Self-sanitising door handle apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a door handle apparatus to be mounted on one face of a door, comprising a casing (2) and a door handle (4), the door handle being able to rotate in the casing (2) around a longitudinal axis (X), said longitudinal axis (X) being intended to be orthogonal to the face of the door. The casing (2) is configured such that a portion of the door handle is inside the casing (2) and another portion of the door handle is outside the casing (2). The apparatus also comprises a UVC device (30) enclosed in the casing (2) to irradiate at least a part of the portion of the door handle located inside the casing (2), rotation driving means (20) to rotate the door handle about the longitudinal axis (X), a detector to detect the presence of an individual and a controller configured to control the UVC device (30) and the rotation driving means (20) based at least on the information sent by the detector. The driving means (20) rotate the door handle to expose a portion of the door handle that has been previously irradiated and that the UVC device (30) irradiates the part of the door handle that has just entered in the casing (2).

Description

[0001] SELF-SANITISING DOOR HANDLE APPARATUS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART

[0003] The invention relates to a self-sanitising door handle apparatus.

[0004] Door handles used frequently in public settings are significant sources of bacterial, viral, and microbial transmission. Many of these pathogens are easily transmitted from person to person through direct contact with contaminated door handles. Each individual who touches a conventional door handle has the potential to deposit and acquire millions of microorganisms. The risk of transmission escalates with the frequency of handle usage and the number of people seeking access. Repeated contacts with these surfaces can potentially contribute to widespread outbreaks of infectious diseases worldwide, leading to millions of casualties if not adequately addressed.

[0005] To address this critical issue, the application of Ultraviolet radiation or UV radiation presents a viable solution that has been extensively researched and commercially employed for germicidal and disinfection applications. Research has established that UV radiation in the shorter wavelength range, particularly in the UVC category, can cause significant damage to microorganisms while posing no harm to humans. UVC radiation has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in eradicating viruses, germs, bacteria, moulds, fungi, and allergens on various surfaces. Specialised light-emitting diodes (LEDs) serving as UVC radiation sources have undergone rigorous laboratory testing and have proven their ability to eliminate MRSA bacteria (commonly associated with surgical wound infections), Staph, Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, as well as aerosolised H1N1 virus (a strain of the flu), in addition to other antibioticresistant superbugs. UVC LEDs offer the added advantages of compactness and energy efficiency compared to alternative technologies.

[0006] Self-sanitising door handle with UV radiation means to sanitize the handle have been developed but, either the handle is not usable during the sanitizing phase, or the device does not fulfil the security standards requirements.

[0007] In addition, existing self-sanitizing door handle designs are complex and not robust enough for a public settings application.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is consequently one aim of the invention to offer a safe self-sanitizing door handle apparatus which overcomes the above-recited drawbacks.

[0009] The above-mentioned aim is carried out by a self-sanitizing door handle apparatus configured to be fixed to a door, said door handle apparatus comprising a casing and a mobile part therein, the mobile part being intended to be handled by a user and rotate perpendicularly to the plane of the door, the casing being designed such that only a portion of the mobile part is accessible for the user, the other portion being inside the casing. The casing comprises a UV radiation device intended to sanitize at least a part of the remaining portion of the mobile part located in the casing. The apparatus also comprises means to rotate the mobile part, at least after each use of the door handle. It results that the user only contacts a sanitized portion of the mobile part.

[0010] Thanks to the invention, a sanitized part of the door handle is always available and the user is protected from the UV radiations as they are enclosed in the casing. There is no risk that the user is irradiated.

[0011] Preferably the mobile part is a disk, the outer surface being closely surrounded by the casing and the fingers of the user cannot enter the casing and no UV radiation can escape from the casing.

[0012] The door handle advantageously comprises a presence sensor intended to detect the presence of a user, which allows the controller to manage the operation of the apparatus.

[0013] The present invention represents a significant advancement in mitigating the risk of cross-infection caused by door handles. Its innovative design prioritises simplicity and ease of installation, ensuring seamless implementation in various settings. Once installed, the device operates effortlessly and autonomously, eliminating the need for manual intervention or monitoring except to perform routine maintenance services.

[0014] Besides, the present invention is easily applicable to almost any type of door.

