Airborne pathogen neutralization methods and systems

Abstract

There is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room. The device includes light emitting elements to emit germicidal radiation that creates a disinfecting area. The germicidal device can include a housing that defines the disinfecting area that is mounted on, around, or near an air moving device. The germicidal device cooperates with the air moving device to move non-disinfected air into the disinfecting area and move disinfected air back into the room. The housing can include an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with each other that are configured to allow the air to enter and exit the disinfecting area while preventing the germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.

Description

AIRBORNE PATHOGEN NEUTRALIZATION METHODS AND SYSTEMSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This present disclosure relates to the field of airborne pathogen neutralization and more particularly to improved methods and systems for the sanitization of airborne pathogens in indoors settings using germicidal UV light.BACKGROUND

[0002] Aerosol transmission is now widely accepted as the principal way that many pathogens, including those that cause COVID-19, are spread, thus signifying the importance of studying and controlling natural and mechanical forms of ventilation. However, outside of healthcare facilities, mechanical ventilation is designed for comfort, not airborne infection control, and cannot achieve the 6 to 12 room air changes per hour recommended for airborne infection control. More efficient air filters have been recommended in ventilation ducts despite a lack of convincing evidence that viruses spread through ventilation systems. Most transmission appears to occur in rooms where both an infectious source and other susceptible occupants share the same air.

[0003] Only two conventional room-based technologies are available to supplement mechanical ventilation: portable room air cleaners and upper room germicidal UV (GUV) air disinfection. Portable room air cleaners can be effective; however, performance is limited by their clean air delivery rate relative to room volume.

[0004] Most pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, are highly susceptible to GUV, a conventional technology that has been shown to produce the equivalent of 10 to 20 or more air changes per hour under real life conditions in a safe, quiet, effective and economical manner. GUV causes UV-induced mutagenic DNA lesions, primarily through the formation of pyrimidine dimers, and of other secondary photoproducts of genetic materials.

[0005] One option of utilizing UV irradiation for infection control is upper room ultraviolet germicidal (UR-UVG). Conventional UR-UVG devices are specially designed fixtures normally fitted with low-pressure mercury-type UVC lamp. Three issues for the current design include: (1) mercury UVC lamps are only about 30% efficient at converting input power into ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation; (2) safety continues to be a major concern as ozone is a by-product; and (3)inflexibility in design and cannot be manufactured to emit UV over a wide range of wavelengths. Furthermore, mercury discharge lamps emit radiation in all directions, resulting in significantly lower efficiency when light needs to be directed in a particular direction.

[0006] Despite a long history of extensive evidence of the undoubtful efficacy of the conventional UR-UVG air disinfection system over many years, the paucity of convincing solutions to address the high-lighted limitations has been a major barrier to the full acceptance, development, and wider implementation of UR-UVG systems. Therefore, safe, non-toxic, economically feasible, low-cost, low-maintenance and effective method and system are still required.SUMMARY

[0007] According to one aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area with an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication, wherein the housing is configured to be mounted on, around, or near an air moving device; and at least one light emitting element configured to emit germicidal radiation within the disinfecting area; wherein the inlet and the outlet are configured to allow the air to enter the disinfecting area through the inlet and exit the disinfecting area through the outlet while preventing the germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.

[0008] According to another aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area with an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication, wherein the housing is configured to be mounted on, around, or near an air moving device; at least one light emitting element configured to emit germicidal radiation within the disinfecting area; a first lightblocking plate coupled to the housing at the inlet; the first light-blocking plate being configured to allow air to enter the disinfecting area through the inlet and to prevent germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.

[0009] According to another aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to cooperate with an air moving device to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room prior to the air being circulated or re-circulated in the room by the air moving device, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area; and at least one lightemitting element; wherein the germicidal device includes at least one light-blocking plate configured to allow the air circulated by the air moving device to enter and exit the housing while preventing the germicidal radiation from exiting the housing.

[0010] According to another aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area; and at least one light emitting element coupled within the housing and configured to emit germicidal radiation within the disinfecting area; wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to move the air into the housing, through the disinfecting area defined by the germicidal radiation and the housing, and out of the housing.

[0011] According to another aspect, there is provided a pathogen neutralization system configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the pathogen neutralization system comprising: an air moving device; a germicidal device comprising: a housing; and at least one light emitting element electronically coupled to electronic components; and a power source configured to power the electronic components, wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air prior to the air being circulated or re-circulated in the room by the air moving device.

[0012] According to another aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a support assembly configured to be mounted in an upper portion of the room; and a light emitting assembly comprising light emitting elements electronically coupled to the support assembly and configured to emit germicidal radiation, wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with an air moving device to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air prior to the air being circulated or re-circulated in the room by the air moving device.

[0013] According to another aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a support assembly configured to be mounted on an upper portion of the room, the support assembly comprising a circuit board; a light emitting assembly comprising light emitting elements electronically coupled to the circuit board; and a protective skirt surrounding at least a portion of the light emitting assembly and configured to define a disinfecting area with the light emittingassembly, wherein the protective skirt comprises a plurality of openings, wherein each of the plurality of openings are configured to cooperate with an air moving device to channel the air into the disinfecting area; wherein the light emitting elements are configured to emit germicidal radiation in the disinfecting area.

[0014] According to another aspect, there is provided a germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a light emitting assembly comprising: light emitting elements configured to emit germicidal radiation; and a circuit board configured to be mounted to an air moving device; and a mounting assembly operatively coupled to the light emitting assembly and configured to mount to a shaft of the air moving device; wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to move the air through a disinfecting area defined by the germicidal radiation.

[0015] According to another aspect, there is provided a pathogen neutralization system configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the pathogen neutralization system comprising: an air moving device; a germicidal device comprising: a circuit board assembly; and a light emitting assembly electronically coupled to the circuit board assembly; and a power source configured to power the circuit board assembly, wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air prior to the air being circulated or re-circulated in the room by the air moving device.

[0016] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of reducing a concentration of pathogens in air in a room with an air moving device, the method comprising the steps of: providing a germicidal device comprising a light emitting assembly configured to emit germicidal radiation, wherein the germicidal radiation defines a disinfecting area; installing the germicidal device in proximity to the air moving device such that the air is exposed to the disinfecting area prior to being circulated in the room; circulating the air with the air moving device; and exposing the air to the disinfecting area.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, showing by way of illustration an example embodiment thereof and in which:

[0018] FIG. 1 is an exemplary schematic of a room with an airborne pathogen neutralization system according to one embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 2A is a side perspective view of a GUV device according to one embodiment coupled to an air moving device;

[0020] FIG. 2B is a partially transparent side perspective view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 2A;

[0021] FIG. 2C is a side cross-sectional view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 2A coupled to an air moving device that is coupled to a ceiling;

[0022] FIG. 2D is a partially transparent side cross-sectional view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 2A coupled to an air moving device that is coupled to a ceiling;

[0023] FIG. 2E is a partially transparent top cross-sectional view of the interior of the GUV device shown in FIG. 2A taken from the perspective of the ceiling;

[0024] FIG. 2F is a top cross-sectional view of the interior of the GUV device shown in FIG. 2A taken from the perspective of the ceiling;

[0025] FIG. 3A is an enlarged side perspective view of a louvre according to one embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 3B is an exemplary schematic of a side view of the louvre shown in FIG. 3A, showing the air and light movement;

[0027] FIG. 4A is an exemplary schematic of a louvre that does not have an overlap between the first and second plates;

[0028] FIG. 4B is an exemplary schematic of a louvre that does not have an overlap between the first and second plates;

[0029] FIG. 4C is an exemplary schematic of a louvre according to one embodiment, that has an overlap between the first and second plates;

[0030] FIG. 5 is an exemplary schematic of a louvre according to another embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 6 is an exemplary schematic of a louvre according to another embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 7 is an exemplary schematic of a louvre according to another embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 8 is an exemplary schematic of a louvre according to another embodiment;

[0034] FIG. 9A is a side exploded view of a louvre according to another embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 9B is a side perspective view of the louvre shown in FIG. 9A;

[0036] FIG. 9C is a side cross-sectional view of the louvre shown in FIG. 9A;

[0037] FIG. 9D is a bottom perspective view of the louvre shown in FIG. 9A;

[0038] FIG. 10A is a side perspective view of a louvre according to another embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 10B is a side perspective view of the louvre shown in FIG. 10A;

[0040] FIG. 10C is a top perspective view of the louvre shown in FIG. 10A;

[0041] FIG. 11A is a side perspective view of a GUV device according to another embodiment, coupled to an air moving device;

[0042] FIG. 11B is a side cross-sectional view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 11 A, showing the air moving device coupled to the ceiling;

[0043] FIG. 12A is a side perspective view of a GUV device according to another embodiment, the GUV device being coupled around an air moving device;

[0044] FIG. 12B is an expanded perspective view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0045] FIG. 12C is a front view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A with a side panel removed to shown an internal view of the GUV device;

[0046] FIG. 12D is a perspective front view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12C;

[0047] FIG. 13 is a side view of louvres used in the GUV device shown in 12A;

[0048] FIG. 14A is a perspective front view of an air moving device being coupled to a top panel of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0049] FIG. 14B is a front perspective view of opposing side panels being coupled to a top panel of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0050] FIG. 14C is a perspective bottom view of a side panel of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0051] FIG. 14D is a perspective bottom view of a top panel of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0052] FIG. 14E is a perspective bottom view of the side panel shown in FIG. 14C coupled to the top panel shown in FIG. 14D;

[0053] FIG. 14F is a front perspective view of remaining side panels being coupled to the top panel of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0054] FIG. 14G is a perspective bottom view of light emitting elements being coupled to the opposing side panels shown in FIG. 14B;

[0055] FIG. 14H is a perspective bottom view of the light emitting elements coupled to the opposing side panels shown in FIG. 14B;

[0056] FIG. 141 is a perspective bottom view of a bottom panel being coupled to the side panels of the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A;

[0057] FIG. 14J is an enlarged view of a portion of the bottom panel shown in FIG. 141 taken at enlarged area 14J;

[0058] FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a room with the GUV device shown in FIG. 12A coupled to the ceiling of the room;

[0059] FIG. 16A is a front perspective view of a GUV device according to one embodiment mounted on a shaft of an air moving device;

[0060] FIG. 16B is an exploded view of the GUV device shown in FIG. 16A;

[0061] FIG. 17A is a perspective side view of a first clip portion according to one embodiment that forms a mechanical clip with the second clip portion shown in FIG. 18A;

[0062] FIG. 17B is a front plan view of the first clip portion shown in FIG. 17A;

[0063] FIG. 17C is a top plan view of the first clip portion shown in FIG. 17A;

[0064] FIG. 17D is a front plan view of the first clip portion shown in FIG. 17A;

[0065] FIG. 18A is a perspective side view of a second clip portion according to one embodiment that forms a mechanical clip with the first clip portion shown in FIG. 17A;

[0066] FIG. 18B is a front plan view of the second clip portion shown in FIG. 18A;

[0067] FIG. 18C is a top plan view of the second clip portion shown in FIG. 18A;

[0068] FIG. 18D is a front plan view of the second clip portion shown in FIG. 18A;

[0069] FIG. 19A is a front plan view of a skirt portion according to one embodiment, which is configured to couple to another skirt portion to form a protective skirt;

[0070] FIG. 19B is a top plan view of the skirt portion shown in FIG. 19A;

[0071] FIG. 19C is a perspective front view of the skirt portion shown in FIG. 19A;

[0072] FIG. 19D is a perspective top view of the skirt portion shown in FIG. 19A;

[0073] FIG. 20A is a front view of a protective skirt according to another embodiment that is designed to prevent the accumulation of dust;

[0074] FIG. 20B is a front view of a protective skirt portion according to another embodiment that is configured to facilitate the ejection of dust from the GUV device;

[0075] FIG. 20C is a perspective bottom view of the protective skirt portion shown in FIG. 20B;

[0076] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional front view of a GUV device according to another embodiment with a baffle;

[0077] FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the baffle shown in FIG. 21 ;

[0078] FIG. 23 is a graphical representation of a baffle for use with a GUV device according to another embodiment and showing the dimensions of the openings in the baffle;

[0079] FIG. 24 is a graphical representation of the cone of emissions of two light-emitting elements when used with a baffle; and

[0080] FIG. 25 is an exemplary schematic of a room with an airborne pathogen neutralization system according to one embodiment.

[0081] It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] The present description discloses multiple systems and methods for using germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) devices for reducing the concentration of pathogen in the air of a room. The germicidal devices are configured to cooperate with an air moving or air circulating device, such as a fan, to provide a germicidal dose of UV radiation to the air inside of the GUV device prior to the air exiting the GUV device and being circulated or recirculated in the room. The germicidal devices are configured to emit germicidal UV radiation that defines a disinfecting area or irradiation zone. In some embodiments, the disinfecting area or irradiation zone is defined by housing with an inlet that allows air to enter the disinfecting area while simultaneously preventing germicidal UV radiation from exiting the housing, such that occupants in the room are not exposed to the radiation. In other implementations, the disinfecting area is defined above or adjacent to the germicidal device that is installed in the upper portion of the room, such that occupants in the room are not exposed to the radiation. One factor in reducing the concentration of pathogens in the room is the rate of upward flow (convective room air mixing) that transports the pathogens in the occupied zone ( / .e., the lower portion of the room) into the irradiation zone (disinfecting area) defined by the housing or define above or adjacent to the germicidal device.

[0083] To enter the housing, the upward flowing air from the air moving device must travel through the inlet. Accordingly, the germicidal device can be configured to maximize the rate of upward flow through the inlet side and into the housing (and thus into the disinfecting area), while eliminating or minimizing the germicidal UV radiation that exits the housing (and thus intothe occupied zone). As described herein, cooperation between the air moving device and the inlet side of the housing can move the contaminated air into the disinfecting area prior to the air being circulated or re-circulated in the room.

