System, method, and use of ionized air to sanitize an object

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system, method, and use of free radicals to sanitize a surface of an object. The system comprises a first compartment having a first opening dimensioned to receive the object therethrough, and having a first cover dimensioned to overlie the first opening, the first cover configured to be re- sealable over the first opening of the first compartment. The system also includes an air ionizer coupled to the first compartment to generate free radicals for discharging into the first compartment, where reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

Description

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND USE OF IONIZED AIR TO SANITIZE AN OBJECTFIELD

[0001] The present disclosure is related to a system, method, and use of ionized air to sanitize an object. In particular, the present disclosure is related to a system, method, and use of free radicals to sanitize the surface of an object in a container. For example, in some embodiments, the container may be a toy box, or the system may be used to sanitize health care instruments, shared items, and / or pet equipment.BACKGROUND

[0002] Bacteria are microscopic living cells with a relatively simple structure; they are single-celled. Bacterial infections are contracted through the respiratory and digestive tracts or by biting, scratching, and cutting. Ambient air bacteria come from two sources: aerosols generated by water such as humidifiers, air conditioners, cooling towers, and dirty water etc., and aerosols generated by humans or animals. Saprophytic and pathogenic bacteria are dispersed in the air by humans when they sneeze, cough, and speak. These bacteria can survive for variable periods, their duration depending on the size of the droplets projected, the air temperature, its relative humidity, and the presence of a substrate that allows it to travel.

[0003] The classification of bacteria is based on cellular, morphological, or biochemical characteristics. They fall into two large groups, depending on their reaction to Gram stain (Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria). Bacteria need a lot of moisture to thrive. Gram-negative bacteria have a fragile cell wall that does not tolerate dehydration experienced during prolonged passage in the air or during sampling. Gram-positive bacteria have a stronger wall and some produce spores that give them increased resistance to varying environmental conditions. In thisgroup are the thermophilic bacteria, where growth is favored by higher temperatures.

[0004] Outdoors, bacteria mostly come from water, soil, and plants and are associated with the presence of humans and animals. Bodies of water can aerosolize it into the air, as can emissions from some industrial processes and cooling units. Inside buildings, bacteria mainly originate from occupants as they constitute the natural flora of the skin and mucous membranes. Often their species are more numerous and their concentrations higher than those of the external environment.

[0005] Peptidoglycans are components of the cell wall of bacteria. They are suspected to be potential agents of lung inflammation associated with inhalation of Gram-positive bacteria. Exotoxins are bioactive molecules, usually, proteins secreted during the growth of bacteria. They are also released during the lysis of bacteria. Although generally associated with infectious diseases, such as botulism, cholera, and tetanus, they can be found on substrates that support bacterial growth and subsequently take the form of an aerosol. The risks associated with their presence in the air are not documented.

[0006] The majority of bacteria found naturally in humans do not cause adverse health effects. Some are even essential to both the human body and the environment. Health risks arise when the concentrations of certain species become abnormally high. Thus, high concentrations of thermoactinomycete bacteria can cause hypersensitivity pneumonia, such as farmer's lung disease. Certain bacteria are recognized as being responsible for infectious diseases. The health risk associated with the presence of the Legionella pneumophila bacteria, or Legionellosis, is well documented. There are two distinct forms of Legionellosis'. Legionnaires' disease, progressive pneumonia which can be fatal, and Pontiac fever, which causes symptoms similar to those of the flu. This bacteria is known for its ability to thrive in water reservoirs. It is prone to drying out and does not surviveoutside of water. However, it can be transmitted through the air by the projection of water droplets that contain it. The genus Mycobacterium is also of interest for health, and particularly the species Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis. The majority of mycobacteria species live in soils and water, but they are also found in diseased tissues of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria are airborne by droplets generated by disease carriers and ventilation systems.

[0007] Viruses are submicroscopic infectious agents that replicate inside the living cells of an organism. Outside an infected cell, viruses exist in the form of independent particles, or virions. Similar to bacteria, viruses may also be dispersed in the air by humans when they sneeze, cough, and speak. Such viruses can survive for variable periods, their duration depending on the size of the droplets projected, the air temperature, its relative humidity, and the presence of a substrate that allows it to travel.

[0008] Both bacteria and viruses can also survive on surfaces of objects for variable periods of time. This increases the likelihood of transmission when the object is handled by different users.

[0009] Children's toys, especially in a common environment such as a day care or a kindergarten class, can be effective transmitters of bacteria and viruses from one child to another. Other objects that may be shared between individuals can also be effective transmitters of bacteria and viruses between users, including health care instruments, shared living / office space items, and pet equipment, among others.SUMMARY

[0010] In various examples, the present disclosure describes systems, methods, and uses of ionized air to sanitize a surface of an object in a compartment.

[0011] In some examples, the present disclosure describes a system for sanitizing a surface of an object, the system comprising: a first compartment having a first opening dimensioned to receive the object therethrough, and having a first cover dimensioned to overlie the first opening, the first cover configured to be re-sealable over the first opening of the first compartment; and an air ionizer coupled to the first compartment to generate free radicals for discharging into the first compartment, wherein reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

[0012] In some examples, the present disclosure describes a method for sanitizing a surface of an object, the method comprising: placing the object in a first compartment through a first opening dimensioned to receive the object therethrough; sealing the first opening of the first compartment with a re-sealable cover; and generating free radicals with an air ionizer and discharging the free radicals into the first compartment, wherein reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

[0013] In some examples, the present disclosure describes a use of free radicals for sanitizing a surface of an object, the use comprising: generating and discharging the free radicals into a sealed compartment containing the object, the compartment having a re-sealable cover, wherein reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

[0014] In any of the above examples, the air ionizer is a cold plasma emitter, and the free radicals comprise hydroxyl radicals.

