Decontamination of human contact points

Abstract

A bacterial decontamination apparatus includes a housing including an access door configurable in an open or closed position, an opening for positioning the housing over or around a contaminant, an opening device for opening the access door in response to a trigger or triggering event, one or more ultraviolet light sources disposed within the housing and configured to decontaminate the contaminant. The bacterial decontamination apparatus can include one or more sensors configured to detect the triggering event. The one or more sensors can include an obstacle sensor, a motion sensor or detector, a light sensor, a sound sensor, and / or a heat or infrared sensor. The access door can include one or more access panels. The one or more ultraviolet light sources can generate UV-C radiation at a wavelength in the range of 200-280 nm. Methods of use and systems including the bacterial decontamination apparatus are also provided.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is a partially consecutive patent application that claims priority to U.S. Utility Patent Application No. 17 / 467208, filed September 4, 2021, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 075040, filed September 4, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention belongs to the field of infectious disease prevention technology. More specifically, this invention prevents infectious diseases by using ultraviolet (UV) irradiation to decontaminate pathogenic microorganisms near human contact points. Background Technology

[0004] Infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, which are usually transmitted directly or indirectly between people. Since bacteria thrive in warm environments of 95-100°C, the human skin temperature of 98.6°C provides an optimal platform for their survival and reproduction. In fact, clinical studies have shown that some bacteria double in number every 20 minutes, resulting in millions of bacteria within 8 hours.

[0005] While not all bacteria cause disease, all infectious diseases are caused by bacteria. The four main types of bacteria that cause human disease include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Studies show that 20% of people don't wash their hands after using the toilet, and 30% don't wash their hands after washing them. In total, there are between 2 million and 10 million bacteria between a human's fingertips and elbows at any given time. Every time an individual comes into contact with a contaminant (inanimate object) at a human contact point—such as a commercial doorknob, toilet stall latch, credit card payment terminal, or gas pump handle—a process of indirectly transferring bacteria to the next user of the contaminant begins.

[0006] Since 80% of infectious diseases are transmitted through hands, the rapid spread of pathogens through public contact points has been a major contributing factor to several global health pandemics, including SARS and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. These events have devastated the world economy and caused millions of illnesses and deaths.

[0007] Current methods for addressing this issue include manual cleaning, the use of antimicrobial materials to manufacture and / or coat contaminants, automated and user-activated mechanical sterilization machines, and ultraviolet (UVGI) irradiation. While these methods are useful, their impact in high-flow areas is relatively limited due to issues such as rapid recontamination and long purification cycles.

[0008] Manual cleaning involves using disinfectants, sanitizers, and bactericides to clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces; each product is designed to achieve different effects. Disinfectants can inhibit bacterial growth and / or kill bacteria within 30 seconds to 5 minutes, but do not kill viruses. Disinfectants can act as bactericides to kill bacteria, some viruses, and fungi, typically achieving results within 10 minutes. Bactericides are the most effective cleaning agents; if used properly, they can kill 100% of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, typically within 10-15 minutes, but this depends on the specific reagent used, the environment, and the composition of the materials being disinfected.

[0009] Besides the health risks to cleaning personnel and environmental hazards, the effectiveness of cleaning agents also depends on the application process and the surface materials on which they are applied. As mentioned earlier, cleaning agents typically need to remain moist for 5-15 minutes to achieve 100% reduction of pathogens. This time requirement is often overlooked due to inadequate user training, worker productivity requirements, and the desire to quickly restore users' access to contaminated surfaces.

[0010] Furthermore, cleaning staff often use the same cleaning agents to clean all contaminants, regardless of whether they are made of porous or non-porous materials. This reduces the effectiveness of disinfection, as most cleaning agents are tailored for specific surface types and require only two hours in a process called photoreactivation. Finally, even if contaminants have been properly disinfected, they will only remain intact until they are re-contaminated by airborne bacteria or the next user interaction.

[0011] Antimicrobial materials have been used as materials and surface coatings for existing contaminants. Recently, copper and its alloys (brass, bronze, cupronickel, copper-nickel-zinc, etc.) have been proven to be natural antimicrobial materials with inherent properties that can destroy a wide variety of microorganisms. One drawback to using copper at public contact points is that studies show that, in conjunction with regular cleaning programs, it takes two hours to kill 99.9% of bacteria and up to six hours to kill 99.9% of viruses.

[0012] The use of antimicrobial films and photodynamic polymer coatings has also been discussed as a potential solution. One of the problems with these solutions is the time required for the photosensitization of the material. For photodynamic polymers, which only require oxygen and natural light, the process takes 60 minutes to achieve 1 log antimicrobial reduction.

[0013] Three main problems prevent antimicrobial materials and coatings from becoming an appropriate solution for preventing the spread of infectious diseases from human contact point contaminants. First, the long time required to achieve 99.9% inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms means that new users will have already placed millions of additional microorganisms on contaminants, making it unlikely that contaminants will be disinfected during periods of high-volume use. Second, their effectiveness varies depending on the bacteria they target. Some are effective against only bacteria or viruses, but not both simultaneously. Of those microorganisms proven to kill both bacteria and viruses, many are ineffective against other types of pathogens, such as fungi, spores, and / or parasites. Furthermore, none of these materials are equally effective against all microorganisms. Finally, the cost and deployment time of replacing and covering all public-facing contaminants make this option neither desirable nor practical.

[0014] Mechanical disinfection options for human contact point contaminants include user-driven and automated mechanical machines that kill pathogenic microorganisms using chemicals in the form of disinfectants, sanitizers, or bactericides, or germicidal light irradiation (referred to herein as UVGI). Machines using chemicals are typically installed close to the contaminant and have a housing filled with a cleaning product applied to the target surface via a user-actuated lever or an action triggered by an automated sensor. User-driven models present problems upon startup because bacteria are transferred from each user's hand to the lever with each use of the machine.

[0015] While automated, sensor-driven machines have solved the user interface problem, other key issues remain in the fight against bacterial contamination at human contact points, especially in public places. First, chemicals typically require up to 15 minutes to achieve optimal effectiveness in killing pathogens, which is often insufficient to protect frequently touched contaminants from infection before the next user interaction. Second, even if chemical residues are effective at killing bacteria on contaminants, they can introduce new health risks when distributed to subsequent users. Finally, chemical residues around the distribution area can cause slips and falls.

[0016] Since the 1950s, ultraviolet germicidal radiation (UVGI) has been recognized as a sterilization method in medical and surgical environments. Wavelengths between 200-280 nm are classified as UV-C light and have the strongest bactericidal effect. By exposing to UV-C, the DNA of pathogens is damaged, preventing them from replicating. Until recently, the primary method for generating germicidal light was the use of mercury-filled tubes. Commonly known as germicidal lamps, they resemble standard fluorescent lamps in appearance. They produce light with a peak wavelength of 253.7 nm, which is effective in killing pathogenic microorganisms, but not optimal, as 265 nm has been proven to be the most effective wavelength against a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses.

[0017] Using UV-C light to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms is a globally recognized solution widely used in medical environments, including the disinfection of instruments, equipment, operating rooms, and patient rooms, as well as in HVAC systems. It is also commonly used to treat air, water, and surfaces across various industries and sectors, including but not limited to water purification plants, food production and packaging, and warehouses. In recent years, small, user-driven UV-C devices (such as lamps and handheld wands) have become available in the consumer market for disinfecting surfaces such as sinks, toilets, toothbrushes, keys, and mobile phones.

[0018] However, germicidal lamps have not been proven to be a commercially viable solution for eliminating bacteria on contaminants at public contact points. For example, the disadvantages of using germicidal lamps on high-traffic surfaces such as door handles and elevator buttons include, but are not limited to: the inability to perform rapid cycling; a reduced total expected lifespan due to repeated on-and-off cycles; slow start-up time to reach peak wavelength; generating significant heat; requiring additional equipment (such as ballasts) to operate; and the potential danger to the public if mercury leaks from a defective or damaged bulb and comes into contact with human skin or eyes.

[0019] Therefore, there is a need in the field for novel bacterial purification methods, devices, and equipment that can rapidly and effectively disinfect contaminants at human contact points in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and the loss of millions of lives. Summary of the Invention

[0020] A bacterial purification device includes a housing comprising an access door configurable to be in an open or closed position, an opening for positioning the housing above or around contaminants, an actuation assembly configured to open the access door in response to a trigger or triggering event, and one or more ultraviolet light sources disposed within the housing and configured to purify contaminants. The bacterial purification device may include one or more sensors configured to detect the triggering event. The one or more sensors may include motion detector sensors and / or light sensors. The access door may include one or more access panels. The one or more ultraviolet light sources may generate UV-C radiation in the wavelength range of 200-280 nm.

[0021] This invention relates to a bacterial purification method and apparatus that forms a chamber to attach to and seal contaminants at human contact points, including but not limited to door handles, toilet stall latches, fixing bolts, gas pump handles, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, shopping cart handles, elevator control panels, public telephones, tissue dispensers, toilet handles, and seats. The apparatus automatically kills adjacent bacteria within seconds of each interaction with a user via ultraviolet (UVGI) irradiation. The UVGI dose is delivered via a UV-C LED semiconductor chip (also referred to herein as "UV-C") optimally mounted at a fixed or adjustable angle on a substrate and / or upper housing to ensure proper coverage and most effective placement. The chip preferably delivers its dose at an optimal wavelength of 265 nm or alternatively via a multi-wavelength UV-C LED array to specifically target different types of bacteria. Internal components encapsulating contaminants within the chamber are layered with a UV-C reflective material (such as aluminum foil, PTFE, UV reflective coatings, or any similar material proven to optimize reflectivity). Once the UVGI dose is applied, the contaminants remain sealed within the housing to prevent recontamination by airborne pathogens. Upon detection of a subsequent user's presence via sensor technology, the drive and pulley system retracts the stacked access panel to allow for sterile contact with the contaminants. This triggers the access panel to close at the end and repeats the UVGI cycle.

[0022] The present invention also relates to a bacterial purification system comprising a product containing contaminants, wherein any bacterial purification device described herein is configured to be integrated into the product containing contaminants. In some embodiments, the product containing contaminants is a door, toilet stall, latch, air pump, point-of-sale (POS) terminal, ATM, shopping cart, elevator, public telephone, tissue dispenser, computer keyboard, or toilet.

[0023] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The following figure illustrates various features and aspects of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 1A A front view of an example of a bacterial decontamination chamber for human contact point contaminants according to various embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0026] Figure 1B shows a raised side perspective view of the right side of the bacterial purification chamber, including the battery assembly and a partially retracted drive panel.

[0027] Figure 1C An elevated front perspective view is shown, including the access panel rails and obstacle sensors inside the front section.

[0028] Figure ID shows an elevated rear perspective view of the substrate installed in the bacterial purification chamber.

[0029] Figure 2 An exploded view of the components included in the upper housing assembly and the substrate assembly is depicted.

[0030] Figure 3A A front view of the substrate of the bacterial purification chamber, including a microcontroller and an installed UV-C source, is shown.

[0031] Figure 3B A front view of the substrate cover is depicted.

[0032] Figure 3C An exploded front view showing the placement of the substrate cover on the substrate.

[0033] Figure 3D A front view of a substrate cover bonded to a substrate assembly is shown.

[0034] Figure 4 An exploded view of the upper outer shell, substrate cover, and substrate before elevation is shown.

[0035] Figure 5 An exploded top view of the adjustable UV-C mounting bracket assembly is shown.