[0084] Referring now to Figure 1A, an overall view of an embodiment of a pathogen neutralization system 101 A in accordance with one embodiment for reducing the concentration of airborne pathogens in the air in a room 111 is shown. The system 101 A comprises an exemplary germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) device 103 mounted to an air moving device 109 installed on a room ceiling 107. The air moving device 109 is operated in a manner such that the air in the occupied zone is drawn up towards the ceiling and through the inlet into the housing, and therefore into the disinfecting area. The GUV device 103 emits germicidal UV radiation within the housing to irradiate the air in the housing, such that the number of pathogens in the irradiated air 115a, 115b exiting the housing through an outlet is reduced.

[0085] In the exemplary embodiment, the air moving device 109 is a ceiling fan that is operated in a manner that circulates the air in the room 111 by drawing the air upward, such as being operated in reverse or operated clockwise at a low speed, causing an air circulation pattern such as the one shown in Figure 1A. The air circulation pattern results in the central portion 113 flowing upward towards the air moving device 109 and through an inlet in the germicidal UV device 103 into the irradiation zone. The air is then irradiated within the housing and the irradiated air 115a exits an outlet in the housing upwards and towards the room walls 117, and downwards toward the occupied zone. In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the irradiated air 115a exiting the GUV device 103, the GUV device can be installed on a shaft 109a of the air moving device 109, such that a gap 202 is present between the ceiling 107 and the outlet of the GUV device 103. In other embodiments, the irradiated air 115b can exit the GUV device 103 radially (such as GUV device 1200), such that a gap 202 between the ceiling and the outlet is not necessary.

[0086] The air in the room 111 contains a certain number of pathogens 121 per liter. As the air is circulated in the room, certain volumes of air are transported into the irradiation zone in the housing. The GUV device 103 is configured to emit germicidal UV radiation within the housing and, thus, the pathogens 121 in the air travelling through the housing get irradiated by the GUV device 103. The germicidal UVC radiation at least partially neutralizes the pathogens 121 by disrupting their molecular structure. Once neutralized, the pathogen molecular material can berecirculated by the air moving device 109 and the neutralized pathogens can no longer infect the occupants of the room, thus curtailing transmission between occupants in the room.

[0087] Referring now to Figure 1B, an overall view of an embodiment of a pathogen neutralization system 101 B in accordance with another embodiment for reducing the concentration of airborne pathogens in the air in a room 111 is shown. The system 101 B comprises a germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) device 103B mounted to an air moving device 109 installed on a room ceiling 107. The GUV device 103B emits germicidal UV radiation 105 upwards towards the room ceiling 107.

[0088] In the exemplary embodiment, the air moving device 109 is a ceiling fan that circulates the air in the room 111 by drawing the air downward and causing an air circulation pattern. The air circulation pattern results in the central portion 113 of the air traveling downwards, while the peripheral portion 115 of the air adjacent to the room walls 117 circulates upwards. The air in the room 111 contains a certain number of pathogens 121 per liter. As the air is circulated in the room, certain volumes of air are transported to the upper portion of the room in the area between the GUV device 103B and the ceiling 107 ( / .e., above the GUV device 103B). The GUV device 103B is configured to emit germicidal UV radiation 105 towards the upper portion of the room and, thus, the pathogens 121 suspended in the air get irradiated by the GUV device 103. The germicidal UVC radiation 105 at least partially neutralizes the pathogens 121 by disrupting their molecular structure. Once neutralized, the pathogen molecular material can be recirculated by the air moving device 109 and the neutralized pathogens can no longer infect the occupants of the room, thus curtailing transmission between occupants in the room.

[0089] The germicidal UV radiation can be emitted by one or more light emitting elements, such as mercury discharge lamps, ultraviolet C (UVC) light emitting diodes (LEDs), or other UVC emitting sources. Advantages of using UVC LEDs include their small size (for example, 1 mm), the lower voltage of operation compared with mercury discharge lamps, and the possibility to operate the LEDs at any power level below their rated maximum power; whereas mercury discharge lamps can generally only be operated at one power level.

[0090] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a light-emitting assembly 260 coupled to light-emitting elements that emit UV radiation with wavelengths in the range of 100 to380 nm, or UVC radiation with wavelengths in the range of 200 to 280 nm. In some embodiments, the light emitting elements can emit far LIV radiation with wavelengths in the range of 200 to 222 nm to further reduce the number of pathogens in the room. In some embodiments, the germicidal device can further comprise a second set of light emitting elements that emits far LIV radiation outside of the housing. One advantage of far LIV radiation is that wavelengths in this spectrum do not cause harm to exposed human tissue. Consequently, far LIV radiation can be safely emitted in any portion of the room without requiring the measurement or validation of exposure. Far LIV radiation can be utilized in any direction including downwards toward the room occupants. In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 has at least one light emitting element that that emits germicidal UVC radiation within the housing ( / .e., sheltered from occupants in the room by the housing) and emits far UV radiation downwards or below the horizon ( / .e., towards the occupants in the room). Use of both germicidal UVC radiation and far UV radiation can achieve higher efficiency coefficients when reducing the concentration of pathogens in the room.

[0091] In some embodiments, the air moving device can be an axial flow fan or centrifugal fan installed on the ceiling or an upper section of the wall. In some embodiments, the air moving device can include a fan or air circulating device that forms part of a ventilation system, or a horizontal air moving device 110 installed on a room wall 117. Depending on the type and location of the air moving device, the GUV device 103 can cooperate with other airflow patterns to circulate the air in the room. Consideration should be given to the type and placement of air moving device, whether as part of the system 101 or when retrofitting an existing air moving device, as air flow patterns play an important role in circulating an effective amount of air room particles through the housing (or around the GUV device and into the disinfecting zone), and thus exposing them to the irradiation zone ( / .e., disinfecting area) created by the GUV device 103, thereby neutralizing the pathogens 121 in the room.

[0092] In some embodiments, the germicidal device is a horizontal GUV device 123 that is configured to cooperate with a horizontal air moving device 110 that pushes the air through the housing of the horizontal GUV device 123 or a horizontal GUV device 123B that emits germicidal UV radiation 105 horizontally to neutralize the pathogens 121 in the air in the upper section of the room prior to the air being recirculated by the air moving device 109.

[0093] The horizontal GUV device 123 can be installed on the ceiling 107 or an upper section of the wall 117 directly in or near the air flow path of the horizontal air moving device 110, such that the air flows through the inlet in the horizontal GUV device 123. The horizontal GUV device 123 can be installed on one wall 117 and emit germicidal UV radiation internally within the housing of the horizontal GUV device 123 to define the disinfecting area to neutralize the pathogens 121. However, it is noted that embodiments that utilize an air moving device 109 that provides vertical airflow can be preferable as vertical air flow patterns provide more protection against cross-infection between occupants in the room.

[0094] The horizontal-emitting GUV device 123B can be installed on the ceiling 107 or an upper section of the wall 117. The horizontal-emitting GUV device 123B can be installed on one wall 117 and emit germicidal UV radiation 105 substantially horizontally from the horizontalemitting GUV device 123B to an end of the disinfecting area ( / .e., at a distance from the GUV device 123B where the germicidal UV radiation 105 is no longer effective at neutralizing the pathogens 121). In other embodiments, the system 101 can comprise horizontal-emitting GUV devices 123B installed on two or more interior walls 117 of the room to define the disinfecting area on more than one side. For example, the system 101 can comprise four horizontal-emitting GUV devices 123B that are configured to direct germicidal UV radiation 105 towards a center of the room to define a disinfecting area that comprises a horizontal plane in the upper portion of the room. When the germicidal UV radiation 105 is emitting horizontally, consideration should be given to the direction of the germicidal UV radiation 105 to prevent direct irradiation of occupants present in the lower section of the room. For example, the horizontal-emitting GUV device 123B can comprise a collimating element, such as lenses or concave mirrors, to ensure that the beam of germicidal UV radiation 105 is properly collimated. The collimating element is configured to divert the germicidal UV radiation 105 towards the disinfecting area and away from the lower portion of the room.

[0095] Referring now to Figures 2A to 2F, a GUV device 200 coupled above an air moving device 109 is shown. The GUV device 200 includes a housing 210 with an inlet 220 and outlet 230 that are in fluid communication with each other such that the air enters the housing 210 axially through the inlet 220 and exits axially through the outlet 230. However, it is contemplated that the outlet 230 can be arranged around or near the side walls of the housing 210, such that the air enters the housing 210 axially through the inlet 220 and exits radially through the outlet 230.

[0096] In the exemplary embodiment, each of the inlet 220 and the outlet 230 includes a lightblocking plate 240 that is configured to allow the free movement of air while simultaneously retaining the germicidal LIV light within the housing 210, such that occupants in the occupied zone are not irradiated. However, it is contemplated that only the inlet 230 includes a lightblocking plate 240, such that the germicidal LIV radiation is not prevented from exiting or reflecting through the outlet 230. In such embodiments, the exposure to germicidal LIV radiation for occupants in the room can be reduced by a number of methods, such as having a very small gap 202 between the ceiling 107 and the outlet 230, painting the ceiling with non-reflective or UV-absorbing paint, such as zinc oxide paint, which has a LIV reflectance level of around 4%, or including a cover around the shaft at the ceiling that is made of non-reflective or LIV absorbing materials.

[0097] As shown best in Figs. 2C and 2D, the housing 210 defines an irradiation zone or disinfecting area 212. Specifically, the housing 210 comprises one or more panels that define a conduit from the inlet 220 to the outlet 230. When the light-block plates 240 are coupled to the housing 210, the GUV device 200 is configured to contain the irradiation zone or disinfecting area 212 within the housing 210, such that germicidal UV radiation does not escape, yet air can freely pass through the disinfecting area 212 and exit the housing 210 as irradiated air. In some embodiments, the device can include at least one light-emitting assembly 260, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), coupled to light-emitting elements. The light-emitting assembly 260 or individual light-emitting elements can be coupled to the inner surface of the outer side walls 210a of the housing 210 and configured to emit germicidal UV radiation towards the inner side walls 210b that form a conduit for receiving the shaft 109a of the air moving device 109. In other embodiments, the light-emitting assembly 260 or light-emitting elements can be coupled to the inner side walls 210b of the housing 210, such that germicidal UV radiation is emitted towards the outer side walls 210a. In some embodiments, the light-emitting assembly 260 or individual light-emitting elements can be coupled to both the outer and inner side walls 210a, 210b. When coupled to the outer side walls 210a and / or the inner side walls 210b, the light-emitting assembly 260 can emit light horizontally across the disinfecting area 212, such that air traveling through the conduit formed by the housing 210 must pass through the disinfecting area 212 to travel from the inlet 220 to the outlet 230. In other embodiments, the light-emitting assembly 260 can be coupled to a top or bottom surface of the housing 210, such as on the light-blocking plate 240 on the inlet 220 and / or the outlet 230, such that the light-emitting elements can emitlight vertically through the disinfecting area 212. It is understood that the light-emitting assembly 260 or light-emitting elements can be placed within the housing 210 in any configuration that allows the germicidal LIV radiation being emitted from the light-emitting elements to create the disinfecting area 212, such that the air flowing from the inlet 220 to the outlet 230 must travel through the disinfecting area 212.

[0098] In the exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting assemblies 260 are coupled to the light-blocking plate 240 within the inlet 220. In this embodiment, the airflow passing through the disinfecting area 212 can be used to provide cooling or heat dissipation to the light-emitting assembly 260. The light-emitting elements used to emit the germicidal LIV radiation can emit the radiation (light) in a very broad cone, such as around 120 degrees, and thus some of the light being emitting will be horizontal germicidal LIV radiation.

[0099] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the outer side walls 210a of the housing 210 can include a reflective surface that is configured to retain the germicidal LIV radiation within the housing 210. Providing a reflective inner surface of the housing 210 can increase the probability that the germicidal LIV radiation interacts with each air particle that travels through the housing 210. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the outer side walls 210a is comprised of aluminum, which provides a reflective surface for the germicidal LIV radiation. In other embodiments, the inner surface of the outer side walls 210a can include a non-reflective surface that absorbs the germicidal LIV radiation, such that the germicidal LIV radiation is prevented from reflecting towards the inside of the louvres 250 and then reflecting outside of the housing 210. A non-reflective inner surface of the outer side walls 210a can be especially beneficial when the light-emitting assembly 260 is coupled to the side walls of the housing 210, such that the horizontal germicidal LIV radiation is not reflected into the louvres, thus increase the chance of the germicidal LIV radiation unintentionally exiting the housing 210. Consideration of the type and strength of the germicidal LIV radiation should be given when choosing a material for the housing 210. The material of at least the outer side walls 210a of the housing 210 can act to retain the germicidal LIV radiation within the housing 210, and thus can include any material that does not allow LIV radiation to leak out of the housing 210. Consideration of the type of lightblocking plate 240 that is used within the housing 210 should also be given when choosing a material for the inner surface of the outer side walls 210a of the housing 210. For example, when the light-blocking plate 240 includes louvres with an off-set, as discussed below, a non-reflective or light-absorbing material may be desirable to avoid germicidal UV radiation from being reflect around the off-set.

[0100] In some embodiments, when the air exits the housing 210 radially through the outlet 230, the outer side walls 210a can comprise louvres, baffles, or other mechanisms to create the outlet 230 that allows air to exit the housing 210 radially, while simultaneously containing the germicidal LIV radiation within the housing 210. In such embodiments, the surface of the housing directly across from the inlet 220 can be a solid wall defining the housing 210, or the GUV device 103 can be coupled directly to the ceiling 107 of the room, such that the ceiling 107 defines a portion of the housing 210.

[0101] In some embodiments, the housing 210 can include a decorative cover 214. The housing 210 and / or the cover 214 can include an aperture 216 that is configured to receive a portion of the air moving device 109, such as the shaft 109a that connects the air moving device 109 to the ceiling 107. In other embodiments, the housing 210 and / or the cover 214 can include another mode of connection, such as a coupler, or other known methods of attachment. In the exemplary embodiment, the cover 214 further includes a lip 217 extending radially inwardly from the outer wall of the cover 214 and spokes 218 radiating from the aperture 216 in the cover 214 to the lip 217.

