Aircraft disinfection system and apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to an aircraft disinfection system and apparatus, and specifically discloses an aircraft disinfection system. The aircraft disinfection system includes a frame. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a tray operatively coupled to at least the first two corners of the frame and rotatable about a pivot axis. The tray is configured to be in one of a locked state and an unlocked state based on rotation about the pivot axis. In the unlocked state, the tray is at an angle greater than zero relative to the frame, and in the locked state, the tray is at an angle equal to zero relative to the frame. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached on the exposed surface of the frame, where the set of UV LEDs is configured to disinfect the tray when the tray is in the locked state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to disinfection systems and, more particularly, to aircraft disinfection systems and apparatus. Background Art

[0002] During a pandemic, it is crucial to monitor the contamination of surfaces caused by pathogenic microorganisms (e.g., viruses or bacteria). For curbing the pandemic without interrupting international trade and travel, it is as necessary to disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as those inside aircraft as to disinfect body parts. Pathogenic microorganisms can remain active on surfaces for several days and therefore can cause the rapid spread of infection. For example, pathogenic microorganisms can be coronaviruses, Ebola viruses, Nipah viruses, Salmonella typhi, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, etc. Local outbreaks of epidemics such as those infected by the new coronavirus can be spread at a higher speed domestically or internationally through air travel. During this outbreak, air travel is strictly restricted, causing social and economic losses to various countries.

[0003] Ultraviolet (UV) light waves in the wavelength range of 100 nanometers (nm) to 280 nm are inherently germicidal. This germicidal UV wavelength range corresponds to short-wavelength UV, also known as UV-C. Thanks to the development of inexpensive and energy-efficient UV-C light-emitting diodes (LEDs), UV-C is being used to disinfect surfaces, water, or air.

[0004] Currently, there are technologies that use UV-C light to disinfect surfaces. However, existing technologies do not provide a comprehensive disinfection system and are limited to a few surfaces and exterior surfaces within an aircraft, such as galleys, air ducts, the aircraft cabin, and lavatories. Furthermore, this technology requires the use of UV light for disinfection without the presence of passengers or crew. However, during an extended flight, surfaces such as trays, overhead bin handles, and lavatory handles are frequently touched by multiple passengers and crew members.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for systems and devices for disinfecting aircraft surfaces at frequent intervals for the duration of a flight to inhibit the spread of pathogenic microorganisms within the aircraft. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one embodiment, an aircraft disinfection system is disclosed. In one example, the aircraft disinfection system includes a seat belt comprising a first portion attached to a first fabric portion of the seat belt and a second portion attached to a second fabric portion of the seat belt. The first portion is configured to receive the second portion for securing the seat belt. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a first storage housing configured to completely enclose the first portion. The first storage housing includes a first inner wall configured to surround the outer surface of the first portion. The first storage housing also includes a first set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached to the first inner wall and configured to disinfect the outer surface of the first portion. The first storage housing also includes a tongue configured to engage the first portion of the seat belt. The first storage housing also includes a second set of UV LEDs attached to a surface of the tongue and configured to disinfect the inner surface of the first portion. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a second storage housing configured to enclose the second portion. The second storage housing includes a second inner wall configured to surround the second portion. The second storage enclosure also includes a third set of UV LEDs attached to the second inner wall and configured to disinfect the second portion.

[0007] In another embodiment, an aircraft disinfection system is disclosed. In one example, the aircraft disinfection system includes a frame. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a tray operatively coupled to at least first two corners of the frame and rotatable about a pivot axis. The tray is configured to be in one of a locked state and an unlocked state based on rotation about the pivot axis. In the unlocked state, the tray is at an angle greater than zero relative to the frame, and in the locked state, the tray is at an angle equal to zero relative to the frame. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a set of UV LEDs attached to an exposed surface of the frame. The set of UV LEDs is configured to disinfect the tray when the tray is in the locked state.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, an aircraft disinfection system is disclosed. The aircraft disinfection system includes an armrest having a well and a cover. The well is configured to store a tray, and the cover is configured to cover the well. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a retractable mechanism enclosed in the well. A first end of the retractable mechanism is removably attached to the tray, and a second end of the retractable mechanism is secured within the well. The retractable mechanism is configured to withdraw the tray from the well in an open state. In the open state, the tray is at least partially outside the well. The retractable mechanism is further configured to retract the tray into the well in a closed state. In the closed state, the tray is completely inside the well. The aircraft disinfection system also includes a first set of UV LEDs attached to each inner wall of the well. The first set of UV LEDs is configured to disinfect each surface of the tray when the tray is in the closed state.

[0009] In another embodiment, an aircraft disinfection device is disclosed. The aircraft disinfection device includes a curved housing operatively coupled to a first surface of an enclosed area. In a first position, the curved housing at least partially encloses a handle attached to the first surface. The handle provides access to the enclosed area. The curved housing also includes an inner surface that faces the first surface in the first position. The curved housing also includes an outer surface that faces away from the first surface in the first position. The aircraft disinfection device also includes a set of UV LEDs attached to the inner surface. The set of UV LEDs is configured to disinfect the handle. The aircraft disinfection device also includes at least one switch positioned on at least one of the first and second surfaces of the enclosed area. Each of the at least one switch is activated when the enclosed area is closed and deactivated when the enclosed area is open. The aircraft disinfection device also includes at least one locking mechanism. The at least one locking mechanism is configured to engage with the first surface in the closed position and disengage from the first surface in the open position. The aircraft disinfection device also includes a controller communicatively coupled to each of the set of UV LEDs, the at least one switch, and the at least one locking mechanism. The controller is configured to activate the set of UV LEDs when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface in a closed state.

[0010] Technical Solution 1. An aircraft disinfection system, comprising: a safety belt comprising a first portion attached to a first fabric portion of the safety belt and a second portion attached to a second fabric portion of the safety belt, wherein the first portion is configured to receive the second portion for securing the safety belt; a first storage housing configured to completely enclose the first portion, wherein the first storage housing comprises: a first inner wall configured to surround an outer surface of the first portion; a first set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached to the first interior wall and configured to disinfect the exterior surface of the first portion; a tongue configured to engage the first portion of the seat belt; and a second set of UV LEDs attached to a surface of the tongue and configured to disinfect an interior surface of the first portion; and a second storage housing configured to enclose the second portion, wherein the second storage housing comprises: a second inner wall configured to surround the second portion; and A third set of UV LEDs is attached to the second inner wall and configured to disinfect the second portion.

[0011] Technical Solution 2. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 1 is characterized in that: The first storage enclosure further comprises a first slit configured to receive the first fabric portion, and wherein the first slit comprises: a first pair of rollers engaged with the first fabric portion, wherein the first pair of rollers enables the first storage cover to slide over the first fabric portion to enclose the first portion, and wherein the first fabric portion passes through the first storage cover via the first slit; and The second storage enclosure further includes a second slit configured to receive the second fabric portion, and wherein the second slit includes: A second pair of rollers cooperates with the second fabric portion, wherein the second pair of rollers enables the second storage cover to slide over the second fabric portion to close the second portion, and wherein the second fabric portion passes through the second storage cover via the second slit.