[0036] Figure 6A A side view showing the pivot angle in the range of 15°–90° produced by the UV-C mounting bracket.

[0037] Figure 6B A side perspective view of the UV-C mounting bracket tilted at a 30° front angle is shown.

[0038] Figure 6C A top view of the UV-C bracket tilted at a 75° angle is depicted.

[0039] Figure 6D The front perspective view of the UV-C mounting bracket tilted at a 45° angle is shown.

[0040] Figure 6E An elevated front view of a UV-C mounting bracket tilted at a 15° angle is depicted.

[0041] Figure 6F A top view shows the rotational motion generated by the UV-C mounting bracket.

[0042] Figure 7 A close-up front view of the inspection panel assembly is shown.

[0043] Figure 8A A top view showing the frame of the access panel with embedded rails.

[0044] Figure 8BA close-up side view of the nylon slide rails within the panel guide rails is shown.

[0045] Figure 9A A side view of the drive clamp is shown.

[0046] Figure 9B A top view of the drive clamp is shown.

[0047] Figure 9C An outside view of the access panel support arm is shown.

[0048] Figure 9D An inside view of the access panel support arm is shown.

[0049] Figure 10A A side sectional view of the left access panel frame, panel rails, and drive rails is shown.

[0050] Figure 10B The side sectional view shown in 8A is illustrated, with added exploded views of the drive clamp, support arm, pulley, and chain.

[0051] Figure 10C A side sectional view as shown in 8B is depicted, which has been modified to show the pulley and chain in their operating position.

[0052] Figure 11 A side sectional view is shown of the access panel connected to its corresponding rail in the closed position, and the position of the panel bracket is marked when the access panel is retracted.

[0053] Figure 12A A side sectional view of the access panel assembly (A) in the closed position is shown;

[0054] Figure 12B A side sectional view of the 25% retracted access panel assembly (B) is shown.

[0055] Figure 12C A side sectional view of the access panel assembly (C) with 50% retracted is shown.

[0056] Figure 12D A side sectional view of the access panel assembly (D) with 75% retracted is shown.

[0057] Figure 12E A side sectional view is shown of the access panel assembly (and E) fully retracted and parked in the panel compartment.

[0058] Figure 13 A close-up view of the drive component is shown.

[0059] Figure 14 This shows a close-up rear view of the upper housing assembly.

[0060] Figure 15AThe image shows a front interior view of the open-plan bacterial purification chamber adjacent to the elevator control panel.

[0061] Figure 15B The front interior view of the open-plan bacterial purification chamber adjacent to the door handle is shown.

[0062] Figure 15C A front interior view of the open-plan bacterial purification chamber adjacent to a wall-mounted courtesy telephone is shown.

[0063] Figure 15D A front interior view of the open-style bacterial purification chamber adjacent to the handwashing stall lock pins is shown.

[0064] Figure 16 A process flow diagram of the bacterial purification chamber is depicted.

[0065] Figure 17A A front view (A) of the closed and sealed bacterial purification chamber is shown.

[0066] Figure 17B A front view (B) of a bacterial purification chamber with a 25% retracted access panel is shown.

[0067] Figure 17C A front view (C) of a bacterial purification chamber with a 50% retracted access panel is shown.

[0068] Figure 17D A front view (D) of the bacterial purification chamber with a 75% retracted access panel is shown.

[0069] Figure 17E A front view of the bacterial purification chamber is shown, with the access panel 100% retracted and parked in the panel compartment (and E).

[0070] Figure 18A The image shows a front view of the separate assembled door handle base plate and the commercial door handle and lock.

[0071] Figure 18B A front view of the assembly door handle base plate adjacent to the commercial door handle and lock is shown.

[0072] Figure 18C A front view of a separate door handle base plate cover and an assembled door handle base plate adjacent to a commercial door handle and lock is shown.

[0073] Figure 18D The image shows a front view of the assembled door handle base plate assembly and a commercial door handle and lock.

[0074] Figure 19A An exploded front perspective view of the upper housing assembly is shown, projected onto the location of the adjacent door handle base plate assembly and the commercial door.

[0075] Figure 19B A front view of a commercial door handle-based bacterial purification chamber is depicted, with the access panel near the commercial door retracted.

[0076] Figure 20A A front view of a separately mounted air pump base plate with a microcontroller, UV-C, and air pump handle is shown.

[0077] Figure 20B A front view of the assembled gas pump substrate is shown, which has a microcontroller and a UV-C sensor adjacent to the gas pump handle.

[0078] Figure 20C The front view shows the separate air pump base plate cover and the assembled base plate adjacent to the air pump handle.

[0079] Figure 20D The front view shows the assembled gas pump base plate assembly and gas pump handle.

[0080] Figure 21A An exploded perspective view of the upper housing assembly is shown, projected onto a location adjacent to the gas pump base plate assembly and the gas pump handle.

[0081] Figure 21B A front view of the bacterial purification chamber is shown, with the access panel near the gas pump handle retracted.

[0082] Figure 21C A front view of a gas pump service island with a gas pump handle adjacent to a bacterial purification chamber is shown.

[0083] Figure 22A A front view of the handwashing stall latched bacterial purification chamber in the closed position is shown.

[0084] Figure 22B Showing an elevated side perspective view of the handwashing stall latched bacterial purification chamber and brush cover.

[0085] Figure 22C A front view of the handwashing cubicle latch bacterial purification chamber in its open position, adjacent to the cubicle latch.

[0086] Figure 22D This is a top perspective view showing the handwashing stall latches, the bacterial purification chamber, and the battery access door.

[0087] Figure 23A The image shows a front view of the separately mounted stall latch substrate, microcontroller, and mounted UV-C.

[0088] Figure 23B A front view of the assembly of the UV-C with microcontroller and adjacent handwashing stall latch is shown.

[0089] Figure 23C The front view shows the separate compartment latch base plate cover and the mounted base plate adjacent to the handwashing compartment latch.

[0090] Figure 23D The front view shows the assembled compartment latch base plate assembly and the handwashing compartment latch.

[0091] Figure 24 A front close-up view of the handwashing stall latch access panel assembly is shown.

[0092] Figure 25 A rear close-up view of the handwashing stall latch drive assembly is depicted.

[0093] Figure 26 This is an exploded view showing the components included within the housing assembly on the toilet stall latch.

[0094] Figure 27 This shows a close-up rear view of the housing assembly on the toilet stall latch.

[0095] Figure 28 An exploded view of the front of the toilet stall latch housing, base plate cover, and base plate is shown.

[0096] Figure 29 A front view of the handwashing stall door latch and the handwashing stall door latch in the open position is shown.

[0097] Figure 30A A front view of the bacterial purification chamber (referred to herein as the "POS chamber") and mounting rack of a retail point-of-sale ("POS") terminal is shown.

[0098] Figure 30B A front view of the open POS room and mounting brackets is shown.

[0099] Figure 30C The rear perspective view shows the POS room and mounting bracket.

[0100] Figure 31A A front view of a POS substrate with a microcontroller and UV-C is depicted.

[0101] Figure 31B A front view of a POS substrate cover with a UV-C cutout is shown.

[0102] Figure 32A An exploded front view of the POS substrate cover is depicted, which is projected onto the POS substrate and the mounting bracket above and near the POS substrate.

[0103] Figure 32B This shows a front view of the POS substrate assembly and mounting bracket.

[0104] Figure 33A A close-up front view of the POS room access panel assembly is shown.

[0105] Figure 33B The rear view of the POS room drive components is shown.

[0106] Figure 33C Shows a rear view of the POS compartment housing assembly.

[0107] Figure 34A An exploded front view of the POS chamber housing assembly, showing its position projected onto the POS baseboard assembly and mounting bracket.

[0108] Figure 34B A front view of the enclosed POS room is shown.

[0109] Figure 35A A front view (A) of the POS room in the closed position is shown.

[0110] Figure 35B A front view (B) of the POS room with a retracted access panel is shown.

[0111] Figure 35C A front view (C) of the POS compartment with two retracted access panels is shown.

[0112] Figure 35D A front view (D) of the POS room with three access panels is shown.

[0113] Figure 35E A front view (E) of the POS compartment with four retracted access panels is shown.

[0114] Figure 35F A front view (F) of the POS room with five retracted access panels is shown.

[0115] Figure 35G A front view (and G) of the POS compartment with six retractable access panels is shown.

[0116] Figure 36 A front perspective view of the POS room installed at the retail checkout counter is shown.

[0117] Figure 37A A front view of the cylindrical bacterial purification chamber (also referred to here as the "SC chamber") of the shopping cart adjacent to the shopping cart is shown.

[0118] Figure 37B A front view close-up of the SC chamber, entry sensor, and status lights is shown.

[0119] Figure 38A A front view of the SC chamber substrate is depicted.

[0120] Figure 38B This is a top perspective view showing the SC chamber substrate and UV-C.

[0121] Figure 39A An elevated side view of the SC chamber substrate cover with a UV-C cutout is shown.

[0122] Figure 39B An exploded front perspective view of the raised SC compartment floor cover is shown, projected onto the SC compartment floor that together form the landing gear assembly.

[0123] Figure 40A An exploded front view of the landing gear assembly, projected onto the left and right outer shells adjacent to the shopping cart handle and SC compartment, is shown.

[0124] Figure 40B A side perspective view of the assembled left casing and battery access panel is shown.

[0125] Figure 41A An exploded perspective view of the components, including the left outer shell of the SC chamber, is shown.

[0126] Figure 41B A side close-up view of the left casing and battery access panel is shown.

[0127] Figure 42A An exploded side perspective view of the drive hub (also referred to as the "hub") protruding from the driven drum (also referred to as the "drum") adjacent to the left housing is shown.

[0128] Figure 42B A side close-up view of the left wheel hub and drum assembly (also referred to here as the "H&D assembly") in the closed position is depicted.

[0129] Figure 43A An exploded perspective view of the components, including the right outer shell of the SC chamber, is shown.

[0130] Figure 43B A side perspective view of the left and right housings, which are oppositely arranged and parallel to the cylinder drive panel (also referred to herein as "cylinder panel #1"), in the closed position.

[0131] Figure 44A A side close-up view of the left wheel hub and drum assembly and the cylindrical track assembly (also referred to herein as the “cylindrical track” or “track”) in the closed position is shown, with projection lines detailing the rotation of the wheel hub and drum assembly during retraction.

[0132] Figure 44B A close-up side view of the nylon slide is shown.

[0133] Figure 45A A top perspective view of the cylindrical access panel is shown.

[0134] Figure 45B A bottom perspective view of the cylindrical access panel is shown.

[0135] Figure 45C This represents a bottom perspective exploded view that projects the interface between the three access panels and the cylindrical drive clamp (also referred to herein as the "cylindrical drive clamp") and the cylindrical channel guide (also referred to herein as the "cylindrical channel guide").

[0136] Figure 46A A side close-up view (A) shows the left wheel hub and drum assembly in hub position "0" (closed).

[0137] Figure 46B A side close-up view (B) of the left wheel hub and drum assembly in hub position "1" (one panel retracted).

[0138] Figure 46C A side close-up view (C) of the left wheel hub and drum assembly in hub position "2" (both panels retracted).

[0139] Figure 46D A side close-up view (D) of the left wheel hub and drum assembly in hub position "3" (three panels retracted).

[0140] Figure 46E A side close-up view (E) of the left wheel hub and roller assembly in hub position "4" (access panel open).

[0141] Figure 47A A top view (A) of the panel of the SC chamber in the closed position (hub position "0") is shown.