[0102] The inlet 220 and the outlet 230 are in fluid communication with each other to allow air to enter the disinfecting area 212 through the inlet 220 and exit the outlet 230 after being irradiated. In some embodiments, the inlet 220 and outlet 230 are defined by a conduit formed by the housing 210. In the exemplary embodiment, as best shown in Figure 2B, the inlet 220 is defined by the peripheral edges of the lip 217 and the spokes 218 on the cover 214 and the outlet 230 is defined by housing 210. However, it is contemplated that the inlet 220 and / or the outlet 230 can be defined by either the housing 210 (such as within the outer side walls 210a of the housing 210) or the cover 214.

[0103] The inlet 220 and the outlet 230 are each configured to allow the movement of air therethrough, without allowing the germicidal UV radiation from the disinfecting area 212 to be emitted out of the housing 210, thus protecting occupants in the occupied zone ( / .e., occupants in the room). Retaining the germicidal UV radiation can be accomplished in a variety of ways, including with louvres, baffles, collimating elements, or other means of providing fluidcommunication of gas (air), while simultaneously blocking germicidal LIV radiation. In some embodiments, the germicidal LIV radiation is retained within the housing 210 via louvres 250 within the inlet 220 and outlet 230. For example, the outer side walls 210a can include a plurality of louvres 250 to define the outlet 230, such that the irradiated air exits the housing 210 radially through the plurality of louvres 230.

[0104] In the exemplified embodiment, the inlet 220 and the outlet 230 are each further defined by a light-blocking plate 240 with a plurality of louvres 250 that are configured to allow the passing of air through the inlet 220, into the disinfecting area 212 defined by the housing 210, and out of the housing 210 through the outlet 230, while simultaneously preventing germicidal LIV light from exiting the disinfecting area 212.

[0105] Referring now to Figures 3A and 3B, a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a light-blocking plate 300 is shown. The light-blocking plate 300 includes a first plate 312a and a second plate 312b that define a plurality of louvres 310. In the exemplary embodiment, an outer surface 308 of the first plate 3123a is the plate facing the disinfecting area 212 and an outer surface 308 of the second plate 312b is facing the occupied zone.

[0106] As can be seen, the louvres 310 are configured to allow air flow 302 to move through the light-blocking plate 300, while simultaneously preventing germicidal LIV light 304 from being emitted outside of the housing. In some embodiments, the inner surface 306 of the louvre 310 ( / .e., the surface on the inside of the louvre 310) can comprise or be coated with a light-absorbing material, such that horizontal germicidal LIV light 304a emitted or reflected towards the interior of the louvre 310 is absorbed and not reflected outside of the housing. The horizontal germicidal LIV light 304a may be emitted from light-emitting elements on the side walls of the housing or reflected from the side walls. In some embodiments, the light-absorbing material can be a LIV absorbing paint, such as zinc oxide paint. In other embodiments, the outer surface 308 of the first plate 312a (in this embodiment, the surface of the louvre 310 facing the disinfecting area 212) can comprise or be coated with a light reflecting material, such that the germicidal LIV light 304 reflected towards the outer surface 308 will be reflected back into the disinfecting area 212. In some embodiments, the outer surface 308 of the second plate 312b ( / .e., the surface of the louvre 310 facing the occupied zone) can comprise or be coated in any material, such as a decorative material.

[0107] The first plate 312a and the second plate 312b are superimposed on each other and include a first protrusion 314a and a second protrusion 314b, respectively, that extend in opposing directions. The first protrusion 314a and the second protrusion 314b collectively define the louvre 310. In some embodiments, the first and second plates 312a, 312b comprise sheet metal with a cutline or edge 316 that allows the first and second protrusions 314a, 314b to project outwardly from the first and second plates 312a, 312b, respectively, and provide fluid communication between a first side 310a and a second side 310b of the louvre 310. The first and second protrusions 314a, 314b are offset from each other, such that vertical germicidal LIV light 304b emitted or reflected downwardly towards the first side 310a of the louvre 310 is prevented from exiting the disinfecting area 212. The vertical germicidal LIV light 304b may be emitted by light-emitting elements on a top or bottom surface of the housing or reflected by an internal surface within the housing 210. In the exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 308 of the first side 310a faces the disinfecting area 212 and the outer surface 308 of the second side 310b faces the occupied zone.

[0108] Referring now to Figures 4A to 4C, different embodiments of louvres 410 are shown. The louvres 410 each includes a first plate 412a and a second plate 412b that are superimposed on each other. The first and second plates 412a, 412b include a first protrusion 414a and a second protrusion 414b, respectively, that extend in opposing direction from each other. In some embodiments, the first and second protrusions 414a, 414b are formed by cutting along a cutline 416 in a piece of sheet metal. When the cutline 416 in the first plate 412a is not offset by the cutline 416 in the second plate 412b, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, when the protrusions extend outwardly from the first and second plates 412a, 412b, a gap 418 can allow the germicidal LIV light to exit the housing. In Figure 4A, the cutline 416 pm the first and second plates 412a, 412b are perfectly aligned, accordingly the gap 418 is small and accounts only for the deformation in the first and second plates 412a, 412b required to make the first and second protrusions 414a, 414b, respectively. In other words, the deformed section forming the first and second protrusions 414a, 414b retracts the first and second plates 412a, 412b slightly to create the gap 418. Similarly, in Figure 4B, the first and second protrusions 414a are not offset from each other; however, in this example, small imperfects in the manufacturing process are accounted for, such that the gap 418 is larger. One solution to the issue of the formation of a gap 418, which would allow germicidal LIV light to exit the housing, is shown in Figure 4C. By providing a small overlap or offset 420 between the first cutline 416a in the first plate 412a andthe second cutline 416b in the second plate 412b, no germicidal LIV light is able to leave the disinfecting area 212. As light travels through air in a straight line, the germicidal LIV light within the disinfecting area 212 will be blocked by either the outer surface 408 of the first plate 412a, the outer surface 408 of the first protrusion 414a, or the inner surface 406 of the second protrusion 414b.

[0109] Referring now to Figure 5, a louvre 510 according to another embodiment is shown. The louvre 510 includes a first plate 512a and a second plate 512b that are configured to allow air flow 302 to enter the louvre 510 from a first side 511a and into the second side 511b, while simultaneously preventing horizontal germicidal light 304a and vertical germicidal light 304b from exiting the second side 511b. Figure 5 shows an exemplary louvre 510 in a light blocking plate that is in the inlet of the device, such that the first side 511a is the occupied zone ( / .e., the undersurface of the second plate 512b is facing the occupants in the room) and the second side 511b is the disinfecting area. When the light blocking plate is in the outlet of the device, the first side 511a is the disinfecting area and the second side 511b would be facing the ceiling of the room.

[0110] In this louvre 510, the second plate 512b has an opening angled at 60° that is aligned with a channel created by the first plate 512a. The first plate 512a is molded such that the peripheral edges of the first plate 512a overlap the peripheral edges of the second plate 512b to prevent horizontal germicidal radiation 304a from exiting the second side 511b. In some embodiments, the second plate 512b can comprise a single metal sheet that is sized to fit within the inlet of the device, with cut cutlines 516 and fold lines 518 that are configured to make the openings. In such configurations, the second plate 512b can be a single sheet with several cutlines 516 and fold lines 518 to make a plurality of louvres 510. The first plate 512a can be a molded piece that is centered with mechanical guides (not shown) and glued to the second plate 512b, or assembled using bolts, welds, or other conventional means of attachment. The angle of the opening in the second plate 512b can change depending on the angle of fold on the second plate 512b. The angle or shape of the first plate 512a affects the cross section of the airflow 302 channel created by the opening in the second plate 512b, as well as the overall height of the louvre 510. Any suitable arrangement can be contemplated for allow directional airflow 302 through the louvre while simultaneously prevent the emission of light therethrough.

[0111] Referring now to Figures 6 and 7, other embodiments of a louvre 610, 710 are shown. The louvres 610, 710 each have a first plate 612a, 712a and a second plate 612b, 712b and differ primarily from louvre 510 in that the second plate 612b of louvre 610 has an opening angled at 45° and the second plate 712b of louvre 710 has an opening angled at 90°. The shape and configuration of the first plate 612a, 712b can be adjusted to ensure that there is a slight overlap 614, 714 between the peripheral edges of the first plate 612a, 712b and the second plate 612a, 712b.

[0112] Referring now to Figure 8, another embodiment of a louvre 810 is shown to separate a first side 811a from a second side 811b of the louvre 810. The louvre 810 includes a plurality of bottom louvre elements 812a and top louvre elements 812b that overlap each other to allow airflow 302 to travel from the first side 811a to the second side 811b, while simultaneously preventing horizontal germicidal light 304a and vertical germicidal light 304b from exiting the second side 811b. The louvre 810 is cut and embossed from a sheet material, such as a metal sheet. It is contemplated that any combination of angles and dimensions of the first and second louvre elements 812a, 812b can be used provided that the first and second louvre elements 812a, 812b allow airflow 302 to travel from the first side 811a to the second side 811b while simultaneously preventing horizontal or vertical germicidal light 304a, 304b from being emitting from the second side 811b into the first side 811a.

[0113] Referring now to Figures 9A to 9D, which show a louvre 910 having similar dimensions to the louvre 510 shown in Figure 5. The louvre includes a first plate 912a and a second plate 912b coupled together by an end plate 914. In some embodiments, the end plate 914 can be formed from the first plate 912a. As shown best in Figure 9A, which shows an exploded view of the first and second plates 912a, 912b before they are coupled together, the second plate 912b has been cut and folded to form an opening 916 that is aligned with the first plate 912a.

[0114] Referring now to Figures 10A to 10C, which show a louvre 1010 having similar dimensions to the louvre 810 shown in Figure 8. The louvre 1010 includes a plurality of bottom louvre elements 1012a and top louvre elements 1012b that overlap each other to allow airflow 302 to travel from a first side 1011a to a second side 1011b, while simultaneously preventing germicidal light from exiting the second side 1011b, as can be seen in Figure 10C.

[0115] Referring now to Figure 11, a GUV device 1100 according to another embodiment is shown. The GUV device 1100 includes a housing 1110 defining an inlet 1120 and an outlet 1130. The inlet 1120 is provided with a light-blocking plate 1140 that includes a plurality of louvres 1150. The housing is covered with a cover 1114 to improve the overall aesthetics of the GUV device 1100. The cover 1114 can include an aperture 1116 that is configured to receive a portion of the air moving device 109, such as the shaft 109a that connects the air moving device 109 to the ceiling 107. In the exemplary embodiment, the cover 1114 further includes a lip 1117 extending radially inwardly from the outer wall of the cover 1114 and spokes 1118 radiating from the aperture 1116 in the cover 1114 to the lip 1117. As can be seen, the light-blocking plate includes louvres 1150 that allow the air flowing upwards from the air moving device 109 to enter the disinfecting area 212 defined by the housing 1110.

[0116] Referring generally to the GUV device 103, the device can include a plurality of sensors that, in combination with a control system that uses software to optimize the device’s performance, can warn of and / or anticipate repairs and routine maintenance that may be required for the GUV device 103 to properly function.

[0117] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a UVC power meter that is configured to monitor the UV light optical power density (e.g., in watts per steradian per square centimeter (W / sr / cm2)) that is present inside the disinfecting area. When the optical power density is measured below a pre-determined threshold, the GUV device can be configured to provide a warning indicating a malfunction or requirement for maintenance, such as cleaning or replacement of the light-emitting elements.

[0118] In some embodiments, the UV power meter can include an optical sensor that is configured to detect the blue residual light emitted by the light-emitting elements. When the detected blue residual light is less than a predetermined threshold, the GUV device 103 can be configured to trigger the warning.

[0119] The warning can include a visual indication on the outside of the housing or cover of the GUV device 103 that indicates to the occupants in the room or the operator of the GUV device 103 that there is a malfunction or requirement for maintenance. In some embodiments, the warning system can be a light-emitting element on the outside of the GUV device 103, such as an LED, that is configured to emit a light that is invisible to the human eyebut detectable by a visual sensor, such as infrared light, when the LIV optical power density is detected to be below a predetermined threshold. The invisible spectrum light can be emitted on an outer side of the GUV device’s 103 housing or cover, such that an operator can use a visual sensor to determine whether a warning has been issued. In some embodiments, the visual sensor can be a smart phone camera or similar application that uses a camera. One advantage to using infrared light visible to the visual sensor, is that the occupants in the occupied zone are not unnecessarily exposed to additional light within the room. In other embodiments, the warning system can include a mechanical visual warning, such as a small tube or flag extending outside of the housing, that is configured to be released ( / .e., to be visible to the occupants) when a warning is issued, for example when the power meter determines that the UV light optical density being emitted is below a pre-determined threshold.

[0120] In some embodiments, the warning system can result from the UV power meter being electronically coupled to the air moving device 109, such that when the power meter determines that the light-emitting elements are no longer emitting an adequate UV optical power density, the GUV device 103 can be configured to cut the power to the air moving device 109, such that the non-operation of the air moving device 109 can be used as the malfunction or maintenance requirement warning. In other embodiments, the air moving device 109 can be electronically coupled directly to the light-emitting assembly or elements, such that when the light-emitting elements have a decrease in power requirements, indicating a lower level of UV optical power density, the GUV device 103 can be configured to cut the power to the air moving device 109.

[0121] In some embodiments, the power level sensed by the power meter can be used to trigger a warning or cleaning cycle when the UVC power is measured below a pre-determined level that can be expressed as a percentage of the amount sensed just after a cleaning cycle. In other words, the UCV power meter can be configured to determine when the germicidal UV radiation is below a pre-determined level due to accumulation of dust or other particulates on the light-emitting elements or other internal surfaces within the housing. In other embodiments, the maintenance warning or cleaning cycle can be triggered by a dust sensor within the disinfecting area. The dust sensor can include an infrared emitting diode and a phototransistor diagonally arranged to allow for the detection of the reflected light of dust in the air. In other embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include software that is configured to calculate the time of use of the air moving device 109 and / or the number of rotations of the blades to determine atheoretical amount of dust that may have accumulated on the light-emitting assembly or elements. For example, as the time and speed of the rotation of the blades on the air moving device 109 increases, the amount of air passing through the disinfecting area increases. Accordingly, the theoretical amount of dust within the disinfecting area would also increase. In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be configured to operate the air moving device 109 in an optimal manner, such that the least amount of theoretical dust is accumulated on the light-emitting assembly or elements while still providing optimal sanitation of the air in the room.