[0012] Technical Solution 3. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 2 is characterized in that: The first storage cover further comprises a first motorized mechanism coupled to the first pair of rollers, wherein the first motorized mechanism is configured to activate the first pair of rollers to slide the first storage cover over the first fabric portion; and the second storage cover further comprises a second motorized mechanism coupled to the second pair of rollers, wherein the second motorized mechanism is configured to activate the second pair of rollers to slide the second storage cover over the second fabric portion.

[0013] Technical Solution 4. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 3, further comprising: a first set of sensors within the first storage enclosure, wherein the first set of sensors is configured to determine complete closure of the first portion by the first storage enclosure; a second set of sensors within the second storage enclosure, wherein the second set of sensors is configured to determine complete closure of the second portion by the second storage enclosure; and a controller communicatively coupled to each of the first set of UV LEDs, the second set of UV LEDs, the third set of UV LEDs, the first set of sensors, the second set of sensors, the first motorized mechanism, and the second motorized mechanism, wherein the controller is configured to: In response to a disinfection initiation signal, instructing the first motorized mechanism to slide over the first fabric portion to close the first storage enclosure; in response to a sterilization initiation signal, instructing the second motorized mechanism to slide over the second fabric portion to close the second storage enclosure; activating each of the first set of UV LEDs and the second set of UV LEDs in response to the first set of sensors determining that the first portion is fully enclosed by the first storage enclosure; and The third set of UV LEDs is activated in response to the second set of sensors determining that the second portion is fully enclosed by the second storage enclosure.

[0014] Technical solution 5. The method according to technical solution 4 is characterized in that the controller is further configured to: instruct the first motorized mechanism to slide on the first fabric portion to expose the first storage cover after a predetermined time period has expired; and The second motorized mechanism is instructed to slide over the second fabric portion to reveal the second storage cover after expiration of the predetermined time period.

[0015] Technical Solution 6. The method according to Technical Solution 4 is characterized in that the controller is further configured to: deactivate each of the first group of UV LEDs and the second group of UV LEDs in response to the first group of sensors determining that the first storage cover partially closes the first portion; and The third set of UV LEDs is deactivated in response to the second set of sensors determining partial closure of the second portion by the second storage enclosure.

[0016] Technical Solution 7. An aircraft disinfection system comprising: frame; a tray operatively coupled to at least first two corners of the frame and rotatable about a pivot axis, wherein the tray is configured to assume one of a locked state and an unlocked state based on rotation about the pivot axis, and wherein in the unlocked state, the tray is at an angle greater than zero relative to the frame, and wherein in the locked state, the tray is at an angle equal to zero relative to the frame; and A set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) is attached to the exposed surface of the frame, wherein the set of UV LEDs is configured to disinfect the tray when the tray is in the locked state.

[0017] Technical Solution 8. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 7, characterized in that the frame includes: at least one switch located on an outer periphery of the frame, wherein in the locked state, the tray closes and activates each of the at least one switch; and A latch cooperates with the tray, wherein in the locked state the latch engages the tray and in the unlocked state the latch disengages the tray.

[0018] Technical Solution 9. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 8, wherein the frame further comprises a controller, the controller being communicatively coupled to the at least one switch and the latch, wherein the controller activates the set of UV LEDs when a set of conditions is satisfied, wherein the set of conditions includes each of the following: The tray is in a locked state; The at least one switch is activated; and The latch engages the tray.

[0019] Technical Solution 10. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 9 is characterized in that the frame further includes at least one sensor, the at least one sensor being configured to generate a deactivation signal based on a predefined standard, and wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor and is configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs in response to the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor, wherein the at least one sensor is located at an outer periphery of the frame and is enclosed by the tray in the locked state.

[0020] Technical Solution 11. An aircraft disinfection system comprising: an armrest comprising a well and a cover, wherein the well is configured to store the tray and the cover is configured to cover the well; a retractable mechanism enclosed in the well, wherein a first end of the retractable mechanism is removably attached to the tray and a second end of the retractable mechanism is secured within the well, and wherein the retractable mechanism is configured to: extracting the tray from the well in an open state, wherein the tray is at least partially outside the well in the open state; and retracting the tray into the recess in a closed state, wherein the tray is completely within the recess in the closed state; A first set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) is attached to each inner wall of the pit, wherein the first set of UV LEDs is configured to disinfect each surface of the tray when the tray is in the closed state.

[0021] Technical Solution 12. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 11 is characterized in that the first end of the top cover is hinged to the armrest so that the top cover can rotate around the pivot axis, and the second end of the top cover cooperates with the armrest to achieve the closed state and the open state.

[0022] Technical Solution 13. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 12, further comprising: at least one switch located on the armrest, wherein each of the at least one switch is configured to: Enclosed and activated by the top cover in the closed state; and exposed and deactivated by the top cover in the open state; a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to cooperate with the second end portion of the top cover to enable the closed state and the open state, wherein the locking mechanism engages the top cover in the closed state and disengages the top cover in the open state; and A controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one switch and each of the locking mechanisms, wherein the controller is configured to activate the first set of UV LEDs when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the top cover in the closed state.

[0023] Technical Solution 14. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 13 is characterized in that it further includes at least one sensor, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to generate a deactivation signal in response to a predefined standard, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor, and wherein the controller is further configured to deactivate the first group of UV LEDs in response to the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor.

[0024] Technical Solution 15. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 11 is characterized in that the tray includes a plurality of parts hinged to each other, wherein at least one of the plurality of parts can be folded on the remaining plurality of parts around an associated pivot axis.

[0025] Technical Solution 16. The aircraft disinfection system according to Technical Solution 15, wherein the recess further comprises: at least one tongue positioned between the inner walls of the recess; A second set of UV LEDs is attached to each face of the at least one tongue and is configured to disinfect the at least one of the plurality of portions of the tray.

[0026] Technical Solution 17. An aircraft disinfection device comprising: a curved housing operatively coupled to a first surface of an enclosed area, wherein, in a first position, the curved housing at least partially encloses a handle attached to the first surface, and wherein the handle enables access to the enclosed area, the curved housing further comprising: an inner surface facing the first surface at the first position of the curved housing; and an outer surface facing away from the first surface at the first location; a set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached to the inner surface, wherein the set of UV LEDs are configured to disinfect the handle; at least one switch disposed on at least one of the first and second surfaces of the enclosed area, wherein each of the at least one switch is activated in a closed state of the enclosed area and each of the at least one switch is deactivated in an open state of the enclosed area; At least one locking mechanism, wherein the at least one locking mechanism is configured to: engages with the first surface in the closed state; and disengagement from the first surface in the open state; and a controller communicatively coupled to the set of UV LEDs, the at least one switch, and each of the at least one locking mechanism, wherein the controller is configured to activate the set of UV LEDs when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface in the closed state.

[0027] Technical Solution 18. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to Technical Solution 17 is characterized in that it further includes at least one sensor, which is attached to the inner surface of the curved shell and is configured to generate a deactivation signal based on a predefined standard, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor and is further configured to deactivate the group of UV LEDs based on the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor.

