System and method for providing interconnected and secure mobile device charging stations

Abstract

A system is disclosed. The system has a housing, one or more compartments, each of the one or more compartments including a compartment door disposed at a first side of the housing, an operator door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity that accesses the one or more compartments, and closes to block access to the one or more compartments, an electronic lock configured to selectively lock and unlock the operator door, the electronic lock including an operator interface, computing memory having associated therewith code, and a processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory, configured to execute the code and to control the system.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING INTERCONNECTED AND SECURE MOBILE DEVICE CHARGING STATIONSField of the Invention

[0001] The instant disclosure relates to mobile devices, and, in particular, to systems and methods for providing interconnected, secure public or private mobile device charging stations.Background of the Invention

[0002] Mobile devices, such as cellular phones, personal digital assistants, tablets, and the like, are now widely used and heavily depended upon for voice and data communications. In order to maintain proper power levels for the operation of the device, the battery of the mobile device needs to be recharged from time to time. Often, at inopportune times, mobile device users may be located at public or private locations without the ability to recharge the mobile device battery. Even with the existence of public mobile device charging stations, these stations are limited in number and location. Consequently, a mobile device user runs the risk of his mobile device battery being exhausted before locating an available station to recharge the mobile device.

[0003] Further, conventional systems employed to charge and dispense mobile devices used by workers such as employees are largely manual in nature, and typically involve a manager using a key to open a storage area where devices that may be worth thousands of dollars are plugged in for charging. An employee typically manually signs out one or more devices at a beginning of a shift, and then returns the devices at the end of the shift. Conventional systems do not include efficient tracking mechanisms to ensure that checked-out devices are returned, resulting in large numbers of relatively expensive devices going missing each year and significant costs due to theft by employees.

[0004] The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method are directed to overcoming one or more of the shortcomings set forth above and / or other deficiencies in existing technology.Brief Description of the Figures

[0005] Understanding of the present invention will be facilitated by consideration of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals refer to like parts:

[0006] Figure 1 illustrates a diagram of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of a mobile device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 4A illustrates an example of a mobile device charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 4B illustrates another example of a mobile device charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 4C illustrates an example of an open locker of a mobile device charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 5 illustrates a diagram of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 6 illustrates a block diagram of a mobile device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 8A illustrates an example of a mobile device charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 8B illustrates another example of a mobile device charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 8C illustrates an example of an open locker of a mobile device charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary compartment according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary computing device, in accordance with at least some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary network, in accordance with at least some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 12 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary network, in accordance with at least some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 13 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 14 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 15 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 16 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 17 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 18 illustrates an example of a charging station location or venue according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 19 illustrates an example of a charging device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 20 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 21 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 22 illustrates an example of a charging station according to embodiments of the present invention.Summary of the Invention

[0032] In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system. The system includes a housing, one or more compartments, each of the one or more compartments including a compartment door disposed at a first side of the housing, an operator door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity that accesses the one or more compartments, and closes to block access to the one or more compartments, an electronic lock configured to selectively lock and unlock the operator door, the electronic lock including an operator interface, an ultraviolet lighting device disposed in at least one of the one or more compartments, computing memory having associated therewith code, and a processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory, configured to execute the code and to control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively emit ultraviolet lighting in an interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments.

[0033] In another exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method. The method includes providing a door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity and selectively closes to block access to the cavity, using a lock to selectively lock and unlock the door when the door is closed, and electrically charging a user device in the cavity when the door is closed and locked. The method also includes unlocking the door based on a first input provided by a first user, the first user removing the user device, electrically charging the user device in the cavity when the door is closed and locked after the first user returns the user device, and unlocking the door based on a second input provided by a second user, the second user removing the user device.Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0034] Because a conventional charger generally utilizes alternating current, and specifically typically uses either 110V or 220V “household” current designed for general use, it is often difficult to recharge a mobile device battery in a public place or while traveling without access to a suitable power terminal. However, the amount of current a phone accepts is generally “stepped down” from the 110V or 220V alternating current, such as typically using a “wall wart” charger that comes with the phone, as would be apparent to the skilled artisan. Thus, even in the case of an available power terminal, such charging would require the user to also be traveling with a charger, which may be inconveniently bulky or easily forgotten. Similarly, while outside and / or travelling in a vehicle, the user may need to have his or her charger available (particularly, a charger that is adapted for the specific device brand and model) in order to use a vehicle’s electrical power supply. Thus, public mobile device charging systems suitable for charging mobile devices are highly beneficial.

[0035] The present invention provides for a user to have readily available, secure charging capabilities. This is contrary to presently available charging solutions, which are typically non- secure at least in that the only security generally provided is when the user stands nearby to “guard” his / her phone. The inventive aspects may also provide for a user to be alerted of the locations of available public charging stations when the battery power level of his mobile device decreases to a low level.In particular, when the battery power of the mobile device decreases below a predetermined threshold level (for example, 20% of its maximum power), the mobile device may request, from the server, information of one or more registered businesses, i.e., any place of business that includes a charging unit, that house a charging station within a specified distance from the mobile device.

[0036] With reference to Fig. 1, GPS satellites (or other known mobile device locating technologies, such as triangulation) 100 operate to determine a location of a mobile device 104 that contains features, some of which features may be available based upon the location data. As used herein, mobile device 104 may refer to cellular phones, personal digital assistants, tablets, and thelike. The mobile device 104 may determine its location through the use of received GPS signals, or through the use of a filter which may combine location data from the GPS signals and / or from another system, such as cell-tower-triangulation or a WLAN system in order to obtain a location or a more accurate location. The mobile device 104 may be wirelessly coupled to server 106. The server 106 may be communicatively coupled to a datastore 108, as well as to a plurality of charging stations 110.

[0037] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the server 106 periodically receives and stores location information associated with the mobile device 104. This location information may be sent from the mobile device 104; pulled from the mobile device 104; or obtained from another service that is able to determine the location of the mobile device (e.g., Location Based Services (LBS), Assisted GPS (A-GPS), eGPS, GSM Localization, Multilaterilization, Radiolocation, Trilateration, etc.).

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention allow a mobile device user (who may become registered with the system upon using the charging station 110 for the first time) to be alerted of the locations of available public charging stations when the battery power level of his mobile device decreases, such as to a predetermined threshold level, which may be automatically set or which may be previously set by the user. Accordingly, when the battery power of the mobile device decreases below this predetermined threshold level (for example, 20% of its maximum power), the mobile device may request, from the server, information of one or more registered businesses housing a charging station within a specified distance from the mobile device. Alternatively, the location information of the mobile device may be sent to the server and compared with: the location information of one or more of the registered businesses housing a charging station; a list or a preferential list of registered businesses housing a charging station; a list of registered businesses having charging stations and making offers to consumers that those businesses wish to be known to the consumers; and the like.

[0039] Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of a mobile device 104 according to an embodiment. Within the mobile device 104, a receiver 202 may receive signals transmitted from GPS satellites, cell-towers, and / or access points for WLAN communication. A transmitter 204 may transmit signals including location information to the remote server or other access points. Power is provided to the various components of the mobile device 104 through battery 206. A station location module 208 may monitor a power level of the battery 206, and, based on the power level, the station location module 208 may provide station location information to the user of the mobile device 104. It should be noted that the station location module 208 may be able to monitor other functions and features of the mobile device as well. This information may be stored in one or more of databases described in datastore 108. The various modules within the mobile device 104 may operate as described hereinthroughout. A controller / processor 210 may direct the operation of various modules within mobile device 104, such as by execution of software program code to perform the functions discussed hereinthroughout. A memory 212 may store data and program codes for mobile device 104.

[0040] Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of a system 300 according to embodiments of the present invention. The system 300 comprises one or more charging stations 110, server 106 and data store 108. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the server 106 performs the tasks of providing charging station information to the mobile device. This charging station information may include geographical locations and / or directions to one or more respective charging stations and registered businesses in which these charging stations are housed or otherwise associated. This charging station information may also include advertisements or other types of information related to the associated businesses. This charging station information, among other types of information, is stored in one of the various databases 302-310 in data store 108. It should be noted that the various databases 302- 310 shown in data store 108 may be organized as separate databases, portions of a single database, or by any other logical structure appropriate for storing the data.

[0041] As illustrated in Fig. 3, data store 108 stores user information in user database 302. This information may include email addresses, phone numbers, user photos, survey responses, duration of charge, and the like.

[0042] A map database 304 may also be included. This database 304 may provide the background maps that are displayed on each user’s mobile device and that correspond to an area or region around the user at the time the application is invoked (i.e., when the user’s mobile device battery is low). For example, a map tile of the United States may provide an image of the continental U.S. that can be zoomed to display a regional street level map for any area in the U.S. The map may further be zoomed to display locations within a venue housing a collection of businesses. For example, a user may be located within a mall, and the application may be invoked due to his mobile device battery being low. The mobile device may display locations of retail stores within the mall which house available charging stations to charge the user’s mobile device, either upon zooming in on the application by the user, or by a predetermined setting for displaying a location.

[0043] A location database 306 may store geographic locations of charging stations and / or geographic locations of mobile devices 104 and / or clusters thereof. A charging station database 308 may store the current status of available lockers within any charging stations. This status may include a number of lockers of a particular charging station not currently in use, or, available, for charging.The data store 108 may also comprise a registered business database 310, which may store information related to businesses currently registered with the charging system according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, the business database 310 may include approved advertisements, or associated content describing respective registered businesses. Fig. 4A illustrates a mobile device charging station 110 according to embodiments of the present invention. This station110 may be located in a retail store, mall, hospital, stadium, casino, building lobby, or any other location suitable for accessibility. In Fig. 4B, station 110 includes a housing 402 mounted on a support 404. Embodiments may also include, on a face of the charging station 110, branding oradvertising space 409 for a registered business to provide information about its business, which may include, by non-limiting example, advertisements, coupons, or any other suitable content related to its business. Each housing 402 may comprise one or more lockers 407, preferably having resident therein supplied power, such as a plurality of charging cords or other wireless charging options, such as supplied power having different plugs, power mats, or like proprietary or third party charging formats for mating to different mobile devices, such as USB plugs, micro-USB, mini-USB or USB- C plugs, laptop tip plugs, and / or one or more proprietary plugs, such as plugs for an iPhone 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, and so on. Of course, any other charging plugs that presently exist or are subsequently developed may be included, as well as any other current or subsequent charging methodologies, such as charging mats, wireless charging, etc. It should be understood that housing 402, support 404, locker 407, and branding space 409 may have any desired dimension or configuration, depending, at least in part, on the particular location of the station 110, and that the overall design of station 110 shown in Fig. 4A is for exemplary purposes only.

[0044] By way of example, charging stations may comprise eight lockers, each with multi-use charging cables, and / or multiple different charging cables, there within. The lockers may reside in a structure formed of a suitably durable composition, such as metal, acrylic, plastics or other, and combinations thereof. For example, the door of a charging locker may allow for the user to see inside the locker, but may be formed of a combination or metal or other, and / or an acrylic panel that can withstand forces up to or exceeding, by way of non-limiting example, 10,000 psi.

[0045] Different mechanisms may be mounted on or associated with the housing 402 to enable a user to access, lock, and subsequently unlock an individual locker 407 for charging his mobile device 104. For example, the locking mechanism associated with a charging locker, such as in order to provide optimal security, may be break proof or resistant, such as withstanding up to or in excess of 1,000 pounds of force before yielding.

[0046] Referring to Fig. 4A, another mechanism, such as a bar code scanner or card or key FOB reader, and / or a display 408, such as a touch screen display (which may also display ads, coupons, codes and / or other aspects referenced herein), and / or a keypad 406 mounted to the housing 402, may allow for the collection of more user information. Coupled with a display 408 and microcontroller (not shown) connected to an electronic, keyless lock 413 (Fig. 4C), a user may be provided with instructions and options for charging his or her mobile device 104. For example, the locker 407 may be preprogrammed by the microcontroller (not shown) to accept a selected sequence or information entry by a new user when the electronic lock is unlatched (i.e. the locker 407 is open). The microcontroller (not shown) may be configured to accept the same sequence or information first entered by the user causing the lock to unlatch, allowing the user to remove his phone from the locker after use. This sequence or information may include user identifying information, such as the user’s telephone number, key code, pin numbers, security questions, email addresses, selection of security images, scanning of a bar code (such as on a ticket provided by the kiosk to a user when the user placed the phone in the locker), etc.

[0047] The display 408 may thus prompt the user for other identifying information for the collection and subsequent storage of user shopping information which may be valuable to retailers / registered businesses. For example, the display 408 may prompt the user to enter his name, a telephone number, an email address, a name and / or telephone number in conjunction with other information, such as a security “pin” having 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more digits or such as a security image, a loyalty program identifier, or the like.

[0048] By way of example, upon actuation of keypad 406 or touch display 408, the display may prompt the user to enter his telephone number. It should be noted that other and / or additional user identifying information may be gathered as a part of these instructions. This gathered information may be used to serve several purposes. One purpose may be to provide verification information that the user is, indeed, who he says he is (such as by way of comparison to registered user informationfor system 300, by way of verification with information stored in the mobile application having associated therewith the aforementioned map and battery charge level capabilities, and / or by comparison with personal information on or associated with the mobile device. Another purpose is to ensure that only the user (or, an individual authorized by the user) is able to access the mobile device 104 from the locker 407 after the mobile device has been locked in the given locker 407. Yet further and as mentioned above, another purpose for the prompted user identifying information is to gather information about the user’s shopping habits and / or frequented registered businesses, and / or other information as described hereinthroughout, which may be subsequently stored in user database 302 (as shown in Fig. 3).

[0049] The embodiments may thus include one or more remote, or local, data warehouses / databases 302. The data warehouse may include user information as discussed above and throughout, and / or may comprise reports, calculations, and the like, run over a predetermined time period in association with a kiosk or a group of kiosks, such as once per day. The data in the data warehouse may be segregated by user, user type, brand, group, and so on. For example, phone numbers and emails may be indicative of uniquely personal identifying information, and as such may be segregated by brand or group to which the user is willing to allow that information to be provided. Needless to say, this may provide enhanced security of use to users.

[0050] Also, as a security feature, the display 408 may display an image of which a user has previously selected upon initially accessing an available locker. For example, the user may enter a telephone number, and then either select or be shown an image, such as a black dog. Upon returning to unlock the locker, the user may be prompted to enter his phone number, and then to select the appropriate image that matches the preselected image in order to unlock the locker.

[0051] It should be noted that any suitable type of user interface may be provided. For example, the user interface may be a part of a display 408, such as the aforementioned touch screen liquid crystal display (LCD), and / or may include a display and a separate or discrete keypad 406. Moreover,it should be noted that any known methodologies of data entry may be employed, alone or in combination, including but not limited to a credit card or driver’s license swipe, telephone number or other data entry to a keypad, a bar code or QR code scan, a loyalty program card or informational scan, a near field communication scan, or a biometric scan, such as a fingerprint scan, for example.

[0052] An exemplary auxiliary mechanism which may be employed for accessing and using the charging station 110, and / or for accumulating additional user information or security, is a supplemental aspect of user interface 408, such as a card reader (not shown). The card reader (shown in 406 on Fig. 4A) may accept any card identifying a particular mobile device user. The card reader may be configured to accept a user credit card, a driver’s license, or a consumer card issued by a particular retailer or establishment, such as a loyalty card, by way of non-limiting example.