[0122] The cleaning cycle can include an increase in the air circulation by the air moving device 109, such that the additional air forces the dust or other particulates off of the lightemitting elements. Alternatively, the cleaning cycle can be the activation of a cleaning device on the GUV device 103. In some embodiments, the cleaning device can include a cleaning arm pivotally coupled to the housing or light emitting element that can be configured to pivot around an axis of the GUV device 103. The cleaning arm can be made of a dust removing material or fiber. The cleaning device can be actuated with an electric motor at the beginning or end of the GUV device 103 power cycle, or at pre-determined timed intervals. In other embodiments, the cleaning device can include a small fan installed within the disinfecting area that is configured to provide airflow towards or across the light-emitting elements, such that the accumulation of dust or other particulates is reduced or prevented. The small fan can be operated intermittently based on a schedule. In some embodiments, the schedule can be optimized depending on the use of the room. For example, when the room has a large amount of dust production, such as in a manufacturing plant, the small fan would be operated more frequently than a room with a smaller amount of dust production, such as a classroom. In other embodiments, the small fan can be configured to automatically acuate when the UV power meter or other sensor determines that the UV light optical power density inside the disinfecting area is lower than a predetermined amount. In other embodiments, the small fan can be actuated by the operator of the GUV device 103, for example using a communication link with the GUV device 103 to a user interface, such as an app, that can control the electronic components of the GUV device 103.

[0123] In some embodiments, GUV device 103 includes a secondary light-emitting assembly and / or secondary light-emitting elements within the housing / disinfecting area. In some embodiments, the power level sensed by the power meter can be used to actuate the secondary light-emitting assembly and / or secondary light-emitting elements to extend the life of the GUV device 103 and / or provide additional sanitation time within the room before themaintenance on the GUV device 103 can be completed. In other embodiments, the secondary light-emitting assembly and / or secondary light-emitting elements can be actuated manually by the operator. In other embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a timer that is configured to actuate the secondary light-emitting assembly and / or secondary light-emitting elements in the disinfecting area after a predetermined time period, such as 2 or 3 years.

[0124] In some embodiments, the UV power meter can include a mechanical or chemical UV power sensor that is configured to monitor the UV light optical power density present inside the disinfecting area. When the optical power density is measured below a predetermined threshold, the GUV device can be configured to provide a warning. A visual inspection of the chemical UV power sensor can then determine whether a decrease in the efficiency of the light-emitting elements has occurred over time. The visual inspection a visual inspection by the operator or by a visual sensor that is inside the disinfecting area, such as a camera. In some embodiments, the chemical UV power sensor can be a light-sensitive paper or board that is inserted into the GUV device 103. Once the chemical UV power sensor has been inspected, it can be replaced by another sensor. In other embodiments, the chemical UV power sensor can be a clear sensor that comprises a portion of the housing. The clear sensor can include a photochromic lens that is configured to darken or become more opaque when exposed to UV radiation while simultaneously preventing the emission of the UV light through the housing. In some embodiments, the photochromic lens can be configured to return to its clean state when in the absence of the activating UV light. Accordingly, the clear sensor can provide the occupants in the room with an indication as to whether UV light is being emitted within the disinfecting area. The clear sensor also provides the operator of the GUV device 103 with an indication as to whether the light-emitting elements have decreased or stopped emitting UV radiation. In such cases, the clear sensor would remain clear or would not appear as opaque when the light-emitting elements are not emitting UV radiation or are emitting less UV radiation than normal. In some embodiments, the clear sensor is glass configured to react to UV radiation or a plastic material that is configured to react to UV radiation, such as a photochromic lens made of polycarbonate.

[0125] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a visual sensor installed within the disinfecting area of the housing. The visual sensor provides visual data to the operator, for example, through the communication link, on the state of the disinfecting area. In some embodiments, the visual sensor can be a camera providing pre-determined time lapsephotographs or video camera providing live stream video. In other embodiments, the visual sensor can remain dormant until activated by warning triggers by one of the other sensors in the GUV device 103, such as the pathogen sensor, temperature sensor, UV power meter, etc.

[0126] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a temperature sensor, such as a thermometer, that can indirectly provide the operator with information on the power level of the light-emitting elements. As the use of the light-emitting elements emits heat that has a correlation with the amount of radiation being emitted, if the light-emitting elements are emitting less radiation, the temperature sensor would be able to detect that less heat than normal was being emitting from the light-emitting assembly or elements. In such embodiments, the temperature sensor can also provide a warning to the operator as to whether or not the electronic components in the light-emitting assembly, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), has overheated.

[0127] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a pathogen sensor configured to determine a pathogen concentration in the air in the room. The pathogen sensor can be configured to sample and identify the pathogens, for example virus and bacteria, that are present in the air. In some embodiments, the pathogen sensor can be configured to communicate with digital networks and send real time alerts to the owners of the GUV device 103 or to public health professionals in charge of preventing the propagation of diseases in order to determine the need for preventive actions or the enactment of enhanced safety measures. The real-time information provided by the pathogen sensor can be geolocated and can be used by epidemiologists to study the propagation of contagious diseases as well as to prevent large outbreaks. In some embodiments, multiple pathogen sensors can be used to provide information on multiple pathogens. This information can be used to establish the efficiency of the GUV device 103 and the best way to deploy them. For example, to provide information on when and how long to activate the GUV device 103. The pathogen sensing technologies can be integrated with mobile localization applications and contact tracing applications to measure the efficiency of the GUV devices 103. For example, the GUV device 103 can be configured to juxtapose the geolocational data associated with the pathogen sensor with an identification of occupants in the room, such as via the occupant’s cellular phone or wearable devices, such as a smart watch.

[0128] In other embodiments, the pathogen sensor can include a small container or culture plate with a growth medium, such as a small petri dish, within the disinfecting area of the GUV device 103. The growth medium in the culture plate encourages the growth of bacteria; accordingly, if bacteria cultures begin to form on the culture plate despite the exposure of the germicidal UV radiation, the operator of the GUV device 103 will know that the light-emitting assembly or light-emitting elements on the assembly are malfunctioning. In some embodiments, when a camera or other visual sensor is included inside the housing of the GUV device 103, the visual sensor can determine the amount of bacterial growth and during what period of exposure the bacteria grew. Furthermore, use of a culture plate within the GUV device 103 allows the operator to sample the bacteria culture to identify the type or types of bacteria that are prevalent in the room being sanitized. Accordingly, when the culture plate is included in the GUV device 103, the operator can determine the type of bacteria, the amount of bacteria growth during the malfunctioning period, and the time period where the light emitting assembly or elements were malfunctioning.

[0129] In some embodiments, the pathogen sensor culture plate can be inserted within a contained area within the disinfecting area. In such embodiments, the contained area can include a wall or side with a plurality of small louvres that allow the flow of air into the contained area while simultaneously preventing the germicidal UV radiation within the disinfecting area from entering the contained area. Accordingly, the culture plate would be configured to grow the bacteria within the air in the room to identify the bacteria that would otherwise be neutralized by the GUV device 103. In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 includes a pathogen sensor culture plate in the disinfecting area as well as in the contained area, such that a record of the pathogens that are being neutralized or sanitized by the GUV device 103 can be recorded. In other words, when the culture plate in the disinfecting area is bare or otherwise devoid of bacterial growth, the operator can determine that the bacteria growing on the culture plate in the contained area was present in the air in the room and was effectively neutralized by the GUV device 103.

[0130] Referring now to Figures 12A to 12D, a GUV device 1200 according to another embodiment is shown. The GUV device 1200 comprises a housing 1210 coupled around an air moving device 109, such that the air moving device is enclosed within the GUV device 1200. In the exemplary embodiment, the air moving device 109 is operated such that air is drawn towards the air moving device 109 and in thus inside the housing 1210. In other words, the airmoving device 109 is causing an airflow pattern that draws the air into the housing 1210 ( / ..e, via suction) and thus into the disinfecting area 1212 and expels the air from the housing 1210 ( / .e., via pressure). In some embodiments, the outer surface of the housing 1210 can have a non-reflective surface to avoid reflecting any potential germicidal LIV radiation that may leak from the housing 1210 into the occupied zone ( / .e., the room).

[0131] The housing 1210 includes at least one inlet 1220 and at least one outlet 1230 that are in fluid communication with each other. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing includes an inlet 1220 on a bottom side thereof ( / .e., facing downward to the occupied zone) and four outlets 1230 on each of the side walls of the housing 1210, such that the air enters the housing 1210 axially through the inlet 1220 and exits radially through the outlet 1230. In other words, the air enters a bottom side of the housing 1210 in an upwards direction and exits laterally through the side walls of the housing 1210. However, other arrangements are also possible, such as the air entering the housing 1210 radially through inlets 1220 on the side walls and exiting axially through an outlet 1230 on the top or bottom sides or entering and exiting the housing 1210 radially through opposing or adjacent side walls or axially through the top and bottom sides.

[0132] In the exemplary embodiment, each of the inlet 1220 and the outlet 1230 includes a light-blocking plate 1240 that is configured to allow the free movement of air into the housing 1210 while simultaneously retaining the germicidal LIV light within the housing 1210, such that occupants in the occupied zone are not irradiated.

[0133] As shown best in Figs. 12C and 12D, the housing 1210 defines an irradiation zone or disinfecting area 1212. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing 1210 comprises a top panel 1214, four side panels 1216, each with an opening that define one of the outlets 1230, and a bottom panel 1218 with an opening that defines the inlet 1220. When the light-block plates 1240 are coupled to the openings in the side panels 1216 and the bottom panel 1218 that define the inlet 1220 and outlet 1230, respectively, the GUV device 1200 is configured to contain the irradiation zone or disinfecting area 1212 within the housing 1210, such that germicidal UV radiation does not escape, yet air can freely pass through the disinfecting area 1212 and exit the housing 1210 as irradiated air.

[0134] In the exemplary embodiment, the GUV device 1200 includes light-emitting elements 1260. The light-emitting elements 1260 are coupled between opposing side panels 1216 at a bottom side of the housing 1210 and are configured to emit germicidal UV radiation upwards to form the disinfecting area 1212, such that air traveling through the conduit formed by the housing 1210 must pass through the disinfecting area 1212 to travel from the inlet 1220 to the outlet 1230.

[0135] In the exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting elements 1260 are coupled to the side walls of opposing side panels 1216 adjacent to the inlet 1220 via connection flanges. In this embodiment, the airflow passing through the disinfecting area 1212 can be used to provide cooling or heat dissipation to the light-emitting elements 1260. The light-emitting elements 1260 used to emit the germicidal UV radiation can emit the radiation (light) in a very broad cone, such as around 180 degrees, and thus some of the light being emitting will be horizontal germicidal UV radiation.

[0136] In the exemplary embodiment, the light-blocking plate 1240 includes louvres, baffles, or other mechanisms that are configured to allow air to enter and exit the housing 1210, while simultaneously containing the germicidal UV radiation within the housing 1210. For example, the light blocking plate 1240 can be the light-blocking plate 300, or can be a lightblocking plate having louvres 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010. In the exemplary embodiment, the light-blocking plates 1240 include louvres 1250 (shown in Figure 13).

[0137] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the side panels 1216 of the housing 1210 can have a reflective surface that is configured to retain the germicidal UV radiation within the housing 1210 and reflect the germicidal UV radiation within the housing 1210 to further increase the germicidal effect of the light radiation. Providing a reflective inner surface of the housing 1210 can increase the probability that the germicidal UV radiation interacts with each air particle that travels through the housing 1210. In the exemplary embodiment, the inner surface of the side panels 1216 is comprised of bare aluminum, which provides a reflective surface for the germicidal UV radiation.

[0138] In some embodiments, an outer side of the top panel 1214, the side panels 1216, and the bottom panel 1218 can have a non-reflective surface that absorbs or prevents the reflection of the germicidal UV radiation. This can be helpful to reduce or prevent germicidal UVradiation that is reflected out of the housing 1210 from being reflected into the occupied zone ( / .e., being reflected towards the people in the room).

[0139] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the baffles or louvres (such as louvres 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010) can include a reflective surface that is configured to retain the germicidal LIV radiation within the housing 1210 and reflect the germicidal LIV radiation within the housing 1210. When the light-blocking plate 1240 includes louvres with a bottom (outer) louvre element and a top (inner) louvre elements, such as louvre 1010 having bottom louvre elements 1012a and top louvre elements 1012b that overlap each other, the inner facing side of the inner and / or outer louvre elements can have a reflective surface. Similarly, portions of the louvres can have a non-reflective surface that absorbs the germicidal LIV radiation to prevent any LIV radiation from exiting the disinfecting area 1212.

[0140] Referring now to Figure 13, in the exemplary embodiment, the light-blocking plate 1240 includes louvres 1250. The louvre 1250 includes a plurality of outer louvre elements 1252a and inner louvre elements 1252b that overlap each other to allow airflow to travel from the occupied zone 1251a (outer side) to the disinfecting area 1212 (inner side), while simultaneously preventing germicidal light from exiting the disinfecting area 1212.

[0141] In some embodiments, the inner side 1254 of the inner louvre elements 1252b can have a reflective surface to reflect the LIV radiation back into the disinfecting area 1212. An outer side 1256 of the inner louvre elements 1252b and an inner side 1254 and an outer side 1256 of the outer louvre elements 1252a have a non-reflective surface to prevent the LIV radiation from exiting the disinfecting area 1212. However, other configurations are also contemplated, such as the inner side 1254 and the outer side 1256 of both the inner and outer louvre elements 1252a, 1252b having a non-reflective surface. In the exemplary embodiment, the inner side 1254 of the inner louvre elements 1252b has a reflective surface and the outer side 1256 of the inner louvre element 1252b and the inner and outer sides 1254, 1256 of the outer louvre elements 1252a has a non-reflective surface.

[0142] In some embodiments, the air moving device 109 can be an existing air moving device 109, such that the housing 1210 is assembled around the air moving device 109 or the air moving device 109 is removed and assembled within the GUV device 1200. In the exemplaryembodiment, the air moving device 109 is installed within the housing 1210 of the GUV device 1200.