[0015] The subject-matter of the invention is then a self-sanitising door handle apparatus intended to be mounted on one face of a door, comprising a casing and a door handle, at least a part of the door handle being able to rotate in the casing around a longitudinal axis, said longitudinal axis being intended to be orthogonal to the face of the door, in which the casing is configured such that a portion of the door handle is inside the casing and another portion of the door handle is outside the casing, whatever the angular position of the door handle is. The apparatus also comprises a UVC device enclosed in the casing and configured to generate UVC radiations inside the casing in order to irradiate at least a part of the portion of the door handle located inside the casing, rotation driving means to rotate the at least a part of the door handle about the longitudinal axis, a detector system to detect the presence of an individual and a controller configured to control the UVC device and the rotation driving means based at least on the information sent by the detector, in order that the rotation driving means rotate the at least a part of the door handle to expose a portion of the door handle that has been previously irradiated and that the UVC device irradiates at least a part of the door handle that is in the casing.

[0016] Preferably, the door handle is a disk. The casing can be a crescent-shape with a side wall having a concave portion and a slot-shaped window is made through the concave portion through which the door handle passes.

[0017] On one example, the door handle comprises a shaft aligned with longitudinal axis and the rotation driving means comprise an electric motor, which is mechanically connected to the shaft of the door handle through transmission means, such as gear set and / or a belt.

[0018] Advantageously, the detector is a motion sensor, preferably an IR sensor, or a proximity sensor, for example an ultrasonic sensor.

[0019] The UVC device is preferably removable through an access opening made through the side wall of the casing, said access opening being closed by an access panel.

[0020] The self-sanitising door handle apparatus advantageously comprise means to detect the removal of the access panel and to shut off at least the UVC device.

[0021] The self-sanitising door handle apparatus can also comprises cooling means for cooling the inner space of the casing, advantageously comprising a ventilation opening made through the casing and a fan.

[0022] According to an additional feature of the invention, the self-sanitising door handle apparatus can comprise information means for informing individuals of the status of the door handle apparatus. Advantageously, the information means comprise at least a light device.

[0023] According to another additional feature of the invention, the controller is configured to shut off the rotation driving means when the detector detects the presence of an individual.

[0024] Preferably, the self-sanitising door handle apparatus is a 12 VDC powered apparatus.

[0025] In one example embodiment, the portion outside the casing is a a portion, a being equal to 360° / n, n being a integer > 0, and the portion inside the casing is 360° - a, and in which the controller is configured to instruct the rotation driving means to rotate the disc by step of a. a is for example equal to 120°.

[0026] Preferably, the casing is made of a plastic material resistant to UVC and the door handle is made of metal or of a plastic material resistant to UVC.

[0027] Another subject-matter of the invention is an operating method of a self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to the invention comprising: a) detecting the presence of an individual, b) when no individual is detected anymore, rotating at least a part of the door handle in order to put the portion of the door handle which was outside the casing, inside the casing c) activating the UVC device, d) repeating steps a), b) and c).

[0028] Advantageously, a cleaning step of the whole door handle is activated after the reset of the apparatus and any maintenance action.

[0029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The present invention will be better understood with the following description and the appended drawings in which:

[0031] - Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a door handle apparatus according to the invention,

[0032] - Figure 2 is a front view of the door handle apparatus of figure 1,

[0033] - Figure 3 is an exploded view of the door handle apparatus of figure 1,

[0034] - Figure 4 is a perspective rear view of the door handle apparatus of figure 1,

[0035] - Figure 5A is the view of figure 4 without the back plate,

[0036] - Figure 5B is a view similar of the figure 5A but some parts have been removed,

[0037] - Figures 6A to 6G are diagram representations of various embodiments of the door handle apparatus of the invention.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Figures 1 to 5B show an example embodiment of a door handle apparatus according to the invention.

[0040] The door handle apparatus of figure 1 comprises a casing 2 and a mobile part 4.

[0041] The mobile part 4 is intended to be handled by a user and will be designated below by "door handle".

[0042] The casing 2 comprises a front cover 6 and a back plate 8. The back plate 8 has securing means 10 to a panel of a door D (figure 1). The securing means are for example holes for mounting screws or bolts therethrough.

[0043] The front cover 6 is configured to allow the door handle to have a portion outside the casing and then accessible to the user and another portion inside the casing.

[0044] In this example, the apparatus has a crescent-shaped casing with a cover comprising a crescent-shaped bottom 6.1 and a side wall 6.2. The side wall 6.2 connects the bottom 6.1 to the back plate 8.