[0053] For example, users may choose to enroll in user loyalty programs using the disclosed embodiments, either of the kiosk provider or of other commercial entities, or users may already be members of loyalty programs prior to using a kiosk. Users may choose to enroll via the charging kiosk utilizing a graphical user interface 408 provided at the kiosk, or may be enrolled in third party or affiliated programs that provide cards, pins, QR codes, or the like, to indicate loyalty status. The loyalty program enrollment information may be stored in conjunction with the user information stored at the administration server, or the like, or may be uploaded or otherwise made available from a third party for association, such as in a database, with a charging device number at the kiosk (noting that the kiosk may include the aforementioned auxiliary reader for loyalty cards, loyalty pins or QR codes, or the like). Further, via the graphical user interface, a user of the system may participate in completing surveys or polls, which may or may not relate to the loyalty program. For example, users may be polled, such as by a casino, as to, if they were to win a prize from a slot machine, what prize would they like to win.

[0054] Fig. 4C illustrates an example of an open locker of the charging station 110 of an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, multiple interfaces and / or universal interfaces 410may be located inside each locker 407 provided for recharging a given mobile device 411. Each interface 410 may be a unique type of charging interface, may be dedicated for a particular make or model of mobile device, or may be a universal charging interface.

[0055] The exemplary disclosed process and system may include a safety system having safety components such as, for example, gloves, styli, shields, and other suitable safety components. For example as illustrated in Fig. 4C, the exemplary disclosed system may include a safety assembly 490. Safety assembly 490 may provide one or more safe and / or contactless techniques for users (e.g., consumers) to interact with stations or kiosks (e.g., phone charging kiosks) of the exemplary disclosed system. Safety assembly 490 may include a dispenser that may be provided on a station or kiosk housing and that may operate to dispense gloves that a user may wear while interacting with the exemplary disclosed user interface (e.g., a touch screen). The gloves may be dispensed manually or automatically by safety assembly 490. For example, safety assembly 490 (e.g., or the exemplary disclosed system) may include a motion sensor that detects a presence or approach of a user (e.g., or may detect when users wave their hands), and based on this detection safety assembly 490 may automatically dispense a glove or pair or gloves to the user. The gloves may be single-use gloves (e.g., latex, PVC, PVA, neoprene or any other suitable type of glove for preventing a transmission of bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens), which may provide a contactless experience (e.g., avoid direct contact).

[0056] Safety assembly 490 may also dispense contact devices such as styli, “hooks,” or other similar contact devices similarly to the exemplary dispensing of gloves described above. A user may utilize the manually or automatically dispensed contact devices to press buttons on the exemplary disclosed user interface of the station or kiosk (e.g., screen) and / or to push a door (e.g., locker door) closed after a device such as a user phone is connected or disconnected (e.g., to a charging cable of the exemplary disclosed station or kiosk).

[0057] Safety assembly 490 may also include a glove, styli, and / or waste disposal bin that may be attached or mounted to the station or kiosk to provide an efficient and effective technique for a user (e.g., customer) to dispose of any materials used to facilitate touchless interaction. Users and / or venue operators may opt into one or more of the exemplary disclosed components of safety assembly 490 as add-ons (e.g., via entering input or making selections via the exemplary disclosed user interface) to utilize to reduce the spread of germs and viruses from the kiosk at a given venue. For example, users and / or venue operators may provide suitable payment to have access to the exemplary disclosed components of safety assembly 490 (e.g., and to pay for use of one-time use components of safety assembly 490) to reduce a probability of infection to a user or to users at a given station or kiosk located at a given venue.

[0058] The exemplary disclosed system may also include a shield component 495 disposed at any desired components, for example as illustrated at Fig. 4C. Shield component 495 may be for example a shield layer. For example, shield component 495 may be disposed at the exemplary disclosed user interface (e.g., touchscreen) and / or other touchable areas of the station or kiosk. Shield component495 may be an anti-pathogen shield such as an anti-virus shield. For example, shield component 495 may be a layer that is mechanically attached (e.g., or magnetically attached) or adhered to surfaces of the station or kiosk. For example, shield component 495 may be formed from thin transparent or translucent (or opaque material). Shield component 495 may be formed from any suitable metallic or plastic material. Shield component 495 may include materials that may prevent pathogens such as viruses and bacteria from replicating or spreading, thereby rendering the pathogens inactive over a period of time (e.g., with no additional cleaning involved to maintain sanitization).

[0059] The exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may provide for sanitization of one or more storage compartments. The storage components may be any desired secure or unsecure storage components such as compartments for charging user devices such as mobile devices (e.g., smartphones), security compartments or lockers, or any other suitable compartments (e.g., publiclyavailable compartments). The exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may also provide sanitization for any suitable application such as providing sanitization of a compartment for shopping baskets, shoes, and / or clothing. The exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may also be used for providing sanitization of a mailbox.

[0060] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may include a phone charging station that may provide a free (e.g., and / or partially or fully fee-based) “phone sanitization” service, which may provide users with a clean and secure phone charging experience while in public. For example, similar to providing free and secure phone charging stations in venues, providing a phone charging station with sanitization may increase dwell time and spend in a store or venue, as well as “net promoter score” (NPS) of the users who charge their devices using the exemplary disclosed system.

[0061] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may include a sanitization service through the use of UV lights in kiosk lockers. These UV lights may be used to regularly clean a storage compartment interior (e.g., a locker interior), charging cables disposed inside the locker, and / or a user’s device (e.g., phone) by inactivating or killing pathogens or germs (e.g., bacteria and viruses) on these surfaces. In at least some exemplary embodiments, UV-C lights may be used to eliminate at least 99.9% (e.g., or 99.99%, 99.999%, 99.9999%, or a higher percentage, or a lower percentage than 99.9%) of pathogens or germs (e.g., bacteria and viruses) on a device. The exemplary disclosed method may leverage UV light technology, such as UV light technology that may be used in medical and scientific applications for sanitization. The exemplary disclosed method may simultaneously charge and sanitize devices stored in the exemplary disclosed cavities (e.g., lockers or compartments), and may sanitize the exemplary disclosed cavities (e.g., lockers or compartments) between uses by users to ensure that a compartment is substantially sanitized when a next user gains access to a cavity.

[0062] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may provide for UV lighting devices to be configurable on a per-kiosk basis (e.g., to allow clients and venues to opt in or out to including UV light in their mobile charging kiosks based on preference and public health requirements).

[0063] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may include UV lights that may be activated within secure, locked phone charging lockers.During the process of sanitizing his or her device, a user may be granted access to a secure locker and charging technology, such as charging cables or a wireless charging pad, that are able to charge any device. The user may thereby charge his or her device while it is being sanitized. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the UV lights may be activated to sanitize when a locker door is closed and a device is charging. For example, a controller may be configured to control an ultraviolet lighting device to operate when both the apparatus is electrically connected to the electronic device when the electronic device is received in the housing and the door is closed. Also for example, the exemplary disclosed system may prevent emission of ultraviolet light in a cavity (e.g., a locker) when either an electrical device disposed in the locker is not being electrically charged via an electrical connection or the door to the cavity is open. Further for example, the exemplary disclosed system may selectively emit UV-C light in a compartment when both a door closes to block access to the compartment and a mobile device disposed in the compartment is being charged by the charging station when the mobile device is received in the compartment. Additionally for example, the exemplary disclosed system may stop emission of the UV-C light in the compartment when at least one of the door opens to allow access to the compartment or the mobile device is not being charged by the charging station.

[0064] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system may execute code to display data to a user device to direct the user to a location including the charging station and to display to the user a number of available compartments including the UV-C lighting device (e.g., via the exemplary disclosed user interface). The exemplary disclosed system may display data to auser including information of when the user last performed a UV-C disinfection of the mobile device, a germ status of the mobile device, and / or a recommended next time that the user should perform another UV-C disinfection of the mobile device. The exemplary disclosed system may control a rotation and movement of the UV-C lighting device based on a placement of the mobile device in the compartment. The exemplary disclosed system may control the UV-C lighting device to emit UV-C light in the compartment before and after receiving the mobile device in the compartment. The exemplary disclosed system may include a compartment having a door that includes a window that blocks ultraviolet emission from the lighting device from leaving the cavity and that is also one-way visible from the outside to allow a user to see the electronic device. The exemplary disclosed system may include a support member supporting the UV-C lighting device that is controlled by a controller to be rotatable and movable based on a placement of the electronic device in the cavity (e.g., providing mechanical adjustment of UV-C LEDs to optimize device coverage based on phone placement).

[0065] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may include a kiosk that includes compartments (e.g., lockers) and sanitizes the lockers prior to and following a charge transaction. Such sanitization may make the locker safe and clean for the next user.

[0066] In at least some exemplary embodiments, UV sanitization may be employed in combination with OptiCharge technology, Photo Verification technology, short- and long-form survey, and any other desired technology, which may provide a safe (e.g., an optimal safe) and secure experience for users while charging and sanitizing their devices. For example, the Photo Verification technology may confirm an identity of a user based on imaging of the user before and after use and comparison of the user images to confirm user identity. UV sanitization may also be used in combination with thermal imaging (e.g., infrared thermography, thermal video, and other suitable sensors and / or techniques) to determine a body temperature of users and to control access to the exemplary disclosed system. For example, if the exemplary disclosed system (e.g., a sensor of theexemplary disclosed system for example as described herein) determines that a user has a high body temperature indicative of a fever or illness (e.g., a body temperature that exceeds a threshold temperature such as, for example, about 100 degrees Fahrenheit, e.g., 100.4 degrees or any other suitable or desired threshold indicative of a fever or other pathological condition), the exemplary disclosed system may deny access to the system, issue alerts to the user and / or operators of the system, and / or take any other suitable predetermined actions.

[0067] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed UV sanitization process may be offered as a complimentary service to users who input predetermined data (e.g., enter a series of information, such as phone number and email address). A mobile app may be used to direct users who are looking for locations at which to sanitize their devices (e.g., phones), and may alert the users to nearby charging station that may sanitize their devices during charging. The exemplary disclosed mobile application may distinguish between kiosks that do offer sanitization and kiosks that do not offer sanitization, and may allow users to filter results based on this criteria. The mobile application may also indicate to users a number of sanitizing lockers currently available at one or more given kiosks or locations.

[0068] For example as illustrated in Fig. 5, a sanitization system 100s may include GPS satellites (or other known mobile device locating technologies, such as triangulation) 100 that may operate to determine a location of a mobile device 104 that contains features, some of which may be available based upon the location data. As used herein, mobile device 104 may refer to cellular phones, personal digital assistants, tablets, and the like. The mobile device 104 may determine its location through the use of received GPS signals, or through the use of a filter which may combine location data from the GPS signals and / or from another system, such as cell-tower-triangulation or a WLAN system in order to obtain a location or a more accurate location. The mobile device 104 may be wirelessly coupled to server 106. The server 106 may be communicatively coupled to a datastore 108, as well as to aplurality of stations 110 (e.g., mobile device charging stations or any other suitable component or location for example as disclosed herein).

[0069] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the server 106 periodically receives and stores location information associated with the mobile device 104. This location information may be sent from the mobile device 104; pulled from the mobile device 104; or obtained from another service that is able to determine the location of the mobile device (e.g., Location Based Services (LBS), Assisted GPS (A-GPS), eGPS, GSM Localization, Multilaterilization, Radiolocation, Trilateration, etc.).

[0070] Fig. 6 shows a block diagram of a mobile device 104 according to an embodiment. Within the mobile device 104, a receiver 202 may receive signals transmitted from GPS satellites, cell-towers, and / or access points for WLAN communication. A transmitter 204 may transmit signals including location information to the remote server or other access points. Power is provided to the various components of the mobile device 104 through battery 206. A station location module 208 may monitor a power level of the battery 206, and, based on the power level, the station location module 208 may provide station location information to the user of the mobile device 104. It should be noted that the station location module 208 may be able to monitor other functions and features of the mobile device as well. This information may be stored in one or more of databases described in datastore 108. The various modules within the mobile device 104 may operate as described herein. A controller / processor 210 may direct the operation of various modules within mobile device 104, such as by execution of software program code to perform the functions discussed herein. A memory 212 may store data and program codes for mobile device 104.

[0071] Fig. 7 shows a block diagram of a system 300 of sanitization system 100s according to embodiments of the present invention. The system 300 comprises one or more stations 110 (e.g., charging stations or any other suitable component or location for example as disclosed herein), server106 and data store 108. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the server 106 performs thetasks of providing charging station information to the mobile device. This charging station information may include geographical locations and / or directions to one or more respective charging stations and registered businesses in which these charging stations are housed or otherwise associated.This charging station information may also include advertisements or other types of information related to the associated businesses. This charging station information, among other types of information, is stored in one of the various databases 302-310 in data store 108. It should be noted that the various databases 302-310 shown in data store 108 may be organized as separate databases, portions of a single database, or by any other logical structure appropriate for storing the data.

[0072] As illustrated in Fig. 7, data store 108 stores user information in user database 302. This information may include email addresses, phone numbers, user photos, survey responses, duration of charge, and the like. A map database 304 may also be included. This database 304 may provide the background maps that are displayed on each user's mobile device and that correspond to an area or region around the user at the time the application is invoked (e.g., when the user's mobile device battery is low). For example, a map tile of the United States may provide an image of the continentalU.S. that can be zoomed to display a regional street level map for any area in the U.S. The map may further be zoomed to display locations within a venue housing a collection of businesses. For example, a user may be located within a mall, and the application may be invoked due to his mobile device battery being low. The mobile device may display locations of retail stores within the mall which house available charging stations to charge the user's mobile device, either upon zooming in on the application by the user, or by a predetermined setting for displaying a location.

[0073] A location database 306 may store geographic locations of charging stations and / or geographic locations of mobile devices 104 and / or clusters thereof. A charging station database 308 may store the current status of available lockers within any charging stations. This status may include a number of lockers of a particular charging station not currently in use, or, available, for charging.The data store 108 may also comprise a registered business database 310, which may storeinformation related to businesses currently registered with the charging system according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, the business database 310 may include approved advertisements, or associated content describing respective registered businesses.

[0074] Fig. 8A illustrates a station 110 (e.g., charging stations or any other suitable component or location for example as disclosed herein) according to embodiments of the present invention. This station 110 may be located in a retail store, mall, hospital, stadium, casino, building lobby, or any other location suitable for accessibility. In Fig. 8B, station 110 may include a housing 402 mounted on a support 404. Embodiments may also include, on a face of the station 110, branding or advertising space 409 for a registered business to provide information about its business, which may include, by non-limiting example, advertisements, coupons, or any other suitable content related to its business. Each housing 402 may comprise one or more lockers 407, preferably having resident therein supplied power, such as a plurality of charging cords or other wireless charging options, such as supplied power having different plugs, power mats, or like proprietary or third party charging formats for mating to different mobile devices, such as USB plugs, micro-USB, mini-USB or USB-C plugs, laptop tip plugs, and / or one or more proprietary plugs, such as plugs for an iPhone 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and so on. Of course, any other charging plugs that presently exist or are subsequently developed may be included, as well as any other current or subsequent charging methodologies, such as charging mats, wireless charging, etc. It should be understood that housing 402, support 404, locker 407, and branding space 409 may have any desired dimension or configuration, depending, at least in part, on the particular location of the station 110, and that the overall design of station 110 shown in Fig. 8A is for exemplary purposes only.

[0075] By way of example, charging stations may comprise eight lockers, each with multi-use charging cables, and / or multiple different charging cables, there within. The lockers may reside in a structure formed of a suitably durable composition, such as metal, acrylic, plastics or other, and combinations thereof. For example, the door of a charging locker may allow for the user to see insidethe locker, but may be formed of a combination or metal or other, and / or an acrylic panel that can withstand forces up to or exceeding, by way of non-limiting example, 10,000 psi.