[0143] Referring now to Figures 14A to 14J, a method of assembling the GUV device 1200 with an air moving device 109 is shown. In the exemplary embodiment, the air moving device is a ceiling fan that extends from the ceiling 107 of the room. However, other arrangements are possible, such as a horizontal fan coupled to a side wall in the room, a standalone, portable device that includes the housing 1210 with an internal fan.

[0144] To assemble the GUV device 1200, the top panel 1214 is coupled to the ceiling 107 of the room, for example with fasteners such as bolts. The air moving device 109 can then be installed or re-installed through an opening in the top panel 1214 (see Figure 14A). In some embodiments, the blades of the air moving device 109 can be configured to assist in the distribution of the germicidal UV radiation within the disinfecting area 1212. For example, an upper (top) side of the blades can have a reflective surface to further distribute the germicidal UV radiation into the disinfecting area 1212 and assist in preventing the germicidal UV radiation reflected off the top panel 1214 from exiting axially through the bottom side of the GUV device 1200 (in the exemplary embodiment, to prevent the germicidal UV radiation from being reflected axially through the inlet 1220). Alternatively, or additionally, the lower (bottom) side of the blades on the air moving device 109 can have a non-reflective surface to prevent the germicidal UV radiation from being reflected axially through the bottom side of the GUV device 1200.

[0145] Once the top panel 1214 is secured to the ceiling 107 and the air moving device 109 is installed, the side panels 1216 can be removably coupled to the top panel 1214 (see Figures 14B to 14F).

[0146] With specific reference to Figures 14C to 14E, the top panel 1214 can include a connection flange 1214a extending fully or partially around the circumference of the top panel 1214 to facilitate the assembly of the side panels 1216. In the exemplary embodiment, the side panels include a lip 1216a that engages with the connection flange 1214a to couple the side panels 1216 to the top panel 1214. Corresponding surfaces, such as protrusions and apertures or groove and rail, can be used to align and / or couple the lip 1216a with the connection flange 1214a. In the exemplary embodiment, two of the side panels 1216 include protrusions 1216b that are configured to be received in corresponding apertures 1614b in the connection flange1214a of the top panel 1214. The side panels 1216 are coupled to the top panel 1214 by aligning the lips 1216a on the side panels 1216 with the connection flange 1214a on the top panel 1214. In some embodiments, the connection flange 1214a and the lip 1216a can be removably coupled to each other by other means, such as with fasteners, instead of or in addition to the corresponding surfaces.

[0147] Once all the side panels 1216 are coupled to the top plate 1214, the side panels 1216 can optionally be coupled to each other where they abut and / or overlap, for example with fasteners.

[0148] With specific reference to Figures 14G and 14H, the light emitting elements 1260 can then be coupled to the housing 1210. It is understood that the light emitting elements 1260 can be coupled to any internal surface of the housing 1210. In the exemplary embodiment, four light emitting elements 1260 are coupled to a bottom side of opposing side panels 1216. The opposing side panels 1216 can each include a recess 1216c that is configured to receive a flange 1262 on opposite ends of the light emitting elements 1260.

[0149] With specific reference to Figures 141 and 14J, once the light emitting elements 1260 are positioned inside the housing, the bottom panel 1218 can be coupled to the bottom side of the side panels 1216 using any known fastening means to form the housing 1210 that defines the disinfecting area 1212. In the exemplary embodiment, the bottom panel 1218 includes a connection flange 1218a that is configured to align with and couple to the bottom surface of the side panels 1216. In some embodiments, the connection flange 1218a can include openings that align with openings in the bottom surface of the side panels 1216 to receiving a fastener thereto to facilitate the coupling. Alternatively, or additionally, the bottom panel 1218 can include a latch 1218b that engages with the side panels 1216, for example in an aperture 1216d on an inner surface at the bottom of opposing side panels 1216. The latch 1218b can provide easy access to the inside of the housing 1210, for example to conduct maintenance on the light-emitting elements 1240 and / or the air moving device 109. In other embodiments, the latch 1218b can be a temporary mode of coupling the bottom panel 1218 to the side panels 1216 while fasteners securely fasten the bottom and side panels 1216, 1218 together. By using a temporary mode of coupling, a single person is able to assemble and install the GUV device 1200.

[0150] Referring now to Figure 15, the GUV device 1200 is shown coupled to the ceiling 107 of a room 111. Consideration to the direction of airflow into the inlet and direction of airflow out of the outlet and the strength of the air moving device should be given when determining the placement of the GUV device 1200 in the room 111. In the exemplary embodiment, the airflow direction into the inlet is axial (and upwards airflow in the room 111) and the airflow direction out of the outlets is radial (laterally flowing out of the side panels). As such, consideration to the distance Di between a side tangency of the GUV device 1200 and a side wall of the room 111 and the distance D2 between a bottom tangency of the GUV device 1200 and the floor of the room 111 should be given when installing the GUV device 1200. In some embodiments, the distance Di between a side tangency of the GUV device 1200 and a side wall of the room 111 should be at least about 60 cm (23.6 inches) and the distance D2 between a bottom tangency of the GUV device 1200 and the floor of the room 111 is at least 180 cm (about 70 inches). In the exemplary embodiment of the GUV device 1200 coupled around a ceiling fan, the distance Di between a side tangency of the GUV device 1200 and a side wall of the room 111 should be at least about 76 cm (about 30 inches) and the distance D2 between a bottom tangency of the GUV device 1200 and the floor of the room 111 is at least 213 cm (about 84 inches).

[0151] In the exemplary embodiment, the coupled GUV device 1200 has a height of 61 cm (24 inches), which is approximately equal to the distance between the coupling surface of the top panel 1214 and the connection flange 1214a plus the height of the side panels 1216. As the inlet 1220 is on the bottom surface of the housing 1210, a distance D3 between the ceiling 107 and the inlet 1220 is equal to the height of the GUV device 1200.

[0152] In some embodiments, the GUV device that can be configured to be retrofitted on an existing air moving device 109. For example, the existing air moving device can be a ceiling fan that extends from the ceiling with a shaft ( / .e., the shaft of an air moving device 109). In some embodiments, the GUV device configured to retrofit on an existing air moving device comprises a support assembly and a light emitting assembly coupled to the support assembly 507. As shown in Figure 1B, the GUV device can be configured to emit germicidal UV radiation to create a disinfecting zone above (or adjacent to) the GUV device.

[0153] Referring now to Figure 16A, a GUV device 1601 according to another embodiment is shown. The GUV device 1601 comprises a support assembly 1605, which in this exemplary embodiment is a printed circuit board (PCB) that is configured to couple to and support a lightemitting assembly (not shown), such as a printed circuit board (PCB) that supports UVC LEDs ( / .e., the light emitting assembly). In other embodiments, the support assembly 1605 can comprise a physical or mechanical support for the light emitting elements and their electronic circuitry.

[0154] The GUV device 1601 can include a mounting assembly that is operatively coupled to the support assembly 1605 and configured to mount the support assembly to the shaft 109a of an air moving device. In the exemplary embodiment, the mounting assembly is a mechanical clip 1623 that secures the support assembly 1605 to the shaft 109a of the air moving device. However, it is understood that other mounting assemblies can be used, such as a magnetic clip that magnetically couples to the support assembly 1605 and / or the shaft 109a of the air moving device.

[0155] In some embodiments, the GUV device 1601 can include a protective skirt 1625 that is removably coupled to the support assembly 1605. The protective skirt 1625 defines a disinfecting area with the light emitting assembly and can be used to prevent the germicidal UVC radiation from being emitted horizontally or in directions lower than the horizon, therefore protecting the occupants of the room who are located below the level of the air moving device and, thus, below the GUV device 1601.

[0156] It is understood that the protective skirt 1625 and the mechanical clip 1623 can be manufactured in various materials, colors, textures, and / or finishes, such that the GUV device 1601 can blend with the fan appearance as desired.

[0157] Referring now to Figure 16B, the GUV device 1601 is shown in a disassembled and open configuration. As can be seen, when disassembled, the support assembly 1605, the mechanical clip 1623, and the protective skirt 1625 each comprise two separate portions that are removably couplable to each other.

[0158] The support assembly 1605 is comprised of a first portion 1603 and a second portion1604 pivotally coupled at a pivot point 1606. In this exemplary embodiment, the pivot point 1606 is a self-locking nylon rivet. However, it is understood that other types of pivot mechanisms can be used, such as a nut and bolt assembly. The pivot point 1606 allows the support assembly1605 to move from an open configuration to a closed configuration after being installed on the shaft 109a of the air moving device. In some embodiments, the first portion 1603 and thesecond portion 1604 can comprise corresponding apertures 1607 that align when the GUV device 1601 is in the closed configuration. The first portion 1603 and the second portion 1604 of the support assembly 1605 can then be maintained in the closed configuration by inserting a fastener, such as a self-locking nylon rivet or nut and bolt assembly, through the corresponding apertures 1607.

[0159] In some embodiments, the first portion 1603 and the second portion 1604 of the support assembly 1605 can be identical and designed as half-circle shapes to comprise a circular support assembly 1605 when in the closed configuration. However, it is understood that the support assembly 1605 can comprise any shape. In some embodiments, the first portion 1603 and the second portion 1604 comprise a shape that provides an overlap between the first portion 1603 and the second portion 1604 when the support assembly 1605 is assembled and in the closed configuration, thus preventing germicidal radiation from being directed downwards towards the occupants of the room. In the exemplary embodiment, when in the closed configuration, the first portion 1603 slides overtop of the second portion 1604 to provide the overlap. In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the support assembly 1605 (in this case, the second portion 1604) can comprise a bumper 1615 configured to prevent the top portion ( / .e., the first portion 1603) from moving beyond the close configuration, thus protecting the electronic components on the bottom portion from being scraped off or damaged by the top portion. In other embodiments, the bumper 1615 can be on the top or first portion 1603. In the exemplary embodiment, the bumper 1615 is a nylon hexagonal screw, with the head of the screw playing the role of the bumper 1615. However, any other configuration that provides a protrusion on the first portion 1603 or the second portion 1604 can be used as a bumper 1615.

[0160] When in the closed configuration, the first portion 1603 and the second portion 1604 of the support assembly 1605 define an aperture 1610 configured to receive the shaft 109a of the air moving device and / or a mounting assembly. In some embodiments, a periphery of the aperture 1610 can include grooves 1611 configured to receive the mounting assembly and angularly position the support assembly 1605 with respect to the mounting assembly.

[0161] In the exemplary embodiment, the mounting assembly is a mechanical clip 1623 that is configured to fit in the aperture 1610 of the support assembly 1605. The mechanical clip 1623 comprises two clip portions 1609 that, when coupled, define an aperture that is configured to fit around the shaft 109a of the air moving device. Each clip portion 1609 comprises a protrusionthat is configured to be received in one of the grooves 1611 to align the mechanical clip 1623 with the support assembly 1605.

[0162] In some embodiments, a protective skirt 1625 can be removably coupled around a periphery of the support assembly 1605. In the exemplary embodiment, the protective skirt 1625 comprises two skirt portions 1613 that are removably coupled to each other and / or the support assembly 1605.

[0163] Referring now to Figures 17A to 18D, an exemplary embodiment of a first clip portion 1701 and a second clip portion 1801 are shown. The first and second clip portions 1701, 1801 are configured to couple to either the bottom or top portion of the support assembly 1605. In some embodiments, the first clip portion 1701 can be configured to receive the second portion 1604 ( / .e., the bottom portion) and the second clip portion 1701 can be configured to receive the first portion 1603 ( / .e., the top portion) of the support assembly 1605. The first clip portion 1701 and the second clip portion 801 can each be constructed using a half cylindrical body 1703, 1803 that defines a concentric or near concentric inner cylindrical section 1705, 1805. When coupled to each other, the inner cylindrical section 1705 of the first clip portion 1701 and the inner cylindrical section 1805 of the second clip portion 1801 define an aperture that is configured to receive the shaft 109a of the air moving device. Consideration of the shaft 109a of the air moving device width should be given when determining the diameter of the inner cylindrical sections 1705, 1805. For example, the diameter of the inner cylindrical sections 1705, 1805 (thus defining the diameter of the aperture that receives the shaft 109a of the air moving device) can be chosen to fit with the shaft 109a of the air moving device or can be slightly larger to allow the use of a compressible intervening material to ensure good contact with the shaft 109a of the air moving device and to accept slight manufacturing variations of the inner cylindrical sections 1705, 1805 and / or the shaft 109a of the air moving device. In other embodiments, the first clip portion 1701 and / or the second clip portion 1801 can comprise flexible or deformable members that are arranged in the inner cylindrical sections 1705, 1805 such that the dimensional tolerance of the inner cylindrical sections 1705, 1805 to the shaft 109a is increased. Increasing the dimensional tolerance can provide a universal mounting mechanism that allows the mechanical clip to be sized and shaped to fit a plurality of shafts 109a with varying diameters. In other embodiments, the coupling between the first clip portion 1701 and the second clip portion 1801 can be adjustable such that the mechanical clip can be sized and shaped to fit a plurality of shafts 109a.

[0164] The first clip portion 1701 can include receiving holes 1707 that are configured to receive a fastener, such as screws or bolts, to couple the first clip portion 1701 and the second clip portion 1801. In some embodiments, the receiving holes 1707 are counterbored or countersunk. Similarly, the second clip portion 1801 can include receiving holes 1807 that are configured to align with the receiving holes 1707 on the first clip portion 1701 when in the closed configuration, such that fasteners, such as of screws or bolts, can extend through the receiving holes 1707, 1807 and couple the first clip portion 1701 and the second clip portion 1801.

[0165] The first clip portion 1701 can also include a protrusion 1709 that is configured to be inserted inside the grooves 1611 on the support assembly 1605 to provide an angular constraint and correctly orientate the first clip portion 1701 with respect to the first portion 1603 or the second portion 1604 of the support assembly 1605. Similarly, the second clip portion 1801 can also include a protrusion 1809 that is configured to be inserted inside the grooves 1611 on the support assembly 1605 to provide an angular constraint and correctly orientate the second clip portion 1801 with respect to the first portion 1603 or the second portion 1604 of the support assembly 1605. This angular constraint can be used to ensure that the first portion 1603 and the second portion 1604 is correctly oriented with respect to the first clip portion 1701 and the second clip portion 1801.