[0015] In any of the above examples, a fan is coupled to the first compartment, the fan configured to agitate air within the first compartment.

[0016] In any of the above examples, the air ionizer is configured to generate free radicals at a rate of at least 400xl06molecules / cm3.

[0017] In any of the above examples, the first compartment has a volume of 150 L or less, a volume of 80 L or less, or a volume of 25 L or less.

[0018] In any of the above examples, the concentration of free radicals within the first compartment is maintainedbetween 300,000 to 25,000,000 molecules / cm3.

[0019] In any of the above examples, the air ionizer is positioned within the first compartment to generate the free radicals from air within the first compartment.

[0020] In any of the above examples, a second compartment is in fluid communication with the first compartment, the fan being positioned between the first and second compartments to direct air from one compartment to another.

[0021] In any of the above examples, the air ionizer is secured to the second compartment to generate the free radicals therein, the fan being positioned between the first and second compartments to discharge the free radicals from the second compartment into the first compartment.

[0022] In any of the above examples, an air channel is coupled to the first compartment, where one end of the air channel is fluidly coupled to the first compartment, and an opposed end of the air channel is fluidly coupled to the second compartment.

[0023] In any of the above examples, a volume of the second compartment is smaller than a volume of the first compartment.

[0024] In any of the above examples, a second opening is positioned in the second compartment and a second cover is dimensioned to overlie the second opening, the second cover being configured to be re-sealable over the second opening of the second compartment.

[0025] In any of the above examples, the first compartment comprises a plastic storage box and the first cover is a plastic lid that is re-sealable over the first opening with a snap-fit mechanism.

[0026] In any of the above examples, the first compartment is a toy box configured for the storage of children's toys.

[0027] In any of the above examples, the system is used to sanitize health care instruments, shared objects and / or pet equipment.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show example embodiments of the present application, and in which:

[0029] FIG. 1 is a front view of a system for sanitizing a surface of an object according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective rear view of the system of FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 1;

[0032] FIG. 4 is an enlarged plan view of portion B of FIG. 3;

[0033] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of sanitizing a surface of an object according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 6 is a plan view of various test surfaces prior to placement in a compartment;

[0035] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the various test surfaces placed in the bottom compartment of the system of FIG. 1 in Phase 1 of an example study;

[0036] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the various test surfaces in FIG. 7;

[0037] FIG. 9 is a front view of the system of FIG. 7;

[0038] FIG. 10 is a partial side view of the system of FIG. 1 in a second study;

[0039] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of various test surfaces placed in the top compartment of the system of FIG. 1 in Phase 2 of the example study;

[0040] FIG. 12 is a partial rear view of an ionizer and a fan in alternate system for sanitizing a surface of an object used in Phase 3 of the example study;

[0041] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the ionizer and the fan of FIG. 12;

[0042] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the ionizer and the fan of FIG.12;

[0043] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the ionizer and the fan of FIG. 12;

[0044] FIG. 16 is a side view of the ionizer and the fan of FIG. 12 with a curved wall of rubber positioned adjacent to the ionizer;

[0045] FIG. 17 is an upper perspective view of the system for sanitizing a surface of an object according to another example of the present disclosure with internal components illustrated in dashed lines;

[0046] FIG. 18 is a plan view of the system of FIG. 17;

[0047] FIG. 19 is a front view of the system of FIG. 17;

[0048] FIG. 20 is a right side view of the system of FIG. 17;

[0049] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view along line C-C of FIG. 18;

[0050] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view along line D-D of FIG. 19;

[0051] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view along line E-E of FIG. 19;

[0052] FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional view along line G-G of FIG. 23;

[0053] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view along line F-F of FIG. 19; and

[0054] FIG. 26 is an enlarged view of portion H of FIG. 25.

[0055] Similar reference numerals may have been used in different figures to denote similar components.DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and 17-26, embodiments of a system 10 are shown for sanitizing a surface of an object according to examples of the presentdisclosure. The sanitizing system 10 generally comprises a first compartment 12 and an air ionizer 14 coupled to the first compartment 12.

[0057] The first compartment 12 has a first opening that is shaped and dimensioned to receive one or more objects therethrough. In particular, the first compartment 12 comprises a first container 18 and a corresponding first cover 16. The first container 18 defines the first opening, and the first cover 16 is dimensioned to overlie the first opening. The first cover 16 is further configured to be re-sealable over the first opening of the first compartment 12.

[0058] The first compartment 12 of the present disclosure may be sized so as to be portable, such as having a volume of 150 litres or less. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first compartment 12 has a volume of 80 litres. In alternative applications, the first compartment 12 may have a smaller volume, such as 25 litres or less. The first compartment 12 may alternatively also have a volume greater than 150 litres.