[0028] Technical Solution 19. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to Technical Solution 18 is characterized in that the predefined criteria include detecting a body part of the user.

[0029] Technical Solution 20. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to Technical Solution 17 is characterized in that it further includes a rotation mechanism, which is operatively connected to the curved shell and is configured to move the curved shell from the first position to at least one of a second position and at least one intermediate position, wherein, in the second position, the curved shell completely exposes the handle, and in each of the at least one intermediate position, the curved shell partially exposes the handle.

[0030] Technical Solution 21. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to Technical Solution 20, characterized in that the controller is communicatively coupled to the rotating mechanism and is further configured to: instructing the rotation mechanism to move the curved housing to the first position when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface in the closed state; and The rotation mechanism is directed to move the curved housing to a position that is one of the second position and the at least one intermediate position when at least one of the at least one switch is deactivated and the locking mechanism is disengaged from the first surface.

[0031] Technical Solution 22. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to Technical Solution 20 is characterized in that the first surface of the enclosed area includes a slit so that the curved shell can move through the first surface between the first position, the second position and the at least one intermediate position.

[0032] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0034] Figure 1 An exemplary aircraft nacelle is shown in which various embodiments may be employed.

[0035] Figure 2 Several views are shown of an aircraft disinfection system for disinfecting a first portion of a seat belt according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] Figure 3 Several views are shown of an aircraft disinfection system for disinfecting a second portion of a seat belt according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] Figure 4Several views are shown of an aircraft sterilization system for sterilizing pallets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5 Several views are shown of an aircraft sterilization system for sterilizing pallets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] Figure 6 Several views are shown of an aircraft disinfection system for disinfecting a foldable pallet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 7 Several views are shown of an aircraft disinfection apparatus for disinfecting an overhead storage bin handle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] Figure 8 Several views are shown of an aircraft disinfection apparatus for disinfecting a handle of an overhead storage bin according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Figure 9 Several views of an aircraft disinfection apparatus for disinfecting a handle of an enclosed compartment are shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Figure 10 Several views of an aircraft disinfection device for disinfecting handles of closed compartments are shown according to another exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, identical reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to represent identical or similar parts. Although examples and features of the disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the appended claims. Additional illustrative embodiments are listed below.

[0045] exist Figure 1, an exemplary aircraft cabin 100 in which various embodiments may be employed is shown. Aircraft cabin 100 may include a plurality of passenger seats (e.g., passenger seat 102a, passenger seat 102b, passenger seat 104a, and passenger seat 104b), a plurality of overhead storage bins (e.g., overhead storage bin 106 and overhead storage bin 108), and a lavatory 110. Each of the plurality of passenger seats may include a seat belt (e.g., seat belt 112). In one embodiment, passenger seat 102a may include an armrest 114a, and passenger seat 102b may include an armrest 114b. Furthermore, each of armrests 114a and 114b may include a recess (e.g., recess 116), a tray (e.g., tray 118), and a cover (e.g., cover 120). The recess may be configured to store the tray, and the cover may be configured to cover the recess when the tray is enclosed therein. Furthermore, the tray may be in an open or closed state. It will be noted that in the open position, the tray is at least partially outside the well and in the closed position, the tray is completely inside the well. In passenger seat 102a, the tray 118 is in the open position, while in passenger seat 102b, the tray is in the closed position, covered by the cover 120. This will be combined with Figure 5 Further detailed explanation.

[0046] Passenger seat 104a may include a rear surface. A frame (e.g., frame 122) may be attached to the rear surface. In addition, a tray (e.g., tray 124a or tray 124b) may be operatively coupled to at least the first two corners of the frame, and the tray may thus be capable of pivoting about a pivot axis ( Figure 1 The tray may be in an unlocked state such that in the unlocked state the tray is at an angle greater than zero relative to the frame. Alternatively, the tray may be in a locked state such that in the locked state the tray is at an angle equal to zero relative to the frame. In other words, the tray is in full contact with the frame. Additionally, the latch ( Figure 1 (not shown) can cooperate or engage with the tray. To this end, the tray can be provided with a recess, cavity or protrusion, with which the latch can engage in the locked state. In the unlocked state, the latch can be disengaged from the tray. Tray 124a is in the unlocked state and tray 124b is in the locked state. This will combine Figure 4 Further detailed explanation.

[0047] Each of the passenger seats is also provided with a safety belt, such as safety belt 112. The safety belt may include a first portion attached to a first fabric portion of the safety belt and a second portion attached to a second fabric portion of the safety belt. For example, the first portion may be the female portion of a buckle for fastening the safety belt. For example, the second portion may be the male portion of the buckle. Thus, it may be noted that the first portion is configured to receive the second portion for fastening the safety belt. This will be combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3Further details are explained. In addition, each of the plurality of overhead storage bins may include a handle (eg, handle 126a or handle 126b). In addition, toilet 110 may include handle 128.

[0048] It should be understood that during flight, various aircraft surfaces may be contacted by human body parts (e.g., fingers, hands, arms, elbows, etc.). For example, aircraft surfaces may include, but are not limited to, seat belt 112, tray 118, trays 124a and 124b, handles 126a and 126b, and handle 128. It should be noted that human body parts may be a source of contamination. Infectious diseases may be transmitted through contamination on at least one of the aircraft surfaces. For example, infectious diseases may include, but are not limited to, coronavirus disease (novel coronavirus infection), Ebola virus disease, H1N1 infection, Nipah virus infection, salmonella infection, tuberculosis, etc. Therefore, each of the aircraft surfaces may require regular disinfection, even for the duration of the flight.

[0049] To achieve this, multiple sets of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) may be attached at different locations in the aircraft cabin 100. The multiple sets of UV LEDs may be configured to disinfect each of the aircraft surfaces. It will be appreciated that light within the UV wavelength range is germicidal. Exposure to UV light for a predetermined threshold time may disinfect each of the aircraft surfaces. However, UV light may need to be avoided from human contact because UV light is carcinogenic. Therefore, disinfection of each of the aircraft surfaces by UV light may be performed without passengers or crew on board the aircraft or in isolation from humans while the aircraft is airborne and operating. This will be combined with Figures 2 to 10 Discuss in detail.

[0050] Now refer to Figure 2 , according to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 200 for disinfecting a first portion 202 of a safety belt are shown. The safety belt may be the safety belt 112 of the aircraft cabin 100. The multiple views of the aircraft disinfection system 200 may include a perspective view 204a, a perspective view 204b, a top view 204c, a side view 204d, and a front view 204e. The aircraft disinfection system 200 may include a first portion 202 of a safety belt (e.g., the safety belt 112) attached to a first fabric portion 206 of the safety belt (which may be a female portion of a buckle). It may be noted that the safety belt may include a second fabric portion ( Figure 2 The second part (not shown) Figure 2 The first portion 202 is configured to receive the second portion for fastening the seat belt. Figure 3The second portion and the second fabric of the safety belt are explained in detail. A perspective view 204a shows the first portion 202 of the safety belt and the first fabric portion 206. The aircraft disinfection system 200 may also include a first storage enclosure 208. It may be noted that the first storage enclosure 208 is configured to completely enclose the first portion 202 for disinfection thereof.