[0045] The side wall 6.2 comprises a convex portion 13a and a concave portion 12, in which a window 14 is made. The window 14 has a shape of slot extending parallel to the bottom 6.1. The door handle passes through the window 14.

[0046] In the example shown, the front cover 6 is made in several parts, namely the bottom and the main part of the convex portion is made in one part, and the concave portion is made separately and is attached to the bottom and the convex portion. Preferably, the front cover 6 is made in one part with a door for maintenance.

[0047] In the example embodiment shown, the door handle has a disk-shaped plate able to rotate about an X axis orthogonal to the back plate 8 and the bottom 6.1. The door handle apparatus is intended to be mounted on the door panel in such manner that the X axis is orthogonal to the door panel.

[0048] The X axis is located about at the middle of the concave portion 12.

[0049] The disk-shaped door handle is mounted in the casing 2 in a manner that it passes through the window. One portion is outside the casing and the remaining portion is inside the casing. In the represented example embodiment (fig.2), one third of the door handle is outside the casing and the remaining two thirds are inside the casing. That means that each rotation of the disc is of 120°.

[0050] An apparatus in which one quarter of the door handle or less is outside the casing and the three remaining quarters or more are inside the casing belongs to the scope of the invention. In this case, each rotation of the disc is of 90° or less. An apparatus in which one half of the door handle is outside the casing 2 and the remaining other half is inside the casing also belongs to the scope of the invention. In this case, each rotation of the disc is of 180°.

[0051] The outer portion of the door handle is intended to be touched by the user to open or close the door to which the door handle apparatus is attached.

[0052] The door handle comprises a shaft 16 aligned with X axis and mounted in such a mannerthat it can be rotated in the casing 2. In advantageous manner, the shaft 16 is rotatably mounted on the back plate 8 through bearings 18. which enable a smooth rotation of the door handle. Preferably there are two bearings, on either side of the door handle, one being supported by the front cover and the other one being supported by the back plate.

[0053] The door handle apparatus also comprises rotation means 20 for rotating the door handle about the X axis. The rotation means comprises an electric motor 22 located inside the casing 2 and mechanically connected to the shaft 16 by a transmission means 24.

[0054] In this example embodiment, the transmission means comprise a gear train which has a first gear 26 coaxial to X axis and surrounding the shaft 16. The first gear 26 is secured to the shaft 16. In this example shown, the shaft 16 and the first gear 26 are made in a single part. The transmission means also comprise a second gear 28 meshing a gear directly mounted on the output shaft of the electric motor. The second gear axis XI is parallel to X axis. A toothed belt 29 connects the first gear 26 and the second gear 28, the rotation driving motion of the electric motor is transmitted to the shaft 16 of the door handle which rotates around X axis.

[0055] In this example, the electric motor 22 is mounted is such manner that its axis is parallel to the bottom and the back plate 8 of the casing 2.

[0056] As a variant embodiment, a set of gears is used instead of the toothed belt.

[0057] An embodiment in which the motor shaft directly meshes with the shaft of the door handle belongs to the scope of the invention.

[0058] The apparatus also comprises sanitising means 30 integrated in the casing and configured to sanitize at least a part of the portion of the door handle located inside the casing.

[0059] The sanitising means 30 comprise preferably a device emitting ultraviolet C (UVC) radiations. Indeed, use of UVC radiations allows to eradicate harmful pathogens commonly found on door handles. For example, the UVC device comprises a UVC diode array.

[0060] In one embodiment, the door handle is made of metal. For example, metal is stainless steel, medium carbon steel. The steel is preferably powdered coated.

[0061] In figure 3, the UVC device 30 is located in the lower part of the casing.

[0062] The material of the casing is advantageously made from a UV resistant material to prevent degradation due to UV exposure, preventing UVC array from escaping the casing. The casing can be made in metal as the door handle, but preferably the casing is made from plastic material.

[0063] In one example, the casing is made in polycarbonate plastic which is capable of withstanding prolonged exposure to UV radiation without significant degradation or yellowing.

[0064] In another example, the casing is made in Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). Specific grades and additives may be selected to have strong UV resistance.

[0065] In another example, the casing is made in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or in HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene).

[0066] Addition of UV stabilizers, coatings, or additives to the plastic material to enhance UV resistance may be also considered.

[0067] As a variant, the door handle is also made in UV-resistant plastic material, which can be the same or different from the one of the casing.