[0166] In some embodiments, the first clip portion 1701 and can include a flexible clamp 1711 that can be used to secure a wire, such as a power cable. Similarly, the second clip portion 1801 can include a flexible clamp 1811 that can be used to secure a wire, such as a power cable.

[0167] The mounting mechanisms shown in Figures 17A to 18A are provided as an example. Several other clip designs are also possible. For example, alternate clips could be secured to the shaft 109a using magnets instead of relying on a mechanical clamping mechanism.

[0168] Referring now to Figures 19A to 19D, a skirt portion 1903 of a protective skirt according to one embodiment is shown. In this exemplary embodiment, the protective skirt comprises two skirt portions 1903 that are configured to removably couple to each other and / or the support assembly 1605. In some embodiments, the protective skirt is coupled around aperiphery of the support assembly 1605. The skirt portions 1903 can include an interior groove 1905 that is configured to receive a peripheral border of the support assembly 1605.

[0169] In some embodiments, the protective skirt defines a disinfecting area with the germicidal LIV radiation emitted by the light emitting assembly. The skirt portions 1903 can each include a flared section 1907 that is configured to extend axially from the periphery of the support assembly 1605 when coupled to the support assembly 1605. In the exemplary embodiment, the flared section 1907 minimizes the blocking of the germicidal LIV radiation being emitted from the lights on the light-emitting assembly that are mounted on the periphery of the support assembly 1605, while preventing or reducing horizontal emission. The flared section 1907 can be configured to direct the germicidal UVC radiation upwards towards the ceiling and away from the occupants in the lower portion of the room. In some embodiments, the side walls of the flared section 1907 can comprise mirrors or other reflective surfaces to direct the germicidal LIV radiation towards the disinfecting area.

[0170] In some embodiments, the protective skirt can extend around the entire periphery of the support assembly 1605, such as when the GUV device 1601 is coupled to an air moving device in or near the center of the room. When used with a horizontal-emitting GUV device ( / .e., one coupled to a side of the room that expels the sanitized air laterally), a single skirt portion 1903 can be coupled on the bottom side of the support assembly 1605, such that the germicidal UV radiation is directed laterally in the upper portion of the room and away from the occupants in the lower portion of the room. Other configurations of a protective skirt that defines a disinfecting area and / or directs the germicidal UV radiation to a desired area, such as towards the disinfecting area and / or away from occupants in the room, are also possible.

[0171] In some embodiments, the skirt portions 1903 can be removably coupled to each other for ease of retrofitting on the shaft 109a of an existing air moving device 109 without disassembly. The skirt portions 1903 can each include a tab 1909 on a first end thereof with an aperture 1911 and a protrusion 1915 on the second end thereof that is configured to be received in the aperture 1911 on the other skirt portion 1903. Accordingly, the aperture 1911 on a first skirt portion 1903 is configured to receive the protrusion 1915 on the second skirt portion 1903 and the aperture 1911 on the second skirt portion 1903 is configured to receive the protrusion 1915 on the first skirt portion 1903 to removably couple the first skirt portion 1903 to the second skirt portion 1903. In some embodiments, the skirt portions 1903 each comprise asmall shield 1919 on the first end thereof ( / .e., the end with the tab 1909) that is configured to overlap with the other mating skirt portion 1903, thus preventing germicidal LIV radiation from passing in between the skirt portions 1903 at the area where they join.

[0172] The protective skirt can be comprised of materials that have a moderate amount of elasticity, allowing the skirt portions 1903 to flex during mating in order for the protrusion 1915 on the first skirt portion 1903 to fit in the aperture 1911 on the second skirt portion 1903. Mating the first and second skirt portions 1903 allow the protective skirt to be secured around the support assembly 1605 during installation. In other embodiments, the protective skirt can be constructed in one piece only, using a more flexible or elastic material, by wrapping around the support assembly 1605, or using one or more skirt portions 1903 that do not completely surround the periphery of the support assembly 1605, or could also be at least partially formed integral with the support assembly.

[0173] In some embodiments, the GUV device further includes a protective covering configured to be removably coupled to the protective skirt and / or the support assembly 1605 over the light emitting assembly. In some embodiments, the protective covering is a convex dome. The protective covering is configured to allow the germicidal UV radiation to pass through the protective covering, while preventing the dust or other particles from reaching the support assembly 1605 and the light-emitting assembly. The protective covering can be comprised of a light-permeable material and / or a UVC transmitting materials, such as fused silica.

[0174] Referring now to Figure 20A, a protective skirt 2001 according to another embodiment is shown. The protective skirt 2001 includes a plurality of openings 2003 around the body of the protective skirt 2001 that can open into the disinfecting area defined by the body of the skirt 2001 at a tangential angle. In the exemplary embodiment, each opening 2003 is coupled to a tubular section 2005 that extend outwardly from the body of the protective skirt 2001 from these openings 2003. The tubular sections 2005 are open at both ends and are configured to channel the air into the disinfecting area define by the skirt 2001. The tubular sections 2005 are oriented in a vertical direction at the bottom, such that the upwelling air pushed by the air moving device 109 can be channeled inside the tubular sections 2005. The tubular sections 2005 can curve towards the openings 2003 that extend into the body tangentially, such that the channeled air is inserted or channeled into the disinfecting area at a tangential angle, thereby producing a circular air motion or a vortex in the disinfecting area. Thiscircular air motion or vortex can prevent the accumulation of dust or other particles on the support assembly 1605 or the light-emitting assembly, thus limiting the amount of maintenance required. The circular air motion or vortex can also increase the time that the air (and thus the contagion particles) is suspended in the disinfecting area and can increase the germicidal effect. In other embodiments, other air duct configurations can be used to control the amount and the location of the dust or particle accumulation.

[0175] In some embodiments, the GUV device can comprise air filters configured to prevent dust, pollen and other particulate material from entering the disinfecting area ( / .e., the area above the support assembly 1605 and the light-emitting assembly). For example, one or more of the tubular sections 2005 can include an air filter at their second or bottom end to prevent the dust from entering the disinfecting area through the openings 2003. The air filters can also include sanitizing components, such as activated carbon, to capture or neutralize chemical pollutants, such as volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), and allow a further purification of the air in the room.

[0176] In some embodiments, a protective assembly around the support assembly can include a second concentric (outer) skirt that is larger than the protective skirt 2001 and configured to be located around the (inner) protective skirt 2001. The second skirt can be coupled to the protective skirt 2001 by narrow radial members. The radial members can be configured to catch a cross section of upwelling air around the GUV device 103 and direct it in a way to create an air motion that prevents the accumulation of dust on the support assembly 1605 and the light-emitting assembly. For example, the second skirt can comprise channels that direct the upwelling air through the holes 2003 of the protective skirt to create an air flow over the support assembly 1605 and / or the light-emitting assembly. The air motion can be purposely designed to feature laminar and turbulent sections to reduce the dust and / or particles that accumulate on the support assembly 1605 and / or the light-emitting assembly. In other embodiments, the protective skirt can include clearance holes that are configured to allow the dust and / or particles to be removed from the support assembly 1605 and / or light-emitting assembly.

[0177] Referring now to Figure 20B, a protective skirt portion 2013 according to another embodiment is shown. The protective skirt portion 2013 comprises channels 2015 around a bottom portion of the protective skirt portion 2013 where volumes of material 2015 have beenremoved, while leaving some support structures 2017 intact. As shown in Figure 20C, which shows the bottom side of the protective skirt portion 2013, the support structures 2017 comprise a protrusion 2021 with a groove 2019 that is configured to receive the support assembly 1605 to couple two protective skirt portions 2013 to the support assembly. When an air flow is created in the disinfecting area, dust or other particles moving along the support assembly 1605 or lightemitting assembly in a radial motion 2023 before hitting the outer wall of the protective skirt portion 2013 and moving in an axial direction 2025 ( / .e., the downward direction) to escape through the channel 2015. This travel motion of the dust and / or particles can be aided by the air flow deflected by mechanical features or other mechanical means of the protective skirt portion 2013.

[0178] Other means of dust removal are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a fan configured to create an additional air current to prevent an accumulation of particles on the light emitting assembly and / or the support assembly. By creating an additional air current with a fan, the accumulation of dust or particles on the lightemitting assembly and / or support assembly is prevented and / or the removal of dust or particles on the support assembly and / or the light-emitting assembly is enhanced. The fan can be powered by an electrical motor, mechanical energy harvested from an air moving device fan air flow, or by any other means. In some embodiments, one or more of the GUV device components can be coated with dust repellent coatings.

[0179] In some embodiments, the GUV device can be equipped with a mirror positioned in such a way as to allow an observer standing on the floor ( / .e., the lower portion of the room) to see if dust or other particles are present on the support assembly or the light-emitting assembly. The mirror can be operatively coupled to the support assembly and / or the protective skirt. This mirror can be configured so as to only reflect visible light and prevent the reflection of germicidal UV radiation towards the lower portion of the room ( / .e., towards the observer using the mirror) for safety reasons. Alternatively, the mirror can be deployed, either manually or automatically, when the light-emitting assembly is not activated ( / .e., when no germicidal UV radiation is being emitted). Alternatively, this mirror assembly can be integrated on any of the dusting accessories described herein, such as on the protective skirt.

[0180] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be mounted directly on the rotating parts of the air moving device and configured such that the centrifugal force created by therotation of the air moving device can be used to evacuate dust or other particulates from the support assembly and / or the light-emitting assembly.

[0181] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a UVC power meter that is configured to monitor the UV light reflection that is reflected off of the ceiling ( / .e., monitor the strength of the germicidal UV radiation being emitted from the light-emitting assembly). In some embodiments, the power level sensed by this power meter can be used to trigger a dusting cycle as described above when the UVC power is measured below a pre-determined level that can be expressed as a percentage of the amount sensed just after a dusting cycle. In other words, the UCV power meter can be configured to determine when the germicidal UV radiation is below a pre-determined level due to accumulation of dust or other particulates on the lightemitting assembly.

[0182] In some embodiments, the pathogen neutralization system or the GUV device 103 can further comprise a cover 2130 (as shown in Figure 24) that is configured to be installed with the GUV device 103. The cover 2130 can be installed above the light emitting assembly and is configured to act as a low reflectance blocker and minimize the UVC light reflected towards the lower portion of the room. In some embodiments, such as with a horizontal-emitting GUV device 123B, the cover 2130 can be installed across from the light emitting assembly to define the end of the disinfecting area. The cover 2130 can be installed on the support assembly 1605, the air moving device 109, or the ceiling 107 of the room. In some embodiments, the cover 2130 can be used to hide the AC / DC converter 2511 required to provide DC electrical power to the lightemitting assembly. The cover 2130 can also be used to hide the electrical wires from and to the AC / DC converter 2511. In some embodiments, the cover 2130 is comprised of a UV resistant and / or UV absorbing material so as to minimize the amount of UV light reflected towards the lower section of the room where occupants are present. The cover 2130 can be comprised of moldable UV-resistant plastics, including a non-reinforced, impact modified, injection moldable grade resin such as polycarbonate / polybutylene Terephthalate (PC / PBT). In some embodiments, a PC / PBT material (Valox 357) was determined to show a very low reflectance of around 7 to 9% through both diffuse reflection and specular reflection. The total reflectance of the cover 2130 can further be lowered to approximately 2% by adding groove textures in the molded parts of the cover 2130. In some embodiments, the cover 2130 includes baffles that are configured to further deflect the germicidal UV radiation that is emitted from the light emitting assembly.

[0183] The cover 2130 can be provided in multiple cover portions, so as to enable easy installation on an existing air moving device without disassembly. In some embodiments, the cover 2130 is installed on the ceiling 107 of the room, and when installed in a closed configuration, is coupled around the shaft 109a of the air moving device.

[0184] Referring now to Figure 21, a GUV device according to another embodiment is shown. The GUV device includes a baffle 2103 that is configured to limit the rays of germicidal UV radiation that would otherwise miss the cover 2130 and impinge on the ceiling. The GUV device comprises the baffle 2103 operatively coupled to a support assembly 2105 and a protective skirt 2106 operatively coupled to the support assembly 2105 and the baffle 2103. The baffle 2103 is located at a predetermined distance from the support assembly 2105 onto which the light emitting assembly comprising light-emitting elements 2107 are mounted. The baffle 2103 can be comprised of a flat, thin material that is opaque and exhibits UV absorbing attributes.

[0185] The baffle 2103 includes a plurality of holes 2203, which can be arranged in a pattern as illustrated in Figure 22 or 23. The diameter of each hole 2203 is chosen to allow the central rays 2109 to pass through unimpeded, while the rays with large angles 2111 impinge on the lower surface of the baffle 2103 and are absorbed. Note that the position of each hole 2203 can be adjusted with respect to the position of the corresponding light-emitting element 2107 so as to define the desired cone of emission that emits the germicidal UV radiation into the disinfecting area. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 22, the relative hole 2203-to- light-emitting element 2107 offset is calculated so as to direct the emission cone towards a non- reflective cover 2130 on the ceiling. Accordingly, the holes 2203 are provided at a radial offset that increases as the light emitting elements 2107 are located further away from the baffle center. For example, as shown in Figure 24, light emitting elements 2107a that are located closer the baffle center can be aligned directly or nearly directly to a corresponding hole 2203a to provide a cone of emission 2127a that is directed towards the cover 2130 or another low reflectance blocker; whereas light emitting elements 2103b that are located further away from the baffle center are offset from their corresponding hole 2203b to provide a cone of emission 2127b that is also directed towards the low reflectance blocker.

[0186] In this exemplary embodiment, the protective skirt 2106 comprises a bottom wall 2121 that is configured to couple to the support assembly 2105. The bottom wall 2121comprises a skirt aperture 2123 that is configured to receive the shaft 109a of the air moving device. In this embodiment, the protective skirt 2106 also includes protrusions 2125 that extend through apertures in the support assembly 2105 and the baffle 2103 to couple the protective skirt 2106 to the support assembly 2105 and the baffle 2103 and to hold the baffle 2103 at a desired distance from the light-emitting elements 2107. However, other methods of coupling the protective skirt 2106 to the support assembly and / or the baffle 2103 can be used. For example, the protective skirt 2106 can be coupled around the periphery of the support assembly 2105.