[0051] The first storage housing 208 may include a first inner wall 210, a first set of UV LEDs 212, and a tongue 214. It may be noted that the first inner wall 210 may be configured to surround the outer surface of the first portion 202. Furthermore, the first set of UV LEDs 212 may be attached to the first inner wall 210. The first set of UV LEDs 212 may be configured to disinfect the outer surface of the first portion 202. In some embodiments, the first set of UV LEDs 212 may include at least one UV-C LED. Furthermore, the tongue 214 may be configured to cooperate with the first portion 202 of the safety belt 112. The perspective view 204b illustrates the cooperation between the tongue 214 and the first portion 202. In the perspective view 204b, it is depicted that when the first portion 202 is fully inserted into the interior of the first storage housing 208, the tongue 214 may lift the flap 202a of the first portion 202 so as to disinfect the inner wall ( Figure 2 202a) and the area of ​​the first portion 202 covered by the flap 202a before being lifted. It can be noted that the tongue 214 can be fixed within the first storage housing 208 and can be at least partially inside the first portion 202. In another embodiment, the tongue 214 can be completely inside the first portion 202.

[0052] A second set of UV LEDs 216 may be attached to each surface of the tongue 214. The second set of UV-C LEDs 216 is shown in the front view 204e. It may be noted that the second set of UV LEDs 216 may be configured to disinfect the inner surface of the first portion 202. In one embodiment, the second set of UV LEDs 216 may disinfect the inner wall ( Figure 2 204d illustrates the engagement of tongue 214 with first portion 202. A front view 204e illustrates the first portion 202 enclosed by first storage enclosure 208.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first receiving enclosure 208 includes a first slot 218 (depicted in side view 204d) configured to receive the first fabric portion 206. The first slot 218 may include a first pair of rollers ( Figure 2 218 and then attached to the first portion 202. It may be noted that the first pair of rollers enables the first storage enclosure 208 to slide over the first fabric portion 206 in order to enclose the first portion 202. As previously discussed, the first fabric portion 206 passes through the first storage enclosure 208 via the first slit 218. In one embodiment, the first storage enclosure 208 may include a first motorized mechanism ( Figure 2 ). The first motorized mechanism can be configured to activate the first pair of rollers to slide the first storage enclosure 208 over the first fabric portion 206. For example, the first motorized mechanism can be an electric motor.

[0054] The aircraft disinfection system 200 may also include a first set of sensors ( Figure 2 It is noted that the first set of sensors may be configured to determine whether the first storage housing 208 is completely sealed to the first portion 202. For example, the first set of sensors may include, but are not limited to, proximity sensors, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, etc. In addition, the aircraft disinfection system 200 may include a controller ( Figure 2 ), the controller is communicatively coupled to each of the first set of UV LEDs 212, the second set of UV LEDs 216, the first set of sensors, and the first motorized mechanism.

[0055] In response to the disinfection activation signal, the controller can be configured to instruct the first motorized mechanism to slide over the first fabric portion 206 to close the first stowage enclosure 208. For example, the disinfection activation signal can be generated once the aircraft has been cleared and no crew or passengers are on board. Alternatively, the disinfection activation signal can be generated when the second portion of the seat belt is not inserted into the first portion 202. In other words, the disinfection activation signal can be generated when the male portion of the seat belt buckle is removed from the female portion of the seat belt buckle.

[0056] Additionally, the controller can be configured to activate each of the first set of UV LEDs 212 and the second set of UV LEDs 216 in response to the first set of sensors determining that the first storage cover 208 fully encloses the first portion 202. After a predetermined period of time has expired since the activation of the first set of UV LEDs 212 and the second set of UV LEDs 216, the controller can also be configured to instruct the first motorized mechanism to slide over the first fabric portion 206 to reveal the first storage cover 208. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to deactivate each of the first set of UV LEDs 212 and the second set of UV LEDs 216 in response to the first set of sensors determining that the first storage cover 208 partially encloses the first portion 202. In other words, if someone attempts to pull out the first portion 202 currently enclosed by the first storage cover 208, the controller can deactivate each of the first set of UV LEDs 212 and the second set of UV LEDs 216. The controller can also be configured to deactivate each of the first set of UV LEDs 212 and the second set of UV LEDs 216 in response to the first set of sensors detecting any motion. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that the aircraft disinfection system 200 is not limited to aircraft and can be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other means of transportation. The aircraft disinfection system 200 can also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0057] Now refer to Figure 3 According to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 300 for disinfecting a second portion 302 of a seat belt are shown. The seat belt may be the seat belt 112 of the aircraft cabin 100. The multiple views of the aircraft disinfection system 300 may include a perspective view 304a, a top view 304b, a front view 304c, and a side view 304d. The perspective view 304a shows the second portion 302 attached to a second fabric portion 306 of the seat belt. Furthermore, the aircraft disinfection system 300 may include a second storage enclosure 308 configured to enclose the second portion 302. The second storage enclosure 308 may include a second inner wall 310 and a third set of UV LEDs 312. It is noted that the second inner wall 310 may be configured to surround the second portion 302. The third set of UV LEDs 312 may be attached to the second inner wall 310. It is noted that the third set of UV LEDs 312 is configured to disinfect the second portion 302. In some embodiments, the third set of UV LEDs 312 may include at least one UV-C LED.

[0058] In some embodiments, the second storage housing 308 includes a second slot 314 (depicted in side view 304d) configured to receive the second fabric portion 306. In other words, the second fabric portion 306 passes through the second slot 314 and is attached to the second portion 302. Additionally, the second slot 314 may include a second pair of rollers ( Figure 3 306 to close the second portion 302. The second fabric portion 306 passes through the second storage housing 308 via the second slit 314. In one embodiment, the second storage housing 308 may include a second motorized mechanism ( Figure 3 ). The second motorized mechanism can be configured to activate the second pair of rollers to slide the second storage enclosure 308 over the second fabric portion 306. For example, the second motorized mechanism can be an electric motor.

[0059] The aircraft disinfection system 300 may also include a second set of sensors ( Figure 3 It is noted that the second set of sensors may be configured to determine whether the second storage housing 308 is completely closed to the second portion 302. For example, the second set of sensors may include, but are not limited to, proximity sensors, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, etc. The aircraft disinfection system 300 may also include a controller ( Figure 3 The controller is communicatively coupled to each of the third set of UV LEDs 312, the second set of sensors, and the second motorized mechanism. The controller can be configured to instruct the second motorized mechanism to slide on the second fabric portion 306 to close the second storage enclosure 308 in response to the disinfection initiation signal. Figure 2 Detailed discussion in .