[0059] With the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first container 18 is a plastic box 19 and the first cover 16 is a corresponding plastic lid 20 that is re- sealable over the first opening with a snap-fit mechanism. The plastic lid 20 and the plastic box 19 collectively form a plastic-on-plastic seal therebetween, which is sufficient to reduce, if not eliminate, escaping free radicals from the interior. The plastic box 19 and the corresponding plastic lid 20 may be a standard plastic storage box that is commercially available to the public. In other applications, the first container 18 and the first cover 16 may be made of other materials and / or may utilize other re-sealable seals therebetween.

[0060] For example, when the sanitizing system 10 is for use as a toy box, the first container 18 and the first cover 16 may be configured to be openable from the inside, for safety purposes. In that regard, rather than the snap-fit mechanism, the first cover 16 may be weighted such that the weight of the first cover 16 may be sufficient to create a seal between the first cover 16 and the first compartment12 when the first cover 16 overlies the first opening of the first compartment 12. In a further application, the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12 may have embedded magnets to assist in aligning and holding the first cover 16 over the first opening of the first compartment 12. To that end, magnets may be positioned around the first opening of the first compartment 12 and further magnets may be correspondingly positioned proximate the perimeter of the first cover 16. Alternatively, one of the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12 may have embedded magnets while the other may have a ferromagnetic components positioned to correspond with the magnets in use. An advantage of either case is that the first cover 16 may be openable from the inside. Other variations known in the art are possible.

[0061] In certain applications, for example, if the air pressure inside the first compartment 12 is to be higher than the ambient air pressure outside the first compartment 12, the first cover 16 and / or the first container 18 may have a more robust seal. Such a robust seal may involve a gasket (not shown) in order to render the first compartment 12 airtight, when in use.

[0062] The air ionizer 14 is coupled to the first compartment 12 to generate free radicals for discharging into the first compartment 12. The reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms (including bacteria and viruses) on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms by rendering them unable to function and, therefore, leading to their inability to propagate.

[0063] The air ionizer 14 may be a cold plasma ionization emitter or another ion generator known in the art. The air ionizer 14 is configured to cause the formation of free radicals, notably hydroxyl radicals, which react with and deactivate microorganisms as noted above. The cold plasma ionization emitter may be capable of generating 400xl06molecules / cm3or more. In applications where the first compartment 12 has a very large volume, such as greater than 150 litres, a larger air ionizer 14, or more than one air ionizer 14, may be used to generate thefree radicals to fill the first compartment 12. Depending on the size or volume of the first compartment 12, the cold plasma ionization emitter would be configured or selected in order to generate and maintain the ion concentration within the first compartment 12 at (preferably) 300,000 to 25,000,000 molecules / cm3.

[0064] In some applications, not shown, the air ionizer 14 may be positioned within the first compartment 12 to generate the free radicals from air within the first compartment 12. The sanitizing system 10 may further have a fan 22 coupled to, or simply placed within, the first compartment 12, where the fan 22 is configured to agitate air within the first compartment 12. Agitating air within the first compartment 12 may assist in bringing a greater number of hydroxyl radicals into contact with the microorganisms on the surface of the object when the sanitizing system is in use. In some embodiments, one or more objects or walls may be inserted into the first compartment 12 in order to alter the air flow within the sanitizing system 10. This may influence the radical distribution through the first compartment 12 / the sanitizing system 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, a curved wall formed from a rubber sheet may be positioned beside and over the air ionizer 14 in order to alter the air agitation patterns in the sanitizing system 10, such as by helping to direct the radicals towards the surfaces to be sanitized.

[0065] The sanitizing system 10 may further include a second compartment 24 that is coupled to the first compartment 12 in fluid communication. The first compartment 12 may be fluidly coupled to the second compartment 24 via a first conduit 25 positioned therebetween. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, first conduit 25 is formed by corresponding holes at the top and bottom of the first and second compartments 12, 14 (respectively). In such a case, the fan 22 may be positioned between the first and second compartments 12, 24 within the first conduit 25 to direct air from one compartment to another (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The air ionizer 14 is further shown to be secured to the second compartment 24 to generate the free radicals within the second compartment 24. As the fan 22 is positioned between the first and second compartments 12, 24, the fan 22 may beoperated to direct or discharge the free radicals from the second compartment 24 into the first compartment 12. In this manner, objects placed in the first compartment 12 will not come into contact with the air ionizer 14 in the second compartment 24.

[0066] If the sanitizing system 10 includes the second compartment 24, the sanitizing system 10 may further have an air channel 26, where one end of the air channel 26 is fluidly coupled to the first compartment 12 via a second conduit 29, and an opposed end of the air channel 26 is fluidly coupled to the second compartment 24. If the fan 22 is operating to direct and discharge the free radicals from the second compartment 24 into the first compartment 12, the presence of the air channel 26 allows air from the first compartment 12 to be circulated back into the second compartment 24 for re-use. If the fan 22 is operating in the opposite direction, the air channel 26 allows the free radicals generated in the second compartment 24 to be directed and discharged into the first compartment 12. The fan 22 then directs air from the first compartment 12 into the second compartment 24 for re-use. The air channel 26 may be any passageway that fluidly connects the first compartment 12 with the second compartment 24. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the air channel 26 is a hose.