[0068] The manufacturing of the casing and the door handle in plastic material reduces the weight of the whole system.

[0069] In addition, the design of the casing and the door handle are configured to reduce the risk of UVC radiation leakage. The dimensions of the slot through which the door handle is mounted are chosen to allow the door handle to rotate and to reduce the free passage between the door handle and the sides of the slot.

[0070] The door handle apparatus is preferably designed to fulfil the UVC exposure criteria outlined in ISO15858 UVC Devices - Safety Information - Permissible human exposure.

[0071] The UVC are irradiated inside the casing and sanitize the 120° portion of the door handle, which includes both sides of 120° portion and the lateral edge of the disc.

[0072] As a variant, the UVC device is configured or controlled to irradiate in the whole inner space. The extended sanitization would increase the probability of killing more hardy pathogens and also improves the operation by reducing the time a sector needs to sit in the housing.

[0073] As a variant, an apparatus in which the UVC device is located in such manner that the sanitizing process applies to the portion just before it comes out the casing or in which the door handle continuously rotates as it is being sanitized belongs to the scope of the invention.

[0074] In a very advantageous manner, the UVC device is easily removable, for example for carrying a maintenance of the UVC device or a replacement thereof. The UVC device comprises a U-shaped cassette 31 on the inner faces of which the UVC LEDs are attached. The cassette is oriented in the casing in such manner that the disc moves between the two arms of the U-shape. The UVC cassette is sized to cover a 120° portion of the door handle and then sanitized this portion.

[0075] The apparatus also comprises a mount 32 for the UV cassette inside the casing; the mount 32 is attached in the lower part of the casing at the back.

[0076] The convex portion 13 comprises an access window 34 for inserting / removing the removable mount. A removable access panel 36 closes the access window 34. Preferably the presence or not of the access panel 36 is detected. When the access panel 36 is removed from the casing, at least the UVC device is turned off for safety reasons. The electric motor 22 may also be turned off. A case in which the electric motor 22 is turned on when the access panel 36 is removed will be described below.

[0077] When the access panel 36 is put in place, an automatic cleaning mode is advantageously activated. The controller CR instructs the motor to rotate the door handle 360° and activates the UVC device.

[0078] In an advantageous manner, when the door handle apparatus is mounted on the door and it is ready to be used, an initial cleaning is also operated.

[0079] Each time the access panel 36 is removed, or the apparatus is reset for any reason, for example, due to an electrical breakdown, the controller instructs the motor and the UVC device to carry out a cleaning.

[0080] The apparatus comprises a controller for controlling the electric motor and the UVC device. The apparatus comprises a PCB (Print Circuit Board) with the controller CR . The PCB board is advantageously attached to the mount 32. The UVC device and the electric motor 22 are connected to the PBC board.

[0081] The controller CR governs the apparatus's functionality. A specialised algorithm embedded within the controller CR determines the operation of various components. This algorithm encompasses a set of instructions that direct the controller's actions based on preset conditions. The controller CR, guided by this algorithm, effectively controls the on / off status of the UVC LEDs, triggers the motor for rotating the disk, and regulates the colour of the light and / or the colour and the frequency of flash exhibited by the backlight.

[0082] A removable connection is advantageously provided between the PCB and the UVC cassette 31 to ensure an easy replacement of the UV cassette when the UVC LEDs reach their end of life, or there is a misfunctioning.

[0083] The UVC device generates UV radiation in the casing. Preferably the PCB and any other components sensitive to UVC which are located close to the UVC device are housed in a UVC-resistant casing inside the casing of the apparatus.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus also comprises a light device 37 or any device able to provide the user or operator with information about the status of the door handle apparatus, more generally conveying pertinent information to the user or the operator about the apparatus. For example, the light device informs the user of the door handle's readiness for use. It can also highlight any potential functionality issues that may present, for example, a misfunctioning of the UVC device or a power cut. The light device can light on permanently or emit flash with variable frequencies depending on the information to be provided with.

[0085] On figure 4, the light device comprises a backlight which is located behind the door handle and illuminates the rear face of the disc and / or the door. As a variant, the light device is mounted through the cover or through the side face of the casing and can be directly seen by the user.

[0086] The light device 37 preferably comprises LEDs, with a RGB (Red-Green-Blue) PCB.