[0187] In some embodiments, the GUV device can be provided with a pair of protective glasses that block U C light while allowing to see longer wavelength light (e.g., red, yellow, green, violet, or blue). The pair of glasses can be used to safely observe the light-emitting assembly and the light-emitting elements and confirm that they are functioning correctly. In the case of unexpectedly disabled light-emitting elements, the wearer of the glasses can request a maintenance or repair action.

[0188] Referring now to Figure 25, a pathogen neutralization system 2501 according to one embodiment is shown. In this system 2501 , the GUV device 103 is installed on an air moving device 109, such as a ceiling fan. The GUV device 103 is powered using an external AC / DC electrical converter 2511 , which can be connected to the same AC electrical circuit 2513 that powers the air moving device. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, the GUV device 103 is powered only when the air moving device is active, thereby providing air circulation directly under the GUV device 103. However, the GUV device 103 can also be configured to be powered on regardless of whether the air moving device is active or not.

[0189] The air circulation is in direct proximity to the GUV device 103 and thus can be configured to remove the heat dissipated by the light-emitting elements, thus keeping the GUV device 103 at a safe operating temperature. In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 circuit can be equipped with an overtemperature protection that is configured to shut off the lightemitting elements if the temperature reaches a preset threshold. In some embodiments, the overtemperature protection is a bi-metal switch installed within the electronic components of the GUV device 103. In some embodiments, the electronic components are a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board can be fabricated using a conductive material, such as aluminum, in order to efficiently conduct the heat dissipated by the light-emitting elements present on theelectronic components, down to the bottom surface of the electronic components, where it can be convectively removed by the air circulated by the air moving device 109.

[0190] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be equipped with a communication link (e.g., Bluetooth, Ethernet, WIFI, Infrared, RFID, etc.) to communicate the status of the GUV device 103 to the owners of the assets or the sanitation authorities. For example, the communication link can be configured to communicate with a database 2527 and provide information to a user via a portable device 2521. The status information communicated can include the serial number of the device, the device geolocation (civic address and room number), the names and means of communication for the owner and person responsible for maintenance, the total operation time, total number of power cycles, remaining useful hours, UVC power levels, excessive dust or particular matter detected, technical problems detected, etc.

[0191] In some embodiments, alerts concerning an abnormal operation of the lightemitting elements and / or a lower than expected UVC power can be transmitted via the communication link or via an audible signal to facilitate a cleaning, maintenance, and / or repair visit to be scheduled. In some embodiments, the audible signal can include a human voice that provides a warning that it is time to change the light-emitting elements and / or clean the lightemitting assembly or elements.

[0192] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include an occupancy detector configured to detect a number of occupants in the room and / or a motion detector configured to detect motion in the room, and thus the presence of at least one occupant. The GUV device 103 can be configured to be activated and / or deactivated when the occupancy sensor determines that the number of occupants is greater than 0 and / or when the motion detector detects motion in the room. In some embodiments, the occupancy detector and the motion detector can be used in conjunction with each other, with each acting as a fail-safe for the other.

[0193] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be configured to deactivate after a pre-determined time period that starts when the occupancy detector indicates that the last occupant of the room has left and / or when the motion detector indicates that there has not been motion for a specific time period. The pre-determined time period can be selected to match the amount of time that the GUV device needs to adequately sanitize the room air when newcontagions are not being introduced by occupants. Alternatively, the GUV device 103 can be programmed to activate and deactivate according to a fixed schedule, such as according to the time period where the establishments that the GUV device 103 is deployed in are open and occupants are expected to be present. For example, a GUV device 103 deployed in a school room can be programed to activate at 7h00 ( / .e., slightly before occupants are expected in the room) and deactivate at 18h00 ( / .e., slightly after occupants are expected to have left the room). In this example, the GUV device 103 could also be programed to take into account holidays and other school closures when the GUV device 103 can be deactivated. When the GUV device 103 comprises multiple intermittent operation modes, the GUV device 103 saves energy and the lifetime of the light-emitting elements can be extended. In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be activated and / or deactivated by voice command.

[0194] In some embodiments, the GUV devices 103 can be controlled by a system that communicates with multiple pathogen reduction devices and systems within the room and / or building, such as the GUV devices 103, ventilation systems, air exchange systems and other air purification technologies. Advanced analytical techniques including machine learning algorithm can be applied to optimize the efficiency of these systems.

[0195] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can comprise at least one lightemitting element that has an increased optical power, for example by comprising multiple germicidal UV emitting elements in an assembly, such as LEDs, or more powerful germicidal UV emitting elements for a more efficient sanitation. In some embodiments, the optical power of the GUV device 103 can be reduced in warm climate situations when windows in the room are open and physical air exchange is used in combination with the germicidal UV radiation sanitation, achieving an equivalent overall sanitation performance. Operating at reduced optical power also results in less heat dissipation in the room, thereby avoiding heating of the ambient air and increasing the comfort of the occupants. The lower currents in the UV light-emitting elements can be achieved by several methods, including changing the resistance of a shunt resistor and changing the voltage of the supply to the LEDs within the electronic components. The person skilled in the art will be familiar with the plethora of ways the light-emitting elements can be provided with power inside of the housing and how the power can be increased and decreased according to the user’s preference.

[0196] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include one or more additional indicator lights, such as LEDs, to indicate an operating mode of the GUV device 103, such as activate, deactivate, in sanitation mode, normal function, maintenance required, malfunction, etc. These indicator lights can be any color, for example green to indicate normal function or blue / violet to indicate that germicidal UV radiation is being emitted. A multi-colored indicator light panel or a group of varying color indicator lights can be used to indicate the operation of the GUV device 103, including the color red, to indicate malfunction or maintenance action being required.

[0197] In some embodiments, an indicator panel, such as a set of LED segments stacked vertically or horizontally, can be installed on the ceiling fan column. The visible indicator panel can provide information to occupants that are based on the time of powering the GUV device 103, the pathogen sensors, air flow sensors, motion detectors, and occupancy detectors. The vertical visible indicator can be used to inform the occupants of the room in real time about the level of pathogen neutralization, the effective number of air changes, a maintenance requirement, and / or other performance-related indications.

[0198] In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be modified to provide aesthetic lighting and / or sound to the occupants in the room. In some embodiments, an underside of the GUV device 103 can be equipped with a visible display to show images, information, or publicity to the occupants of the room. In other embodiments, the GUV device 103 can be equipped with a projector or a holographic projector to display images or information on the ceiling or on walls. In some embodiments, the GUV device 103 can include a speaker to provide music, ambient sounds and / or audible information about the operation of the GUV device, including a start-up sound and / or alert sounds in the case of malfunction. In some embodiments, the speaker can broadcast sound therapies, such as music or sounds, that promote the general well-being or concentration of the listener, for example in a hospital or school setting.

[0199] The embodiments described above are intended to be exemplary only.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:1 . A germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area with an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication, wherein the housing is configured to be mounted on, around, or near an air moving device; and at least one light emitting element configured to emit germicidal radiation within the disinfecting area; wherein the inlet and the outlet are configured to allow the air to enter the disinfecting area through the inlet and exit the disinfecting area through the outlet while preventing the germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.

2. The germicidal device of claim 1 , further comprising light-blocking plates coupled to the housing at the inlet and at the outlet; wherein said light-blocking plates are configured to allow the air to enter the disinfecting area through the inlet and exit the disinfecting area through the outlet while preventing the germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.

3. The germicidal device of claim 2, wherein the light-blocking plates each comprise a plurality of louvres configured to allow the air to travel through the light-blocking plates while preventing germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.