[0067] In some applications, the second compartment 24 may function only to hold the air ionizer 14 within which the free radicals may be generated before being discharged into the first compartment 12. In other applications, the second compartment 24 may also be used to hold an object whose surface is to be sanitized. In such a case, the second compartment 24 may comprise of a second container 27 that forms a second opening, and a second cover 28 that is dimensioned to overlie the second opening. Similar to the first cover 16 with the first compartment 12, the second cover 28 may be configured to be re-sealable over the second opening of the second compartment 24. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, the second container 27 comprises another plastic box 30 and the second cover 28 is another corresponding plastic lid 32 that is re-sealable over thesecond opening with a snap-fit mechanism. The other plastic lid 32 and the other plastic box 30 may collectively form another plastic-on-plastic seal therebetween, which is sufficient to reduce, if not eliminate, escaping free radicals from the interior. The other plastic box 30 and the other corresponding plastic lid 32 may also be a standard plastic storage box that is commercially available to the public.

[0068] Similar to the first container 18 and the first cover 16 noted above, the second container 27 and the second cover 28 may be made of other materials and / or may utilize other re-sealable seals therebetween.

[0069] The volume of the second compartment 24 may be different, such as smaller, than the volume of the first compartment 12. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-4, the volume of the second compartment 24 is 24 L, while the volume of the first compartment 12 is 80 L. When the volume of the second compartment 24 is different from that of the first compartment 12, this naturally creates different concentrations of free radicals in the respective compartments. When the same air ionizer is used over the same period of time, a smaller volume tends to have a higher concentration of free radicals, while a larger volume tends to have a lower concentration of free radicals. Both the (larger) first compartment 12 and the (smaller) second compartment 24 may be used at the same time to hold an object whose surface is to be sanitized. Such a setup creates different regions with different ionizing intensities, which may provide a user the option to sanitize smaller objects faster in the (smaller) second compartment 24 and / or to sanitize larger objects slower in the (larger) first compartment 12.

[0070] Turning to FIGS. 17-26, another embodiment of the system 10 is shown for sanitizing a surface of an object. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS 1-4, this sanitizing system 10 also comprises the first compartment 12, the second compartment 24, and the air ionizer 14. The first compartment 12 includes the first container 18 with a corresponding first cover 16 overlying the first openingof the first container 18. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17-26, the first cover 16 is secured to the first container 18 with hinges.

[0071] Unlike the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, the first cover 16 and the first container 18 shown in FIGS. 17-26 are not configured to engage with a snap- fit mechanism. For example, when the sanitizing system 10 is for use as a toy box, the first container 18 and the first cover 16 may be configured to be openable from the inside, for safety purposes. In that regard, the first cover 16 may be weighted such that the weight of the first cover 16 may be sufficient to create a temporary seal between the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12 when the first cover 16 overlies the first opening of the first compartment 12.

[0072] In a further application, the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12 may have embedded magnets to assist in holding the first cover 16 over the first opening of the first compartment 12 to create the temporary seal therebetween. To that end, magnets (not shown) may be positioned around the first opening of the first compartment 12 and further magnets (not shown) may be correspondingly positioned proximate the perimeter of the first cover 16. Alternatively, one of the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12 may have embedded magnets while the other may have a ferromagnetic components (not shown) positioned to correspond with the magnets in use. In either case, the hinges assist with maintaining alignment between the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12.

[0073] One advantage of the above-described examples is that the first cover 16 may be openable from the inside. Other variations of re-sealable seals known in the art may be used.

[0074] While the air ionizer 14 is also positioned within the second compartment 24, the second compartment in the depicted embodiment is not configured to hold other objects to be sanitized. Rather, the second compartment 24 in the embodiment of FIG. 17-26 is sized to only contain the air ionizer 14. Andinstead of being formed from two containers (as depicted in FIGS. 1-4), the first and second compartments 12, 24 in the embodiment of FIGS. 17-26 are defined within a housing 33 of unitary construction. While the unitary construction allows for a more robust product, the first and second compartments 12, 24 may, in alternate applications, be releasably securable to one another.

[0075] The embodiment shown in of FIGS. 17-26 depicts the air ionizer 14 to be positioned directly adjacent the first compartment 14. To that end, the present embodiment further has an ionizer cover 34 that is positioned to overlie the ionizer 14 and to separate the first compartment 12 from the second compartment 24. The ionizer cover 34 may be releasably securable to the first compartment 12 of the housing 33 so that the air ionizer 14 may be accessible from within the first compartment 12.

[0076] As noted above, the first compartment 12 is fluidly coupled to the second compartment 24 via the first conduit 25 positioned therebetween. As best seen in FIGS. 21 and 25, the first conduit 25 in the depicted embodiment comprises multiple apertures positioned within the ionizer cover 34 adjacent the air ionizer 14. Since the ionizer cover 34 is positioned between the first and second compartments 12, 24, the first conduit 25 allows air to travel freely in either direction.

[0077] The compartments 12, 24 are also fluidly coupled by the air channel 26, where one end of the air channel 26 is fluidly coupled to the first compartment 12 via the second conduit 29, and the opposed end of the air channel 26 is fluidly coupled to the second compartment 24 in fluid communication with, and positioned proximate to, the air ionizer 14. Rather than a hose, the air channel 26 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17-26 is a passageway formed within the unitary housing 33 that fluidly connects the first compartment 12 with the second compartment 24.