[0087] The light device 37 is connected to the PCB and is controlled by the controller CR.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a detector system for detecting when a user comes toward the door and attempts to use the device. Preferably the detector system comprises two motion sensors 39 mounted through holes made in the RGB PCB 37. The sensors are located close to the door handle and then sense the motion when someone attempts to grasp the door handle.

[0089] A detector system with one sensor or more than two sensors does not depart from the invention.

[0090] This information is sent to the controller, which checks if the door handle is ready to be used and, if not, triggers the motor and / or the sanitization device for having the door handle ready to use. It can also send a signal to the user, for example, through the light device and / or a sound device which informs the user of the status of the door handle.

[0091] In an advantageous example, the detector is an infrared sensor attached to the controller, which detects the motion of the persons. The infrared sensor is for example a PIR (Passive infrared) motion detector module advantageously accurately detects motion by analysing fluctuations in the levels of infrared radiation emitted by objects, such as individuals, within its sensing area.

[0092] When an individual is close enough to the door, the infrared sensor detects IR radiations emitted by the body of the user, the presence thereof and sends a signal to the controller, which generates adapted instructions for the motor and the UVC device.

[0093] A sound device can be added to the apparatus in addition to the light device or instead of the light device.

[0094] Preferably the controller is configured to stop the handle from rotating while being touched to avoid any risk of injuring the user.

[0095] As a variant, the detector system comprises at least one proximity sensor, for example ultrasonic sensor which measured the distance to an object using ultrasonic sound waves. As a variant an optical sensor and / or a contact sensor can be used instead of the IR sensor or in addition thereto.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises cooling means to cool the inside of the casing 2. Indeed, the operation of the electric motor 22 and the UVC device 30 generates heat. To reduce the risk of malfunction it is preferable to enhance the air flow between the inside of the casing and the surrounding environment. In the present example, the cooling means comprise a ventilation fan 38 and the casing comprises a ventilation opening 40, the fan 38 enhancing the evacuation of the hot air to the outside. An apparatus in which only ventilation openings were made in the casing belongs to the scope of the invention.

[0097] Very advantageously, a baffle 42 (fig.5) is mounted inside the casing facing the ventilation opening to prevent spillage of UVC through the ventilation opening 40. The use of such a baffle enhances the safety of the user by minimizing unintended UV exposure.

[0098] Preferably the electric motor, the UVC device 30 and the ventilation fan 38 are powered by low voltage supply, for example 12 VDC which ensures a safety operation for the user and the operator, by reducing the risk of electrical hazards. In one example, the A 12V AC-DC adapter is integrated in the casing 2 and the apparatus can be powered by a standard utility power AC supply with low voltage in buildings. Preferably a power supply operating from 90 V AC to 240 V AC is usable. The AC-DC adapter is preferably connected to the controller through a removable connection, then it is easily replaceable if the adapter malfunctions or needs to be upgraded. The integration of the AC-DC adapter in the casing improves the portability and convenience of the system.

[0099] As a variant, the AC-DC adapter is applied externally for easy replacement.

[0100] The power can be provided to the apparatus through wires inside the door or through the latch bolt of the door and the frame.

[0101] The power can be provided to the apparatus through various methods, such as a wired connection or power transfer hinges. When a wired connection is used, routing power from a power source to the device on the door using dedicated electrical wires is provided. These wires can be concealed within the wall or surface-mounted using conduits or cable raceways. Door allowing for wiring to pass through the hollow frames forming the main body to powered devices such as access controls can be also used.

[0102] Alternatively, power transfer hinges can be utilized. Power transfer hinges comprise built-in conductive components. They allow electrical power to pass from the door frame to the door while maintaining its swinging functionality. These hinges provide a streamlined power transmission method, eliminating the need for separate wiring and maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the door.

[0103] As a variant, the apparatus is powered from a renewable energy source such as solar, wind or kinetic energy from door opening.

[0104] As a variant the apparatus comprises a rechargeable battery pack to power the apparatus in addition to the AC-DC adapter or instead of the AC-DC adapter.

[0105] Integrating a battery pack into the power supply system in addition to the AC-DC adapter provides added versatility, mobility, and backup power capabilities. The pack advantageously provides back-up power including a battery pack as a secondary power source provides redundancy. In case of any issues with the AC-DC adapter or power supply, the battery pack can take over, ensuring continuous operation and avoiding downtime. In the event of a power outage or when using the apparatus in areas without access to a stable power supply, a battery pack serves as a backup power source. It ensures uninterrupted operation and allows users to continue using the apparatus even during temporary power disruptions.