4. The germicidal device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of louvres each comprise a first plate and a second plate superimposed on each other, wherein the first plate comprises a first protrusion and the second plate comprises a second protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion projecting outwardly from each other to provide fluid communication between a first side and a second side of the plurality of louvres.The germicidal device of claim 4, wherein the first plate and the second plate are comprised of sheet metal. The germicidal device of claim 5, wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are each formed from the sheet metal by cutting the sheet metal along a cutline and bending the sheet metal to form the first protrusion and the second protrusion. The germicidal device of claim 6, wherein the cutline for the first protrusion and the cutline for the second protrusion are separated by an offset. The germicidal device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of louvres each comprise a first plate and a second plate coupled by an end plate, wherein the second plate comprises an opening aligned with the first plate, and wherein the first plate is molded to provide fluid communication between a first side and a second side of the plurality of louvres through the opening. The germicidal device of claim 8, wherein the second plate is formed from sheet metal and wherein the opening is formed by cutting the sheet metal and folding at a fold line to create the opening with an angle. The germicidal device of claim 9, wherein the angle is between 45° and 90°. The germicidal device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of louvres each comprise a plurality of bottom louvre elements coupled to a plurality of top louvre elements, wherein the plurality of bottom louvre elements and the plurality of top louvre elements are formed to provide fluid communication between a first side and a second side of the plurality of louvres, and wherein the plurality of bottom louvre elements overlap with the plurality of lop louvre elements, such that the germicidal radiation is not emitted outside of the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the housing is configured to be mounted around the air moving device. The germicidal device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the inlet provides fluid communication into the housing in an axial or vertical direction.The germicidal device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the outlet provides fluid communication into the housing in a radial or horizontal direction. A germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area with an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication, wherein the housing is configured to be mounted on, around, or near an air moving device; at least one light emitting element configured to emit germicidal radiation within the disinfecting area; a first light-blocking plate coupled to the housing at the inlet; the first light-blocking plate being configured to allow air to enter the disinfecting area through the inlet and to prevent germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of claim 15, wherein the first light-blocking plate comprises a plurality of first louvres configured to allow the air to enter the disinfecting area through the inlet and to prevent germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of claim 15 or 16, wherein the outlet is provided in an outer side wall of the housing. The germicidal device of claim 17, wherein the outer side wall comprises a plurality of second louvres, the plurality of second louvres being configured to allow the air to exit the disinfecting area through the outlet and to prevent germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of claim 15 or 16, further comprising a second light-blocking plate coupled to the housing at the outlet, the second light-blocking plate being configured to allow air to exit the disinfecting area through the outlet and to prevent germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area.The germicidal device of claim 19, wherein the second light-blocking plate comprises a plurality of second louvres configured to allow the air to exit the disinfecting area through the outlet and to prevent germicidal radiation from exiting the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the germicidal radiation is at least one of: ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation and far LIV radiation. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the at least one light emitting element is an LED. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 22, wherein the air moving device is a ceiling fan and the housing is configured to be coupled to the ceiling fan. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 23, further comprising a UVC power meter configured to monitor the germicidal radiation emitted by the germicidal device. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 24, further comprising a pathogen sensor configured to determine a pathogen concentration in the air in the room. The germicidal device of claim 25, wherein the pathogen concentration is at least one of: a bacterial concentration and a viral concentration. The germicidal device of claim 25 or 26, wherein the pathogen sensor is configured to sample and identify at least one pathogen type in the pathogen concentration. The germicidal device of any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the pathogen sensor is configured to output real-time information on the pathogen concentration. The germicidal device of any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the germicidal device is configured to output geolocational data with the pathogen concentration. The germicidal device of claim 29, wherein the germicidal device is configured to juxtapose the geolocational data with an identification of occupants in the room.The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 30, further comprising an overtemperature protection system configured to deactivate the at least one light emitting elements when a temperature of the germicidal device reaches a predetermined threshold. The germicidal device of claim 31, wherein the overtemperature protection system comprises a bi-metal switch. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 32, wherein the germicidal device and the air moving device have the same power source such that deactivating the air moving device, deactivates the germicidal device. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 33, further comprising at least one of: an occupancy sensor configured to detect a number of occupants in the room and a motion detector configured to detect motion in the room. The germicidal device of claim 34, wherein the germicidal device is configured to activate or deactivate upon at least one of: when the occupancy sensor determines that the number of occupants is greater than 0; and when the motion detector detects motion in the room. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 35, wherein the germicidal device is provided with a power source, and the power source is configured to activate and / or deactivate the germicidal device at specific time intervals or on a fixed schedule. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 36, wherein the germicidal radiation comprises wavelengths between 100 nm and 400 nm. The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 37, wherein the germicidal UVC radiation comprises wavelengths between 200 nm and 222 nm.The germicidal device of any one of claims 15 to 38, wherein the germicidal UVC radiation comprises wavelengths between 260 nm and 300 nm. A germicidal device configured to cooperate with an air moving device to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room prior to the air being circulated or recirculated in the room by the air moving device, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area; and at least one light emitting element; wherein the germicidal device includes at least one light-blocking plate configured to allow the air circulated by the air moving device to enter and exit the housing while preventing the germicidal radiation from exiting the housing. A germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a housing defining a disinfecting area; and at least one light emitting element coupled within the housing and configured to emit germicidal radiation within the disinfecting area; wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to move the air into the housing, through the disinfecting area defined by the germicidal radiation and the housing, and out of the housing. A pathogen neutralization system configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the pathogen neutralization system comprising: an air moving device; a germicidal device comprising: a housing; and at least one light emitting element electronically coupled to electronic components; and a power source configured to power the electronic components,wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air prior to the air being circulated or recirculated in the room by the air moving device. The pathogen neutralization system of claim 42, further comprising a UVC power meter configured to determine a UVC power level of the at least one light emitting element. The pathogen neutralization system of claim 42 or 43, further comprising a user interface and a communication link configured to communicate a status of the germicidal device to the user interface. The pathogen neutralization system of claim 44, wherein the communication link is configured to communication via at least one of: short-range wireless technology, ethernet, WiFi, infrared light waves, and radio-frequency identification. The pathogen neutralization system of claim 45, wherein the status comprises at least one of: an identification number of the device, geolocational data, maintenance information, operation time, a number of power cycles, and UVC power levels. The pathogen neutralization system of any one of claims 42 to 46, wherein the air moving device is an existing air moving device and the germicidal device is retrofitted to the existing air moving device. The pathogen neutralization system of claim 47, wherein the existing air moving device is a ceiling fan comprising a shaft and the germicidal device is coupled to the shaft. A germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a support assembly configured to be mounted in an upper portion of the room; and a light emitting assembly comprising light emitting elements electronically coupled to the support assembly and configured to emit germicidal radiation,wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with an air moving device to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air prior to the air being circulated or recirculated in the room by the air moving device. The germicidal device of claim 49, wherein the germicidal radiation is UVC radiation and is emitted towards the upper portion of the room and away from a lower portion of the room. The germicidal device of claim 49 or 50, wherein the support assembly comprises a printed circuit board electronically coupled to the light emitting assembly and configured to operate the light emitting assembly. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 51 , wherein the support assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the ceiling fan. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 52, wherein the support assembly comprises an aperture for receiving a shaft of the air moving device therethrough. The germicidal device of claim 53, further comprising a mounting assembly operatively coupled to the support assembly and configured to mount the support assembly to the shaft. The germicidal device of claim 54, wherein the mounting assembly comprises a mechanical clip configured to fit in the aperture of the support assembly to couple the support assembly to the shaft. The germicidal device of claim 55, wherein the mechanical clip is comprised of a first clip portion and a second clip portion configured to couple to each other, wherein the first clip portion and the second clip portion define a clip aperture that is configured to fit the shaft when coupled to each other.The germicidal device of claim 56, wherein the coupling between the first clip portion and the second clip portion is adjustable such that the mechanical clip can be sized and shaped to fit a plurality of shafts. The germicidal device of any one of claims 55 to 57, wherein the mechanical clip comprises a circumferential groove configured to receive a peripheral border of the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 58, wherein the mechanical clip comprises protrusions in the circumferential groove that are configured to fit in a corresponding groove formed in a periphery of the aperture in the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 54, wherein the mounting assembly comprises a magnetic clip operatively coupled to the support assembly and configured to couple the support assembly to the shaft. The germicidal device of any one of claims 53 to 60, wherein the support assembly comprises a first portion and a second portion pivotally coupled to each other and at least partially delimiting together the aperture, wherein when in an open configuration, the support assembly can be mounted onto the air moving device and when in a closed configuration, the shaft extends through the aperture to mount the support assembly to the air moving device. The germicidal device of claim 61, wherein the support assembly comprises a bumper on one of the first portion and the second portion that is configured to prevent an overlap of the first portion and the second portion when in the closed configuration. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 62, further comprising a protective skirt removably coupled to the support assembly, wherein the protective skirt defines a disinfecting area with the light emitting assembly.The germicidal device of claim 63, wherein the protective skirt is removably coupled around a periphery of the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 64, wherein the protective skirt comprises a first skirt portion and a second skirt portion removably coupled to at least one of: each other and the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 65, wherein the first skirt portion and the second skirt portion each comprise an interior groove configured to receive the periphery of the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 66, wherein the interior groove comprises channels dispersed between support structures configured to receive a portion of the support assembly. The germicidal device of any one of claims 65 to 67, wherein the first skirt portion and the second skirt portion each comprise a protrusion on a first end thereof and an aperture on a second end thereof, wherein the aperture on the first skirt portion is configured to receive the protrusion on the second skirt portion and the aperture on the second skirt portion is configured to receive the protrusion on the first skirt portion to removably couple the first skirt portion to the second skirt portion. The germicidal device of claim 68, wherein the first skirt portion comprises a first shield on the first end that is configured to overlap with the second end of the second skirt portion when the first skirt portion and the second skirt portion are coupled to each other. The germicidal device of claim 68 or 69, wherein the second skirt portion comprises a second shield on the first end that is configured to overlap with the second end of the first skirt portion when the first skirt portion and the second skirt portion are coupled to each other.The germicidal device of any one of claims 63 to 70, wherein the protective skirt further comprises a flared section extending axially from the periphery of the support assembly and configured to block a portion of the germicidal UVC radiation. The germicidal device of claim 71 , wherein the flared section is configured to prevent the germicidal UVC radiation from being emitted in the lower portion of the room. The germicidal device of claim 71 or 72, wherein the flared section is configured to prevent the germicidal UVC radiation from being emitted horizontally or in directions lower than the horizon. The germicidal device of any one of claims 71 to 73, wherein, when coupled to the support assembly, the flared section curves radially outwardly from the periphery of the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 63, wherein the protective skirt comprises a bottom wall with a skirt aperture configured to receive a shaft of the air moving device. The germicidal device of claim 75, wherein the support assembly comprises at least one aperture and the bottom wall comprises at least one protrusion, wherein the protective skirt is removably coupled to the support assembly by the at least one protrusion coupled to the at least one aperture. The germicidal device of any one of claims 63 to 76, further comprising a second skirt coupled around the protective skirt. The germicidal device of claim 77, wherein the second skirt is concentric to the protective skirt. The germicidal device of any one of claims 63 to 78, wherein the protective skirt is comprised of a flexible material.The germicidal device of any one of claims 63 to 79, wherein the protective skirt further comprises a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being coupled to a tubular section at a first end thereof, the tubular sections being configured to channel the air into the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of claim 80, wherein the plurality of openings extend through the protective skirt at a tangential angle such that the air channeled through the tubular sections is inserted tangentially into the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of claim 80 or 81, wherein the plurality of openings and the tubular sections are configured to insert the air tangentially to produce a vortex or circular air motion. The germicidal device of any one of claims 80 to 82, wherein a second end of each of the tubular sections comprises an air filter configured to prevent particles from entering the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of any one of claims 63 to 83, further comprising a protective covering configured to be removably coupled to the protective skirt or the support assembly over the light emitting assembly. The germicidal device of claim 84, wherein the protective covering is a convex dome. The germicidal device of claim 84 or 85, wherein the protective covering is comprised of light-permeable material. The germicidal device of any one of claims 63 to 86, further comprising a baffle coupled to the protective skirt or the support assembly, the baffle comprising a plurality of holes that are configured to direct a cone of emission of the germicidal radiation.The germicidal device of claim 87, wherein the plurality of holes have a diameter configured to allow central rays of the germicidal radiation to pass through the baffle into the disinfecting area. The germicidal device of claim 87 or 88, wherein the plurality of holes are provided at a radial offset that increases towards a periphery of the baffle to direct the cone of emission of the germicidal radiation. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 89, further comprising a fan configured to create an additional air current to prevent an accumulation of particles on at least one of: the light emitting assembly and the support assembly. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 90, wherein at least a portion of the germicidal device is coated with a dust repellent coating. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 91, further comprising a mirror operatively coupled to the support assembly, wherein the mirror is configured to reflect an image of at least one of: the support assembly and the light emitting assembly to the lower portion of the room. The germicidal device of claim 92, wherein the mirror is configured to reflect visible light and prevent the reflection of the germicidal radiation to the lower portion of the room. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 93, further comprising a dusting device comprising a dusting arm pivotably connected to the support assembly, wherein the dusting arm is configured to pivot around a central axis of the support assembly. The germicidal device of claim 94, wherein the dusting arm comprises a dust-removing material or dust-removing fibers. The germicidal device of claim 94 or 95, further comprising an electric motor, wherein the dusting device is actuated by the electric motor.The germicidal device of any one of claims 94 to 96, wherein the dusting device is actuated at a beginning or an end of a power cycle of the germicidal device. The germicidal device of any one of claims 94 to 96, wherein the dusting device is actuated at pre-determined timed intervals. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 98, further comprising a UVC power meter configured to monitor the germicidal radiation emitted by the germicidal device. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 99, further comprising a pathogen sensor configured to determine a pathogen concentration in the air in the room. . The germicidal device of claim 100, wherein the pathogen concentration is at least one of: a bacterial concentration and a viral concentration. . The germicidal device of claim 100 or 101 , wherein the pathogen sensor is configured to capture and identify at least one pathogen type in the pathogen concentration. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 100 to 102, wherein the pathogen sensor is configured to output real-time information on the pathogen concentration. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 100 to 103, wherein the germicidal device is configured to output geolocational data with the pathogen concentration. . The germicidal device of claim 104, wherein the germicidal device is configured to juxtapose the geolocational data with an identification of occupants in the room.. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 105, further comprising an overtemperature protection system configured to deactivate the light emitting assembly when a temperature of the germicidal device reaches a predetermined threshold. . The germicidal device of claim 106, wherein the overtemperature protection system comprises a bi-metal switch. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 107, wherein the germicidal device and the air moving device have the same power source such that deactivating the air moving device, deactivates the germicidal device. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 108, further comprising at least one of: an occupancy sensor configured to detect a number of occupants in the room and a motion detector configured to detect motion in the room. . The germicidal device of claim 109, wherein the germicidal device is configured to activate or deactivate upon at least one of: when the occupancy sensor determines that the number of occupants is greater than 0; and when the motion detector detects motion in the room. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 110, wherein the germicidal device is configured to activate and / or deactivate upon voice command. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 111, wherein the germicidal device is provided with a power source, and the power source is configured to activate and / or deactivate the germicidal device at specific time intervals or on a fixed schedule. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 112, wherein the germicidal device has a sanitation mode configured for use with at least one occupant in the room and a rapid sanitation mode configured to use with no occupants in the room.. The germicidal device of claim 113, wherein the rapid sanitation mode is activated by the occupancy sensor. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 114, wherein the support assembly comprises a conductive material configured to conduct heat dissipated by the light emitting assembly. . The germicidal device of claim 115, wherein the conductive material comprises aluminum. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 116, further comprising a visible indicator configured to output real-time performance indicators based on at least one of: a pathogen concentration, air flow, and occupancy. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 117, further comprising a low reflectance blocker installed at a terminal end of a disinfecting area defined by the germicidal radiation, wherein the low reflectance blocker is configured to reduce the germicidal radiation that is reflected towards the lower portion of the room. . The germicidal device of claim 118, wherein the low reflectance blocker comprises a material having a low reflectance in the UVC spectral range. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 119, further comprising a flexible membrane configured for installation on a ceiling of the room, wherein the flexible membrane is configured to minimize the germicidal radiation reflected towards the lower portion of the room. . The germicidal device of claim 120, wherein the flexible membrane comprises a UVC absorbing coating. . The germicidal device of claim 121 , wherein the UVC absorbing coating is zinc oxide paint.. The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 122, further comprising a cover configured to be installed above the light emitting assembly, wherein the cover is configured to minimize the UVC light reflected towards the lower portion of the room. . The germicidal device of claim 123, wherein the cover is configured to be installed on the support assembly, the air moving device, or a ceiling of the room. . The germicidal device of claim 123 or 124, wherein the cover comprises at least one of a LIV resistant material and a LIV absorbing material. . The germicidal device of claim 125, wherein the cover comprises polycarbonate / polybutylene terephthalate. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 123 to 126, wherein the cover comprises grooves configured to reduce a LIV reflectance of the cover. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 49 to 62, further comprising a casing operatively coupled to the support assembly on a side opposite the disinfecting area. . The germicidal device of claim 128, wherein the casing comprises casing apertures configured to allow an air flow on a bottom side of the light emitting assembly or the support assembly. . A germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a support assembly configured to be mounted on an upper portion of the room, the support assembly comprising a circuit board; a light emitting assembly comprising light emitting elements electronically coupled to the circuit board; and a protective skirt surrounding at least a portion of the light emitting assembly and configured to define a disinfecting area with the light emitting assembly,wherein the protective skirt comprises a plurality of openings, wherein each of the plurality of openings are configured to cooperate with an air moving device to channel the air into the disinfecting area; wherein the light emitting elements are configured to emit germicidal radiation in the disinfecting area. . The germicidal device of claim 130, wherein each of the plurality of openings are coupled to a tubular section at a first end thereof, the tubular sections being configured to channel the air into the disinfecting area. . The germicidal device of claim 130 or 131, wherein the plurality of openings extend through a side wall of the protective skirt at a tangential angle, such that the air channeled through the tubular sections is inserted tangentially into the disinfecting area. . The germicidal device of claim 130 or 131 , wherein the plurality of openings and the tubular sections are configured to insert the air tangentially into the disinfecting area to produce a vortex or circular air motion. . The germicidal device of any one of claims 130 to 133, wherein a second end of each of the tubular sections comprises an air filter configured to prevent particles from entering the disinfecting area. . A germicidal device configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the germicidal device comprising: a light emitting assembly comprising: light emitting elements configured to emit germicidal radiation; and a circuit board configured to be mounted to an air moving device; and a mounting assembly operatively coupled to the light emitting assembly and configured to mount to a shaft of the air moving device; wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to move the air through a disinfecting area defined by the germicidal radiation.. The germicidal device of claim 135, further comprising a protective skirt surrounding a periphery of the light emitting assembly and configured to define a disinfecting area with the light emitting assembly. Oo . A pathogen neutralization system configured to reduce a concentration of pathogens in air in a room, the pathogen neutralization system comprising: an air moving device; a germicidal device comprising: a circuit board assembly; and a light emitting assembly electronically coupled to the circuit board assembly; and a power source configured to power the circuit board assembly, wherein the germicidal device is configured to cooperate with the air moving device to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air prior to the air being circulated or re-circulated in the room by the air moving device. . The pathogen neutralization system of claim 137, wherein the air moving device is an existing air moving device and the germicidal device is retrofitted to the existing air moving device. . The pathogen neutralization system of claim 137, wherein the existing air moving device is a ceiling fan comprising a shaft and the germicidal device is coupled to the shaft. . A method of reducing a concentration of pathogens in air in a room with an air moving device, the method comprising the steps of: i) providing a germicidal device comprising a light emitting assembly configured to emit germicidal radiation, wherein the germicidal radiation defines a disinfecting area; ii) installing the germicidal device in proximity to the air moving device such that the air is exposed to the disinfecting area prior to being circulated in the room; iii) circulating the air with the air moving device; andiv) exposing the air to the disinfecting area. . The method of claim 140, further comprising providing the germicidal device with a protection assembly to further define the disinfecting area. . The method of claim 140 or 141 , wherein the germicidal device comprises at least one of: an occupancy detector and a motion detector, and wherein the method further comprises detecting an occupancy of the room with the occupancy detector and / or the motion detector. . The method of claim 142, wherein step iv) of exposing the air to the disinfecting area is activated and / or deactivated based on the occupancy of the room. . The method of any one of claims 140 to 143, wherein step iii) of circulating the air with the air moving device and step iv) of exposing the air to the disinfecting area are executed simultaneously.

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