[0078] Preferably, the first conduit 25 and the second conduit 29 are coupled to the first compartment 12 spaced apart from each other. For example, in theembodiment depicted in FIG. 17, the first conduit 25 and the second conduit 29 are positioned on opposite sides of the first compartment 12. Further, the first conduit 25 is positioned near the top of the first compartment 12 and the second conduit 29 is positioned proximate the bottom of the first compartment 12. In this manner, the free radical-laden air from one conduit is encouraged to travel across the first compartment 12 (and thereby come into contact with the objects therein) before being re-directed back through other conduit to the air ionizer 14 for further ionization.

[0079] The fan 22 of the embodiment of FIGS. 17-26 is positioned between the second conduit 29 and the air channel 26, also within the housing 33. Similar to the first embodiment, if the fan 22 is operating to direct and discharge the free radicals from the second compartment 24 directly into the first compartment 12 (via the first conduit 25 / apertures in the ionizer cover 34), the presence of the air channel 26 allows air from the first compartment 12 to be circulated back into the second compartment 24 for re-use. If the fan 22 is operating in the opposite direction, the air channel 26 allows the free radicals generated in the second compartment 24 to be directed and discharged into the first compartment 12 via the second conduit 29. Air from the first compartment 12 may then enter into the second compartment 24 via the first conduit 25 / apertures in the ionizer cover 34 for re-use.

[0080] The fan 22 may be situated within the housing 33 proximate to the exterior of the housing 33, where there is a fan opening in the housing 33 to allow access to the fan 22 from the outside. To that end, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17-26 may further comprises a fan cover 36 that is positioned over the fan 22. The fan cover 36 may be releasably secured to the housing 33 so that the fan 22 may be accessed from the outside, for maintenance purposes, for example.

[0081] The embodiment of FIGS. 17-26 also includes multiple protrusions or projections 38 extending from the base of the first compartment 12 into thecompartment. The protrusions 38 may be secured to the first compartment 12 or may be of unitary construction with the housing 33. As best seen in FIGS. 19 and 26, the protrusions 38 depicted have a cylindrical shape with a cone top. In other applications, the protrusions 38 may have other forms, such as rectangular, oval, or non-symmetrical shapes. The presence of the protrusions 38 on the base of the first compartment 12 allows the objects, or at least parts of the objects, that are placed within the first compartment 12 to be elevated off the ground and for air to pass underneath. In that manner, the bottom surfaces of those objects can come into contact with the free radicals within the first compartment when the system 10 is utilized, and thereby allows the bottom surfaces of those objects to also be sanitized.

[0082] Turning to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 500 for sanitizing a surface of an object. The example method 500 may be performed using the sanitizing system 100 as described above, for example.

[0083] At 502, the object to be sanitized is placed in a first compartment through a first opening dimensioned to receive the object therethrough. The first compartment may be the first compartment 12 as described above.

[0084] At 504, the first opening of the first compartment is sealed with a re- sealable cover, such as first cover 16. The seal between the first compartment and the re-sealable cover does not have to be airtight. If the first compartment is a plastic box and the first cover is a corresponding plastic lid the plastic lid may be snap-fitted over the first opening of the plastic box, where the plastic-on-plastic seal between the plastic box and the plastic lid is sufficient to reduce, if not eliminate, escaping free radicals from the interior.

[0085] In alternative applications, the first compartment may be sealed with the first cover in a different manner. For example, at 506, if the first cover 16 is weighted, then the first cover 16 merely has to be placed over the first opening of the first compartment 12 to create the temporary seal therebetween. In a similarmanner, if the first cover 16 and the first compartment 12 have embedded corresponding magnets or ferromagnetic components, then the first cover 16 also merely has to be aligned and placed over the first opening of the first compartment 12 to create the temporary seal therebetween. An advantage of either case is that the first cover 16 may be openable from the inside.

[0086] In other applications, if the air pressure inside the first compartment is to be higher than the ambient air pressure outside the first compartment, the first cover and / or the first compartment may have a more robust seal. Such a robust seal may involve a gasket in order to render the first compartment 12 airtight.

[0087] At 508, free radicals are generated with an air ionizer, such as a cold plasma emitter, and discharged into the first compartment. The free radicals may include hydroxyl radicals. The free radicals may be generated at a rate of 400xl06molecules / cm3or more by the air ionizer. As noted above, reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms (including bacteria and viruses) on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms. The free radicals may be generated and discharged into the first compartment in a number of ways.

[0088] In one application, the object to be sanitized and the air ionizer may both be placed / positioned within the first compartment. The first compartment may have a volume of 150 L or less. At 510, the free radicals may be generated from air within the first compartment, which also holds the object to be sanitized.Optionally, at 512, the air / free radicals within the first compartment may be agitated to encourage a greater number of the free radicals to react with the microorganisms on the surface of the object.

[0089] In another application, the object to be sanitized may be placed in the first compartment while the air ionizer may positioned within a second compartment that is fluidly coupled to the first compartment. In such a case, at 514, the free radicals may be generated in the second compartment, and at 516, the free radicals may be directed from the second compartment into the firstcompartment, where the object to be sanitized is placed. The free radicals may be directed from the second compartment into the first compartment with a fan. The fan may be positioned and secured between the compartments.

[0090] For 510 to 516, the free radicals may be generated such that the concentration of free radicals within the first compartment may be maintained at 300,000 to 25,000,000 molecules / cm3.