[0106] When the battery pack is combined to an AC-DC adapter, it can be recharged directly by the AC-DC adapter.

[0107] When the battery pack is the sole power source, it can be recharged by connecting the apparatus directly to a power source when it is required.

[0108] In another example, the batteries are removed from the casing and are recharged. In another example the apparatus includes renewable energy source such as solar, wind or kinetic energy from door opening which recharged the battery pack.

[0109] In another example, the batteries are recharged through the latch bolt and the frame, when the door is closed.

[0110] Preferably, when the battery charge level is low a signal is sent, for example a light signal or a sound signal. Optionally, a signal via electronic communication device can be sent to an operator, for example directly to the operator's smartphone, to inform him that the battery must be recharged. The charge level and operation status can also be shared This communication device can also send any information to the operator about the status of the apparatus.

[0111] Such communication can also be provided for apparatus powered by AC-DC adapter.

[0112] The example of an operating mode of the door handle apparatus according the invention will now be described.

[0113] A user comes toward the door, and puts his hand close to the door handle. The IR sensor detects the IR radiations emitted by the user. The information is sent to the controller which checks if the door handle is ready to be used, that is to say if the door handle has been sanitized. Typically, the door handle sits in a state of readiness, waiting to be touched.

[0114] If the door handle has been sanitized, the controller triggers the lighting of the backlight informing that the door handle is ready to use, for example with green or blue light. The controller also stops the electric motor to avoid any rotation of the door handle when the user touches it.

[0115] If the door handle has not been sanitized, the controller triggers the lighting of the backlight informing that the door handle is not ready to use and that it should not be touched. For example, the light is red. The controller sends an instruction to the motor 22 to rotate the door handle of an 120° angle. The non-sanitized portion is now inside the casing and a sanitized portion is now outside of the casing. The controller instructs the light device to change the red light into the green or blue. The user is now informed that the handle is ready to use and can push or pull it.

[0116] Simultaneously, the controller instructs the UV device 30 to generate UVC irradiations inside the casing 2. The duration of the UVC irradiations generation is for example set in accordance to standard recommendations. When the IR sensor does not detect any IR from an individual, the controller instructs the motor 22 to rotate the door handle of a 120°angle to expose a sanitized portion. During the rotation the colour of the light is preferably changed into red or any other colour informing of the unavailability of the door handle. Advantageously the controller is set to wait a few seconds, for example 3 seconds, to allow the door shut and then to activate the motor and the UVC device.

[0117] When no user interacts with the handle, the apparatus enters in a standby mode, for example any light is switch off, and waits for the next user. Preferably the standby mode ensures optimal energy efficiency and readiness for immediate use when required.

[0118] The ventilation fan can be operated after each irradiation phase or periodically. As a variant it is operated depending on the temperature inside the casing.

[0119] The advantageous intricate coordination between the PCB controller, detector, and other components guarantees a synchronised and efficient operation, enhancing the device's overall effectiveness.

[0120] It may be provided that, after a pre-set duration period during which the door handle is not used, a sanitizing process is triggered to ensure that the exposed portion of the door handle is still free of pathogens.

[0121] The handle door is suitable for use on either push or pull doors.

[0122] Advantageously, the door handle can be manually operated to allow a manual removal of the dirt build up on the disk surface. For example, the apparatus comprises a switch, preferably located inside the casing and accessible through the access window. The operator presses the switch, for example in a specific manner, for example three times, this action triggers the rotation of the door handle, that allows the operator to manually clean the whole door handle. The controller can order to the door handle to rotate during one turn or during several turns. During this manual cleaning the UVC device is preferably turned off.

[0123] In another example embodiment, the door handle apparatus also comprises means to operate a latch of the door. For example, an additional electric motor is integrated into the casing for driving the latch in a lock or open position. The activation of the additional motor can be carried out by the controller when the detector detects the presence of an individual, in this case the open of the latch takes place automatically. As a variant, a voice- activated control access can be provided which offers remote access control through a network connection such as the Internet. The user can directly order the opening of the latch. The disk-shaped door handle is very advantageous because it has a smooth surface, without complex shape, for example without any concave or sharp shape, it is then easy to clean. But the shape of the door handle can vary. For example, the door handle is a shaped- wheel with a circle connected to the shaft by radial beams, the door handle is ovoid or even polygonal.