[0142] Figure 47B A top view of the SC compartment panels is shown, with one of the access panels retracted (hub position "1") (B).

[0143] Figure 47C A top view of the SC compartment panels is shown, with two access panels retracted (hub position "2") (C).

[0144] Figure 47D A top view of the SC compartment panel is shown, with three access panels retracted (hub position "3") (D).

[0145] Figure 47E A top view of the SC compartment panels is shown, with all access panels retracted (hub position "4") (and E).

[0146] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed description, the same reference numerals may refer to the same elements. The drawings may not be drawn to scale, and for clarity, illustration, and convenience, the relative sizes, proportions, and depictions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0147] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singular forms "an," "a," and "the" should include both the plural and singular forms unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0148] It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the said features, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0149] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and this disclosure, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0150] The following detailed description is provided to help readers fully understand the methods, products, and / or systems described herein. However, various variations, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, products, or systems described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0151] In describing this invention, it will be understood that numerous techniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these techniques has its own individual benefits, and each can also be used in combination with one or more, or in some cases, all other disclosed techniques. Therefore, for clarity, this description will avoid unnecessarily repeating every possible combination of the individual steps. However, it should be understood upon reading the specification that such combinations are entirely within the scope of this invention.

[0152] This article discusses novel methods and devices for purifying bacteria from inanimate objects (hereinafter referred to as "fomites") at human contact points, and for sealing fomites during use to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. For the purposes of this invention, examples of fomites include, but are not limited to, door handles, toilet stall latches, lock pins, air pump handles, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, shopping cart handles, elevator control panels, public telephones, tissue dispensers, toilet handles, and seats. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced without these specific details.

[0153] This disclosure is to be regarded as an example of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments shown in the following drawings or description.

[0154] According to one embodiment, a method for disinfecting and sealing contaminants at human contact points is provided. A device includes a solid housing adjacent to or attached to the contaminant, forming a sealed chamber to isolate contaminants in the air from pathogens. The housing includes a front cutout and a rear opening. The front cutout is preferably located in front of the touch point and is sealed with one or more retractable panels, providing access to the contaminant for the user when retracted. The rear of the housing is sealed by a base plate or directly to the structure to which the contaminant is attached. After each use, a sterilization process is performed to kill / inactivate microorganisms; subsequently, the device remains sealed, opening only when detected by the user via sensor technology to prevent airborne pathogens from adhering to the contaminant during use.

[0155] According to one embodiment, a device (also referred to as a "device" or "chamber") configured to purify and seal contaminants at human contact points is provided. The device includes a solid outer front housing positioned on and adjacent to or connected to the contaminant to form a sealed chamber. The housing is characterized by an opening in front of the contaminant, sealed by one or more retractable panels, and an opening at the rear that is wholly or partially surrounded by a substrate. The interior of the chamber is coated with a UV-C reflective material, such as aluminum foil, PTFE, UV reflective coating, or any similar material proven to maximize UV ​​reflectivity. The interior of the chamber also includes one or more UV-C wavelength LED semiconductor chips (hereinafter referred to as "UV-C", "UV-C source", or "chip") optimally mounted at a fixed or adjustable angle on the substrate and / or the upper housing assembly including the retractable panels to ensure proper coverage and most effective placement, surrounding the contaminant to kill adjacent bacteria within seconds of each user interaction via ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (also referred to herein as "UVGI"). In this embodiment, UV-C preferably delivers its dose at an optimal wavelength of 265 nm. The device remains sealed after a UVGI cycle to prevent airborne pathogens from contaminating contaminants between users. When a user is detected by sensor technology, the access panel retracts to allow unobstructed access to sterile contaminants, and then shuts down after use to perform a UVGI cycle and once again isolate contaminants from airborne pathogens.

[0156] According to some embodiments, the device may replace 265 nm with a single alternative UV-C wavelength, such as far-UV-C in the 207-222 nm range, to target one or more specific bacteria that are optimally inactivated at the alternative wavelength. According to some embodiments, the device may include a multi-wavelength UV-C array within a chamber to target different types of bacteria that are optimally inactivated at the alternative wavelength. For example, some protein-based bacteria are optimally killed at 220 nm instead of 265 nm, while other bacteria may be more susceptible to a 280 nm wavelength. According to some embodiments, the chamber of the device may include an ozone-generating UV operating at a 185 nm wavelength, which may be used in combination with non-ozone-generating UV-C or as a standalone bactericidal solution. According to some embodiments, the UV light source within the chamber may be an LED, pulsed xenon, low-pressure mercury, or any other suitable UV light transmission format. According to some embodiments, the device may include a single, independent housing without a back substrate.

[0157] According to some embodiments, a bacterial purification system is also provided, which includes any of the bacterial purification devices described herein, said bacterial purification devices being configured to be integrated into devices or products that include contaminants. For the purposes of this invention, examples of devices or products that include contaminants include, but are not limited to, doors, toilet stalls, latches, air pumps, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, shopping carts, elevators, public telephones, tissue dispensers, computer keyboards, toilets, etc.

[0158] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments. Figure 1A-17E Examples of bacterial decontamination chambers for a broad spectrum of human contact point contaminants are described.

[0159] Figure 1A-1D Front, side, front perspective, and elevated rear perspective views of a bacterial decontamination chamber (also referred to herein as a “chamber” or “device”) 100 for human contact point contaminants 115 are shown. Figure 1A A front view of the exterior of the bacterial purification chamber 100 is shown, and the external components of the upper housing assembly 101 (also referred to herein as "UHA") are identified. The base 102 is the outer shell of the chamber 100, including a central cutout to provide a front inlet to contaminant 115 and an open rear area allowing it to be positioned above contaminant 115 (FIG. 1D) and adjacent to the base plate assembly 118 at the rear of the chamber 100 (FIG. 1D). The base 102 may be constructed of plastic, aluminum, carbon fiber, glass fiber, or any other suitable material. Behind the cutout, a maintenance panel assembly 103 (also referred to herein as "maintenance panel" or "panel") comprising a collection of four maintenance panels for the device 100 is positioned to seal the front of the chamber 100 during ultraviolet sterilization irradiation (hereinafter referred to herein as "UVGI" or "UVGI cycle") cycles and when maintenance is not required to prevent recontamination by airborne microorganisms.

[0160] Figure 1A An embedded emergency handle 104 located near the bottom of access panel 103 is also shown for raising and lowering access panel 103 in the event of a power outage or mechanical failure. Access sensor 106 is located below access panel 103 to detect the presence of a user and trigger the opening of access panel 103. Two chamber status lights 105 are located on each side of the access sensor to visually report system readiness status, i.e., power on, UVGI progress, fault, and battery status.

[0161] Figure 1B A side perspective view of chamber 100 is depicted, in which the access panel #151 (also referred to herein as the "drive panel") is partially retracted to expose the obstacle sensor 110, as shown. Figure 1CAs shown. The right side of the chamber includes a battery access door 107, a battery release latch 108 (also referred to herein as a "battery latch"), and a battery lock 109. In a preferred embodiment, the battery 126 may be lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (Li-NMC), lithium-ion ("Li-ion"), or any other long-life type that optimizes chamber performance. In some embodiments, the device may be powered via AC connection, wireless, solar power, or any other means that will provide sufficient power to the device.

[0162] Figure 1C A front view of chamber 100 is shown, in which access panel 103 is raised into panel bracket 111 (not visible), exposing the peripheral components of access panel assembly 139 (also referred to herein as “AP assembly”), including access panel frame 113 (also referred to herein as “AP frame”), embedded panel rail 112 (also referred to herein as “rail” or simply “rail”), support bridge 114 and contaminant 115, as shown by rectangular dashed lines. Figure 1C The location of obstacle sensor 110 is also marked. This obstacle sensor detects the presence of a user or foreign object during the closure of access panel 103, thereby causing chamber 100 to reverse the closure procedure and retract access panel 103 into panel compartment 111. The rear of chamber 100 is shown in the top view of Figure 1D, including the substrate assembly 118 and an example of contaminant 115 defined by a rectangular dashed line.

[0163] Now for reference Figure 2An elevated rear perspective exploded view shows the main components of the chamber 100, including the upper housing assembly 101 and the base plate assembly 118. A rear view of the chassis 102 is illustrated from a top-right, bottom-left perspective. The drive assembly 122 includes a drive motor 119, a drive shaft 120 (also referred to herein as a "shaft"), pulleys 121, and an access panel 103 mounted to align the access panel 103 with the front center opening of the chassis 102. A U-shaped shield 123, including a UV-reflective coating 124, is fixed to the drive motor 119, with legs 123 extending to cover the sides of the drive assembly 122. A UV-C 125 is mounted near the vertical arm of the shield, positioned to deliver a direct UVGI dose to the front and / or sides of the contaminant 115. In some embodiments, the UV-C 125 may be mounted in an alternative location within the upper housing assembly 101, including at the rear of the access panel 103 facing the contaminant 115, to deliver an optimal UVGI dose. Battery 126 is fixed to the top rear of shield 123 to complete the main component of upper housing assembly 101. A substrate cover 117, formed by UV-C notches 127, is attached to the rear of upper housing assembly 101, followed by substrate 116, which comprises a microcontroller 128 and a UV-C 125 located near contaminant 115. The combined substrate cover 117 and substrate 116 form a shape as shown in the image. Figure 3D The substrate assembly 118 shown.

[0164] Now for reference Figure 3A -D, Figure 3A and 3B Front views of substrate 116 and substrate cover 117 are shown, each substrate 116 and cover 117 being divided into two sides, L and R. The right side of substrate 116-R and substrate cover 117-R each includes top and bottom interlocking tabs 129, which connect to recessed tab receivers 130 (collectively referred to herein as "interlocking tabs") on the left side of substrate 116-L and substrate cover 117. This allows substrate 116 and substrate cover 117 to be mounted as a single assembly unit near the bottom of contaminant 115, forming a configuration such as... Figure 3D The substrate assembly 118 shown.

[0165] return Figure 3AThe substrate 116 includes a microcontroller 128 to manage the power, sensors, mechanics, and all programming functions of the chamber 100. In a preferred embodiment, the substrate 116 also includes one or more UV-C LED chips 125 (also referred to herein as "UV-C," "UV-C source," or "chip") embedded or fixed within an adhesive strip fixed to an adjustable UV-C mounting bracket 131. The UV-C mounting stage 131 is then attached to the vicinity of the substrate 116. The UV-C 125 fixed to the substrate allows the wavelength to be directed towards the rear and sides of contaminants 115 that are exposed to some or all of these areas, such as door handles 155, rather than the front. Figure 15B The door handle 155 receives a small percentage of contact with the front or front side. In an alternative embodiment, the UV-C mounting bracket 131 is eliminated, thereby allowing the UV-C 125 to be directly attached to the substrate 116.

[0166] Continue to refer to Figure 3A In the preferred embodiment, the UV-C 125 LED operates precisely at 265 nm, which is widely recognized as the optimal wavelength for ultraviolet sterilization. While all bacteria have been shown to be inactivated by UV-C 125 at 265 nm, some protein-based bacteria are optimally inactivated at 220 nm, while others are most rapidly inactivated near 280 nm. Therefore, alternative embodiments require the deployment of multi-wavelength or multi-mode UV-C 125 arrays throughout the chamber 100, delivered in pulses to specifically target particular bacterial species.