[0091] If the system includes the second compartment, optionally, the / another object to be sanitized may alternatively or additionally be placed in the second compartment. The free radicals generated in the second compartment may react with the microorganisms on the surface of the object in the second compartment in the same way as described above.

[0092] As well, if the system includes the second compartment, at 518, air from the first compartment may be circulated back to the second compartment for re-use. To that end, the air from the first compartment may be directed directly back into the second compartment via a conduit or indirectly directed back to the second compartment with an air channel. Thus, the method 500 may return to 514, where the recirculated air may be further ionized to create further free radicals, which may be directed from the second compartment into the first compartment at 516, to react with further microorganisms on the surface of the object(s).

[0093] At 520, after a predetermined period of time, such as 5 minutes, the sanitized object may be removed from the first and / or second compartment. If additional objects require sanitizing, the method 500 may return to 502, and the entire method may be performed again on the additional objects.

[0094] The system may be useful for storage of children's toys, and the first compartment may thus be configured and useful as a toy box, for use for example in environments where a plurality of children are using the same toys, such as in a day care or a kindergarten class. The system may also be useful to sanitizing other objects that are shared between individuals, including health care instruments in ahealth care setting, shared items in a dormitory, elderly care home, or office space, and pet equipment among others.

[0095] Embodiments of the present invention are further described with reference to the following study, which is intended to be illustrative and not limiting in nature.Example Study

[0096] Testing parameters

[0097] For the study, bacteria was used. Bacteria was chosen because they are more difficult to destroy than viruses, which have membranes that are more fragile. They are also safer than viruses to handle. The bacteria used are as follows:

[0098] Human Strains• Lactobacillus casei HA-108• Bifidobacterium bifiduk HA-132• Lactobacillus rhamnosus HA-111• Lactobacillus rhamnosus HA-114• Lactobacillus acidophilus R.0418• Bifidobacterium breve R.0070• Bifidobacterium longum spp. infantis R.0033• Bifidobacterium longum spp. longum R.0175• Lactobacillus salivarius HA-118• Lactobacillus reuteri HA-188• Bifidobacterium longum subsp. Longum R.0175

[0099] Plain Strain:• Lactobacillus Plantarum R1012

[0100] Dairy Strains :Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011• Lactobacillus rhamnosus R.1039• Lactobacillus paracasei HA-196• Lactobacillus helveticus R.0052• Lactobacillus casei R.0215• Streptococcus salivarius spp. thermophilus R.0083• Lactobacillus delbrueckii spp. bulgaricus R.9001• Lactobacillus helveticus R.0052

[0101] Regarding Streptococcus salivarius spp. thermophilus R0083, Streptococcus Thermophilus is a powerful probiotic strain that has well-researched health benefits. It is widely used in various probiotics, including those for children. This probiotic is often found in the colon and has many digestive, immunity, and other researched health benefits. S. thermophilus is used for culturing cheese as well as yogurt. This probiotic strain also produces lactase, which helps people digest milk more efficiently. Finally, probiotic Streptococcus thermophilus also produces antibiotic chemicals to prevent infection from infections like pneumonia, C. difficile, and can help prevent ulcers.

[0102] Description Of Work Protocols

[0103] Bacteria was applied onto different test surfaces, each surface being made of different materials, namely: aluminum, plexiglass, fabric, vinyl, paint, wood, and neoprene (see FIG. 6).

[0104] Phase 1 : a sanitizing system with a first (80L) container and a second (24L) container fluidly coupled together was used. A cold plasma ionization emitter was coupled to the second container, a fan was secured between the containers and a hose was fluidly coupled to both containers to recirculate air between the containers. A first set of bacteria contaminated test surfaces was placed in the first or bottom (80L) container of the sanitizing system as shown in FIGS. 7-9. Free radicals were generated and discharged within the second or top (24L) container with a cold plasma ionization emitter for at least 5 minutes. The air / free radicalswere directed into the first 80L container holding the contaminated test surfaces. Air from the first 80L container was recirculated back into the second 24L container, where further free radicals were generated and discharged within the second 24L container and directed back into the first 80L container etc. Sample swabs of each test surface were taken after each minute the cold plasma ionization emitter was engaged.

[0105] Phase 2: the same sanitizing system as in Phase 1 was used. A second set of bacteria contaminated test surfaces was placed in the second or top (24L) container of the sanitizing system as shown in FIGS. 10-11. Free radicals were generated and discharged within the second or top (24L) container with a cold plasma ionization emitter for at least 5 minutes. Sample swabs of each test surface were taken after each minute after each minute the cold plasma ionization emitter was engaged.

[0106] Phase 3: a sanitizing system with only a first (80L) container was used. A cold plasma ionization emitter was coupled to and within the first container, and a fan was secured to the cold plasma ionization emitter to agitate the air within the first container as shown in FIGS. 12-16. A third set of bacteria contaminated test surfaces was placed in the first (80L) container of the sanitizing system. Free radicals were generated and discharged within the first 80L container via the cold plasma ionization emitter for at least 5 minutes. The concentration of free radicals generated within the container were maintained within a range of 300,000 to 25,000,000 molecules / cm3. The fan was engaged to agitate the air within the first 80L container. Sample swabs of each test surface was taken after each minute the cold plasma ionization emitter was engaged.

