to the distance threshold, the controller is configured to control the power supply unit to supply power to one of the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source.

14. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The at least one ultraviolet light source includes a first ultraviolet light source and a second ultraviolet light source, and the vehicle sterilization system further includes: The controller is further used to control the power supply unit to be turned on to the sterilization device for a predetermined time; and A positioning device is used to obtain a coordinate of the vehicle, wherein when the coordinate is located within a marked area recorded in a cloud server, the controller is used to control the power supply unit to supply power to the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source; when the coordinate is located outside the marked area, the controller controls the power supply unit to supply power to one of the first ultraviolet light source and the second ultraviolet light source.

15. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The sterilization device also includes: A lighting circuit is coupled to the power supply unit and includes a circuit board and at least one lighting element, wherein the circuit board is used to shield the at least one ultraviolet light source to prevent the ultraviolet light generated by the at least one ultraviolet light source from being exposed outside the sterilization device.

16. The vehicle sterilization system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The controller is further used to control the power supply unit to be turned on to the sterilization device for a predetermined time; and The vehicle sterilization system also includes: A battery is coupled to the sterilization device, wherein when the sterilization device cannot obtain electric energy from the power supply unit, the controller is used to drive the sterilization device through the battery.

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