[0167] like Figure 3B As shown, the substrate cover 117 is coated with a UV-reflective material or substance 124, such as a PTFE reflector, paint, aluminum foil, or any other material or coating proven to enhance UV reflectivity. The substrate cover 117 has a UV-C cutout 127 directly above the UV-C 125 on the substrate 116. In a preferred embodiment, the UV-C cutout 127 is not covered; however, in some embodiments, it may be covered with a suitable translucent material to hermetically seal the UV-C 125 as required by the application.

[0168] like Figure 3C As shown in the exploded projection view, the substrate cover 117 covers the substrate 116, and together they form the substrate assembly 118, as... Figure 3D As shown. The substrate 116 and substrate cover 117 can be made of plastic, metal or any other suitable material. While this is a preferred embodiment, alternative embodiments can be deployed to achieve the desired results, such as an integral substrate 116 and a cover with a hollow core to allow placement through contaminants 115, a substrate 116 without a cover, a single integrated substrate 116 and cover, or other embodiments not mentioned herein.

[0169] Now for reference Figure 4 The exploded front view of the upper housing assembly 101 (“UHA”) projected onto the substrate cover 117 and the substrate 116 is described in further detail. The substrate 116, having UV-C 125, and the microcontroller 128 are mounted near the contaminant 115, and the substrate cover 117, having a UV-C notch 127, is attached to the substrate 116. The upper housing assembly 101 is then placed on the contaminant 115 and secured to the substrate assembly 118 to operate the chamber 100. In an alternative embodiment, the upper housing 101 and the substrate assembly 118 are pre-assembled, allowing the chamber 100 to be attached to the contaminant 115 in a single piece.

[0170] Figure 5 The image shows a top exploded view of a UV-C mounting bracket 131, which includes a mounting base 132, a pivot plate 134, and a UV-C mounting tray 137 (also referred to herein as a "UV-C tray," "tray," or "mounting tray"). As indicated by the dashed projection arrows, the pivot plate 134 is connected to the mounting base 132, with pivot plate screws and washers 135 passing through the center of the pivot plate and positioned in threaded screw receivers 133 within the mounting base 132, thereby allowing the pivot plate 132 to rotate horizontally. The UV-C tray 137 is attached to parallel and opposing pivot plate hinges 136 on each side of the pivot plate 134 using mounting tray hinge screws 138, thereby allowing the UV-C tray 136 to pivot forward and backward. With the UV-C mounting bracket 131 secured to the substrate 116, the UV-C 125 can be positioned to deliver a UV-C dose at an optimal direction and angle to most effectively perform its UVGI function.

[0171] Figure 6A -F indicates the directional and angular flexibility offered by the UV-C mounting bracket 131. Figure 6A A side view showing the pivot angle in increments of 15° from 15° to 90°. Figure 6B A front perspective view with a 30° slouch angle is shown. Figure 6C A top view at a 75° angle is shown. Figure 6D A front stereoscopic view at a 45° tilt angle is shown. Figure 6E A front perspective view with a 15° tilt angle is shown, while Figure 6F A top view showing the rotation range of the mounting bracket 131.

[0172] Now for reference Figure 7The image shows a front close-up view of the access panel assembly 139 (also referred to herein as the "AP assembly"). The AP assembly 139 includes an access panel group (also referred to herein as the "access panel") 103 adjacent to the access panel frame 113 (also referred to herein as the "AP frame"), a panel guide rail 112, and a support bridge 114, which are arranged parallel to each other to form the left and right sides of the AP assembly 139.

[0173] Figure 8A A top view is shown of the access panel frame 113, panel rails 112, and support bridge 114, arranged parallel and opposite to each other on the left and right sides. Referring to the access panel frame 113, three embedded panel rails 112 are shown, such as... Figure 8B As shown, each guide rail is lined with a nylon slide 140 to improve sliding motion and reduce friction during the movement of the access panel 103. In this four-panel embodiment, the fourth guide rail is an opening formed between the bottom of the access panel frame 113, designated as support bridge 114, and the bottom edge of the third embedded panel guide rail.

[0174] In addition to panel guide rail 112 being identified as a component group, Figure 8A In this four-panel configuration, each individual panel rail is identified as extending individually from rails #1-4. Referring back to the left side of the figure, from the top rail to the bottom (illustrated from left to right), rail #1143 in this four-panel configuration moves from its panel bracket 111 position to shield the first 25% of the opening of chamber 100. Rail #2 144 shields 25-50% of the opening of chamber 100. Rail #3 145 shields 50-75% of the opening. Rail #145 (also referred to herein as the “drive rail”) is an opening formed between the bottom of the access panel frame 113, identified as support bridge 114, and the bottom edge of panel rail #145, and shields 75-100% (bottom) of the opening of chamber 100 to complete the closure and sealing of chamber 100.

[0175] Figure 9A and 9B Top and side views of the drive clamp 141 are shown. The drive clamp 141 is attached to (or optionally molded into) the outer right and left portions of the drive panel 151, and its circular fork is attached to the drive chain 147. The flat base of the drive clamp 141 travels on the protruding edge of the AP frame 113, referred to herein as the support bridge 114, and abuts against the panel support arm 142 during retraction to ensure that each panel 103 remains synchronized and stable.

[0176] Figure 9C and 9DElevated side view and side close-up view of support arm 142 are shown, which is attached to (or optionally molded into) the outer left and right sides of each individual access panel within AP group 103. The base of support arm 142 moves laterally along support bridge 114 to stabilize and maintain synchronization of access panels 103. During retraction, support arm 142 is pushed by drive clamps as it moves, stacks, and stops within panel holder 111.

[0177] Figures 10A-10C The left-side access panel frame 113, panel guide rail 112, and support bridge 114 are shown. Figure 11 The side sectional view of the illustrated support of panel 103 is used as an access panel #1148. Figure 11 The side support of the access panel is responsible for sealing the top 25% of the chamber 100 when panel 103 is fully closed. Rail #2 144 and access panel #2 149 ( Figure 11 Adjacent to each other, and sealed from 25-50%, track #3 145 and access panel #3 150 ( Figure 11 (Middle) Adjacent to each other, and sealed from 50-75%, track #4 146 (drive track) is adjacent to access panel #4 151 (also referred to herein as "drive panel") Figure 11 (In the middle) 75-100% of the opening of the sealed chamber 100. Figure 10B Details are extended from 10A by adding a transparent view of the support arms 142 and drive clamps 141 extending from their respective panels to the support bridge 114. Furthermore, Figure 10B The exploded projection of pulley 121 and drive chain position 147 relative to the access panel frame 113 is shown. Figure 10C This view is achieved by placing pulley 121 and drive chain 147 in their proper positions according to this embodiment. This view is mirrored on the right side of the chamber.

[0178] Figure 11 A side cross-sectional close-up view of the access panel assembly 139, including the AP frame 113, support bridge 114, track 112, and access panel 103, is shown. The access panel 103 is in the closed position, and each panel is connected to its respective dedicated panel track 112 (previously in...). Figure 10A (As shown in the image). View from right to left. Figure 11 As illustrated, panel #1148 seals the top 25% of the front portion of chamber 100, followed by panels #149, #150, and #151 (also referred to herein as the "drive panels"). In this four-panel embodiment, panel #148 seals the remainder of chamber 100 in 25% increments. When retracted, panels 103 stack on top of each other and "park" in panel compartment 111 to reduce the footprint of chamber 100 outside the area covered by contaminants 115, as shown. Figure 12EAs shown. In this embodiment, pulleys 121 are located at each end of the AP frame 113, and drive chain 147 loops around the top and bottom of the support bridge 114.

[0179] For more detailed instructions, please refer to the operation of AP component 139. Figure 12A -E shows a close-up side cross-sectional view of the five stages of panel retraction in the four-panel embodiment. Figure 12A The access panel 103 is shown in the closed position. Panel #151 (drive panel) is located at the bottom of access panel 103; when it retracts, it begins to push access panel #150, as... Figure 12B As shown. When panel #3 150 continues to be retracted by driven panel 151, it captures panel #2 149, as... Figure 12C As shown. When drive panel 151, inspection panel #3 150, and inspection panel #2 149 are docked with panel #1 148, they continue to retract synchronously, as... Figure 12D As shown, all the access panels 103 are stacked on top of each other. Figure 12D The chain 147 shown continues to retract, driving panel 151, so that panel #2 149 captures panel #1 148 until they are both within their respective tracks 143, 144, 145, 146 in panel compartment 111 (panel compartment area is divided by...). Figure 12A -E is defined by a dashed vertical line, such as Figure 12E As shown.

[0180] Figure 13A rear close-up view of the drive assembly 122 is shown, which includes a drive motor 119, a drive shaft 120, a pulley 121, a chain 147, an access panel frame 113, a guide rail 112, a support bridge 114, an access panel 103 (including AP#1-4148, 149, 150, 151 (mentioned separately in this figure), a support arm 142, a drive panel 151, a drive clamp 141, a channel guide 153, a guide clamp 152, a panel bracket 111, and a UV reflective coating 124. When the drive motor 119 is actuated, the drive... Drive shaft 120 and pulley 121 initiate movement of chain 147 and attached drive clamp 141, thereby initiating movement of drive panel 151. Two opposing guide clamps 152 are attached (or embedded) to the horizontal leading edge of drive panel 151 and each subsequent access panel 103, wherein the protruding leading edge of guide clamp 152 mates into adjacent channel guides 153. During retraction, the two guide clamps 152 on drive panel 151 move vertically within the channel guide 153 of access panel #150 and begin pushing it toward access panel #149. Access panel #3 Guide clamps 152 on 150 and each subsequent access panel travel within their adjacent channel guides 153 to push adjacent panels in the appropriate direction. Access panels 103 are stabilized and synchronized during movement by support arms 142 and the base of drive clamps 141, which slide along and are supported by support bridges 114. In alternative embodiments, drive assembly 122 may include any mechanism capable of raising and lowering access panels, including but not limited to belts, springs, magnets, and hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric linear actuators.

[0181] Figure 14 A rear close-up view of the interior of the upper housing assembly 101 is shown. Components shown in this view include the chassis 102, battery 126, panel bracket 111, UV-C 125, UV-C mounting bracket 131, support arm 142, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, drive clip 141, emergency handle 104, obstacle sensor 110, access panel 103, and UV reflective surface 124 (not visible).

[0182] Figure 15A -D indicates a front perspective view of the bacterial purification chamber 100, with the access panel 103 retracted, showing examples of the positioning of different contaminants 115 within the chamber. Figure 15A A bacterial purification chamber 100 adjacent to the elevator control panel 154 is depicted. Figure 15B A room 100 adjacent to an internal vertical bar door handle 155 is shown, such as a door handle used in theaters and auditoriums. Figure 15C Room 100 is shown adjacent to wall-mounted courtesy telephones 156, such as those found in airports and hotels. Figure 15DThe room 100 adjacent to the handwashing stall lock handle 157 is shown.

[0183] Figure 16 A flowchart 158 ​​is shown, illustrating one version of the operation of a bacterial decontamination chamber 100 for human contact point contaminants 115. In standby mode, access sensor 106 monitors the presence of a user, the definition of which varies depending on the application. In some embodiments, a user can be defined as anyone within a defined distance of chamber 100, i.e., six feet; in some other embodiments, a user can be defined as someone who has placed their hand within a defined range of sensor 106, i.e., six inches; and in still other embodiments, a user can be defined as someone with a mobile application within the range of chamber 100, the method or device being defined by chamber 100 as an authorized user. When a user is detected, access panel 103 retracts and remains open for a programmed period until sensor 106 no longer detects any obstruction, or a combination of both. When the closing criteria have been met, access panel 103 begins to close and stops only in the presence of an obstruction or a newly defined user, in which case the access panel will begin to retract again. After device 100 is sealed, a UVGI cycle begins. If a user is detected during the cycle, the cycle stops and access panel 103 opens. Once the UVGI cycle is complete, the access panel 103 remains closed to prevent recontamination by airborne pathogens, and the device 100 remains in standby mode until the presence of a user is detected.