[0076] A durable cabinet construction may allow for usage in a variety of environments, and the durable construction may be formed accordingly, such as by metal treated with rust proofing. In addition, other measures may be taken for kiosks for use in outdoor environments such as gasketing, heating and ventilation systems, etc. Moreover, the durable housing may house there within a variety of other features, such as antennas, PCBs, and the like, as referenced herein throughout. Alternatively, antennas may be placed atop, behind, or alongside in physical association with a cabinet. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the antennas and associated or alternative hardware may be suitable to communicate and / or connect to a network, such as a local or global network, such as the Internet, using any of a variety of different communication methodologies dependent upon the context in which the cabinet is placed, such as using 4G LTE, 3G, a wide area network, a local area network, or the like. Moreover, multiple different antennas may provide this functionality, where a single antenna may provide multiple different functionalities for communication purposes. Accordingly, and dependent in part on location, communication speeds may be optimized by software or firmware algorithms within the cabinet, or remotely by an administrator, by way of non-limiting example.

[0077] Additionally, in the event the lockers can be at least partially transparent to a user, other features may be added within each individual charging locker, such as multi-color LEDs or blinking LEDs, also as referenced herein. These additional features may be controlled locally or remotely, such as to provide optionality correspondent to time of year, e.g., Christmas lights, branding of the unit, whether or not a locker is in use (e.g., a red light may mean that locker is in use), and the like.

[0078] Different mechanisms may be mounted on or associated with the housing 402 to enable a user to access, lock, and subsequently unlock an individual locker 407 for charging his mobile device 104. For example, the locking mechanism associated with a charging locker, such as in order toprovide optimal security, may be break proof or resistant, such as withstanding up to or in excess of 1,000 pounds of force before yielding.

[0079] Referring to Fig. 8A, another mechanism, such as a bar code scanner or card or key FOB reader, and / or a display 408, such as a touch screen display (which may also display ads, coupons, codes and / or other aspects referenced herein), and / or a keypad 406 mounted to the housing 402, may allow for the collection of more user information. Coupled with a display 408 and microcontroller (not shown) connected to an electronic, keyless lock 413 (e.g., as illustrated in Fig. 8C), a user may be provided with instructions and options for charging his or her mobile device 104. For example, the locker 407 may be preprogrammed by the microcontroller (not shown) to accept a selected sequence or information entry by a new user when the electronic lock is unlatched (e.g. the locker 407 is open). The microcontroller (not shown) may be configured to accept the same sequence or information first entered by the user causing the lock to unlatch, allowing the user to remove his phone from the locker after use. This sequence or information may include user identifying information, such as the user's telephone number, key code, pin numbers, security questions, email addresses, selection of security images, scanning of a bar code (such as on a ticket provided by the kiosk to a user when the user placed the phone in the locker), etc.

[0080] The display 408 may thus prompt the user for other identifying information for the collection and subsequent storage of user shopping information which may be valuable to retailers / registered businesses. For example, the display 408 may prompt the user to enter his name, a telephone number, an email address, a name and / or telephone number in conjunction with other information, such as a security “pin” having 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more digits or such as a security image, a loyalty program identifier, or the like.

[0081] By way of example, upon actuation of keypad 406 or touch display 408, the display may prompt the user to enter his telephone number. It should be noted that other and / or additional user identifying information may be gathered as a part of these instructions. This gathered informationmay be used to serve several purposes. One purpose may be to provide verification information that the user is, indeed, who he says he is (such as by way of comparison to registered user information for system 300, by way of verification with information stored in the mobile application having associated therewith the aforementioned map and battery charge level capabilities, and / or by comparison with personal information on or associated with the mobile device. Another purpose is to ensure that only the user (or, an individual authorized by the user) is able to access the mobile device 104 from the locker 407 after the mobile device has been locked in the given locker 407. Yet further and as mentioned above, another purpose for the prompted user identifying information is to gather information about the user's shopping habits and / or frequented registered businesses, and / or other information as described herein, which may be subsequently stored in user database 302 (as shown in Fig. 7).

[0082] The embodiments may thus include one or more remote, or local, data warehouses / databases 302. The data warehouse may include user information as discussed above and throughout, and / or may comprise reports, calculations, and the like, run over a predetermined time period in association with a kiosk or a group of kiosks, such as once per day. The data in the data warehouse may be segregated by user, user type, brand, group, and so on. For example, phone numbers and emails may be indicative of uniquely personal identifying information, and as such may be segregated by brand or group to which the user is willing to allow that information to be provided. Needless to say, this may provide enhanced security of use to users.

[0083] Also, as a security feature, the display 408 may display an image of which a user has previously selected upon initially accessing an available locker. For example, the user may enter a telephone number, and then either select or be shown an image, such as a black dog. Upon returning to unlock the locker, the user may be prompted to enter his phone number, and then to select the appropriate image that matches the preselected image in order to unlock the locker.

[0084] Fig. 9 illustrates a detailed view of components of sanitization system 100s described above regarding Fig. 8C. As illustrated in Fig. 9, a device 105s may be included in sanitization system 100s. One or more devices 105 s may be provided in a given compartment 407s. Compartment 407s may be generally similar to the exemplary disclosed compartments described above. Sanitization system 100s may include a plurality of assemblies or kiosks that each may have a plurality of compartments 407s (e.g., similar to as described above). Device 105s may be a sanitization device. For example, device 105s may be a lighting device. In at least some exemplary embodiments, device 105s may include an ultraviolet (UV) lighting device. Device 105s may also include RGB lighting devices such as RGB LEDs. For example, device 105s may include a combination of UV lights and any other desired lights such as RGB LEDs. In at least some exemplary embodiments, one or more devices 105s may include visible light LEDs (that emit a first visible light color, e.g., purple light or any other desired color) that may be activated simultaneously with UV-C LEDs to indicate to users that the UV-C LEDs are activated (e.g., are on), thereby providing users with an added safety feature (e.g., as UV-C light is not visible to humans). In at least some exemplary embodiments, one or more devices 105s may include visible light LEDs (that emit a second visible light color, e.g., white light or any other desired color) that may be activated to indicate to users that the UV-C LEDs are de-activated (e.g., are off). Device 105s may illuminate an inside of compartment 407s (e.g., a locker such as a kiosk locker) using for example RGB lighting (e.g., LEDs) including in device 105s.

[0085] In at least some exemplary embodiments, sanitization system 100s may include one or more switches 423s. Switch 423s may be for example any suitable electrical switch or relay. Switch423s may be for example a deactivation switch or a kill switch (e.g., a physical kill switch) that may be selectively activated by the exemplary disclosed module, processors, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s for example as described herein. One or more switches 423s may be disposed at any suitable location (e.g., at, on, partially in, or within station 110) for example at onecontrol or interface board or at a plurality of control or interface boards of station 110. In at least some exemplary embodiments, one or more switches 423s may block current or power to one or more devices 105s when one or more doors 407 are opened or remain open. For example, each switch 423s may block power to one or more devices 105 s when one or more doors 407 is opened so that UV-C light of devices 105 s does not emit through an aperture of an opened door 407 and reach or contact (e.g., hit) a user when one or more doors 407 are open. The exemplary disclosed module, processors, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s for example as described herein may execute software that controls switch 423 s to automatically turn off UV-C light emitted by one or more devices 105 s before a corresponding door 407 is opened and / or at any time door 407 is scheduled to open. One or more switches 423s may thereby be controlled to allow on-site technicians and / or remote staff to turn off UV-C emissions on demand. In at least some exemplary embodiments, switch 423s may be controlled to operate by sanitization system 100s based on data sensed by a sensor 420s (e.g., by sensor 420s that may sense the presence or absence of a user in an area adjacent to or near station 110 for example as described herein).

[0086] Device 105s may also include UV-C lighting devices such as UV-C LEDs. For example, existing LEDs of compartment 407s may be modified to include and / or use UV-C LEDs (e.g., in addition or as an alternative to color LEDs, for example using the same form factor for retrofit capabilities). For example, device 105s may include sanitizing light devices such as UV-C lights or any other suitable “germicidal irradiation” sources. Device 105s may also include Far UV-C lighting devices.

[0087] In at least some exemplary embodiments, device 105s may include sanitizing lights having UV wavelengths that may be between about 200nm and about 300nm, or between about 255nm and about 300nm. For example, device 105s may include LEDs having UV wavelengths of between about 255nm and about 300nm or any other wavelength range suitable for providing sanitizing light.

[0088] Device 105s (e.g., including one or more UV lights) may be mounted in any suitable location of compartment 407s. For example, device 105 s may be mounted in any suitable location (e.g., anywhere) in an interior of compartment 407s such as on an interior surface of compartment 407s. As illustrated in Fig. 9, Device 105s may be disposed on a door of compartment 407s. Device 105s may be mounted outside of compartment 407s and oriented in such a way that device 105s illuminates (e.g., shines inside) the interior of compartment 407s (e.g., shines through a cutout or aperture of compartment 407s). In at least some exemplary embodiments, some or ah devices 105s may be mounted in an angled position (e.g., an angled fashion) to increase and / or substantially maximize light reflection inside compartment 407s. Also for example, some or ah devices 105 s may be movable (e.g., rotatable and / or movable back and forth, up, down, diagonally, and / or in any other suitable manner) to provide desired light coverage (e.g., optimal light coverage) of a device 411 (e.g., that may be similar to mobile device 104) inside of compartment 407s. For example, device 105 s may be mounted to a surface portion of compartment 407s by a support member (e.g., support portion of device 105s) that may be rotatable and / or movable so that device 105s may be rotated and moved (e.g., to adjust an angle and / or position of device 105s).

[0089] In at least some exemplary embodiments, compartments 407s may be configured to provide for full coverage of UV light within compartment 407s (e.g., within a cavity of compartment407s). Device 105s (e.g., including UV lights) may be mounted on one or many of the interior surfaces inside compartment 407s (e.g., a rectangular locker). For example, one or more devices 105s including UV-C LEDs may be mounted in a square grid layout on a top interior surface and a bottom interior surface of compartment 407s, in order to sterilize a front and back of a user device such as mobile device 411. Alternatively for example, UV-C LEDs may be mounted on a top interior surface or a bottom interior surface of compartment 407s in combination with reflective interior surfaces 408s of compartment 407s. Surfaces 408s may be for example an integral part of wall portions formed from an integral reflective material or may include a reflective coating that may be applied to surface408s. For example, reflective interior surface 408 s may be an aluminum surface, vinyl material with a reflective finish, or any other suitable reflective surface. Interior surface 408s may be or may include an anodized aluminum surface or coating, a Teflon surface or coating, and / or a white reflective paint surface or coating. Interior surface 408s may be any suitable material or surface for increasing or substantially maximizing reflectivity of UV-C lights to achieve optimal dosage. For example, one or more or all interior surfaces (e.g., six surfaces 408s) of compartment 407s may be reflective surfaces (e.g., reflective surfaces 408s). The exemplary reflective surfaces may allow the UV-C light emitted by one or more devices 105s to reflect and sterilize a user device disposed in compartment 407s from multiple angles, while consuming relatively less power. Compartment 407s may also be any other suitable type of compartment such as, for example, a compartment for a shopping basket, shoes, and / or clothing (e.g., a clothing compartment). Compartment 407s may also be a mailbox or other similar compartment that may be used by multiple users.

[0090] In at least some exemplary embodiments, an interior surface (e.g., facing an interior of compartment 407s) of door 407 may be fabricated from or covered with (e.g., coated with) a reflective material that may maintain a security and integrity of the exemplary disclosed kiosk housing (e.g., such as aluminum, vinyl material with a reflective finish, or any other suitable reflective material). The surface may be similar to reflective interior surface 408s and may allow for suitable (e.g., optimal) reflection of UV light. For example as described above, material similar to reflective interior surface 408s may be provided on any suitable interior surface (e.g., a ceiling) of compartment 407s to increase reflection and illumination. For example, the exemplary disclosed reflective material may be applied or attached to (e.g., coated or members formed from) any desired surface (e.g., interior surface) of compartment 407s and / or door 407.

[0091] In at least some exemplary embodiments, a support assembly 414s may be disposed in compartment 407s. Support assembly 414s may be formed from a clear (e.g., transparent or translucent material) such as clear plastic, clear glass, or any other suitable material. In at least someexemplary embodiments, support assembly 414s may be formed from quartz glass, sapphire glass, fused silica, Polymethylpentene TPX, and / or any other suitable material that may transmit UV-C light (e.g., act as transparent and / or translucent to UV-C light). Support assembly 414s may be a wedge, bench, or other suitable support for supporting user device 411 above a floor (e.g., that may be a reflective surface similar to surface 408s) of compartment 407s. UV light emitted by device 105s may thereby pass through support assembly 414s and reach a surface of a mobile device (e.g., device 411) that may be supported on support assembly 414s (e.g., so the UV light may reach an underside of a user’s phone or device). In at least some exemplary embodiments, support assembly 414s may be a riser that may be used to support device 411 in a desired position (e.g., an optimal position) to receive coverage of UV-C light. A configuration of support assembly 414s may be based on (e.g., determined by) a configuration and / or positioning of one or more devices 105s (e.g., a location and / or angle of devices 105 s in compartment 407s).

[0092] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed module, processor, and other components may provide information (e.g., via display 408) to users regarding a placement of device 411 in compartment 407s. For example, a user may be guided by information (e.g., audio and / or visual information such as including graphics displayed on display 408) provided by sanitization system 100s as to how to position device 411 in compartment 407s (e.g., where to position on support assembly 414s or another surface of compartment 407s). Sanitization system 100s may also position (e.g., move and / or change an angle of) devices 105s based on a user’s placement of device 411. Sanitization system 100s may thereby direct a user’s placement of device 411 in compartment 407s to increase and / or substantially ensure a sanitization of device 411 (e.g., including adjusting a position and / or angle of one or more devices 105s based on a location provided to a user at which to place device 411).

[0093] In at least some exemplary embodiments, compartment 407s may include one or more inserts 411s. For example, one, many, or all compartments 407s (e.g., charging lockers) may includeone or more inserts 411s. Insert 411s may be disposed partially or entirely in an aperture disposed at an interior surface of compartment 407s. Insert 41 Is may be similar to or may include a device 105s. Insert 41 Is may include a lighting device such as a UV-C bulb disposed at a top portion of insert 41 Is (e.g., may be disposed near or distal to an interior surface of compartment 407s). Insert 411s may include a cut-out to retrofit an existing lighting device (e.g., RGB LED) of compartment 407s. One insert 411s may be disposed at a top interior surface of compartment 407s and a second insert 411s may be disposed at a bottom interior surface of compartment 407s (e.g., based on dimensions of compartment 407s). A UV-C light of insert 411s may activate via operation of the exemplary disclosed module and controller when the compartment door (e.g., locker door 407) is closed. Insert 411s may reduce a size of the locker opening of compartment 407s, which may be desirable for users charging phones and not charging other devices such as battery packs and headphones. Compartment 407s that provides sanitization may also reduce the number of users who hang cables outside of compartments 407s such as lockers, which may lead to decreased damage to charging cables and also decreased operational costs.