[0060] Additionally, the controller may be configured to activate the third set of UV LEDs 312 in response to the second set of sensors determining that the second storage cover 308 fully encloses the second portion 302. The controller may also be configured to instruct the second motorized mechanism to slide over the second fabric portion 306 to reveal the second storage cover 308 after a predetermined period of time has expired. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to deactivate the third set of UV LEDs 312 in response to the second set of sensors determining that the second storage cover 308 partially encloses the second portion 302. In other words, if someone attempts to pull out the second portion 302 currently enclosed by the second storage cover 308, the controller may deactivate the third set of UV LEDs 312. The controller may also be configured to deactivate the third set of UV LEDs 312 in response to the second set of sensors detecting any motion. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the aircraft disinfection system 300 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other form of transportation. The aircraft disinfection system 300 may also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0061] Now refer to Figure 4 , according to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an exemplary aircraft disinfection system 400 for disinfecting a tray 402 are shown. The multiple views of aircraft disinfection system 400 may include a perspective view 404a, a top view 404b, a front view 404c, a top view 404d, a front view 404e, a closed side view 404f, and an open side view 404g. Aircraft disinfection system 400 may include a frame 406 and tray 402. In one embodiment, frame 406 may be attached to the rear surface of a passenger seat (e.g., passenger seat 104a) in aircraft cabin 100. In another embodiment, frame 406 may be attached to a wall of the aircraft cabin.

[0062] The tray 402 can be operably coupled to at least the first two corners (e.g., corners 406a and 406b) of the frame 406 and can be rotatable about a pivot axis 408 (which passes through the corners 406a and 406b). It can be noted that the tray 402 can be configured to be in a locked state and / or an unlocked state based on rotation about the pivot axis 408. It can also be noted that in the unlocked state, the tray 402 is at an angle greater than zero relative to the frame 406, and in the locked state, the tray 402 is at an angle equal to zero relative to the frame 406. The tray 402 is shown in each of the top view 404d, the front view 404e, and the side view 404f as being in a locked state. The tray 402 is shown in each of the perspective view 404a, the top view 404b, the front view 404c, and the side view 404g as being in an unlocked state.

[0063] Aircraft disinfection system 400 may also include a set of UV LEDs 410 attached to an exposed surface of frame 406. In a locked state, tray 402 may face the exposed surface of frame 406. It should be noted that set of UV LEDs 410 may be configured to disinfect tray 402 when it is in the locked state. In some embodiments, set of UV LEDs 410 may include at least one UV-C LED. Frame 406 may include at least one switch (e.g., switch 412a and switch 412b) located on an outer perimeter of frame 406. It should be noted that in the locked state, tray 402 encloses and activates each of the at least one switch. Frame 406 may also include a latch 414 that can mate with tray 402. It should be noted that in the locked state, latch 414 can engage with tray 402 and in the unlocked state, latch 414 can disengage from tray 402. To this end, tray 402 may be provided with a recess, cavity, or protrusion with which latch 414 can engage in the locked state.

[0064] Frame 406 may include a controller communicatively coupled to at least one switch and latch 414. The controller may activate the set of UV LEDs 410 when a set of conditions are met. It should be noted that the set of conditions may include tray 402 being in a locked state, at least one switch being activated, and latch 414 engaging each of trays 402. In some embodiments, frame 406 may also include at least one sensor configured to generate a deactivation signal based on predefined criteria. For example, the predefined criteria may be the transition of tray 402 from a locked state to an unlocked state. As another example, the predefined criteria may be the detection of motion or a human body part. The controller may be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. The controller may thus be configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs 410 in response to the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. It should be noted that the at least one sensor may be located at the outer perimeter of frame 406 and may be enclosed by tray 402 in the locked state. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that aircraft disinfection system 400 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other form of transportation. Aircraft disinfection system 400 may also be implemented in public use areas (eg, movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0065] Now refer to Figure 5, according to another embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 500 for disinfecting a tray 502 are shown. The multiple views include a perspective view 504a, a perspective view 504b, a front view 504c, and a side view 504d. The aircraft disinfection system 500 may include an armrest 506 of a passenger seat. For example, the passenger seat may be the passenger seat 102a of the aircraft cabin 100. The armrest 506 may include a well 508 and a cover 510. It may be noted that the well 508 may be configured to store the tray 502. It may also be noted that the cover 510 may be configured to cover the well 508 once the tray 502 is enclosed within the well 508. In addition, the aircraft disinfection system 500 may include a retractable mechanism 506a enclosed in the well 508. It may be noted that the first end ( Figure 5 ) is removably attached to the tray 502, and the second end of the retractable mechanism ( Figure 5 508. The tray 502 is secured in the well 508 (not shown). The retractable mechanism 506a can be configured to withdraw the tray 502 from the well 508 in the open state. It is noted that in the open state, the tray 502 can be at least partially outside the well 508. Additionally, the retractable mechanism 506a can be configured to retract the tray 502 into the well 508 in the closed state. It is noted that in the closed state, the tray 502 can be completely inside the well 508. The tray 502 is shown in the open state in perspective view 504a and in the closed state in perspective view 504b.

[0066] In addition, the aircraft disinfection system 500 may include a first set of UV LEDs 512 attached to each inner wall of the pit 508. The first set of UV LEDs 512 may be configured to disinfect each surface of the tray 502 when the tray 502 is in a closed state. In some embodiments, the first set of UV LEDs 512 may include at least one UV-C LED. In one embodiment, the first end portion ( Figure 5 506 so that the top cover 510 can rotate about the pivot axis, and the second end portion ( Figure 5 (not shown) can cooperate with the armrest 506 to achieve a closed state and an open state. In addition, the aircraft disinfection system 500 may include at least one switch ( Figure 5 ). It may be noted that each of the at least one switch is configured to be enclosed and activated by the top cover 510 in the closed state. In addition, each of the at least one switch is configured to be exposed and deactivated by the top cover 510 in the open state.

[0067] The aircraft disinfection system 500 may also include a locking mechanism ( Figure 5(not shown). It may be noted that the locking mechanism may be configured to cooperate with the second end of the top cover 510 to enable a closed state and an open state. The locking mechanism may be engaged with the top cover 510 in the closed state and may be disengaged from the top cover 510 in the open state. In addition, the aircraft disinfection system 500 may include a controller ( Figure 5 510 ). The controller may be communicatively coupled to each of the at least one switch and the locking mechanism. It may be noted that the controller may be configured to activate the first set of UV LEDs 512 when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the top cover 510 in a closed state.