[0184] Figure 17A -E shows a front perspective view of the bacterial purification chamber 100, illustrating the use of the elevator control panel 154 (as shown). Figure 17E (As shown) are the five stages of panel collapse as an example of template 115. Figure 17A A closed and sealed chamber 100 is shown. Figure 17B A chamber 100 is shown having a panel #4 151 (drive panel) that retracts behind the access panel #3 150. Figure 17C The room 100 is shown to be 50% open. Figure 17D The room was shown to be 75% open, and Figure 17E An open room 200 is shown, which displays a sterile elevator control panel 154.

[0185] Now refer to another embodiment, Figure 18A-20B A commercial door handle and lock bacterial purification chamber 200 (also referred to herein as a "DHL chamber") is shown. Except for the construction of the substrate 116 and substrate cover 117, this embodiment is similar to... Figure 1A The invention (bacterial purification chamber) remains unchanged; therefore, this description is limited to variations and resulting embodiments of the invention.

[0186] like Figure 18A As shown in the front view of -D, the door handle and lock base plate assembly 203 (also referred to herein as the "DHL base plate assembly") in this embodiment has a shape-fitting cutout to conform to the contour of contaminant 115, in this case being a commercial door handle and lock 204. Figure 18A The left and right sides of a two-piece door handle and lock base plate 201_L, 201-R (also referred to herein as the “DHL base plate”) are shown. The base plate includes a microcontroller 128, a UV-C 125, and a UV-C mounting bracket 131, which are prepared for mounting near the base of the handle and lock 203 using convex 129 and concave 130 interlocking tabs. Figure 18B The resulting one-piece DHL substrate 201 is shown in the figure. Figure 18C The image shows the separated left and right sides of the assembled door handle and lock base cover 202-L, 202-R (also referred to herein as "DHL base cover"). Figure 18D The resulting DHL substrate assembly 203 is shown, which has a UV reflective coating 124 installed near the door handle and lock 204.

[0187] Figure 19A A far-front perspective view of commercial door 205, handle, and lock 204 is shown. Figure 18D An exploded front view of the adjacently assembled DHL substrate assembly 203 and the upper housing assembly 101 is shown, projected onto a position adjacent to the DHL substrate assembly 202. Figure 19B A front perspective view of a DHL bacterial cleanroom 200 mounted on a commercial door 205 is shown, with the access panel 103 open to reveal an adjacent door handle and lock 204.

[0188] Now refer to another embodiment, Figure 20A-21C The gas pump handle bacterial purification chamber (also referred to herein as the "GP chamber") is shown. Except for the construction of the substrate 116 and substrate cover 117, this embodiment is similar to... Figure 1A The embodiments of the present invention (bacterial purification chamber) have not changed, therefore the description is limited to variations and illustrations of the final embodiments of the present invention.

[0189] like Figure 20A As shown in the front view of -D, the gas pump base plate assembly 303 (also referred to herein as the "GP base plate assembly") in this embodiment has a shape-fitting cutout to conform to the contour of the contaminant 115, in which case the gas pump handle 304 (also referred to herein as the "GP handle" or "gas pump") is also present. Figure 20AThe left and right sides of a two-piece air pump base plate 301_L, 301-R (also referred to herein as the “GP base plate”) are shown. This base plate includes a microcontroller 128, a UV-C 125, and a UV-C mounting bracket 131, ready to be mounted at the bottom near the air pump handle 304 and the retractable hose well 305 using convex 129 and concave 130 interlocking tabs. Figure 20B The resulting integrated GP base plate 301, adjacent to the GP handle 304 and the retractable hose well 305, is shown in the figure. Figure 20C The image shows the separated left and right sides of the assembled air pump base plate covers 302-L and 302-R (also referred to herein as "GP base plate covers"). Figure 20D The resulting GP substrate assembly 303 is shown, which has a UV-reflective coating 124 mounted near the GP handle 304 and the retractable hose well 305.

[0190] Figure 21A A far-front perspective view of the air pump handle 304 and the retractable hose well 305 is shown, wherein the adjacently assembled GP base plate assembly 303 has Figure 20D The UV reflective coating 124 shown. Figure 21B A front perspective view of the GP bacterial purification chamber 300 is shown, with panel 103 open. Figure 21C An example of a fuel pump handle bacterial purification chamber 300 in the closed position, adjacent to the fuel pump handle 304, is shown in the environment of a gas station service island 306.

[0191] Now, referring to another embodiment of the invention, Figure 22A -D respectively show the front closed, side, front open, and top perspective views of an embodiment of the handwashing stall latched bacterial purification chamber 400 (also referred to herein as the "RS chamber"). Figure 22A As shown, the front of the RS room includes a washroom stall drive panel 412 (access panel) (also referred to herein as the “RS drive panel”), an emergency handle 104, an entry sensor 106, and four system status lights 105 to the left of the entry sensor 106, with a stall latch 406 protruding from the side.

[0192] like Figure 22BAs shown, the elevated side perspective view reveals the latch gateway 404 on the side of the RS chamber 400, and an exploded view projected onto a location adjacent to the latch gateway 402. The brush cover 405 forms the framework of the latch gateway 404 and is composed of multiple layers of dense but flexible fibers to seal the latch gateway while allowing the stall latch 406 (also referred to herein as the "latch") to have a degree of freedom of lateral movement. The inward-facing fibers of the brush cover 405 are layered with a UV-reflective coating 124 to enhance UV reflectivity. In some other embodiments, the brush cover 405 may be made of any material or substance that allows the latch 406 to move laterally while continuing to seal the latch inlet 404. In some other embodiments, the RS chamber 400 may not include the brush cover 405.

[0193] Figure 22C A front view of the RS chamber 400 is depicted, with the drive panel 412 retracted into the panel compartment 111. Figure 22D The view shows an elevated top perspective of RS chamber 400, which displays battery access door 107, battery release latch 108 (also referred to herein as “battery latch”), and battery lock 109 (also referred to herein as “safety lock”).

[0194] like Figure 23A As shown in the front view of -D, the washroom stall latch base plate assembly 403 (also referred to herein as the "RS base plate assembly") has a shape-fitting cutout to conform to the contour of the contaminant 115, in which case the washroom stall latch 406 (also referred herein as the "stall latch") is located. Figure 23A The left and right sides of a two-piece handwashing stall latch base plate 401 (also referred to herein as the “RS base plate”) consisting of a microcontroller 128, a UV-C 125, and a UV-C mounting bracket 131 are shown. The UV-C mounting bracket 131 is prepared to be mounted near the base of the stall latch 406 using convex 129 and concave 130 interlocking tabs. Figure 23B The resulting one-piece RS substrate 401 is shown in the figure. Figure 23C The left and right sides of the two-piece handwashing stall latch base cover 402 (also referred to herein as the "RS base cover") are shown. Figure 23D The resulting RS substrate assembly 403 is shown, wherein the UV reflective coating 124 is fitted to the stall latch 406.

[0195] Now for reference Figure 24This image shows a front close-up view of the washroom stall latch access panel assembly 413 (also referred to herein as the "RS access panel assembly"). The RS access panel assembly 413 includes an access panel frame 113, a support bridge 114, and an RS drive panel 412. This differs from previous multi-panel embodiments, which also include rails for auxiliary panels. Functionality remains the same as in the previous embodiments. An entry sensor 106, a status light 105, an obstacle sensor 110, and an emergency handle 104 are also shown.

[0196] Figure 25 A rear close-up view of a toilet stall latch drive assembly 410 (also referred to herein as the "RS drive assembly") is shown. This assembly includes a drive motor 119, drive shaft 120, pulley 121, drive chain 147, access panel frame 113, support bridge 114, drive clamp 141, passage guide 153, guide clamp 152, obstacle sensor 110, RS drive panel 412, and emergency handle 104. Its function is identical to that of the invention of 1A.

[0197] Figure 26 An exploded rear perspective view is depicted of the upper housing assembly 408 of the washroom stall latch (also referred to herein as "RS UHA"), and the battery 126 including a UV-reflective coating 124. This function is related to... Figure 1A The invention remains consistent with the previous one; however, due to the different physical structure of the single-panel embodiment, additional panels, panel rails and associated support components are eliminated.

[0198] Figure 27 The rear view of the assembled RS UHA 408 is shown, which has visible components including RS chassis 409, shield 123, battery 126, UV-C 125, UV reflective coating 124, RS drive panel 412, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, obstacle sensor 110 and emergency handle 104.

[0199] Figure 28 An exploded front view of RS substrate 401, RS substrate cover 402 and RS UHA 408 is shown, projected onto the location of the adjacent handwashing stall latch 406.

[0200] Figure 29 A front perspective view of a washroom stall door 411, a stall latch 406, and a stall latch receiver 407 is shown, wherein an adjacent RS chamber 400 has an open RS drive panel 412 to allow access to the latch 406.

[0201] Now, referring to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 30A-36 A separate point-of-sale (POS) terminal bactericidal purification chamber 500 (also referred to herein as a "POS room") for use at retail checkout counters 508, etc., is shown.

[0202] Figure 30A -C depicts a front closed view, a front open view, and a rear perspective view of the POS compartment adjacent to the POS mounting bracket. The bracket can be permanently fixed to a fixture, such as a table or counter, using fasteners or adhesives, or can be removed and moved as needed depending on the application and environment. In this embodiment, the front of the POS compartment includes a chassis 502, access sensors 106, status lights 105, obstacle sensors 110, the POS bracket 506, and a six-panel access panel assembly (also referred to herein as "access panels") 524 to minimize the vertical footprint of the device, such as... Figure 30A -B is shown. Figure 30C The rear perspective view reveals a direct AC power connection 509 for the POS compartment. Alternative embodiments may include a battery 126 power supply for environments where AC connectivity is unavailable. The POS compartment may be constructed of plastic, metal, or any other suitable material.

[0203] Now for reference Figure 31A -B, Figure 31A The image shows a front view of a POS substrate 503, which includes a substrate 503, a microcontroller 128, an embedded POS mounting surface 507, a UV-C 125, and a UV-C mounting bracket 131. The depth of the POS substrate 503 allows for the placement of a POS terminal 510. Figure 35G The UV-C 125 and UV-C mounting bracket 131 are mounted to the surface of the substrate 503, which has an upwardly sloping lower edge. In an alternative embodiment, the UV-C 125 may be placed directly on the surface of the substrate 503 without the UV-C mounting bracket 131. In another alternative embodiment, the UV-C 125 may be positioned at the rear of the access panel 524. Figure 31B The front view of the POS substrate cover 504 is shown, which includes a UV-C cutout 127, a UV reflective surface 124, and a POS bracket mounting plate 508.

[0204] Figure 32A An exploded view of a POS substrate cover 504 is depicted, which includes a UV-C notch 127 and a mounting bracket plate 508 projected onto the top and vicinity of a POS substrate 503, which includes a microcontroller 128, a UV-C port 125, and an embedded POS mounting plate surface 507. Figure 32B As shown, the combined POS substrate 503 and POS substrate cover 504 form a POS substrate assembly 505. A POS mounting bracket plate 508 is attached to a POS bracket 506, as shown. Figure 32B As shown. In an alternative embodiment, the POS baseboard assembly 505 can be used as a stand-alone component without using the POS bracket 506 or external mounting equipment.