[0094] In at least some exemplary embodiments, compartment 407s may have a locker door (e.g., locker door 407) that includes a solid material (e.g., a locker window may be replaced with solid material) that may block an emission of UV-C rays through door 407 (e.g., may block the UV emission from being emitted to users). Also for example, door 407 may include a window 412s that may be treated with UV protection (e.g., a UV protective layer or coating) that may block UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C radiation or emission. In at least some exemplary embodiments, blocking materials such as metal or glass may be used (e.g., be applied or coated on or integrally formed with) on interior and / or exterior portions of door 407, window 412s, and / or other portions of station 110 to block UV-C light from being emitted from compartment 407s. Also for example, portions of station 110 (e.g., compartment 407s) may be formed from UV-C transmitting materials to facilitate UV-C light emitted by device 105s (e.g., and / or insert 41 Is) to reach or contact (e.g., hit) desired locations (e.g., some orsubstantially all surfaces of device 411). For example, a UV filtering or blocking material may be applied to windows 412s that may be for example acrylic windows. Window 412s may (e.g., or may not be) one-way visible from the outside to allow users to see their respective phones in a given locker. Window 412s (e.g., that may be acrylic windows) may include a tinted (e.g., not fully opaque), UV- resistant film so that that users may see their respective device while it is charging in compartment 407s (e.g., and the user’s branding colors may still show through window 412s). Window 412s may also be opaque (e.g., fully opaque) for example for branding reasons. Also, users may still be able to determine visually whether a locker is available or unavailable (e.g., unoccupied or occupied) by looking through window 412s.

[0095] In at least some exemplary embodiments, compartment 407s (e.g., and the exemplary disclosed kiosk) may include suitable gasketing (e.g., seals or sealing material such as gaskets) to block UV rays emitted within compartment 407s so that the UV rays do not escape the compartment 407s while a UV sanitization process is underway. The exemplary disclosed system (e.g., module and controller) may execute software instructions that prevent devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) from being activated or emitting UV light when door 407 is open (e.g., is detected as open by the system).

[0096] In at least some exemplary embodiments, devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) may be provided in lower compartments 407s and not in relatively higher compartments 407s relative to a user. For example, the bottom one or two (e.g., or more) rows of compartments 407s (e.g., at waist level or below of users) may include devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) including UV lighting devices (e.g., UV LEDs) and compartments higher than this may not include devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s). This configuration may reduce a probability of contact of UV radiation or emission with a user's eyes (e.g., or body parts or items that may be susceptible to damage from UV radiation).

[0097] In at least some exemplary embodiments, UV-C LEDs may be combined with existing locker LEDs into a PCB assembly (e.g., a single assembly and / or integrated assembly). For example,brands advertised by the exemplary disclosed system may retain or continue to use branding LED elements already in use in the exemplary disclosed kiosk.

[0098] In at least some exemplary embodiments, a UV-C light of device 105s (e.g., and / or insert 411s) may be activated at a same time as an RGB LED (e.g., of that device 105s and / or other devices 105s and / or inserts 411s). For example, purple light may be emitted by one or more devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) when invisible UV rays are active and being emitted by one or more devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s). The exemplary disclosed kiosk may use a charging cable 410 that may not be susceptible to damage from repeated exposure to UV radiation and that may also provide an optimal charge (e.g., OptiCharge) for users. Cable 410 may be any suitable electrical connector such as, for example, a wire (e.g., copper wire), a USB cable, or any other suitable type of electrical charging wire, cord, or cable. For example, charging cable 410 may withstand repeated exposure to UV-C radiation. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed charging cable 410 may include shielding (e.g., shielding added to cable 410 and / or a new cable 410 including shielding). The shielded cable or cables (e.g., cable 410) may include any suitable shielding such as, for example, overmolding or shrink wrap. UV light emitted by one or more devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) may be used for disinfecting cell phones, and / or any suitable type of rechargeable device or hardware surface that is placed within compartment 407s.