[0068] In one embodiment, aircraft disinfection system 500 may include at least one sensor configured to generate a deactivation signal in response to a predefined criterion. For example, the predefined criterion may be the transition of tray 502 from a locked state to an unlocked state. As another example, the predefined criterion may be the detection of motion or a human body part. A controller may be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. It should be noted that the controller may also be configured to deactivate first set of UV LEDs 512 in response to the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that aircraft disinfection system 500 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other mode of transportation. Aircraft disinfection system 500 may also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0069] Now refer to Figure 6 According to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 600 for disinfecting a foldable tray 602 are shown. The multiple views include a perspective view 604a, a perspective view 604b, a front view 604c, and a side view 604d. Aircraft disinfection system 600 may include an armrest 606 of a passenger seat. The passenger seat may be passenger seat 102a in aircraft cabin 100. Armrest 606 may include a recess 608 and a cover 610. Note that recess 608 may be configured to store foldable tray 602. Note also that cover 610 may be configured to cover recess 608. Foldable tray 602 may include multiple hinged sections (e.g., section 612a and section 612b). Furthermore, at least one of the multiple sections may be capable of folding relative to the remaining multiple sections about an associated pivot axis 614. Furthermore, aircraft disinfection system 600 may include a retractable mechanism 606a enclosed in recess 608. It may be noted that the first end portion ( Figure 6 ) may be removably attached to the foldable tray 602, and the second end of the retractable mechanism 606a ( Figure 6The foldable tray 602 can be secured within the well 608 (not shown). The retractable mechanism 606a can be configured to withdraw the foldable tray 602 from the well 608 in the open state. It is noted that in the open state, the foldable tray 602 can be at least partially outside the well 608. Additionally, the retractable mechanism 606a can be configured to retract the foldable tray 602 into the well 608 in the closed state. It is noted that in the closed state, the foldable tray 602 can be completely inside the well 608. The foldable tray 602 is shown in the open state in perspective view 604a and in the closed state in perspective view 604b.

[0070] The aircraft disinfection system 600 may also include a first set of UV LEDs 616 attached to each inner wall of the pit 608. The first set of UV LEDs 616 may be configured to disinfect each surface of the foldable tray 602 when the foldable tray 602 is in the closed state. In some embodiments, the first set of UV LEDs 616 may include at least one UV-C LED. In one embodiment, the first end portion ( Figure 6 ) can be hinged to the armrest 606 so that the top cover 610 can rotate around the pivot axis, and the second end of the top cover 610 ( Figure 6 (not shown) can cooperate with the armrest 606 to achieve a closed state and an open state. In addition, the aircraft disinfection system 600 may include at least one switch ( Figure 6 ). It may be noted that each of the at least one switch may be configured to be enclosed and activated by the top cover 610 in the closed state. Additionally, each of the at least one switch may be configured to be exposed and deactivated by the top cover 610 in the open state.

[0071] Additionally, the pit 608 may include at least one tongue (e.g., tongue 618) positioned between the inner walls of the pit 608. The second set of UV LEDs ( Figure 6 618 (not shown) may be attached to each face of at least one tongue. It should be noted that a second set of UV LEDs may be configured to disinfect at least one of the multiple sections of foldable tray 602. For example, section 612a may be foldable about pivot axis 614 relative to section 612b, such that when foldable tray 602 is in a closed position, foldable tray 602 may be completely within recess 608, and section 612a may be folded such that each edge of section 612a forms an angle of zero degrees with a corresponding edge of section 612b. Furthermore, in the closed position, tongue 618 may be positioned between sections 612a and 612b. A second set of UV LEDs may be attached to each face of tongue 618 and may be configured to disinfect a surface of each of sections 612a and 612b of foldable tray 602.

[0072] The aircraft disinfection system 600 may include a locking mechanism ( Figure 6 (not shown) It should be noted that the locking mechanism can be configured to engage with the second end of the top cover 610 to enable a closed state and an open state. The locking mechanism can engage the top cover 610 in the closed state and disengage from the top cover 610 in the open state. Furthermore, the aircraft disinfection system 600 can include a controller communicatively coupled to each of the at least one switch and the locking mechanism. It should be noted that the controller can be configured to activate the first set of UV LEDs 616 and the second set of UV LEDs when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the top cover 610 in the closed state. In one embodiment, the aircraft disinfection system 600 can include at least one sensor configured to generate a deactivation signal in response to a predefined criterion. For example, the predefined criterion can be the transition of the foldable tray 602 from a locked state to an unlocked state. As another example, the predefined criterion can be the detection of motion or a human body part. The controller can be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. It should be noted that the controller can also be configured to deactivate the first set of UV LEDs 616 and the second set of UV LEDs in response to the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that aircraft disinfection system 600 is not limited to aircraft and can be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other means of transportation. Aircraft disinfection system 600 can also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0073] Now refer to Figure 7According to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 700 for disinfecting a handle 702 of an overhead storage bin 704 are shown. Overhead storage bin 704 may be similar to overhead storage bin 108 of aircraft cabin 100. The multiple views of aircraft disinfection system 700 may include a perspective view 706a, a front view 706b, a front view 706c of handle 702, a bottom view 706d of handle 702, and a side view 706e. Aircraft disinfection system 700 may include a curved housing 708 operatively coupled to a first surface 710 of an enclosed area, in this case, the overhead storage bin 704. In a first position, curved housing 708 at least partially encloses handle 702 attached to first surface 710. This first position is illustrated in each of perspective view 706a, front view 706b, front view 706c of handle 702, bottom view 706d of handle 702, and side view 706e. Furthermore, the handle 702 can enable entry into an enclosed area. Additionally, the curved housing 708 can include an inner surface 712 that faces the first surface 710 at the first position of the curved housing 708. Additionally, the curved housing 708 can include an outer surface 714 that faces away from the first surface 710 at the first position.

[0074] The aircraft disinfection device 700 may further include a set of UV LEDs 716 attached to the interior surface 712. It may be noted that the set of UV LEDs 716 may be configured to disinfect the handle 702. In some embodiments, the set of UV LEDs 716 may include at least one UV-C LED. In addition, the aircraft disinfection device 700 may include a first surface 710 and a second surface ( Figure 7 It may be noted that each of the at least one switch is activated when the closed area is in a closed state, and each of the at least one switch is deactivated when the closed area is in an open state. In addition, the aircraft disinfection device 700 may include at least one locking mechanism ( Figure 7 (not shown). The at least one locking mechanism can be configured to engage with the first surface 710 in a closed state and disengage from the first surface 710 in an open state. Furthermore, the aircraft disinfection apparatus 700 can include a controller communicatively coupled to the set of UV LEDs 716, the at least one switch, and each of the at least one locking mechanism. The controller can be configured to activate the set of UV LEDs 716 when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface 710 in a closed state.

[0075] The aircraft disinfection device 700 may further include at least one sensor ( Figure 7(not shown), the sensor is attached to the inner surface 712 of the curved housing 708 and is configured to generate a deactivation signal based on predefined criteria. For example, the predefined criteria may include the detection of a body part of a user. It is noted that the controller may be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. It is also noted that the controller may be further configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs 716 based on the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the set of UV LEDs 716 may be attached to the first surface 710 and may be configured to disinfect the inner surface 712 of the curved housing 708. In another embodiment, the curved housing 708 may be equivalent to the handle 702 of the overhead storage box 704. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the aircraft disinfection device 700 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other means of transportation. The aircraft disinfection device 700 may also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0076] Now refer to Figure 8 According to another exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 800 for disinfecting a handle 802 of an overhead storage bin 804 are shown. Overhead storage bin 804 may be similar to overhead storage bin 108 of aircraft cabin 100. The multiple views of aircraft disinfection system 800 include a perspective view 806a, a side view 806b, and a side view 806c. Aircraft disinfection system 800 may include a curved housing 808 operatively coupled to a first surface 810 of an enclosed area, in this case, overhead storage bin 804. In a first position, curved housing 808 at least partially encloses handle 802 attached to first surface 810, thereby enabling access to the enclosed area. In this exemplary embodiment, curved housing 808 remains in the first position only. The first position is shown in side view 806b. Furthermore, curved housing 808 may include an inner surface 812 that faces first surface 810 in the first position of curved housing 808. The curved housing 808 may also include an outer surface 814 that faces away from the first surface 810 at the first location.