[0205] Figure 33A The diagram shows a front view of a POS access panel assembly 515 (also referred to herein as a “POS AP assembly”), including a parallel and oppositely arranged access panel frame 113 (also referred to herein as an “AP frame”), a POS panel rail 512 (also referred to herein as a “POS rail”), and a support bridge 114 to form the left and right sides of the POS AP assembly 515 and constitute a POS access panel group 514 (also referred to herein as a “POS access panel” or “access panel”), which includes all access panels of a separately defined POS drive panel 513. The POS AP assembly 515 includes relatively equivalent components and, except for the number of access panels 514 (six against four) and the number of rails 515 supporting the access panels 514 (five against three), is similar to... Figure 1A The invention and for Figure 7 The description provided for the inspection panel assembly 139 shown has the same functional operation.

[0206] Figure 33B A rear close-up view of the POS drive assembly 516 is shown, which includes a drive motor 119, a drive shaft 120, a pulley 121, a chain 147, an access panel frame 113, a POS guide rail 512, a support bridge 114, a POS access panel 514, a support arm 142, a POS drive panel 513, a drive clamp 141, a channel guide 153, a guide clamp 152, a panel bracket 111, an emergency handle 104, and a UV reflective coating 124.

[0207] Still referencing Figure 33B The POS drive assembly 516 shown, when actuated by the drive motor 119, initiates movement of the chain 147 and the attached drive clip 141 via the drive shaft 120 and pulley 121, thereby initiating movement of the POS drive panel 513. Two opposing guide clips 152 are attached (or embedded) to the horizontal leading edge of the POS drive panel 513 and each subsequent POS access panel 514, with the protruding leading edges of the guide clips 152 fitting into adjacent channel guides 153. During retraction, the two guide clips 152 on the drive panel 513 move vertically within the channel guides 153 of the adjacent POS access panel 514 and begin to push it toward the next adjacent POS access panel 514. The guide clips 152 on each POS access panel 514 travel within their adjacent channel guides 153 to push the adjacent access panel 514 in the appropriate direction. The POS access panel 514 is stabilized and synchronized during movement by the base of the support arm 142 and the drive clamp 141, which slides along and is supported by the support bridge 114. Figure 33BThe POS drive assembly 516 shown includes relatively equivalent components, and is similar to the POS drive assembly 516 except for the number of access panels 514, guide rails 512, and their supporting components. Figure 1A The invention and Figure 13 The detailed description has the same functional operation.

[0208] Figure 33C A rear close-up view of the POS upper housing assembly 501 (also referred to herein as "POS UHA") is shown, including the adjacent POS terminal 510 indicated by a rectangular dashed line. Components shown in this view include the POS chassis 502, optional battery 126, panel holder 111, UV-C 125, UV-C mounting bracket 131, support arm 142, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, drive clip 141, emergency handle 104, obstacle sensor 110, POS access panel 514 (including drive panel 513), and UV reflective surface 124 (not visible). Figure 33C The POS UHA 501 shown includes relatively equivalent components, and is similar to the POS UHA 501 except for the number of access panels 514, guide rails 512, and their supporting components. Figure 1A The invention and Figure 14 The detailed description has the same functional operation.

[0209] Figure 34A An exploded view of the POS UHA 501 is shown, which is projected onto and adjacent to the top of the POS base plate assembly 505.

[0210] Figure 35A -G shows a front view of the seven access panel locations of the POS room 500, which are located from... Figure 35A The closing and sealing process begins.

[0211] Figure 36 A front perspective example of the POS room 500 adjacent to the retail checkout counter 511 is shown.

[0212] Now, referring to another embodiment of the invention, Figure 37A-47E A cylindrical bacterial removal chamber 600 is shown. In a preferred embodiment, the cylindrical chamber 600 is used to remove bacteria from elongated and horizontally moving contaminants 115 (i.e., push door handles (e.g., emergency levers, bumper bars, horizontal push levers), shopping cart handles, etc.). In an alternative embodiment, the cylindrical bacterial removal chamber 600 may be oriented vertically or diagonally onto the contaminants 115 that are better served by the cylindrical chamber 600 than by a linear chamber.

[0213] Now for reference Figure 37A-47E The invention shown illustrates a cylindrical bacterial purification chamber (also referred to herein as a "SC chamber") for a shopping cart handle 600. Figure 37AA front view example of SC room 600 adjacent to shopping cart 609 is provided. Figure 37B A front view of the SC compartment 600, separated from the shopping cart 609, is shown. The SC compartment 600 has forward components including a cylindrical access panel assembly 604 (also referred to herein as a “cylinder panel” or “access panel”), a left housing 605, a right housing 606, an access sensor 106, a status light 105, and a landing gear assembly 603.

[0214] Figure 38A -B shows a front view and an elevated front perspective view of the cylindrical substrate 601 (also referred to herein as "cylindrical substrate") of the SC chamber 600. (See diagram below.) Figure 38B As shown, the cylindrical substrate 601 includes a UVC 125 located near the upper rear portion of the ramp to directly deliver the UVGI to the shopping cart handle 610. Figure 40A In a preferred embodiment, the UV-C 125 is embedded or attached to a UV adhesive strip 611, which is pre-wired to deliver power to the UV-C 125. Alternative embodiments include, but are not limited to, the UV-C 125 being directly embedded into a surface during manufacturing, directly adhered to a surface, mounted to a cylindrical substrate 601 using a UV-C mounting bracket 131, or by any other suitable method. In another alternative embodiment, the UV-C 125 may be directly attached to one or more cylindrical panels 604.

[0215] Figure 39A A top perspective view is depicted of a cylindrical substrate cover 602 (also referred to herein as a "cylindrical substrate cover"), which includes a UV-reflective surface 124 composed of a UV-reflective coating, TPFE, aluminum foil, or any other substance / material proven to optimize UV ​​reflectivity. The cylindrical substrate cover 602 also includes a UV-C notch 612 covering a UV-C 125 from the cylindrical substrate 601.

[0216] Figure 39B An elevated front perspective exploded view shows a cylinder base plate cover 602 that protrudes from and is located on the cylinder base plate 601 to form the landing gear assembly 603 of the SC chamber 600. The cylinder base plate 601 and the cylinder base plate cover 602 may be made of metal, plastic or any other suitable material.

[0217] like Figure 40AAs shown in the exploded front view, each side of the shopping cart handle 610 is surrounded by parallel containers identified as the left housing 605 and the right housing 606. The left housing 605 (also referred to herein as the "drive housing") contains the functional power, electrical, and motor components of the SC chamber 600, including the access sensor 106 and the status light 105. The right housing 606 (also referred to herein as the "driven housing") serves as the cylinder access panel 604. Figure 44B The receiver on the right. (Still referencing...) Figure 40A The exploded view shows the landing gear assembly 603 protruding toward its position on the chamber 600, which is located between and adjacent to the left housing 605 and the right housing 606, and below the shopping cart handle 610.

[0218] Figure 40B A side view of the left housing 605, including a battery access door 107, a battery latch 108, and a safety lock 109, is shown. Both the left housing 605 and the right housing 606 can be constructed of metal, plastic, or any other suitable material that provides the necessary strength, rigidity, and durability to optimize the performance of the chamber 600.

[0219] Figure 41A An exploded side perspective view of the components of the left housing 605 is shown, including the left housing chassis 607, microcontroller 128, battery 126, cylindrical drive motor 613 (also referred to herein as a "cylindrical motor" or "motor"), drive shaft 615, motor bracket 614, drive hub 616 (also referred to herein as a "hub"), driven roller 617 (also referred to herein as a "roller"), and end cap 618. The hub 616 is directly connected to the cylinder motor 613 and drive shaft 615, as shown... Figure 41A As shown, clockwise rotation retracts the cylinder access panel 604 in the stacked array, thus providing access to the shopping cart handle 610, while counterclockwise rotation closes and seals the chamber 600. Conversely, the roller 617 serves as a fixed component and therefore does not rotate.

[0220] The opening elliptical center of the end cap 618 is placed around the edge of the roller 617, fixed in place, and then connected to the left chassis 607 to seal the left housing 605. Figure 41B The image depicts an assembled view of the left housing 605 in hub position “0” (closed) 635.

[0221] Figure 42A An exploded close-up view of the left hub 616 is shown, projected onto its position within the center of the left drum 617. (See attached image.) Figure 42B As shown, these two integrated components form the left hub and drum assembly 621 (also referred to herein as the "left H&D assembly"). Figure 42B The cylinder guide 630 supporting the cylinder plate 604 is also shown. Figure 44A-4Additional details regarding the interface between the hub 616, roller 617, and cylinder access panel 604 are provided in 8E.

[0222] For more details, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 37A The invention, Figure 43A The diagram shows an exploded side perspective view of the right housing 606, which includes a right chassis 608, a free-rotating hub 619, a drive shaft 615, a free-rotating hub support 620, a right H&D assembly 622, and an end cap 618. The right housing 606 is a "driven housing" as previously described; it is subordinate to the left housing 605 because it has no power or control functions within the SC chamber 600. Furthermore, the right housing 608 differs from the left housing 607 in that it lacks a microcontroller 128 and a battery 126. Alternative embodiments may include, but are not limited to, electric H&D assemblies in the left housing 621 and right housing 622 driven by a single or multiple cylinders driven by a motor 613 and powered by a single or multiple battery banks 126.

[0223] Please refer to the following for more details. Figure 43A The right housing 606 includes a freely rotating hub 619 and a connected drive shaft 615, which is actuated by the movement of components within the opposing left housing 605. A roller 617 covers the freely rotating hub 619 within the right chassis 608 and is fixed in a fixed position when the end cap 618 is inserted into the chassis 608 to close the right housing assembly 606.

[0224] Figure 43B A side perspective view is shown of the left chassis 607 (showing the sides removed) and the left H&D assembly 621 (other internal components removed for easier viewing) connected to the cylinder panel #1631 (also referred to herein as the “drive panel”), with the cylinder panel connected to the right housing 606 in the closed position.

[0225] Figure 44A This image shows a close-up side view of the left H&D assembly 621 in hub position "0" 635 (closed). When viewed from the right (inner) side of the left chassis 608, the left hub 616 rotates clockwise as... Figure 44A The stacked arrangement, indicated by the directional arrows within the left H&D assembly 621, retracts the cylinder access panels 604 back to each other. At hub position "zero" 635 (closed position), cylinder plate #1 631 (as shown) Figure 47A The drive plate shown is fixed to the cylinder rail #1626 (also referred to here as the "drive rail") in the 8-10 o'clock slot on the hub 616, as... Figure 44A As shown. Each embedded track within roller 617 includes an embedded nylon slide 140, as... Figure 44BAs shown, this facilitates freedom of movement and prevents friction during the movement of the cylinder plate 604. Alternative embodiments include, but are not limited to, cylindrical guide rails 630, which include ball bearings or similar fittings, surface coatings, materials, or any other suitable solution for facilitating the freedom of movement of the cylindrical plate 604 and reducing friction. In another alternative embodiment, the cylinder plate 604 can be constructed of any material that facilitates freedom of movement and reduces friction between the cylinder guide rails 630 without the use of additional components.