[0107] A) BACTERIA - MICRO-SOP-202 METHOD

[0108] A sample was taken with a swab from each test surface, and the samples were then subjected to analysis.

[0109] More specifically, a sample was taken using a sterile swab from the surface suspected of being contaminated with microorganisms according to the protocol described below. Changing gloves between each sampling was important to avoid contamination of another place with the one just sampled. Manipulations promoting asepsis were used.

[0110] Swab Sampling:1. Obtain sterile 1 mL Butterfield's Solution swab to collect and transport samples.2. Wearing gloves, remove the swab from packaging material.3. Remove plug from media tube.4. Swab the desired area thoroughly (100cm2) rolling the swab lightly back and forth over the sampling area.5. Insert the swab in the tube, firmly close the cap, and label appropriately.6. For quantitative culture reporting, the area swabbed needs to be entered on the chain of custody.

[0111] Method Description

[0112] This standard operating procedure was used for the identification and quantification of fungi to the genus, and occasionally, to the species level.

[0113] Results were reported in either CFUs per cm2for air samples collected on agar plates, e.g. Andersen plates or RCS Biotest strips; CFUs (colony forming units) per swab unless an area swabbed was specified; CFUs per gram for bulk specimens; CFUs per sample for contact plates and glove tips; and CFUs per mL for liquid / water samples.

[0114] Applicable Matrices: Air, swab, water, bulk (liquids and solids), contact plates (RODAC), and glove tips.

[0115] Test Method

[0116] Suspensions and dilutions were made from swab, bulk, and liquid / water samples, then incubated on an agar plate.

[0117] Table 1 : Usual growth conditions

[0118] Sample Collection, Preservation, Shipment, and Storage: Samples were collected in sterile sampling containers and shipped in a cooler with ice packs. It is recommended that clients send samples to the lab within 24 hours (overnight delivery), or samples need to be held in a refrigerator until they can be shipped. Samples are held no longer than 2 days before shipping to the lab or prepping. After receiving the samples in the laboratory, the samples may be held at room temperature for no longer than 6 hours before prepping. If unable to prepare within 6 hours, samples were placed under refrigeration.

[0119] Limit of Detection: Also reported as Analytical Sensitivity or Limit of Detection (LOD), the detection limit is equal to 1 colony-forming unit (CFU) per dilution plated. As a general rule, 3 dilutions are performed on a client sample (100X, l,000X, and 10,000X), unless the sample warrants otherwise. For USP <797> samples, 10X and 100X only need to be plated. The smallest dilution plated is used to calculate the reported LOD. For example, if the sample was diluted 10, 100, and 1,000 fold, the limit of detection would be the lowest dilution in this series. In this instance 10, therefore, LD = 10 CFU / sample. For clients submitting agar plates, the LOD is 1 CFU per plate.

[0120] Calibration And Standardization: All incubators, water baths, and analytical balances were checked and maintained to ISO standard

[0121] Sample Analysis - Interpretation And Calculations: After incubation, any bacteria colonies on each agar dilution plate was counted. Any growth was identified using tease mounts or cellophane tape mounts with stain or oil for microscopic identification, using appropriate literature and identification manuals.

[0122] The final results reported were dependent on the dilution factor used. Final results were read on day 5. However, preliminary counts were made on day 3. Reported as "less than" the lowest LOD if no bacteria colonies were found on day 7. If plates could not be counted at the end of the incubation period, they were be stored for later enumeration by refrigerating in a sealable container for no longer than one week.

[0123] Quality Control : All QC data were maintained and made available for easy reference and inspection. All analysts underwent documented training and completion of the fungal culture training checklist. Each laboratory adhered to the quality control and quality assurance procedures described in lab QMS Manual. Agar media quality control was conducted by the manufacturer, as well as in-house. The manufacturer's lot of quality control was recorded, as well as in-house sterility and positive / negative reaction controls. The laboratory conducted quality control for lactophenol blue or Lacto-fuchsin stain produced in-house, on a per-lot basis. Quality control organisms were routinely cultured and used both as positive and negative controls and as an identification aid. Microscopes used in this analysis weremaintained per MICRO-SOP-05 Microscope Use.

[0124] Blanks: One blank was generated each day for either swab or bulk samples; see Culture Blank Log Inter: 5% inter-reanalysis was performed on client samples; see MICRO-SOP-16 Intra: 5% intra-reanalysis was performed; see MICRO-SOP-16. Standards: Any standard fungal cultures were maintained per MICRO-SOP-202-3.

[0125] Reference values for bacterial countFrom 00 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 10 000 UFC / 100cm2 = Very low• From 10 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 20 000 UFC / 100cm2 = Low• From 20 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 50 000 UFC / 100cm2 = Medium• From 50 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 100 000 UFC / 100cm2 = High• From 100 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 200 000 UFC / 100cm2 = Very high• From 200 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 500 000 UFC / 100cm2 = Very, very high• From 500 000 UFC / 100cm2 to 2 000 000 UFC / 100cm2 = Extremely high

[0126] Standards and Analysis

[0127] Samples for bacteria were analyzed by the microbiology laboratory Quebec city, Qc, Canada. This laboratory brings together more than 10 expert laboratories throughout Quebec and Ontario.