[0077] The aircraft disinfection device 800 may include a set of UV LEDs 816 attached to the interior surface 812. It may be noted that the set of UV LEDs 816 may be configured to disinfect the handle 802. In some embodiments, the set of UV LEDs 816 may include at least one UV-C LED. The aircraft disinfection device 800 may also include at least one switch ( Figure 8806b). It can be noted that each of the at least one switch is activated in the closed state of the enclosed area, and each of the at least one switch is deactivated in the open state of the enclosed area. The closed state is shown in side view 806b, and the open state is shown in side view 806c.

[0078] The aircraft disinfection device 800 may further include at least one locking mechanism ( Figure 8 (not shown). The at least one locking mechanism can be configured to engage with the first surface 810 in a closed state and disengage from the first surface 810 in an open state. Aircraft disinfection apparatus 800 can include a controller communicatively coupled to the set of UV LEDs 816, the at least one switch, and each of the at least one locking mechanism. The controller can be configured to activate the set of UV LEDs 816 when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface 810 in a closed state.

[0079] To move curved housing 808 from a first position to at least one of a second position and at least one intermediate position, aircraft disinfection apparatus 800 may include a rotation mechanism 818 operatively coupled to curved housing 808 and configured to move curved housing 808. Rotation mechanism 818 is shown in each of side views 806b and 806c. In the second position, curved housing 808 fully exposes handle 802, and in each of the at least one intermediate position, curved housing 808 partially exposes handle 802. In one embodiment, first surface 810 of the enclosed area may include a slit 820 to enable curved housing 808 to move through first surface 810 between the first position, the second position, and the at least one intermediate position. Slit 820 is shown in each of side views 806b and 806c. Note that the controller is communicatively coupled to the rotation mechanism. Furthermore, the controller can be configured to instruct the rotation mechanism 818 to move the curved housing 808 to the first position when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism is in the closed state engaged with the first surface 810. Furthermore, the controller can be configured to instruct the rotation mechanism 818 to move the curved housing 808 to one of the second position and at least one intermediate position when at least one of the at least one switch is deactivated and the locking mechanism is disengaged from the first surface 810.

[0080] Aircraft disinfection device 800 may also include at least one sensor attached to inner surface 812 of curved housing 808 and configured to generate a deactivation signal based on predefined criteria. For example, the predefined criteria may include detecting a body part of a user. It is noted that the controller may be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. It is also noted that the controller may be further configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs 816 based on the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that aircraft disinfection device 800 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other mode of transportation. Aircraft disinfection device 800 may also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0081] Now refer to Figure 9 According to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of a disinfection device 900 for disinfecting a handle 902 are shown. Handle 902 may be attached to a door 904, which can be used to open or close an enclosed area, such as a lavatory (e.g., lavatory 110 of aircraft cabin 100), an exit, an emergency exit, a cockpit, a galley, etc. The multiple views of aircraft disinfection system 900 may include a perspective view 906a, a front view 906b, a side view 906c, and a bottom view 906d. Aircraft disinfection device 900 may include a curved housing 908 operatively coupled to a first surface 910 of an enclosed area. First surface 910 is shown in each of perspective view 906a, side view 906c, and bottom view 906d. In a first position, curved housing 908 at least partially encloses handle 902 attached to first surface 910. In this exemplary embodiment, curved housing 908 remains in the first position only. Handle 902 may provide access to the enclosed area. Furthermore, the curved housing 908 may include an inner surface 912 facing the first surface 910 at the first position of the curved housing 908 and an outer surface 914 facing away from the first surface 910 at the first position.

[0082] The aircraft disinfection device 900 may also include a set of UV LEDs 916 attached to the interior surface 912. It may be noted that the set of UV LEDs 916 may be configured to disinfect the handle 902. In some embodiments, the set of UV LEDs 916 may include at least one UV-C LED. The set of UV LEDs 916 is shown in the bottom view 906d. In addition, the aircraft disinfection device 900 may include at least one switch ( Figure 9(not shown). It can be noted that each of the at least one switch is activated when the enclosed area is closed, and each of the at least one switch is deactivated when the enclosed area is open. For example, when the enclosed area is a bathroom, the switches may be positioned such that they are activated when the bathroom door is closed and deactivated when the door is opened.

[0083] The aircraft disinfection device 900 may additionally include at least one locking mechanism ( Figure 9 (not shown). The at least one locking mechanism may be configured to engage with the first surface 910 in a closed state and disengage from the first surface 910 in an open state. For example, when the enclosed area is a restroom, the locking mechanism may be a sliding latch that slides in one horizontal direction to close the door and slides in an opposite horizontal direction to open the door. Aircraft disinfection apparatus 900 may also include a controller communicatively coupled to each of the set of UV LEDs 916, the at least one switch, and the at least one locking mechanism. The controller may be configured to activate the set of UV LEDs 916 when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism is engaged with the first surface 910 in the closed state.

[0084] Aircraft disinfection device 900 may also include at least one sensor attached to inner surface 912 of curved housing 908 and configured to generate a deactivation signal based on predefined criteria. For example, the predefined criteria may include detection of a body part of a user. It is noted that the controller may be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. It is also noted that the controller may be further configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs 916 based on the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that aircraft disinfection device 900 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other mode of transportation. Aircraft disinfection device 900 may also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0085] Now refer to Figure 10, according to an exemplary embodiment, multiple views of an aircraft disinfection system 1000 for disinfecting a handle 1002 are shown. Handle 1002 may be attached to door 1004. The door may be configured to open or close an enclosed area, such as a lavatory (e.g., lavatory 110 of aircraft cabin 100), an exit, an emergency exit, a cockpit, a galley, etc. The multiple views of aircraft disinfection system 1000 may include a perspective view 1006a, a side view 1006b, and a side view 1006c. Aircraft disinfection system 1000 may include a curved housing 1008 operatively coupled to a first surface 1010 of an enclosed area. In a first position, curved housing 1008 may at least partially enclose handle 1002 attached to first surface 1010, thereby enabling access to the enclosed area. The first position is shown in side view 1006b. The curved housing 1008 may include an inner surface 1012 facing the first surface 1010 at a first position of the curved housing 1008 and an outer surface 1014 facing away from the first surface 1010 at the first position.