[0226] Figure 45A -B respectively indicate the use of Figures 45A-45B Top and bottom perspective views of the cylindrical access panel 604 shown on the left side of #1 631 in the diagram and 45C. Figure 45B The bottom view shows the cylindrical drive clip 623 (also referred to herein as "cylindrical drive clip" or "drive clip") and the UV reflective coating 124, such as aluminum foil, UV reflective paint, TPFE, or any other substance / material that optimizes the UV-C light reflectivity within the SC chamber 600. All interior areas within the landing gear assembly 603 and access panel 604 of the SC chamber 600 are coated with the UV reflective material / substance 124, as are all surface-facing components in the various embodiments of the invention. Figure 45C A bottom exploded view shows three examples of access panels 604 for their interfaces, with projected arrows indicating the position of each access panel 604 within the array. A more detailed description is provided as shown from left to right. Figure 45C The left panel is an example of cylinder panel #1 631 (drive panel), depicting a panel with cylinder drive clips 623 but without channel guides 624. As shown at the top and bottom of the figure, the cylinder drive clips 623 are vertically oriented, allowing them to fit within the recesses of the channel guides 624 in the adjacent cylinder panel #3 633 (center), as indicated by the arrows. The channel guides 624 have solid edges at each end, which cause the panel to be pushed or pulled by the cylinder drive clips 623 attached to the adjacent panel, depending on the direction of panel movement. Cylinder panel #3 633 (center) consists of channel guides 624 and cylinder drive clips 623. The cylinder drive clips 623 from the center panel are fitted into... Figure 45C The right panel, within the parallel and oppositely arranged edge of the channel guide 624, is referred to as cylinder panel #4 634 (outlet panel). The right panel is characterized by an outlet panel, as demonstrated by the channel guide 624; however, it does not include its own drive clip 623, because as the last panel in the array, it is moved by itself but does not move any other panel 604 in any other way.

[0227] Figure 46A -E and Figure 47A-E further details the cylinder access panel 604 (previously shown in...). Figure 37B The operation of ) and its relationship with H&D component 621 ( Figure 47A ) interface. Figure 46A -E shows a side close-up of the H&D 621 component on the left, which illustrates the five stages of panel retraction, and Figure 47A -E illustrates the corresponding cylinder panel 604 retracted during the entire five-stage retraction process in the four-panel SC chamber 600 embodiment. Figure 47A The top perspective of ).

[0228] refer to Figure 46A The hub 616 and drum 617 slots are located in the left housing 605. Figure 41B The hub position "0" 635 (closed) is shown inside the left housing, which is on the opposite side of the right housing 606 (shown). Figure 43B (As shown) Internal mirror image. Cylindrical guide rail #630 is defined by its number, and cylindrical guide rail #1626 is the drive guide rail. Figure 47A The cylindrical panel #1631 shown is fixed to the drive hub 616 at the position marked by the dashed line between 8 and 10 o'clock. The cylinder guide rail #1 626 includes a slot of fixed width, and the cylinder panel #1 631 (drive panel, shown) Figure 47A ) Connected to the slot and rotates synchronously with the hub 616. Continuing in a clockwise direction, the fixed mounting drum 617 includes, as shown... Figure 46A The cylindrical guide rails 627 (number 2), 628 (number 3), and 629 (number 4) shown are illustrated, with the closed panel position of each corresponding guide rail indicated by dashed lines. In this embodiment, each of the three guide rails on the roller 617 includes a nylon slider 149. Figure 44B The embedded guide rail, the nylon slider terminates at Figure 46E The cylindrical panel compartment 625 shown extends throughout the entire rotation area. Figure 47A The image depicts a corresponding view of the SC chamber 600 with a cylindrical panel in that location.

[0229] Figure 46B The image shows hub position #1636, where hub 616 and cylinder guide rail #1 626 have been rotated clockwise to a position below cylinder guide rail #2627. Figure 47B The corresponding position of the cylinder plate 604 inside the SC chamber 600 at this location is depicted.

[0230] Figure 46C This indicates hub position #2637, where hub 616 and cylinder guide rail #1 626 have been rotated to a position below cylindrical guide rail #3628. Figure 47C The corresponding position of the cylinder plate 604 inside the SC chamber 600 at this location is depicted.

[0231] Figure 46D The image shows hub position #3638, where hub 616 and cylinder guide rail #1 626 have been rotated to a position below cylindrical guide rail #4629, thereby allowing the panel to move within cylindrical guide rails #2 627 and #3 628, thus forming four stacked panels. Figure 47D The image shows the corresponding position of the cylinder plate 604 within the SC chamber 600 in this position, indicating that the cylinder plate 604 is 75% open.

[0232] Wheel hub position #4639 is the final stage of the panel retraction process, such as... Figure 46E As shown. At this stage, the hub 616 and cylinder guide rail #1 626 (drive rail) have been rotated to the innermost position within the cylinder plate bracket 625, and the cylinder plate 604 ( Figure 47E It connects to cylinder guide rails #2 627, #3 628, and #4 629, thus aligning the cylindrical guide rail assembly 630 with each other. Figure 47E The image shows the corresponding position of the cylinder access panel 604 within the SC chamber 600, indicating that the cylinder access panels 604 are 100% retracted and stacked on top of each other in the cylinder panel compartment 625. Figure 47E As shown.

[0233] For more detailed information, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 47A -E, these show a top perspective view of the five stages of the panel retraction of the SC chamber 600. Figure 47A The fully enclosed and sealed SC chamber 600 is shown, and the individual cylinder panels 604 are identified. Viewed from left to right. Figure 47A Cylinder panel #1 631 is used as a drive panel, such as Figure 46A As shown, the drive panel is connected to the hub 616; followed by cylinder plates #2 632, #3 633, and #4 634, which are connected sequentially from left to right to their dedicated tracks on the roller 617, as shown. Figure 46A As shown.

[0234] Figure 47B The cylinder panel #1 631, retracted below cylinder panel #2 632, is shown, exposing 25% of the shopping cart handle 610 (not shown). Since cylinder panel #1 631 is now positioned below cylinder panel #2 632, the continued rotation of cylinder panel #1 632 pushes cylinder panel #2 631 below cylinder panel #3 633 to expose 50% of the shopping cart handle 610, as shown. Figure 47C As shown. The #1 631 cylinder panel continues to rotate and pushes the #2 632 cylinder panel, while the #3 633 cylinder panel stacks beneath the #4 634 cylinder panel, exposing 75% of the shopping cart handle 610, as shown. Figure 47DAs shown. In the final stage of retraction, when cylinder panel 631 pushes cylinder panels 632, 633, and 634 into cylinder panel compartment 625, as... Figure 47E As shown, in this compartment, all four panels are stacked on top of each other. This is to close the panels and seal the SC chamber 600 ( Figure 37A Repeat the process under the guidance of cylinder panel #1.

[0235] As used herein, the term enclosure is generally as described above and typically includes or has a chamber or enclosure with one or more sides. Enclosures can be of various geometries and will generally completely enclose contaminants, except for doors or access panels and openings that contain contaminants when they are connected to other objects. Examples include door handles connected to doors or gas pump handles connected to gas pumps. In embodiments, the enclosure can be a three-dimensional rectangular shape with six sides. In embodiments, the shape of the enclosure can be cubic, rectangular prism, sphere, cone, and / or cylinder, but is not limited thereto. The enclosure may be airtight and / or watertight when the door or access door is closed.

[0236] In embodiments, the sensors used herein may include obstacle sensors, motion sensors or detectors, light sensors, sound sensors, and / or thermal or infrared sensors. As described above, in embodiments, the sensors may detect the presence of a user and then automatically trigger the opening of a door or access panel of the enclosure or chamber. Such a system allows a user to access contaminants without touching the door or access panel.

[0237] A trigger or triggering event is an event or trigger that opens an access door, typically detected by a sensor. That is, a user approaching a contaminant may trigger a sensor, causing the door or access panel of the enclosure to open, thus allowing access to the contaminant. Therefore, a triggering event can be a sensor-detectable event as described above. For example, in a restroom environment, motion sensors or light sensors can be used to detect triggering events and the presence of a user (as is typically done in restroom stalls to trigger a toilet flush, or to turn a faucet on or off). For door handles, a triggering event can be a user approaching the door or access panel, detected by a motion sensor or light sensor. However, this disclosure is not limited to the use of sensors; triggers can also be generated by mechanical devices (e.g., foot pedals).

[0238] Access doors are typically doors or panels installed within or integrated with a housing, openable to access the interior. Doors can be opened in any conventional manner, such as by swing opening, sliding opening, accordion-style access door or panel opening, etc. The dimensions of the door or panel will inevitably vary depending on the size of the contaminant and the necessary access for its use. For example, for a door handle, the opening must be large enough to accommodate the handle and the user's hand opening the door. For a point-of-sale terminal, a sufficiently large opening will be required to allow the user to use the terminal. Therefore, in this embodiment, the door or access panel will be at least large enough to accommodate the user's hand.

[0239] A door in the open position refers to any position where it is not fully closed. A door in the closed position generally means that the door is fully closed to seal or protect contaminants from the external environment. In embodiments, the door may be airtight, watertight, and may include transparent or clear materials, such as plastic polycarbonate, glass, or any other transparent material. In other embodiments, the door or access panel may include metal or plastic or composite materials and may be light-shielding.

[0240] An enclosure surrounding a contaminant typically means that the enclosure or chamber completely surrounds the contaminant. In embodiments, the enclosure surrounds the contaminant and provides an airtight or semi-airtight enclosure, wherein airflow cannot easily flow from the outside of the enclosure to the inside.

[0241] UV light sources, as described above, can be any UV light source that operates within the UV-C range. Ultraviolet light sources typically produce UV intensity or power sufficient to kill bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. UV light power can range from 2000 to 8000 pW-s / cm². 2 Between. See Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Ultraviolet_germicidal_irradiation), last revised: 20 February 2021, incorporated herein by reference.

[0242] As described above, the UV light source can preferably be an LED array capable of providing UV light within one or more frequency ranges, optimized to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. For example, the UV array can produce light at 265 nm, 220 nm, and / or 280 nm. In other embodiments, the UV array can produce light at 220 nm, 225 nm, 230 nm, 235 nm, 240 nm, 245 nm, 250 nm, 255 nm, 260 nm, 265 nm, 270 nm, 275 nm, and / or 280 nm.

[0243] As used herein, the term "decontamination" generally refers to the destruction or neutralization of bacteria or viruses. In some embodiments, a 99% reduction in bacteria or viruses is achieved in 5 seconds or less. In some embodiments, a 99% reduction in bacteria or viruses is achieved in 3 seconds or less. In some embodiments, bacteria or viruses are reduced by 99% within 1 second. In some embodiments, a 99.9% reduction in bacteria or viruses is achieved in 5 seconds or less. In some embodiments, a 99.9% reduction in bacteria or viruses is achieved in 3 seconds or less. In some embodiments, bacteria or viruses are reduced by 99.9% within 1 second. In some embodiments, the virus is SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-1 or a variant including α or δ variants. In some embodiments, SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-1 or a variant including α or δ variants is reduced by 99.9% within 1 second.

[0244] Purification can be any relevant bacteria, bacteria, or virus, but is preferably a pathogen that can cause disease in mammals (including humans), such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, prions, viroids, or fungi. In a preferred embodiment, the pathogen can be SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-1 or a variant including α or δ variants. See, for example, Pathogen, Wikipedia (en.Wikipedia.org / wiki / Pathogen), last edited July 8, 2021, incorporated herein by reference.

[0245] Mounting brackets are typically used to house UV light sources within enclosures or chambers. These brackets can be movable and can direct the UV light dose at different directions or angles within the enclosure. The UV light source can be attached to the mounting bracket using any conventional method, including mechanical connections, screws, pins, etc., or by using adhesives.