[0099] In at least some exemplary embodiments, users may charge a user device and also place one or more other devices within the exemplary disclosed kiosk (e.g., in a same compartment 407s or other compartments 407s), so that multiple devices may be sanitized while one is charging. Devices may remain secure during the exemplary disclosed operation as described for example herein. Users may indicate preferences regarding multiple devices via touchscreen and / or the exemplary disclosed system may detect multiple devices as present.[000100] In at least some exemplary embodiments, lighting devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) may be controlled (e.g., activated and deactivated) based on operation of the exemplary disclosedsystem (e.g., based on an operation of the exemplary disclosed controllers, processors, and modules described for example herein). For example, the exemplary disclosed system may include controllers, processors, modules, and any other suitable computing element similar to as described for example herein.[000101 ] In at least some exemplary embodiments, UV-C lights of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts411s) may be connected to a charging board of the exemplary disclosed system (e.g., phone charging kiosk) via USB or other suitable connector, and may be powered on and off via software and firmware.The charging board may power the UV-C lights of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) for each compartment 407s (e.g., locker) separately, so that UV-C lights of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts411s) of each compartment 407s may be activated independently of one another. As described for example herein, software programming may be provided so that UV-C LEDs of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s), which may be dangerous for users to be exposed to for prolonged periods, may be activated when it is most likely that the user is not at the kiosk (e.g., based on sensors of the exemplary disclosed system that may detect the presence of user such as cameras, thermal sensors, motion detectors, and / or any other suitable sensors). For example, sanitization system 100s may include a sensor 420s that may be disposed at or near station 110. In at least some exemplary embodiments, sensor 420s may be attached to, disposed on, or mounted to a surface of station 110.One or more sensor 420s may be a stand-alone sensors or a sensor array including multiple sensors integrated into sensor 420s. For example, sensor 420s may be any suitable thermal sensor (e.g., for detecting a body temperature of a user to detect a presence of a user and / or to detect whether a user may be sick for example as described herein). For example, sensor 420s may include passive infrared sensor components, thermistor components, thermocouple components, semiconductor components, and / or resistance temperature detector components. Sensor 420s may also include motion detector components such as passive infrared motion detection components, hybrid motion detector components, microwave motion detection components, vibration motion detection components, areareflective motion detection components, and / or ultrasonic motion detection components. For example, proximity sensors may be provided at the exemplary disclosed kiosk so that UV-C LEDs of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) are powered off when a user is located near kiosks of sanitization system 100s.[000102] In at least some exemplary embodiments, sanitization system 100s may include components for providing users with a safe (e.g., completely safe) interaction with components of sanitization system 100s. For example, the exemplary disclosed components may provide for contactless interaction by users. For example, sanitization system 100s may include a contactless component 421s that may be disposed at or near station 110. In at least some exemplary embodiments, contactless component 421s may be attached to, disposed on, or mounted to a surface of station 110. Contactless component 421s may be for example a dispenser for single use gloves (e.g., located on or next to station 110) that a user (e.g., customer) may use before and after each interaction with keypad 406, door 407, touch display 408, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s. Contactless component 421s may also be for example a dispenser for members such as styluses (e.g., located on or next to station 110) that a user may use to interact with keypad 406, door 407, touch display 408, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s. Contactless component 421s may be (e.g., and / or display 408 may include) a component that may allow a user to access station 110 such as a QR code scanner, a biometric (e.g. facial recognition) component, and / or a touchless touchscreen whereby, e.g., a finger of a user in close proximity to display 408 may activate its controls. Also for example, an anti-microbial shield may be applied to surfaces of station 110, touch display 408, and / or any other surface of sanitization system 100s that a user may touch or contact.[000103] In at least some exemplary embodiments, suitable disclaimers may be provided to users (e.g., via the exemplary disclosed user interface) regarding UV-C LEDs with respect to how the sanitization process works and risks (e.g., any possible risks) associated with UV-C lights. The exemplary disclosed system may track disclaimer acceptance for purposes of compliance.[000104] In at least some exemplary embodiments, LED light behavior may be controlled (e.g., based on software for example as described herein) so that the UV-C LEDs of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) are powered on for example from minute 5 through minute 30 of each charge(e.g., or at any other suitable time). This exemplary disclosed timing may be based on data surrounding user behavior, as the user may have (e.g., may have likely) walked away from the kiosk5 minutes after the start of the charge, and may not have returned as many charge durations exceed30 minutes. The exemplary disclosed system may also control devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) to be applied non-continuously and / or for any desired continuous or non-continuous time intervals(e.g., one or more time intervals totaling about 15 minutes or any other suitable total).[000105] In at least some exemplary embodiments, UV-C LEDs of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts411s) may be turned off by the exemplary disclosed system as soon as touchscreen interactions by a user are detected at the kiosk (e.g., based on a user touching or manipulating keypad 406 and / or display 408), and / or may remain off while a door 407 is open and for 5 minutes after door 407 is closed. This duration and timing may be customizable for each user, venue, or kiosk. UV-C LEDs of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) may be activated outside of usage hours, such as in the middle of the night, to further reduce the risk of exposing users to UV rays. UV-C LEDs of devices105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) may be run in “available” or unoccupied compartments 407s periodically based on logic (e.g., algorithms or predetermined instructions) that may be provided for each user, venue, or kiosk, for example depending on predicted usage. Compartments 407s may be automatically placed “out of service” or otherwise rendered unavailable while they are receiving theirUV cleaning, so users do not try to access a given compartment 407s that may be undergoing sterilization. The settings for UV-C LEDs of devices 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 411s) for each compartment 407s may be controlled remotely by the exemplary disclosed system via firmware updates, software updates, configuration changes, or any other suitable techniques. These exemplary updates may be provided via 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, hardwired ethemet, and / or any other suitable techniquethrough an interconnected network of kiosks of sanitization system 100s(e.g., for example as described above).[000106] In at least some exemplary embodiments, users may be able to opt-in to the sanitizing process of sanitization system 100s via the exemplary disclosed user interface (e.g., via touchscreen). For example, users may choose to charge their phone without UV-C sanitization by selecting or deselecting a checkbox on the exemplary disclosed user interface. Users may (e.g., via a kiosk touchscreen) request a particular duration of time that the UV lights will be powered on, such as 15 minutes or 30 minutes. Users may similarly select a desired “level” of sanitization to be achieved, such as “low,” “medium,” or “high sanitization,” which may determine an intensity of UV light to be emitted and / or a duration of UV illumination of compartment 407s. These exemplary user selections entered via the user interface may modify the functionality of the UV lights of device 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 41 Is) in the compartment 407s selected by the user for sanitization and / or charging. [000107] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system may execute software instructions to determine how many phones may be and / or have been disinfected on a given day, at a given location, for a given client, for a given type of phone or wireless provider, and / or for any other desired criteria. If desired, this information may be made available to an owner / renter of the exemplary disclosed system (e.g., kiosk equipment), the venue owner / operator of the facility or location of the system, third party research firms interested in the use of UV light, and / or any other desired entities. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary UV light usage information may be transmitted in real time via 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, hard- wired ethemet, and / or via any other desired technique to a secure server or set of servers.[000108] In at least some exemplary embodiments, user devices being disinfected may be remotely monitored through the exemplary disclosed methods described herein. The device being disinfected and charged may be connected with a mobile number, email address, and / or other suitable personal information, which may have been entered by the user when the user gained access to compartment407s. Sanitization system 100s may alert a given user via his or her respective mobile number, email address, and / or other suitable method to notify that user that his or her device is nearly completed and / or has fully completed its disinfection process (e.g., and / or any other desired status or stage has been started or finished).[000109] In at least some exemplary embodiments, users may be able to check an application or web portal to determine when they last performed a disinfection of their device at one of the exemplary disclosed locations (e.g., charging stations) of sanitization system 100s. A user may be able to opt in to receive notifications from the exemplary disclosed application (e.g., to alert the user when they should perform another disinfection process), based on a predetermined set of criteria. The predetermined criteria may be based for example on germ accumulation, GPS location data, user- entered preferences, and / or any other desired criteria. Users may receive an SMS after using compartment 407s (e.g., UV light locker) to notify them of the germ status of their device, recommend the next time they should perform a UV light cleaning, offer a discount at a location (e.g., in a store) based on performing a UV light cleaning, and / or any other desired notification. Also for example, sanitization system 100s may (e.g., using the exemplary disclosed processors, modules, and other components for example as described herein) transfer an SMS or email to a user device (e.g., user smartphone and / or computing device). For example, sanitization system 100s may transfer an SMS or email to a user device when a sanitizing cycle is substantially complete (e.g., complete).[000110] In at least some exemplary embodiments, measurements of germ presence on a user’s device may be measured by sanitization system 100s for example within the kiosk (e.g., within compartment 407s) prior to and after the UV light of device 105s (e.g., and / or inserts 41 Is) is applied(e.g., to determine the efficacy of the UV cleaning). These exemplary measurements may be performed by sensing devices that may be included in device 105s (e.g., and / or insert 41 Is) or at any other desired location of sanitization system 100s that may sense properties of a user’s device. For example, the exemplary measurements may be used by an operator of sanitization system 100s torefine the UV light design, assist a user to understand the usefulness of the UV light, and / or a third party to better understand phone germs.[000111] In at least some exemplary embodiments, sanitization system 100s may provide a user (e.g., via the user interface) with an option to sterilize their device (e.g., phone) for a set duration of time, without charging the device simultaneously. For example, an operation of compartment 407s may be programmed to avoid timing out regardless of whether or not a charge is detected (e.g., because no charge may be expected in a case of sterilization without charging). Also for example, user data (e.g., user data collected by sanitization system 100s) may be used as part of a profile for helping operators and users to understand a frequency of sanitizing.[000112] The exemplary disclosed module, processors, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s for example as described herein may execute software that may provide operation options to users (e.g., on a user-by-user basis and / or by type of user such as a paying user, a registered user, and / or other class of user). For example, a given user may be allowed to charge and sanitize, charge and not sanitize, or not charge and sanitize a device. Also for example, the exemplary disclosed module, processors, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s may execute software that performs component usage tracking to predict when components are scheduled for change (e.g., when bulbs of device 105s are scheduled for change) or are to be changed based on detected improper operation. The exemplary disclosed module, processors, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s may execute software that provides information, data, notifications, and / or messaging to companies or other entities owning or operating brands to provide information regarding users (e.g., indicating which end users or types of end users) who are using and / or are interested in using sanitization system 100s (e.g., sanitizing devices). For example, data collected by sanitization system 100s may be sold based on its value for marketing purposes. The exemplary disclosed module, processors, and / or other components of sanitization system 100s may execute software that performs contact tracing (e.g., sanitization system 100s may use a phone numberprovided by or obtained from a user to determine or show where and at which locations that user has been).[000113] The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable application for sanitization of a storage compartment or area. For example, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable secure or unsecure storage components such as compartments for charging electronic devices. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used for storage and / or charging locations for electronic devices such as mobile devices (e.g., smartphones and tablets). For example, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable publicly available security compartments, lockers, or other storage locations. The exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method may also be used for shopping baskets, shoes and / or clothing, garment cleaner applications (e.g., cleaning devices and / or storage areas), and / or mailboxes.[000114] The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide an efficient and effective technique for sanitizing a storage compartment or area. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide an efficient technique for eliminating pathogens or germs such as viruses and bacteria from surfaces of a storage compartment and contents stored in a storage compartment such as a user device. For example, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide a clean and sanitized public storage and / or electric charging station.[000115] An illustrative representation of a computing device appropriate for use with embodiments of the system of the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 10. The computing device lOOd can generally be comprised of a Central Processing Unit (CPU, lOld), optional further processing units including a graphics processing unit (GPU), a Random Access Memory (RAM, 102d), a mother board 103d, or altematively / additionally a storage medium (e.g., hard disk drive, solid state drive, flash memory, cloud storage), an operating system (OS, 104d), one or more application software 105d, a display element 106d, and one or more input / output devices / means 107d, including one or morecommunication interfaces (e.g., RS232, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB). Useful examples include, but are not limited to, personal computers, smart phones, laptops, mobile computing devices, tablet PCs, and servers. Multiple computing devices can be operably linked to form a computer network in a manner as to distribute and share one or more resources, such as clustered computing devices and server banks / farms.[000116] Various examples of such general-purpose multi-unit computer networks suitable for embodiments of the disclosure, their typical configuration and many standardized communication links are well known to one skilled in the art, as explained in more detail and illustrated by Fig. 11, which is discussed herein-below.[000117] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, data may be transferred to the system, stored by the system and / or transferred by the system to users of the system across local area networks (LANs) (e.g., office networks, home networks) or wide area networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet). In accordance with the previous embodiment, the system may be comprised of numerous servers communicatively connected across one or more LANs and / or WANs. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous manners in which the system could be configured and embodiments of the present disclosure are contemplated for use with any configuration.[000118] In general, the system and methods provided herein may be employed by a user of a computing device whether connected to a network or not. Similarly, some steps of the methods provided herein may be performed by components and modules of the system whether connected or not. While such components / modules are offline, and the data they generated will then be transmitted to the relevant other parts of the system once the offline component / module comes again online with the rest of the network (or a relevant part thereof). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, some of the applications of the present disclosure may not be accessible when not connected to a network, however a user or a module / component of the system itself may be able tocompose data offline from the remainder of the system that will be consumed by the system or its other components when the user / offline system component or module is later connected to the system network.[000119] Referring to Fig. 11, a schematic overview of a system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The system is comprised of one or more application servers 203d for electronically storing information used by the system. Applications in the server 203d may retrieve and manipulate information in storage devices and exchange information through a WAN 201d (e.g., the Internet). Applications in server 203d may also be used to manipulate information stored remotely and process and analyze data stored remotely across a WAN 201d (e.g., the Internet).[000120] According to an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Fig. 11, exchange of information through the WAN 201d or other network may occur through one or more high speed connections. In some cases, high speed connections may be over-the-air (OTA), passed through networked systems, directly connected to one or more WANs 201d or directed through one or more routers 202d. Router(s) 202d are completely optional and other embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure may or may not utilize one or more routers 202d. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous ways server 203d may connect to WAN 201d for the exchange of information, and embodiments of the present disclosure are contemplated for use with any method for connecting to networks for the purpose of exchanging information. Further, while this application refers to high speed connections, embodiments of the present disclosure may be utilized with connections of any speed.[000121 ] Components or modules of the system may connect to server 203d via WAN 201d or other network in numerous ways. For instance, a component or module may connect to the system i) through a computing device 212d directly connected to the WAN 20 Id, ii) through a computing device 205d, 206d connected to the WAN 201d through a routing device 204d, iii) through a computing device 208d, 209d, 210d connected to a wireless access point 207d or iv) through acomputing device 21 Id via a wireless connection (e.g., CDMA, GMS, 3G, 4G, 5G) to the WAN 201d. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous ways that a component or module may connect to server 203d via WAN 20 Id or other network, and embodiments of the present disclosure are contemplated for use with any method for connecting to server 203d via WAN 201d or other network. Furthermore, server 203d could be comprised of a personal computing device, such as a smartphone, acting as a host for other computing devices to connect to.[000122] The communications means of the system may be any means for communicating data, including image and video, over one or more networks or to one or more peripheral devices attached to the system, or to a system module or component. Appropriate communications means may include, but are not limited to, wireless connections, wired connections, cellular connections, data port connections, Bluetooth®connections, near field communications (NFC) connections, or any combination thereof. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous communications means that may be utilized with embodiments of the present disclosure, and embodiments of the present disclosure are contemplated for use with any communications means.[000123] Turning now to Fig. 12, a continued schematic overview of a cloud-based system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In Fig. 12, the cloud-based system is shown as it may interact with users and other third party networks or APIs (e.g., APIs associated with the exemplary disclosed E-Ink displays). For instance, a user of a mobile device 801 may be able to connect to application server 802. Application server 802 may be able to enhance or otherwise provide additional services to the user by requesting and receiving information from one or more of an external content provider API / wcbsitc or other third party system 803, a constituent data service804, one or more additional data services 805 or any combination thereof. Additionally, application server 802 may be able to enhance or otherwise provide additional services to an external content provider API / wcbsitc or other third party system 803, a constituent data service 804, one or more additional data services 805 by providing information to those entities that is stored on a database thatis connected to the application server 802. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate how accessing one or more third-party systems could augment the ability of the system described herein, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any third-party system. [000124] Traditionally, a computer program includes a finite sequence of computational instructions or program instructions. It will be appreciated that a programmable apparatus or computing device can receive such a computer program and, by processing the computational instructions thereof, produce a technical effect.[000125] A programmable apparatus or computing device includes one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded microcontrollers, programmable digital signal processors, programmable devices, programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, memory devices, application specific integrated circuits, or the like, which can be suitably employed or configured to process computer program instructions, execute computer logic, store computer data, and so on. Throughout this disclosure and elsewhere a computing device can include any and all suitable combinations of at least one general purpose computer, special-purpose computer, programmable data processing apparatus, processor, processor architecture, and so on. It will be understood that a computing device can include a computer-readable storage medium and that this medium may be internal or external, removable and replaceable, or fixed. It will also be understood that a computing device can include a Basic Input / Output System (BIOS), firmware, an operating system, a database, or the like that can include, interface with, or support the software and hardware described herein. [000126] Embodiments of the system as described herein are not limited to applications involving conventional computer programs or programmable apparatuses that run them. It is contemplated, for example, that embodiments of the disclosure as claimed herein could include an optical computer, quantum computer, analog computer, or the like.[000127] Regardless of the type of computer program or computing device involved, a computer program can be loaded onto a computing device to produce a particular machine that can perform anyand all of the depicted functions. This particular machine (or networked configuration thereof) provides a technique for carrying out any and all of the depicted functions.[000128] Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Illustrative examples of the computer readable storage medium may include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.[000129] A data store may be comprised of one or more of a database, file storage system, relational data storage system or any other data system or structure configured to store data. The data store may be a relational database, working in conjunction with a relational database management system (RDBMS) for receiving, processing and storing data. A data store may comprise one or more databases for storing information related to the processing of moving information and estimate information as well one or more databases configured for storage and retrieval of moving information and estimate information.[000130] Computer program instructions can be stored in a computer-readable memory capable of directing a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner. The instructions stored in the computer-readable memory constitute an article of manufacture including computer-readable instructions for implementing any and all of the depicted functions.[000131] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.[000132] Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.[000133] The elements depicted in flowchart illustrations and block diagrams throughout the figures imply logical boundaries between the elements. However, according to software or hardware engineering practices, the depicted elements and the functions thereof may be implemented as parts of a monolithic software structure, as standalone software components or modules, or as components or modules that employ external routines, code, services, and so forth, or any combination of these. All such implementations are within the scope of the present disclosure. In view of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that elements of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations support combinations of means for performing the specified functions, combinations of steps for performing the specified functions, program instruction technique for performing the specified functions, and so on.[000134] It will be appreciated that computer program instructions may include computer executable code. A variety of languages for expressing computer program instructions are possible, including without limitation C, C++, Java, JavaScript, assembly language, Lisp, HTML, Perl, and so on. Such languages may include assembly languages, hardware description languages, database programming languages, functional programming languages, imperative programming languages,and so on. In some embodiments, computer program instructions can be stored, compiled, or interpreted to run on a computing device, a programmable data processing apparatus, a heterogeneous combination of processors or processor architectures, and so on. Without limitation, embodiments of the system as described herein can take the form of web-based computer software, which includes client / server software, software-as-a-service, peer-to-peer software, or the like.[000135] In some embodiments, a computing device enables execution of computer program instructions including multiple programs or threads. The multiple programs or threads may be processed more or less simultaneously to enhance utilization of the processor and to facilitate substantially simultaneous functions. By way of implementation, any and all methods, program codes, program instructions, and the like described herein may be implemented in one or more thread. The thread can spawn other threads, which can themselves have assigned priorities associated with them. In some embodiments, a computing device can process these threads based on priority or any other order based on instructions provided in the program code.[000136] Unless explicitly stated or otherwise clear from the context, the verbs “process” and “execute” are used interchangeably to indicate execute, process, interpret, compile, assemble, link, load, any and all combinations of the foregoing, or the like. Therefore, embodiments that process computer program instructions, computer-executable code, or the like can suitably act upon the instructions or code in any and all of the ways just described.[000137] The functions and operations presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computing device or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may also be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, along with equivalent variations.In addition, embodiments of the disclosure are not described with reference to any particular programming language. It is appreciated that a variety of programming languages may be used toimplement the present teachings as described herein, and any references to specific languages are provided for disclosure of enablement and best mode of embodiments of the disclosure. Embodiments of the disclosure are well suited to a wide variety of computer network systems over numerous topologies. Within this field, the configuration and management of large networks include storage devices and computing devices that are communicatively coupled to dissimilar computing and storage devices over a network, such as the Internet, also referred to as “web” or “world wide web”. [000138] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system may utilize sophisticated machine learning and / or artificial intelligence techniques to prepare and submit datasets and variables to cloud computing clusters and / or other analytical tools (e.g., predictive analytical tools) which may analyze such data using artificial intelligence neural networks. The exemplary disclosed system may for example include cloud computing clusters performing predictive analysis. For example, the exemplary neural network may include a plurality of input nodes that may be interconnected and / or networked with a plurality of additional and / or other processing nodes to determine a predicted result. Exemplary artificial intelligence processes may include filtering and processing datasets, processing to simplify datasets by statistically eliminating irrelevant, invariant or superfluous variables or creating new variables which are an amalgamation of a set of underlying variables, and / or processing for splitting datasets into train, test and validate datasets using at least a stratified sampling technique. The exemplary disclosed system may utilize prediction algorithms and approach that may include regression models, tree-based approaches, logistic regression, Bayesian methods, deep-learning and neural networks both as a stand-alone and on an ensemble basis, and final prediction may be based on the model / structure which delivers the highest degree of accuracy and stability as judged by implementation against the test and validate datasets.[000139] The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be a system for use by workers performing tasks in a facility or location that may be for example any suitable type of store(e.g., a location selling goods or services to consumers), medical or healthcare facilities such ashospitals, warehouse, distribution facility, factory, government services location (e.g., social security office, department of motor vehicles office, or unemployment office), transportation facility (e.g., airport or train station), maintenance facility (e.g., location for facilitating maintenance of a building or bridge), military or law enforcement facility, and / or any other suitable facility or location in which workers are located. Workers may be service operators. Workers may be non-customers or non consumers. Workers may include any suitable type of employees, contractors (e.g., independent contractors), individuals performing any suitable tasks, and / or any other suitable type of worker performing work for any type of organization (e.g., a company or any other type of business association, a government agency or department, any suitable type of profit or not-for-profit organization, or any other suitable type of organization) with which the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method is associated. In at least some exemplary embodiments, workers may be retail store workers, maintenance workers, government workers, security forces (e.g., government, commercial, private, law enforcement, military, and / or any other suitable type of security forces), and / or any other suitable type of worker who performs tasks for an organization with which the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method is associated. Workers may have access to locations, equipment, information, and materials to which customers or consumers of the workers’ organization may not have access. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be a worker-based system, apparatus, and method. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be a back-of-house system, apparatus, and method. Workers may utilize worker devices (e.g., back-of-house devices) with the system for example as described herein.[000140] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may include one or more charging stations. For example, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may include one or more charging stations for devices such as mobile devices. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may include one or more charging stations for charging back-of-house devices.[000141] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide secure charging and inventory management for worker devices (e.g., back-of- house devices). The worker devices may be handheld devices. The worker devices may be provided (e.g., access provided to) or issued by an organization utilizing the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method to workers of the organization. The worker devices may be used by the workers to perform tasks or work (e.g., job functions). The worker devices may be any suitable type of electronic device such as, for example, tablets (e.g., smart tablets), phones (e.g., smartphones), handheld computers, scanners, walkie-talkies, credit card readers, security scanners or devices (e.g., metal or explosive detectors or tasers), remote controls, drones or drone equipment, and / or any other suitable equipment or devices utilized by workers in any suitable field or activity.[000142] Figs. 13 and 14 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method. System 500 may include a charging station 505 (e.g., a charging kiosk) that may for example include components generally similar to the exemplary disclosed charging stations disclosed above regarding Figs. 4A-4C and 8A-8C. Data transfer and reporting may be provided during an operation of system 500 via a user device such as a mobile device, email reporting, via a website or portal, via a user interface of charging station 505, and / or any other suitable technique. For example, charging station 505 may include a user interface 510 that may be similar for example to the exemplary disclosed user interfaces described herein. In at least some exemplary embodiments, user interface 510 may be a touchscreen. Charging station 505 may also include one or more storage housings 515, 520, and 525 that may be similar to the storage housings described herein. For example, storage housings 515, 520, and 525 may each be storage or security lockers including cavities for securing and charging one or more worker devices 530. Storage housings 515, 520, and 525 may be compartments or lockers that may be selectively locked and unlocked for example as described above. Storage housings 515, 520, and 525 may be of varying sizes and configurations for securing andcharging different types of worker devices 530. For example, storage housing 525 may be larger than storage housing 520, and storage housing 520 may be larger than storage housing 515.[000143] Charging station 505 may also include a scanner 535. Scanner 535 may be any suitable type of scanner such as, for example, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) scanner. Scanner 535 may also include a barcode scanner or a QR scanner. Scanner 535 may scan or read any suitable object including a code such as, for example, a barcode or QR code and / or RFID. The scanned object may be an object carried or located with a user (e.g., a worker) such as a tag, card, or any other suitable item. Scanner 535 may also include a biometric device such as a biometric scanner (e.g., finger scanner or optical scanner).[000144] A worker may identify himself or herself to charging station 505 by any suitable technique. For example, a worker may enter a password or code via user interface 510 and / or may provide identification via scanner 535. For example via user interface 510 and / or scanner 535, workers may input employee codes, scan or swipe badges, scan QR codes from their phone, or provide input via RFID cards or tags. Charging station 505 may also include imaging devices for example as described herein that may take a photo and / or video of a worker who may access storage housings 515, 520, and / or 525 to remove one or more worker devices 530. Charging station 505 may also operate to record a date and timestamp recording the time at which a given worker device 530 was retrieved from charging station 505.[000145] A first worker 540 may return a given worker device 530, and a second worker 540 (e.g., who may be a different worker than the first worker) may retrieve the given worker device 530 after worker device 530 has been charged. Any number of different workers may utilize the same worker device 530 at different times based on an operation of system 500. Various worker devices 530 may be stored in select storage housings 515, 520, and 525 based on a level of access granted to different types of workers. For example, a given worker 540 may be given access to select storage housings515, 520, and 525 storing and charging worker devices 530 to which that given worker 540 has access.Such role-based access may provide for a given worker 540 gaining access to select worker devices 530 (e.g., select storage housings 515, 520, and 525 storing and charging select types of worker devices 530) appropriate for performing his or her job functions, while other worker devices 530 may remain securely locked and not accessible to that given worker 540.[000146] In at least some exemplary embodiments, each worker device 530 may be stored (e.g., housed and charged) in a single storage housing 515, 520, or 525. Also in at least some exemplary embodiments, one or more worker devices 530 may be stored (e.g., housed and charged) in storage housings 515, 520, and 525. System 500 may operate (e.g., as described herein) to record each worker device 530 that is removed or returned by one or more of the following mechanisms: worker 540 may indicate via user interface (e.g., touchscreen) which worker device 530 is removed; worker device 530 may include an RFID chip that may be automatically detected as having been removed from charging station 505 when worker device 530 passes through a predetermined portion (e.g., a locker door opening) of storage housing 515, 520, or 525; and / or system 500 may detect a change in current in one of the charging cables (e.g., similar to the exemplary disclosed charging cable described herein) and / or detects a physical detachment when worker device 530 is unplugged from the exemplary disclosed charging cable.[000147] In at least some exemplary embodiments, when worker 540 indicates (e.g., provides input for example onscreen via user interface 510) the type of work and / or worker device 530 he or she is to utilize, system 500 may automatically open a door of corresponding storage housing 515, 520, or 525 holding a worker device 530 in an appropriate category such as that has a highest amount of charge, has been charging for the longest period of time, is the newest worker device 530 in a fleet, and / or any other suitable criteria (e.g., from a business perspective). Also for example, system 500 may automatically open a door of a given storage housing 515, 520, or 525 based on an input of the identity of a given worker 540 (e.g., may select a given worker device 530 according to the exemplarycriteria based on the input of an identity of worker 540 via an operation of user interface 510 and / or scanner 535).[000148] In at least some exemplary embodiments, worker 540 may indicate (e.g., provide input for example onscreen via user interface 510) that he or she is returning a worker device 530 that has been damaged, has scratches, does not function so that the proper repair or replacement cycle can be initiated, and / or exhibits any other unsuitable operation.[000149] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 500 may communicate with staff and / or support personnel associated with workers 540 (e.g., provide an online portal such as an online portal for back-of-house management) to provide real time or near real-time data regarding a status of worker devices 530 (e.g., which have been removed and which are being stored and charged), and may provide data and reports of the status of worker devices 530 including for example “shrink” (e.g., lost or stolen devices). For example, staff and / or support personnel associated with workers 540 may include managers, business staff (e.g., corporate staff), tech support, IT department members, and / or third party vendors who may manage the exemplary disclosed devices. System 500 may provide for communication (e.g., reporting and data transfer) regarding theft or loss (e.g., shrinkage) of devices, battery level of devices, damage to devices, and / or any other suitable information. For example, if a given worker 540 does not return one or more worker devices 530 within a predetermined time period(e.g., during a shift period of worker 540), an exception report may be issued by system 500 (e.g., via the exemplary disclosed portal, text message or email, user interface 510, and / or any other suitable communication technique) to alert managers as to which workers 540 have outstanding worker devices 530 (e.g., have not returned worker devices 530 to charging station 505). System 500 may operate for example to prevent a given worker 540 who has not returned one or more worker devices530 from removing or checking out any additional worker devices 530 (e.g., without a manager override or other suitable approval action). System 500 may include a detection device 542 that may be disposed on or at charging station 505 and / or in one or more of the exemplary disclosed storagehousings. Detection device 542 may be any suitable device for detecting a given worker 540 removing and / or returning a given worker device 530 such as, for example, a camera (e.g., picture or video), a biometric device such as a fingerprint scanner, an identification badge scanner, and / or any other suitable device for identifying an individual removing and / or returning devices.[000150] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 500 may provide a back-of-house solution that may include many storage housings (e.g., lockers) and one or more user interfaces (e.g., screens) that allow users (e.g., workers) to access the lockers. The lockers may vary in size depending on the device or devices to be stored, charged, and / or dispensed. For example, different sized lockers may be provided such as, for example, lockers that may be sized to accommodate relatively larger devices and / or may supply relatively more electrical current. System 500 may include one or more charging stations 505 that may be configured as appropriate for a given field, industry, or type of organization utilizing system 500.[000151 ] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 500 may check out and check in distinct devices to different users, and track whether or not these devices have been returned. System 500 may track a location or status of worker devices 530 (e.g., including utilizing positioning such as GPS of worker devices 530 or other location data for example as described herein). System 500 may utilize (e.g., leverage) user input to track a condition of worker devices 530. System 500 may utilize identification data (e.g., as described above) to manage access of workers 540 to worker devices 530 (e.g., role-based access). System 500 may utilize photo verification for example as described herein to track a last worker 540 to have checked a given worker device 530 in or out and to track and manage loss for users of system 500 (e.g., for retailers).[000152] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 500 may operate to provide an electronic role-based ledger for device management (e.g., based on the exemplary disclosed computing systems) that also securely charges worker devices 530 between uses. System 500 may include a plurality of charging stations 505 (e.g., a fleet of kiosks) to manage a plurality of worker devices 530 (e.g., a fleetof devices). System 500 may provide access to an exemplary disclosed storage housing (e.g., locker) via worker input (e.g., input of an employee code), swiping or scanning an identification badge or other item, RFID badge, QR code, and / or any other suitable technique. System 500 may track when a user (e.g., worker 540) checks out one or more worker devices 530 but does not return it (e.g., within a predetermined time period). System 500 may transfer (e.g., share) data including photo-verification (e.g., photo or video data), drop-off and pick-up time of devices, employee codes, and / or any other suitable data with suitable parties. System 500 may selectively open storage housings (e.g., lockers) based on % battery remaining of working devices 530 and / or time since start of charging. System 500 may selectively charge more than one device. System 500 may manage (e.g., enforce) role-based access to particular storage housings (e.g., lockers) based on which devices are used by particular workers and / or on particular shifts (e.g., based on worker ID). System 500 may track serial numbers and other data of worker devices 530. System 500 may include any desired number of exemplary disclosed storage housings.[000153] Figs. 15 and 16 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method. System 700 may include a charging station 705 (e.g., a charging kiosk) that may be similar to charging station 505. Charging station 705 may include a user interface 710a and a user interface 710b that may each be similar to user interface 510. Charging station 705 may also include a plurality of storage housings 715 and 720 that may be similar to storage housings 515, 520, and 525. Charging station 705 may further include a scanner 735 that may be similar to scanner 535.[000154] Fig. 17 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method. System 900 may include a charging station 905 (e.g., a charging kiosk) that may be similar to charging station 505 (e.g., and that may include similar components to charging station505). Charging station 905 may include a storage housing 915 that may be similar to storage housings515, 520, and 525. Storage housing 915 may include a charging cable 916 that may be similar for example to the exemplary disclosed charging cables described herein. Charging station 905 mayinclude a dispensing cavity 945 that may receive one or more devices 930 (e.g., worker devices or consumer devices that may be similar to device 530). Charging station 905 may also include a transfer assembly 950. Dispensing cavity 945 may for example be covered by a movable (e.g., hinged) door that may be formed from transparent or other material.[000155] Transfer assembly 950 may be any suitable assembly for moving device 930 between one or more dispensing cavities 945 and one or more storage housings 915 disposed within charging station 905. For example, transfer assembly 950 may include a support member 955 on which a movable member 960 may be movably attached. For example, movable member 960 may translate on support member 955 for example in the directions illustrated in Fig. 17. Movable member 960 may be configured to increase and decrease in length (e.g., may be retractable and extendable) for example in the directions illustrated in Fig. 17. For example, movable member 960 may include telescopic members or any other suitable configuration for increasing and decreasing in length. Movable member 960 may be movably attached to support member 955 at a first end portion and may be movably attached to a support assembly 965 at a second end portion. Movable member 960 may also be configured to rotate relative to support member 955. Support assembly 965 may be configured to removably attach to and / or hold device 930. Support assembly 965 may be rotatably attached to movable member 960. Support assembly 965 may rotate or pivot around a plurality of axes relative to movable member 960 for example as illustrated in Fig. 17. Support assembly 965 may include any suitable members and / or configuration for removably attaching or holding device 930 during transfer of device 930 between dispensing cavity 945 and one or more storage housings 915. Transfer assembly 950 may include any suitable motors, actuators, controllers, and / or computing devices (e.g., for example as described herein) for translating, extending, retracting, rotating, and pivoting movable member 960 and support assembly 965.