[0086] Aircraft disinfection device 1000 may include a set of UV LEDs 1016 attached to an interior surface 1012. Note that the set of UV LEDs 1016 may be configured to disinfect handle 1002. In some embodiments, the set of UV LEDs 1016 may include at least one UV-C LED. The interior surface 1012 and the set of UV LEDs 1016 are shown in each of side views 1006b and 1006c. Aircraft disinfection device 1000 may include at least one switch positioned on at least one of a first surface 1010 and a second surface of an enclosed area. Note that each of the at least one switch is activated when the enclosed area is closed and deactivated when the enclosed area is open. For example, if the enclosed area is a lavatory, the switches may be positioned such that they are activated when the lavatory door is closed and deactivated when the door is opened. The closed state is shown in side view 1006b, and the open state is shown in side view 1006c. Aircraft disinfection device 1000 may include at least one locking mechanism. At least one locking mechanism may be configured to engage with the first surface 1010 in a closed state and disengage from the first surface 1010 in an open state. For example, when the enclosed area is a restroom, the locking mechanism may be a sliding latch that slides in one horizontal direction to close the door and slides in an opposite horizontal direction to open the door. In addition, the aircraft disinfection apparatus 1000 may include a controller ( Figure 101010 ), the controller is communicatively coupled to each of the set of UV LEDs 1016, the at least one switch, and the at least one locking mechanism. The controller can be configured to activate the set of UV LEDs 1016 when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface 1010 in a closed state.

[0087] Aircraft disinfection apparatus 1000 may also include a rotation mechanism 1018 operatively coupled to curved housing 1008 and configured to move curved housing 1008 from a first position to at least one of a second position and at least one intermediate position. Rotation mechanism 1018 is shown in each of side views 1006b and 1006c. In the second position, curved housing 1008 fully exposes handle 1002, and in each of the at least one intermediate position, curved housing 1008 partially exposes handle 1002. In one embodiment, first surface 1010 of the enclosed area may include a slit 1020 to enable curved housing 1008 to move through first surface 1010 between the first position, the second position, and the at least one intermediate position. Slit 1020 is shown in each of side views 1006b and 1006c. Movement of curved housing 1008 may be accomplished via rotation mechanism 1018.

[0088] The controller can be communicatively coupled to the rotation mechanism 1018 and can be configured to instruct the rotation mechanism 1018 to move the curved housing 1008 to the first position when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism is in the closed state engaged with the first surface 1010. In contrast, the controller can be configured to instruct the rotation mechanism 1010 to move the curved housing 1008 to one of the second position and at least one intermediate position when at least one of the at least one switch is deactivated and the locking mechanism is disengaged from the first surface 1010.

[0089] Aircraft disinfection device 1000 may include at least one sensor attached to inner surface 1012 of curved housing 1008 and configured to generate a deactivation signal based on predefined criteria. For example, the predefined criteria may include detection of a body part of a user. It is noted that a controller may be communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. It is also noted that the controller may be further configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs 1016 based on the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that aircraft disinfection device 1000 is not limited to aircraft and may be implemented in trains, buses, cars, trucks, or any other mode of transportation. Aircraft disinfection device 1000 may also be implemented in public areas (e.g., movie theaters, shopping malls, etc.).

[0090] As those skilled in the art will further appreciate, current disinfection systems lack mechanisms for effectively disinfecting surfaces in aircraft while passengers and crew are on board. The aforementioned technologies provide for disinfecting surfaces in aircraft. Specifically, they provide for disinfecting surfaces in aircraft using multiple sets of UV LEDs. Using these technologies, passengers and crew can disinfect surfaces such as trays, lavatory door handles, or overhead storage bin handles. These technologies provide an effective means of preventing UV radiation from contacting a user's body parts. Surfaces such as the locking portion of a seatbelt can be disinfected before or after a flight without passengers or crew on board. These technologies provide housings such as a storage cover for the locking portion of a seatbelt, a frame and recess for storing a tray, and a curved housing for covering a handle. Each of the multiple sets of UV LEDs is attached to the interior of these housings. Furthermore, these technologies employ sensors to detect the presence of a user's body part within the housings. When a surface is closed or locked, the sensors activate the UV LEDs to prevent UV radiation from contacting the user's body parts. The above technology can be used in conjunction with existing existing technologies that use UV LEDs to disinfect air released from the air ducts of the aircraft's air conditioning system, the interior of the toilet, the interior of the aircraft cabin, handheld devices (e.g., in-flight entertainment controllers), etc.

[0091] The specification has described an aircraft disinfection system and apparatus. The illustrated steps are set forth to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it is expected that ongoing technological developments will change the manner in which specific functions are performed. These examples are provided herein for illustrative purposes, not for limiting purposes. Furthermore, for ease of description, the boundaries of functional building blocks are arbitrarily defined herein. Alternative boundaries may be defined so long as the specified functions and their relationships are properly performed. Based on the teachings contained herein, alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc. of those described herein) will be readily apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.

[0092] In addition, one or more computer-readable storage media may be used to implement embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions executed by one or more processors, including instructions for causing (multiple) processors to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term "computer-readable medium" should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals, i.e., non-transitory. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard drives, CD ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, magnetic disks, and any other known physical storage media.

[0093] It is intended that the disclosure and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. An aircraft disinfection device, comprising: a curved housing operatively coupled to a first surface of an enclosed area, wherein, in a first position, the curved housing at least partially encloses a handle attached to the first surface, and wherein the handle enables access to the enclosed area, the curved housing further comprising: an inner surface facing the first surface at the first position of the curved housing; and an outer surface facing away from the first surface at the first location; a set of ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached to the inner surface, wherein the set of UV LEDs are configured to disinfect the handle; at least one switch disposed on at least one of the first and second surfaces of the enclosed area, wherein each of the at least one switch is activated in a closed state of the enclosed area and each of the at least one switch is deactivated in an open state of the enclosed area; At least one locking mechanism, wherein the at least one locking mechanism is configured to: engages with the first surface in the closed state; and disengagement from the first surface in the open state; and a controller communicatively coupled to the set of UV LEDs, the at least one switch, and each of the at least one locking mechanism, wherein the controller is configured to activate the set of UV LEDs when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface in the closed state.

2. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is at least one sensor attached to the inner surface of the curved housing and configured to generate a deactivation signal based on predefined criteria, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor and is further configured to deactivate the set of UV LEDs based on the deactivation signal generated by the at least one sensor.

3. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that: The predefined criteria include detection of a body part of the user.

4. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is a rotation mechanism operatively coupled to the curved housing and configured to move the curved housing from the first position to at least one of a second position and at least one intermediate position, wherein in the second position the curved housing fully exposes the handle, and in each of the at least one intermediate position the curved housing partially exposes the handle.

5. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that: The controller is communicatively coupled to the rotation mechanism and is further configured to: instructing the rotation mechanism to move the curved housing to the first position when each of the at least one switch is activated and the locking mechanism engages the first surface in the closed state; and The rotation mechanism is directed to move the curved housing to a position that is one of the second position and the at least one intermediate position when at least one of the at least one switch is deactivated and the locking mechanism is disengaged from the first surface.

6. The aircraft disinfection equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first surface of the enclosed area includes a slit to enable the curved housing to move through the first surface between the first position, the second position, and the at least one intermediate position.

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