[0246] The microprocessors used here can generally include any computer processor, where data processing logic and control are contained on a single integrated circuit or a small number of integrated circuits. A microprocessor is typically a multi-purpose, clock-driven, register-based digital integrated circuit that accepts binary data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory, and then outputs the result. The microprocessor envisioned herein would be able to manage sensors, drive systems for opening doors or access panels, UV light sources, and power supplies including battery power.

[0247] Although this disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application that various changes in form and detail may be made in these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0248] Example

[0249] Example 1 - COVID-19 Experiment

[0250] SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19. To date, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused more than 4.55 million deaths worldwide, including 645,000 in the United States.

[0251] Crystal IS (Green Island, New York) is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company that manufactures Klaran UVC LEDs and systems. IS, in collaboration with the National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory (NEIDL) at Boston University, initiated a study to understand how SARS-CoV-2 responds to ultraviolet light across the emission range (260nm to 270nm) and at different doses of Klaran UVC LEDs. Experiments were conducted using an array of Klaran WD series UVC LEDs at a distance of 7cm from the test surface.

[0252] A dry plastic surface containing SARS-CoV-2 was irradiated at a distance of 7 cm using a Klaran UVC LED array.

[0253] The results showed that exposure to the virus at 1.25 mW / cm at different time intervals... 2 At UVC intensity, the logarithm decreases. 6.25 mJ / cm 2 The UVC dose resulted in a 99.9% reduction in viral load (Table 1 below).

[0254] Table 1 shows the logarithmic reduction as a function of dose and LED peak wavelength.

[0255]

[0256] Repeated tests were conducted using LEDs at different peak wavelengths with a dose of 5 mJ / cm, representing the two ends of the Klaran LED wavelength specification (260 nm and 270 nm). The results showed similar efficacy across the entire tested wavelength range (Table 2 below). Comparison of these results with those published by Miyazaki University (using a UVC LED with a wavelength of 280 nm) highlights a significant decrease in efficacy beyond 270 nm (see Inagaki et al. (2020) Rapid inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 by deep UV LED irradiation, 9(1):1744-1747).

[0257] Table 2 shows the effect of wavelength on logarithmic reduction.

[0258] UVC LED wavelength <![CDATA[5 mJ / cm 2 ]]> <![CDATA[6.25mJ / cm 2 ]]> <![CDATA[37mJ / cm 2 ]]> 268nm 2.8 ＞3 <![CDATA[280nm 1 ]]> <![CDATA[0.9 1 ]]> <![CDATA[3.1 1 ]]>

[0259] in conclusion

[0260] SARS-CoV-2 is a relatively weak virus that can be inactivated by low-dose UVC light. SARS-CoV-2 can be effectively inactivated within seconds by exposure to low-dose UVC light within the critical sterilization range. Furthermore, the UVC wavelength is important. Research published by Miyazaki University (using a 280nm wavelength UVC LED) shows that efficiency drops significantly beyond 270nm. Klaran UVC LEDs emit UVC light in the 260nm to 270nm wavelength range, which is the wavelength range within which complete virus inactivation can be achieved within seconds.

[0261] Example 2 - MicroLumix Product Analysis and COVID-19

[0262] 229A simulated the efficacy of the bacterial purification device according to an embodiment of the present invention against SARS-CoV-2 using Crystal IS. For door handles, the minimum average strength on all surfaces, including the back of the handle, was greater than 6.25 mW / cm². 2 Based on the results of Example 1, this allows for a 99.9% reduction in SARS-CoV-2 within 1 second.

Claims

1. A portable bacterial purification device suitable for purifying at least one human contact point area of ​​an object fixedly connected to a supporting structure, the device comprising: The outer shell that defines the internal cavity; The housing includes a rear housing portion and a front housing portion opposite to the rear housing portion; The rear housing portion is provided with a rear opening, which is configured or designed to allow access to the internal cavity; The housing is configured or designed to be connected to the support structure in a first configuration that allows the entire area of ​​the at least one human contact point to be exposed to the internal cavity. The outer shell is further configured or designed to be connected to the support structure according to the first configuration, and the connection method does not require moving the object or direct contact with the object; The front housing portion is provided with a front opening, which is configured or designed to allow access to the internal cavity; A movable access door is movably connected to the housing for preventing entry into the internal cavity through the front opening. The access door is configured in a closed position to prevent entry into the internal cavity and further configured in an open position to allow entry into the internal cavity. The access door includes multiple stackable access panels, which include a first access panel and a second access panel. The second access panel can be moved to a first stacking configuration, such that the second access panel is stacked behind or in front of the first access panel. The first inspection panel includes at least one first edge portion and a first main body portion, wherein the at least one first edge portion is different from the first main body portion, and the first main body portion includes a first curved main body portion; The second inspection panel includes at least one second edge portion and a second main body portion, wherein the at least one second edge portion is different from the second main body portion, and the second main body portion includes a second curved main body portion; A drive mechanism is used to open or close the access door in response to at least one triggering event; One or more ultraviolet light sources are disposed in the internal cavity for purifying the at least one human contact point area; One or more sensors, configured to detect the at least one triggering event; and The controller is configured to control the one or more sensors, the drive mechanism, and the one or more ultraviolet light sources.

2. The bacterial purification equipment according to claim 1: in, When the access door is configured in the open position, the first access panel and the second access panel are in the first stacked configuration; When the access door is configured in the closed position, the first access panel and the second access panel are in a non-planar stepped configuration.

3. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the first inspection panel and the second inspection panel are movable to the first stacked configuration, such that the second inspection panel is stacked behind or in front of the first inspection panel.

4. The bacterial purification equipment according to claim 1: in, The second curved body portion is movable to a second stacking configuration, such that the second curved body portion is stacked behind or in front of the first curved body portion.

5. The bacterial purification equipment according to claim 1: in, The first inspection panel includes a first cylindrical panel portion; The second inspection panel includes a second cylindrical panel portion; The second cylindrical panel portion can be moved to a second stacking configuration, such that the second cylindrical panel portion is stacked behind or in front of the first cylindrical panel portion in a non-stretchable configuration.

6. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein when the housing is connected to the support structure in the first configuration and the access door is in the closed position, the housing is configured or designed to cover the at least one human contact point area.

7. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the rear housing is provided with a connecting device for fixing the outer shell to the support structure, so that the entire area of ​​the at least one human contact point is exposed to the internal cavity through the rear opening.

8. The bacterial purification device of claim 1, wherein the rear opening is configured or designed to allow the at least one human contact point area to pass through it.

9. The bacterial purification equipment according to claim 1: in, The object is a fixing device that is fixedly connected to the supporting structure; The outer shell is configured or designed to be fixedly connected to the support structure, such that the entire area of ​​the at least one human contact point is exposed to the internal cavity through the rear opening.

10. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one portable power source for supplying power to at least one electronic component of the portable bacterial purification device.

11. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured or designed to execute a plurality of instructions to: Verify that the access door is in the closed position; In response to verification that the access door is in the closed position, purification is initiated for the area of ​​the at least one human contact point.

12. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors include an obstacle sensor, a motion sensor or detector, a light sensor, a sound sensor, a thermal sensor or an infrared sensor.

13. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured or designed to execute a plurality of instructions to: Purification is carried out on the at least one human contact point area, such that the bacterial population inactivation rate in the at least one human contact point area reaches at least 99%.

14. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more ultraviolet light sources are configured or designed to generate UV-C radiation in the wavelength range of 200-280 nm.

15. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more ultraviolet light sources comprise light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and the LEDs comprise one or more semiconductor chips and / or one or more LED arrays.

16. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein one or more surfaces of the internal cavity are coated with a UV reflective coating.

17. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, wherein the object corresponds to a fixing device selected from the group consisting of: door handles, fixing devices including handwashing stall latches, fixing devices including lock pins, fixing devices including air pump handles, fixing devices including point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, fixing devices including shopping cart handles, fixing devices including elevator control panels, fixing devices including telephones, fixing devices including tissue dispensers, fixing devices including toilet handles, and fixing devices including keyboards.

18. The bacterial purification device of claim 1, wherein when the housing is connected to the support structure in the first configuration and the access door is in the closed position, the housing is configured or designed to provide a substantially airtight internal cavity.

19. The bacterial purification device according to claim 1, further configured or designed such that, when the housing is connected to the support structure according to the first configuration and the access door is in the closed position, all areas of the object exposed to human contact are purified.

20. The bacterial purification device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured or designed to prevent airborne pathogens from recontaminating the exposed surfaces of the object when the housing is connected to the support structure in the first configuration.

21. A portable bacterial purification device suitable for purifying at least one human contact area of ​​an object fixedly connected to a supporting structure, the device comprising: The outer shell that defines the internal cavity; The housing includes a rear housing portion and a front housing portion opposite to the rear housing portion; The rear housing portion is provided with a rear opening, which is configured or designed to allow access to the internal cavity; The housing is configured or designed to be connected to the support structure in a first configuration that allows at least one human contact point area to be exposed to the internal cavity; The outer shell is further configured or designed to be connected to the support structure according to the first configuration, and the connection method does not require moving the object or direct contact with the object; The front housing portion is provided with a front opening, which is configured or designed to allow access to the internal cavity; A movable access door is movably connected to the housing for preventing entry into the internal cavity through the front opening. The access door is configured in a closed position to prevent entry into the internal cavity and further configured in an open position to allow entry into the internal cavity. The access door includes multiple stackable access panels, which include a first access panel and a second access panel. The second access panel can be moved to a first stacking configuration, such that the second access panel is stacked behind or in front of the first access panel. The first inspection panel includes at least one first edge portion and a first main body portion, wherein the at least one first edge portion is different from the first main body portion, and the first main body portion includes a first curved main body portion; The second inspection panel includes at least one second edge portion and a second main body portion, wherein the at least one second edge portion is different from the second main body portion, and the second main body portion includes a second curved main body portion; A drive mechanism for opening or closing the access door; and The first purification mechanism is disposed in the internal cavity and configured or designed to purify the at least one human contact point area.

22. The bacterial purification device according to claim 21: in, The access door includes multiple stackable access panels, including a first access panel and a second access panel. The first access panel and the second access panel are movable to a first stacking configuration, such that the second access panel is stacked behind or in front of the first access panel.

23. The bacterial purification device according to claim 21: in, The second curved body portion is movable to a second stacking configuration, such that the second curved body portion is stacked behind or in front of the first curved body portion.

24. The bacterial purification device according to claim 21: in, The first inspection panel includes a first cylindrical panel portion; The second inspection panel includes a second cylindrical panel portion; The second cylindrical panel portion can be moved to a second stacking configuration, such that the second cylindrical panel portion is stacked behind or in front of the first cylindrical panel portion in a non-stretchable configuration.

25. The bacterial purification device according to claim 21: in, The drive mechanism responds to at least one triggering event to open or close the access door; The first purification mechanism includes a first ultraviolet light source; The device further includes one or more sensors configured to detect the at least one triggering event; and The controller is configured to control the one or more sensors, the drive mechanism, and the one or more ultraviolet light sources.

26. The bacterial purification device according to claim 21: in, The object is a fixing device that is fixedly connected to the supporting structure; The outer shell is configured or designed to be fixedly connected to the support structure, such that the entire area of ​​the at least one human contact point is exposed to the internal cavity through the rear opening.

27. The bacterial purification device of claim 21, wherein the device is configured or designed to prevent airborne pathogens from recontaminating the at least one human contact point area when the housing assembly is connected to the support structure in the first configuration.

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