[000156] In at least some exemplary embodiments, transfer assembly 950 may removably attach to or hold device 930 disposed in dispensing cavity 945. Based for example on the exemplary disclosedconfiguration described above, support assembly 965 and movable member 960 may move device 930 through one or more interior cavities of charging station 905 to storage housing 915. For example, transfer assembly 950 may include or comprise a robot that may translate and and / or rotate support assembly 965 along or about X, Y, and Z axes to retrieve device 930 from its position inside storage housing 915, unplug it from charging cable 916, and move it to dispensing cavity 945 to be dispensed to a user (e.g., worker or customer). When a user returns device 930 to dispensing cavity 945, transfer assembly 950 may translate and / or rotate support assembly 965 along or about X, Y, and Z axes to move device 930 from dispensing cavity 945 to a storage position inside storage housing 915, and plug device 930 into charging cable 916 (e.g., based on support assembly 965 rotating to a suitable position for plugging charging cable 916 into device 930). Transfer assembly 950 may dispense and / or receive back device 930 for example based on criteria and / or user input or identification as described herein.[000157] Features of the exemplary disclosed sanitization embodiments (e.g., as described regarding Figs. 5 through 9) may be combined and used with any other exemplary disclosed embodiments such as, for example, the embodiments described regarding Figs. 13-17.[000158] Figs. 18 and 19 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method. System 1000 may be an over-the-air (OTA) wireless charging system. System 1000 may charge devices without contact, attachment, or tethering to the devices. System 1000 may provide OTA wireless charging by any suitable technique such as, for example, radio frequency (RF) and / or Millimeter wave (mmWave) wireless charging.[000159] As illustrated in Fig. 18, system 1000 may include one or more base stations 1005 that may transmit power wirelessly (e.g., via RF or mmWave). In at least some exemplary embodiments and as illustrated in Fig. 19, a device 1030 that may be similar to device 930 may be attached to a device such as a receiver adapter 1035 to facilitate OTA charging of device 1030. Receiver adapter1035 may be any suitable device for wirelessly receiving energy from one or more exemplarydisclosed base stations of system 1000 for example as described below. Receiver adapter 1035 may also connect, attach to, and / or plug into device 1030 to form a configuration or assembly 1040 that wirelessly transfers power from system 1000 to device 1030.[000160] Returning to Fig. 18, system 1000 may include one or more base stations 1005. Base station 1005 may be any suitable device for wirelessly transmitting power such as an RF base station or an mmWave transmitter. Base stations 1005 may be placed to maximize charging availability and to meet any other suitable criteria throughout any suitable location such as a store, warehouse, distribution facility, factory, government services location, transportation facility, maintenance facility, military or law enforcement facility, and / or any other suitable facility or location. Base stations 1005 may transmit power to any suitable devices or assemblies such as one or more assemblies 1040, one or more devices 1030 (e.g., directly to device 1030), one or more charging stations 110, one or more charging stations 505, one or more charging stations 905, and / or any other components or assemblies such as described herein. Fig. 18 illustrates exemplary charging zones of base stations 1005, with for example a magnitude or level of charging increasing as a device is placed closer to a given base station 1005. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed charging stations may serve as base stations or integrally include base station 1005. Also for example, any desired number of base stations 1005 may be arranged in a given location.[000161] Any of the exemplary disclosed charging stations (e.g., as illustrated in Fig. 18) may be utilized for dispensing receiver adapters 1035 to users (e.g., customers and / or workers). For example, users may enter data through the exemplary disclosed user interfaces of the exemplary disclosed charging stations. For example, a user may enter a phone number, an email address, credit card information, and / or a device type. System 1000 may operate to control an exemplary disclosed charging station to dispense or open a storage housing securing a specific type of receiver adapter1035 that may be compatible (e.g., may be pluggable) to a device type entered by a user. For example, the exemplary disclosed charging station may include different types of receiver adapters 1035 fordifferent types of devices 1030. A certain receiver adapter 1035 may thereby be provided that is compatible with device ports of a given device 1030.[000162] Users of system 1000 may return receiver adapter 1035 to any available charging station, in addition to the charging station from which they obtained receiver adapter 1035 (e.g., they may return receiver adapter 1035 at a different area of a venue or near an exit as they are departing the venue). System 1000 may communicate with the various exemplary disclosed charging stations to accept receiver adapter 1035 from the user and to cross-reference other charging station data to store the return time for receiver adapter 1035 (e.g., and to confirm that the receiver adapter 1035 was returned in a predetermined time purchased and / or provided to a user). For example, a user may be charged an additional fee if receiver adapter 1035 is returned late to the exemplary disclosed charging station (e.g., and a late fee may be avoided by the user by returning receiver adapter 1035 to any of the charging stations of a given location or venue).[000163] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 1000 may provide a system of interconnected kiosks, with system 1000 managing a system of OTA receiver adapters 1035 that may connect to OTA base stations 1005 that may exist within a venue or may be located within a charging assembly. System 1000 may track users who check in and out receiver adapters 1035 from the exemplary disclosed charging stations. Users may provide credentials and / or a deposit (e.g., credit card) to check out receiver adapter 1035. The deposit may be returned if receiver adapter 1035 is returned.[000164] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 1000 may perform a pre- authorization of a user’s credit card before completing the transaction and dispensing receiver adapter 1035 from the exemplary disclosed charging station. The user’s credit card number may also serve as a unique identifier for the user that replaces a mobile number.[000165] In at least some exemplary embodiments, system 1000 may control base stations 1005 to provide zones of wireless charging capabilities in a store or other venue. The exemplary disclosedcharging stations may display a map and / or other information regarding locations in the store at which users can wirelessly charge their devices. When receiver adapters 1035 are returned they may undergo one or more sanitization cycles for example as described herein (e.g., UV-C sanitization). System 1000 may make receiver adapters 1035 available using a rental model and / or a subscription model (e.g., monthly fee, in which a subscription ID may be used for user identification as an alternative to a credit card number).[000166] In at least some exemplary embodiments and as illustrated in Fig. 20, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may include a battery backup supply system 1100 including a battery backup supply 1105. When an exemplary disclosed charging station (e.g., charging station 110, charging station 505, charging station 705, or charging station 905) loses power (e.g., loses its wall power) for example due to a brief or prolonged power outage, its battery backup supply 1105 (e.g., universal power supply or UPS) may provide auxiliary power to the charging station to allow the charging station to continue operating. A duration of this battery backup power’s life (e.g., UPS life) may be influenced by many factors, such as quantity of charging stations charging with the UPS, age of the battery, and / or types of other hardware components that may be active. For example, the UPS battery backup may power the charging station for a certain time (e.g., up to 40 minutes) following the beginning of a power outage.[000167] The exemplary disclosed UPS (e.g., battery backup supply 1105) may maintain the kiosk’ s operations so that users (e.g., customers or workers) may retrieve their device even when regular power is lost. However, the exemplary disclosed system may determine that it may not be desirable to allow new charge transactions to be initiated when a charging station is operating on UPS power because the charging station may possibly be powered down when users return to attempt to retrieve their device (e.g., users may not be able to retrieve their devices because the charging station may be powered down due, for example, to an extended power outage).[000168] The exemplary disclosed charging station may receive data of a status of the UPS via a USB connection or any other suitable communication technique for example as described herein. The charging station may receive status data indicative of whether or not the charging station is currently receiving power (e.g., from wall power or power from any other suitable source) or whether it is on battery backup (e.g., UPS power). To avoid an unfavorable user experience in which a user secures (e.g., locks up) his or her device in the charging station but then cannot later retrieve it because the charging station has powered down, the exemplary disclosed system may be configured (e.g., software may be designed) to prevent users from generating new charging transactions when the charging station is on battery backup (UPS). For example, the exemplary disclosed system may prevent new charging transactions until power (e.g., wall power) is restored, a predetermined time period (e.g., 40 minutes or any other suitable time period) has elapsed, or any other suitable criteria has been met (e.g., based on whichever criteria occurs first). For example, the exemplary disclosed system may prevent locking of the locker door and / or charging when the charging station is on backup power.[000169] In at least some exemplary embodiments and as illustrated in Fig. 21, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may include a controller board system 1200. The exemplary disclosed charging station (e.g., charging station 110, charging station 505, charging station 705, or charging station 905) may include a controller board 1205 that may control lighting and display (e.g., locker LEDs), charging cables, storage housing locks (e.g., locker locks), and any other suitable components. Controller board 1205 may be removably attachable to the charging station or integrally formed with the charging station. The exemplary disclosed controller boards (e.g., controller board1205) may control a predetermined number (e.g., set number) of charging cables, storage housings(e.g., lockers), and / or other components. The exemplary disclosed charging station may include one or a plurality of controller boards 1205. Controller board hardware and / or firmware may be designed to be adaptable to new technologies that may not yet be released at the time of the creation of thehardware and / or firmware such as, for example, new charging cable types and new charging power profiles. In at least some exemplary embodiments, controller board system 1200 may include a plurality of controller boards 1205 for providing differing (e.g., relatively higher) power output. [000170] The exemplary disclosed controller boards (e.g., controller board 1205) may be connected to a computing device 1210 (e.g., similar to the exemplary disclosed computing devices described herein) of the charging station for example as illustrated in Fig. 21. In at least some exemplary embodiments, a USB interface may be used to connect the exemplary disclosed controller board (e.g., controller board 1205) with computing device 1210 of the charging station (e.g., controller board 1205 may communicate with computing device 1210 of the charging station via any suitable communication technique for example as described herein). Computing device 1210 of the charging station may control (e.g., command) controller board 1205 to perform actions using the exemplary disclosed hardware of the charging station. The exemplary disclosed controller board (e.g., controller board 1205) may also generate data, reports, and / or events that may indicate a state of the hardware of the charging station.[000171] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed controller board (e.g., controller board 1205) may be programmable via firmware and / or computing device 1210 of the charging station to produce any suitable display or pattern such as an LED illumination pattern (e.g.,“LED attract” sequence). The LED illumination pattern may be a vertical wave.[000172] The exemplary disclosed controller board (e.g., controller board 1205) may include (e.g., be equipped with) firmware and / or hardware that may determine and / or sense (e.g., recognize) a level of charging that may be suitable for a given device (e.g., customer device or worker device such as a mobile device). In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed controller board(e.g., controller board 1205) may offer any suitable level of charging (e.g., up to 45W of charging) by offering 3A at 15V to some devices, 15W (3A at 5V) to some devices, and / or 27A (3A at 9V) to some devices. The proper voltage level and / or current level for a charging session may be determined(e.g., by controller board 1205) through interacting with the user device via an exemplary disclosed charging cable, through a prompt via the exemplary disclosed user interface (e.g., the user may enter input to determine charging level before or while connecting the user’s device), through firmware and / or software of controller board 1205 and / or computing device 1210 of the charging station, and / or any other suitable technique.[000173] Controller board system 1200 may operate to control an amount of power being drawn from a power source (e.g., at a wall outlet) for example for energy consumption reasons. The controller board firmware and / or software of the charging station may be configured or programmed, remotely and / or on-site via software or a configuration update, to control (e.g., “throttle” or load balance) the share of power transferred to connected devices. For example, controller board system 1200 (e.g., controller board 1205) may operate to throttle power to devices to provide suitable draw (e.g., optimize for minimal draw) at a power source such as a wall. Controller board system 1200 (e.g., controller board 1205) may thereby lower energy consumption by suitably (e.g., optimally) charging some devices while offering a reduced charging profile (e.g., less preferable profile) to other devices, and alternating between charging levels for some or all devices.[000174] Such control may include charging some devices at a relatively higher level (e.g., optimal level) while offering a relatively lower or reduced rate of charging to other devices (e.g., and also alternating between charging levels throughout a charging session). In at least some exemplary embodiments, controller board system 1200 may be configured (e.g., programmed) to charge electrical devices during periods of relatively lower electricity costs (e.g., late at night or early in the morning).[000175] Controller board system 1200 may also include a wireless charging pad 1215 for example as illustrated in Fig. 21. Wireless charging pad 1215 may be any suitable device for wirelessly transferring power or charge to a device. Wireless charging pad 1215 may provide increased flexibility for charging devices and may accommodate devices that may not have a charging portand / or may be relatively easier to use. Wireless charging pad 1215 may be integrated into the exemplary disclosed charging station (e.g., charging station 110, charging station 505, charging station 705, or charging station 905), or attached to or disposed near the exemplary disclosed charging station. For example, wireless charging pad 1215 may be disposed in one or more (e.g., some or all) of the exemplary disclosed storage housings. Using controller board 1205, controller board system 1200 may control the charging station to determine or detect whether a device is charging using wireless charging pad 1215 (e.g., has been placed on wireless charging pad 1215) as opposed to using a charging cable. In at least some exemplary embodiments, select storage housings (e.g., lockers) of the exemplary disclosed charging station may be equipped with wireless charging pads 1215, or substantially all storage housings may include wireless charging pads 1215.[000176] A user may be able to select a storage housing having wireless charging pad 1215 based on the user interface or exemplary disclosed identification techniques for example as described herein. A user may also indicate (e.g., via the exemplary disclosed user interface or identification techniques, for example via interactive touchscreen) which type of device or charging tip (e.g., charging connector) the user is utilizing, and controller board system 1200 may in response to the input present different available storage housings as options based on the type of charging and other criteria indicated by the user. The user may thereby confirm that a selected storage housing is configured and / or equipped to be compatible with the user’s device.[000177] In at least some exemplary embodiments, one or more controller boards 1205 of the exemplary disclosed charging station may detect, sense, and / or determine how some or all of the charged devices are being charged (e.g., via charging cable, wireless charging pad 1215, OTA system 1000, or any other available charging technique) without user input, which may provide an efficient user experience. For example, one or more controller boards 1205 may detect which devices are being charged and therefore which cables or charging sources are being used without user input (e.g., without user input via the exemplary disclosed user interface).[000178] One or more controller boards 1205 of the exemplary disclosed charging station may also detect, sense, and / or determine a battery level of some or all of the devices during charging. Controller board 1205 may transfer data (e.g., reports) indicating charge status for the charged devices to controller board system 1200 (e.g., and to the system controlling the charging stations) via communication components of the exemplary disclosed charging station.[000179] In at least some exemplary embodiments, controller board system 1200 may determine whether doors (e.g., locker doors) of storage housings of a charging station are fully shut (e.g., for security reasons). For example as illustrated in Fig. 21, controller board system 1200 may include a detection device 1220 that may detect whether a lock of a storage housing door has been locked without the door being closed (e.g., such as in the case that the lock is manually activated by a user in order to continue using his or her device while the device charges). Because such user behavior may pose a security risk and / or may be otherwise unfavorable to a venue, detection device 1220 may be added to some or all storage housings (e.g., lockers) to detect whether a locker door is in a closed or open position. Detection device 1220 may be a plunger, a magnet, a motion sensor, a weight sensor, a pressure plate, a camera (e.g., a photo camera and / or a video camera), or any other suitable device for detecting whether a door is in an open or closed position. Data of the status of each detection device 1220 may be transferred from controller board 1205 to computing device 1210 via any suitable technique for example as described herein (e.g., and uploaded to the exemplary disclosed server in real-time or near real-time). An alert may be displayed or communicated to the user when detection device 1220 detects the door has been locked without the door being closed. Also, the exemplary disclosed system may prevent or stop electrical charging of user devices when the door has been locked without the door being closed.[000180] In at least some exemplary embodiments, controller board system 1200 may include a controller board display 1225 in addition for example to displays (e.g., LED displays) including branding and status configurations (e.g., locker LEDs changing color with branding configuration andstatus of the locker for example if the locker is in use or available). Controller board display 1225 may be an RGB LED display or any other suitable type of display (e.g., LCD). Controller board display 1225 may be located at a top portion of a charging station or at any other suitable location. Controller board display 1225 may be disposed behind a semi-translucent film or any other suitable material. Controller board display 1225 may be controlled (e.g., programmed) by controller board 1205 and / or computing device 1210. Controller board display 1225 may be controlled to project a custom color or series of colors. Controller board display 1225 may be used for any suitable purposes such as signaling to others within a venue that an associate or employee is requested for additional assistance, as a beacon to alert users to the charging station’ s location in the venue, as a status indicator to report whether there are available lockers at the present time, to advertise or project the venue’s brand image and colors, and / or any other desired purpose.[000181] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed user interface of the charging station may prompt a user to provide additional information before allowing the user to start a session, gain access to a storage housing (e.g., locker), and / or retrieve the device or devices. The information may be requested via a touchscreen or any other suitable user interface, and may include custom text-based entry data such, for example, last name, zip code, state, city, and / or any other suitable data. The user interface may prompt the user to use text-based entry and / or select from one or more predefined answers (e.g., pull-downs). Input provided by the user may dynamically branch the survey to a predetermined next question or set of questions. These questions and answers may be configurable via an online platform (e.g., PaaS) in which system administrators may configure which charging stations (e.g., kiosks) the survey and / or form should display these items. The user input data collected via the form may be sent via secure transmission to a backend database (e.g., via a suitable communication technique for example as described herein). User input data may also be sent securely to a client’s database via use of automated API, SFTP transfer, and / or other suitable method of data transmission.[000182] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide user interface or user event tracking. The exemplary disclosed event tracking system may generate an auto-populating data table to track some or all pages (e.g., every page) displayed on a charging station’ s user interface. Actions taken by the user to engage with and navigate through the user interface flow may also be recorded, including for example timestamps to assess an amount of time spent by a user on each page. The exemplary disclosed event tracking system may record non-user-interface events such as hardware actions (e.g., “door opened,” “door closed,” “connection detected,” and / or any other desired events). The exemplary disclosed event tracking system may generate a meta-data table that summarizes key touch points during a user session as well as data indicating the charging station’s state (e.g., software version, UV-C status, and / or any other desired status). Some or substantially all data may be tracked locally on the charging station and periodically sent to the exemplary disclosed server for data analysis. The exemplary disclosed event tracking system may utilize the tracked event data to identify and diagnose user behavior patterns in order to adjust (e.g., optimize) the user experience at the kiosk. For example, the exemplary disclosed analysis may provide reports (e.g., facilitate insights) into where users expend most of their time on the user flow, how users navigate through the user flow, where users abandon (e.g., and at what rate) on various screens, how changes to the system’s software impact these user metrics, and / or any other desired information. The exemplary disclosed event tracking system may create events that may be linked to each user interface interaction to allow the system to analyze user journey and drive software improvements. The exemplary disclosed event tracking system may measure time spent by users on each step, measure a number or percentage of users that abandon the user flow at each step, track abnormal user journeys (e.g., going back to a start page or screen), track a quantity of taps on features such as “help” or “FAQs,” track use of international versus domestic phones with the system, and / or quantify and analyze any other suitable data.[000183] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide data visualization (e.g., Looker links in Lime or any other suitable applications). The exemplary disclosed data visualization system may include a business intelligence platform (e.g., Looker, Domo, Adverity, Izenda, Grow, and / or any other suitable data visualization software) that may allow data visualization based on any suitable database (e.g., online database) in the form of dashboards and reports. The data on these dashboards and reports may be filterable. For example, a dashboard showing charge frequency trends may be filtered based on charging stations (e.g., by kiosk ID) to show data pertaining to a specific charging station. The exemplary disclosed data visualization system may also dynamically filter dashboards and reports by altering certain parts of a URL associated with the data. The exemplary disclosed data visualization system may support historical data and trends. The exemplary disclosed data visualization system may utilize dynamic URLs to integrate data visualization software with the exemplary disclosed system and method. The exemplary disclosed data visualization system may push and / or add certain parameters to a URL which may lead to a pre-filtered data visualization dashboard or report. For example, users may navigate to a charging station control panel and then click a hyperlink that may redirect the user to a data visualization dashboard that may be pre-filtered by charging station (e.g., based on the kiosk ID for the kiosk being used by the user). The exemplary disclosed data visualization system may create a streamlined workflow for support members and staff of an organization utilizing the exemplary disclosed system and method to quickly analyze trends in alert logs (e.g., by providing a smart filtering link to a business intelligence tool within a system administrator’s site process).[000184] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide location analysis. The exemplary disclosed location analysis system may categorize charging station locations based on the different configurations of the charging stations. For example, if a charging station (e.g., kiosk) includes UV-C functionality for example as described herein, the exemplary disclosed location analysis system may record data indicating it as a “UV-C”category. Data indicating other categories may include “advanced” charging technology such as Qi or Magsafe wireless charging and / or any other suitable categories. This exemplary disclosed categorization data may be transferred to the exemplary disclosed server (e.g., including system website and mobile app) in the form of labels, using any suitable application (e.g., Locations API). The exemplary disclosed location analysis system may include website locations and mobile app software, which based on labels received by the API, may display a user interface element indicating which category or categories a given charging station at a location belongs to (e.g., based on the exemplary disclosed data). The exemplary disclosed location analysis system may thereby provide users with increased visibility into features available at a given kiosk location, and also the ability to search for certain kiosk locations (e.g., based on the exemplary disclosed categories).[000185] The exemplary disclosed location analysis system may display image data (e.g., a photo or photos of a kiosk) that may be included on a mobile application and / or website of the exemplary disclosed system to indicate to users what a given charging station looks like (e.g., as they seek to locate it within a venue). The image data may be uploaded to an administrator’s site and linked with a particular kiosk serial number or site. The image data may then be uploaded to a website and / or mobile app of the exemplary disclosed system (e.g., via Locations API or any other suitable application).[000186] The exemplary disclosed location analysis system may provide a specific site description of a charging station (e.g., kiosk) such as, for example, “near men’s shoes” or “first floor elevator,” which may be added to an application (e.g., Locations API) to further help the user of the mobile app or website to identify where a given kiosk is located within a venue. This exemplary disclosed site description may be shown on the exemplary disclosed user interface (e.g., of the mobile app or website) at any desired time and / or selectively shown once the user’s GPS location is within a predetermined range of the kiosk (e.g., such as 1,000 feet or any other desired distance). The exemplary disclosed location analysis system may thereby provide data that may help users to quicklyand easily find charging stations within a venue, without the user taking time to seek help of venue workers.[000187] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide a universal login. The exemplary disclosed universal login system may allow users (e.g., customers and / or workers) to create a login and specify preferences to streamline interaction with exemplary disclosed charging stations across multiple locations, and simplify a user’s use of an application (e.g., a mobile app) for using the charging stations. Once an account for a user has been created by the exemplary disclosed system, a unique code (e.g., a QR code, a barcode, or any other suitable technique) may be generated for the user so that the user may gain access to a charging locker by simply scanning the QR code. This may allow for the user to bypass actions such as entering a unique code (e.g., mobile number), selecting a security image, and / or entering an email address because this exemplary information may be stored within the user’s unique code (e.g., QR code). The use of the unique code may thereby provide touchless access to a charging locker, relatively faster access to a charging locker, and / or increased customer loyalty across the exemplary disclosed charging stations (e.g., based on ease of use). Also for example, a unique passcode that a user creates on a login page of the exemplary disclosed user interface of the charging station may be used (e.g., using the exemplary disclosed touchscreen).[000188] In at least some exemplary disclosed embodiments, the exemplary disclosed universal login system may provide users with an account that designates the user’s desired kiosk locations, customizes notifications regarding low battery status, nearby charging stations, available lockers, available lockers with UV-C sanitization technology, and / or any other suitable information or criteria. Also for example, users (e.g., account holders) may receive data regarding special offers such as coupons and discounts at venues, rewards based on frequency of charging, and / or any other suitable incentives or promotional information. The exemplary disclosed universal login system may providea frequent charging program, offer discounts, and / or offer increased (e.g., premier) access to new charging technology releases.[000189] In at least some exemplary disclosed embodiments, the exemplary disclosed universal login system may streamline access to charging lockers through a universal login. The exemplary disclosed universal login system may provide an account-based model in which the system pulls information from user accounts to shorten the user interface flow for each subsequent charge by the user (e.g., based on data provided by the user and / or system on earlier charging uses). The exemplary disclosed universal login system may facilitate touchless access to the exemplary disclosed charging station to begin a transaction. The exemplary disclosed universal login system may reduce friction (e.g., based on burdensome user flows) and reward loyal customers.[000190] In at least some exemplary embodiments and as illustrated in Fig. 22, the exemplary disclosed system (e.g., system 1400) may include a housing (e.g., housing 1402 such as a kiosk). The housing may include a first side 1405 and a second side 1410. Housing 1402 may include one or more compartments 1415, each of the one or more compartments including a compartment door 1420 disposed at first side 1405 of housing 1402. Housing 1402 may also include an operator door 1430 that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity 1425 that may access one or more compartments1415, and closes to block access to one or more compartments 1415. An electronic lock 1432 may be configured to selectively lock and unlock operator door 1430. Electronic lock 1432 may include an operator interface 1435. Housing 1402 may include the exemplary disclosed ultraviolet lighting device described herein disposed in at least one of the one or more compartments. System 1400 may also include computing memory having associated therewith code and a processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory, for example as described herein. The exemplary disclosed processor may be configured to execute the code and to receive a random code from a random code generator (e.g., for example as described herein), program electronic lock1432 to unlock operator door 1430 when the random code is entered via operator interface 1435 (e.g.,for example as described herein), and control the exemplary disclosed ultraviolet lighting device to selectively emit ultraviolet lighting in an interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments 1415 (e.g., for example as described herein).[000191] In at least some exemplary embodiments, some or all components of the exemplary disclosed sanitization system for example as described regarding Figs. 5-9 may be integrated with the exemplary disclosed systems described regarding Figs. 1-4C and 13-22.[000192] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system includes a housing, one or more compartments, each of the one or more compartments including a compartment door disposed at a first side of the housing, an operator door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity that accesses the one or more compartments, and closes to block access to the one or more compartments, an electronic lock configured to selectively lock and unlock the operator door, the electronic lock including an operator interface, an ultraviolet lighting device disposed in at least one of the one or more compartments, computing memory having associated therewith code, and a processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory. The processor may be configured to execute the code and to control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively emit ultraviolet lighting in an interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments. The operator door may be disposed at a second side of the housing that is opposite to the first side. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to receive a random code from a random code generator, and program the electronic lock to unlock the operator door when the random code is entered via the operator interface. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to transfer data of the random code to a device of a system operator so that the data is used to enter the random code to the operator interface of the electronic lock to unlock the operator door. The at least one of the one or more compartments may include at least one ultraviolet-light-reflective surface facing the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory maybe configured to control the ultraviolet lighting device to illuminate the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when both the operator door and the compartment door of the at least one of the one or more compartments are closed. The exemplary disclosed system may also include an electrical charger disposed in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments that is configured to receive an electronic device. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to control the ultraviolet lighting device to illuminate the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when the electronic device is electrically connected to the electrical charger and both the operator door and the compartment door of the at least one of the one or more compartments are closed. The ultraviolet lighting device may be a UV-C lighting device that emits UV-C light. The exemplary disclosed system may further include a support assembly that is disposed in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments and is transparent or translucent to ultraviolet light. The support assembly may be configured to support an electronic device. The exemplary disclosed system may also include a motion sensor and an electrical switch, the electrical switch configured to operate based on motion sensed adjacent to the housing by the motion sensor. The electrical switch may selectively allow and block current to the ultraviolet lighting device based on motion sensed adjacent to the housing by the motion sensor.The ultraviolet lighting device may be disposed in an aperture formed in at least one surface portion forming the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments. The exemplary disclosed system may further include a contactless component selected from the group of a dispenser for single use gloves, a dispenser for styluses, a QR code scanner, a biometric component, a touchless touchscreen, and combinations thereof. The ultraviolet lighting device may be a movable device having a support member, which attaches the ultraviolet lighting device to at least one surface portion forming the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments, the movable device being configured to adjust an angle or a position of the ultraviolet lighting device relative to the at least one surface portion. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may beconfigured to control the support member to rotate based on a placement of an electronic device in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments. The exemplary disclosed system may further include a second lighting device that is disposed in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments, the second lighting device being a visible light-emitting device. The compartment door may include a window that blocks ultraviolet emission from the ultraviolet lighting device and that is also one-way visible from the outside to allow a user to see the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to control a motion sensor to sense motion adjacent to the housing, control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively emit and stop emission of ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments based on an electrical switch that operates based on the sensing of the motion sensor, control the ultraviolet lighting device to emit the ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when the compartment door is closed to block access to the compartment and no motion is sensed adjacent to the housing, and control the ultraviolet lighting device to stop emission of ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when either motion is sensed adjacent to the housing or the compartment door is opened to allow access to the compartment. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to control a thermal sensor to sense a body temperature of a user adjacent to the housing, control the electronic lock to lock the compartment door in a closed position when the body temperature of the user is higher than a threshold value and maintain the compartment door in the locked, closed position, and control a display to display an alert on the housing to the user or transmit a data alert to the user. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to control a display of the housing to provide at least audio or visual instructions of a position in which to dispose a user device in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments, and control the ultraviolet lighting device to change a direction of the ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or morecompartments based on the position of the user device. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to control a communication device to transfer data to a user device indicating a number and location of available compartments including the ultraviolet lighting device. The processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory may be configured to control a communication device to transfer data to a mobile device of a user indicating when the user last performed a UV-C disinfection of the mobile device, a germ status of the mobile device, and a recommended next time that the user should perform another UV-C disinfection of the mobile device.[000193] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed method may include providing a door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity and selectively closes to block access to the cavity, using a lock to selectively lock and unlock the door when the door is closed, electrically charging a user device in the cavity when the door is closed and locked, unlocking the door based on a first input provided by a first user, the first user removing the user device, electrically charging the user device in the cavity when the door is closed and locked after the first user returns the user device, and unlocking the door based on a second input provided by a second user, the second user removing the user device. The user device may be a worker device, the first user may be a first worker, and the second user may be a second worker. The first user and the second user may be employees or contractors working at a location at which the cavity is disposed, and the user device may be a worker device controlled by an employer of the employees or contractors. The first input may be provided by via a first object of the first user being detected by a scanner, and the second input may be provided by via a second object of the second user being detected by the scanner. The first object may include a first unique code that is detected by the scanner, which may be different from a second unique code of the second object that is detected by the scanner. The exemplary disclosed method may also include controlling a detection device to detect the first user removing the user device, the first user returning the user device, and the second user removing the user device.The exemplary disclosed method may further include detecting whether or not a charging device configured to electrically charge the user device is on battery backup power, and preventing both locking of the door and electrically charging the user device when the charging device is on battery backup power. The exemplary disclosed method may also include detecting if the door is locked when the door is open, and preventing electrical charging of the user device when the door is locked when the door is open.[000194] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system may be a system for charging at least one user device, including at least one cavity including a door, which selectively opens to allow access to the cavity and selectively closes to block access to the cavity, a lock configured to selectively lock and unlock the door when the door is closed, an electrical charger configured to charge the at least one user device, and an ultraviolet lighting device, and a controller.The controller may be configured to control the electrical charger to electrically charge the at least one user device in the at least one cavity when the door is closed and locked, control the lock to unlock the door based on a first input provided by a first user before the first user removes the at least one user device, control the electrical charger to electrically charge the at least one user device in the at least one cavity when the door is closed and locked after the first user returns the at least one user device, control the lock to unlock the door based on a second input provided by a second user before the second user removes the at least one user device, and control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively turn on and turn off. The first user may be a first worker, the second user may be a second worker, and the at least one user device may be a worker device controlled by an employer of the first worker and the second worker. The ultraviolet lighting device may be a UV-C lighting device that emits UV-C light in the at least one cavity when the door is closed and locked and the at least one user device is being electrically charged. The exemplary disclosed system may also include a dispensing cavity, and a transfer assembly configured to move the at least one user device between the at least one cavity and the dispensing cavity. The at least one cavity may include a plurality ofcavities, and the at least one user device may include a plurality of user devices. The controller may be configured to control the lock to unlock the door of one of the plurality of cavities that is charging one of the plurality of user devices that is at least one selected from the group of a user device having a highest amount of charge of the plurality of user devices, a user device having been charged for the longest period of time of the plurality of user devices, a user device being the newest user device of the plurality of user devices, and combinations thereof. The exemplary disclosed system may further include a controller board that is configured to communicate with the controller. The controller board may be configured to vary the charging level of the plurality of user devices disposed in the plurality of cavities independently of each other. The exemplary disclosed system may also include a detection device configured to detect whether the door is locked when the door is open. The detection device may be at least one selected from the group of a plunger, a magnet, a motion sensor, a weight sensor, a camera, and combinations thereof.[000195] The previous description of the disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosure. Various modifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples and designs described herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A system, comprising: a housing; one or more compartments, each of the one or more compartments including a compartment door disposed at a first side of the housing; an operator door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity that accesses the one or more compartments, and closes to block access to the one or more compartments; an electronic lock configured to selectively lock and unlock the operator door, the electronic lock including an operator interface; an ultraviolet lighting device disposed in at least one of the one or more compartments; computing memory having associated therewith code; and a processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory, configured to execute the code and to: control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively emit ultraviolet lighting in an interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the operator door is disposed at a second side of the housing that is opposite to the first side.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to: receive a random code from a random code generator; andprogram the electronic lock to unlock the operator door when the random code is entered via the operator interface.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to: transfer data of the random code to a device of a system operator so that the data is used to enter the random code to the operator interface of the electronic lock to unlock the operator door.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one of the one or more compartments includes at least one ultraviolet-light-reflective surface facing the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to control the ultraviolet lighting device to illuminate the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when both the operator door and the compartment door of the at least one of the one or more compartments are closed.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising an electrical charger disposed in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments that is configured to receive an electronic device; wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to control the ultraviolet lighting device to illuminate the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when the electronic device is electrically connected to the electrical charger and both the operator door and the compartment door of the at least one of the one or more compartments are closed.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet lighting device is a UV-C lighting device that emits UV-C light.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a support assembly that is disposed in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments and is transparent or translucent to ultraviolet light; wherein the support assembly is configured to support an electronic device.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a motion sensor and an electrical switch, the electrical switch configured to operate based on motion sensed adjacent to the housing by the motion sensor.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the electrical switch selectively allows and blocks current to the ultraviolet lighting device based on motion sensed adjacent to the housing by the motion sensor.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet lighting device is disposed in an aperture formed in at least one surface portion forming the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments.