[0128] All samples collected were analyzed in laboratories and approved by microbiologists specialized in microbiology. All sampling methods complied with the standards and regulations of the Quebec Health and Safety Research Institute (IRSST) and the Commission des normes, de I'equite, de la Sante et de la securite au Travail (CNESST) regulations. The management of laboratory samples is carried out by biotechnologists, microbiologists, and chemists, each specialized in the cutting-edge sectors of their respective disciplines.

[0129] All analytical laboratory procedures were recognized or accredited according to ISO / IEC 17025. The various laboratory analysis methodologies complied with international standards recognized by NIOSH, ACGIH, OSHA, ASTM, AOAC, FDA, BAM, CTFA, USP, APHA, ASM and EPA, US Environmental Protection Agency.

[0130] The Quality Assurance & Quality Control (QA / QC) internal laboratory programs are also compliant with the ISO 17025 standard. Laboratory analytical work is also consistent with the CMHC Standards and Health Canada.

[0131] Results

[0132] Based on the above results, it was found that the present system, method, and use of sanitizing the surface of objects with free radicals was efficient in killing bacteria on the given test surfaces and effective in destroying surface contaminants. Each configuration reached over 90% reduction of bacteria on all surfaces after 5 minutes of running the system.

[0133] As noted above, the concentration of free radicals generated within the container were maintained at 300,000 to 25,000,000 molecules / cm3. The free radical concentration was found to be effective at reducing bacteria on all surfaces across the above range. Higher concentration levels would increase efficacy, but with diminishing returns. Lower concentration levels would also work, but will likely require longer residency times to supplement the lower dosage.

[0134] Although the present disclosure describes methods and processes with operations (e.g., steps) in a certain order, one or more operations of the methods and processes may be omitted or altered as appropriate. One or more operations may take place in an order other than that in which they are described, as appropriate.

[0135] All values and sub-ranges within disclosed ranges are also disclosed. Also, although the systems, devices and processes disclosed and shown herein may comprise a specific number of elements / components, the systems, devices and assemblies could be modified to include additional or fewer of such elements / components. For example, although any of the elements / components disclosed may be referenced as being singular, the embodiments disclosed hereincould be modified to include a plurality of such elements / components. The subject matter described herein intends to cover and embrace all suitable changes in technology.

[0136] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the subject matter of the claims. The described example embodiments are to be considered in all respects as being only illustrative and not restrictive. Selected features from one or more of the above-described embodiments may be combined to create alternative embodiments not explicitly described, features suitable for such combinations being understood within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

Claims1. A system for sanitizing a surface of an object, the system comprising: a first compartment having a first opening dimensioned to receive the object therethrough, and having a first cover dimensioned to overlie the first opening, the first cover configured to be re-sealable over the first opening of the first compartment; and an air ionizer coupled to the first compartment to generate free radicals for discharging into the first compartment, wherein reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the air ionizer is a cold plasma emitter.

3. The system of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the free radicals comprise hydroxyl radicals.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a fan coupled to the first compartment, the fan configured to agitate air within the first compartment.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the air ionizer is configured to generate free radicals at a rate of at least 400xl06molecules / cm3.

6. The system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first compartment has a volume of 150 L or less.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the air ionizer is positioned within the first compartment to generate the free radicals from air within the first compartment.

8. The system of any one of claims 4 to 6, further comprising a second compartment in fluid communication with the first compartment, wherein the fan is positioned between the first and second compartments to direct air from one compartment to another.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the air ionizer is secured to the second compartment to generate the free radicals therein, the fan being positioned between the first and second compartments to discharge the free radicals from the second compartment into the first compartment.

10. The system of claim 8 or 9, further comprising an air channel, one end of the air channel being fluidly coupled to the first compartment, and an opposed end of the air channel being fluidly coupled to the second compartment.

11. The system of any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising a second opening positioned in the second compartment and a second cover dimensioned to overlie the second opening, the second cover configured to be re-sealable over the second opening of the second compartment.

12. The system of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first compartment is a toy box for storage of children's toys.

13. A method for sanitizing a surface of an object, the method comprising: placing the object in a first compartment through a first opening dimensioned to receive the object therethrough; sealing the first opening of the first compartment with a re-sealable cover; and generating free radicals with an air ionizer and discharging the free radicals into the first compartment,wherein reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the air ionizer is a cold plasma emitter.

15. The method of any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein the free radicals comprise hydroxyl radicals.

16. The method of any one of claims 13 to 15, further comprising maintaining the concentration of free radicals within the first compartment within 300,000 to 25,000,000 molecules / cm3.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the concentration of free radicals is maintained within the first compartment for at least 5 minutes.

18. The method of any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising agitating air within the first compartment with a fan.

19. The method of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the first compartment has a volume of 80 L or less.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein generating and discharging the free radicals comprises: generating the free radicals in a second compartment that is in fluid communication with the first compartment, and directing the free radicals from second compartment into the first compartment with the fan.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising circulating air from the first compartment to the second compartment.

22. Use of free radicals for sanitizing a surface of an object, the use comprising: generating and discharging the free radicals into a sealed compartment containing the object, the compartment having a re-sealable cover, wherein reaction of the free radicals with microorganisms on the surface of the object inactivates the microorganisms.

23. The use of claim 22, to sanitize health care instruments.

24. The use of claim 22, to sanitize shared objects used in shared spaces.

25. The use of claim 22, to sanitize pet equipment.

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