13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a contactless component selected from the group of a dispenser for single use gloves, a dispenser for styluses, a QR code scanner, a biometric component, a touchless touchscreen, and combinations thereof.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet lighting device is a movable device having a support member, which attaches the ultraviolet lighting device to at least one surface portion forming the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments, the movable device being configuredto adjust an angle or a position of the ultraviolet lighting device relative to the at least one surface portion.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to control the support member to rotate based on a placement of an electronic device in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments.

16. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second lighting device that is disposed in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments, the second lighting device being a visible light-emitting device.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the compartment door includes a window that blocks ultraviolet emission from the ultraviolet lighting device and that is also one-way visible from the outside to allow a user to see the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to: control a motion sensor to sense motion adjacent to the housing; control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively emit and stop emission of ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments based on an electrical switch that operates based on the sensing of the motion sensor; control the ultraviolet lighting device to emit the ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when the compartment door is closed to block access to the compartment and no motion is sensed adjacent to the housing; andcontrol the ultraviolet lighting device to stop emission of ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments when either motion is sensed adjacent to the housing or the compartment door is opened to allow access to the compartment.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to: control a thermal sensor to sense a body temperature of a user adjacent to the housing; control the electronic lock to lock the compartment door in a closed position when the body temperature of the user is higher than a threshold value and maintain the compartment door in the locked, closed position; and control a display to display an alert on the housing to the user or transmit a data alert to the user.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to: control a display of the housing to provide at least audio or visual instructions of a position in which to dispose a user device in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments; and control the ultraviolet lighting device to change a direction of the ultraviolet light in the interior of the at least one of the one or more compartments based on the position of the user device.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to control a communication device to transfer data to a user device indicating a number and location of available compartments including the ultraviolet lighting device.

22. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor communicatively coupled with the computing memory is configured to control a communication device to transfer data to a mobile device of a user indicating when the user last performed a UV-C disinfection of the mobile device, a germ status of the mobile device, and a recommended next time that the user should perform another UV-C disinfection of the mobile device.

23. A method, comprising: providing a door that selectively opens to allow access to a cavity and selectively closes to block access to the cavity; using a lock to selectively lock and unlock the door when the door is closed; electrically charging a user device in the cavity when the door is closed and locked; unlocking the door based on a first input provided by a first user, the first user removing the user device; electrically charging the user device in the cavity when the door is closed and locked after the first user returns the user device; and unlocking the door based on a second input provided by a second user, the second user removing the user device.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the user device is a worker device, the first user is a first worker, and the second user is a second worker.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein the first user and the second user are employees or contractors working at a location at which the cavity is disposed, and the user device is a worker device controlled by an employer of the employees or contractors.

26. The method of claim 23, wherein the first input is provided by via a first object of the first user being detected by a scanner, and the second input is provided by via a second object of the second user being detected by the scanner.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the first object includes a first unique code that is detected by the scanner, which is different from a second unique code of the second object that is detected by the scanner.

28. The method of claim 23, further comprising controlling a detection device to detect the first user removing the user device, the first user returning the user device, and the second user removing the user device.

29. The method of claim 23, further comprising: detecting whether or not a charging device configured to electrically charge the user device is on battery backup power; and preventing both locking of the door and electrically charging the user device when the charging device is on battery backup power.

30. The method of claim 23, further comprising: detecting if the door is locked when the door is open; and preventing electrical charging of the user device when the door is locked when the door is open.

31. A system for charging at least one user device, comprising: at least one cavity including a door, which selectively opens to allow access to the cavity and selectively closes to block access to the cavity, a lock configured to selectively lock and unlock the door when the door is closed, an electrical charger configured to charge the at least one user device, and an ultraviolet lighting device; and a controller; wherein the controller is configured to control the electrical charger to electrically charge the at least one user device in the at least one cavity when the door is closed and locked; control the lock to unlock the door based on a first input provided by a first user before the first user removes the at least one user device; control the electrical charger to electrically charge the at least one user device in the at least one cavity when the door is closed and locked after the first user returns the at least one user device; control the lock to unlock the door based on a second input provided by a second user before the second user removes the at least one user device; and control the ultraviolet lighting device to selectively turn on and turn off.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein the first user is a first worker, the second user is a second worker, and the at least one user device is a worker device controlled by an employer of the first worker and the second worker.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein the ultraviolet lighting device is a UV-C lighting device that emits UV-C light in the at least one cavity when the door is closed and locked and the at least one user device is being electrically charged.

34. The system of claim 31, further comprising: a dispensing cavity; and a transfer assembly configured to move the at least one user device between the at least one cavity and the dispensing cavity.

35. The system of claim 31, wherein: the at least one cavity includes a plurality of cavities; and the at least one user device includes a plurality of user devices.

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the controller is configured to control the lock to unlock the door of one of the plurality of cavities that is charging one of the plurality of user devices that is at least one selected from the group of a user device having a highest amount of charge of the plurality of user devices, a user device having been charged for the longest period of time of the plurality of user devices, a user device being the newest user device of the plurality of user devices, and combinations thereof.

37. The system of claim 35, further comprising a controller board that is configured to communicate with the controller.

38. The system of claim 37, wherein the controller board is configured to vary the charging level of the plurality of user devices disposed in the plurality of cavities independently of each other.

39. The system of claim 31, further comprising a detection device configured to detect whether the door is locked when the door is open; wherein the detection device is at least one selected from the group of a plunger, a magnet, a motion sensor, a weight sensor, a camera, and combinations thereof.

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