[0124] Figures 6A to 6G show various shapes for the door handle apparatus.

[0125] Figure 6A shows a door handle apparatus in which the open sector of the casing to access to the door handle is smaller than the example of figure 1.

[0126] Figure 6B shows an example in which the door handle is a shaped-wheel, in which the door handle comprises arms 44 extending radially from the shaft to the wheel.

[0127] Figure 6C shows an example in which the door handle is a shaped-wheel and the open part of the casing is not a sector but is delimited by a chord 46 of the circle delimiting the outer periphery of the circle. This casing shape can be applied to any shape of handle door.

[0128] A casing with an opening delimited by a curve does not depart from the invention. Figure 6D shows an example of a door handle comprising arms 48 extending radially from the shaft and fixedly secured to it. Only one arm is accessible through the opening and can be grasped by the user.

[0129] Figure 6E shows a door handle apparatus in which the door handle comprises arms rotatively mounted on the shaft. Only one arms rotates around axis Y at a time in order to be accessible through the opening. In this embodiment, the casing is rectangular and the opening is also rectangular, and is made in a middle part of a side of the casing. The space required for the apparatus is reduced.

[0130] Figures 6F and 6G show embodiments close to the one of figure 6E but the door handle extends one 90° angle, and the opening is made in a side of the casing. The required space is even more reduced.

[0131] It is understood that the shape of the casing and the shape of the door handle of the various embodiments can be mixed without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0132] The door handle apparatus according to the invention is very easy to install on existing doors, and does not require any specific modification of the doors.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus intended to be mounted on one face of a door, comprising a casing (2) and a door handle (4), at least a part of the door handle being able to rotate in the casing (2) around a longitudinal axis (X), said longitudinal axis (X) being intended to be orthogonal to the face of the door, in which the casing (2) is configured such that a portion of the door handle is inside the casing (2) and another portion of the door handle is outside the casing (2), whatever the angular position of the door handle is, in which the apparatus also comprises a UVC device (30) enclosed in the casing (2) and configured to generate UVC radiations inside the casing (2) in order to irradiate at least a part of the portion of the door handle located inside the casing (2), rotation driving means (20) to rotate the at least a part of the door handle about the longitudinal axis (X), a detector system to detect the presence of an individual and a controller configured to control the UVC device (30) and the rotation driving means (20) based at least on the information sent by the detector, in order that the rotation driving means (20) rotate the at least a part of the door handle to expose a portion of the door handle that has been previously irradiated and that the UVC device (30) irradiates at least a part of the door handle that is in the casing (2).

2. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to claim 1, in which the door handle is a disk.

3. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, in which the casing (2) has a crescent-shape with a side wall having a concave portion (12) and in which a slot-shaped window (14) is made through the concave portion through which the door handle passes.

4. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, in which the door handle comprises a shaft (16) aligned with longitudinal axis (X) and in which the rotation driving means (20) comprise an electric motor (22) which is mechanically connected to the shaft (16) of the door handle through transmission means (24), such as gear set and / or a belt.

5. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the detector is a motion sensor, preferably an IR sensor, or a proximity sensor, for example an ultrasonic sensor.

6. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the UVC device (30) is removable through an access opening (34) made through the side wall of the casing (2), said access opening being closed by an access panel (36).

7. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to the preceding claim, comprising means to detect the removal of the access panel (36) and to shut off at least the UVC device.

8. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, comprising cooling means for cooling the inner space of the casing, advantageously comprising a ventilation opening (40) made through the casing and a fan (38).

9. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, comprising information means for informing individuals of the status of the door handle apparatus.

10. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to the preceding claim, in which the information means comprises at least a light device (37).

11. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the controller is configured to shut off the rotation driving means (20) when the detector detects the presence of an individual.

12. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, which is a 12 VDC powered apparatus.

13. Self-sanitising door handle according to one of preceding claims in combination with claim 2, in which the portion outside the casing is a a portion, a being equal to360° / n, n being a integer > 0, and the portion inside the casing is 360° - a, and in which the controller is configured to instruct the rotation driving means to rotate the disc by step of a.

14. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to claim 13, in which a is equal to 120°.

15. Self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the casing is made of a plastic material resistant to UVC and the door handle is made of metal or of a plastic material resistant to UVC.

16. Operating method of a self-sanitising door handle apparatus according to one of the preceding claims comprising: a) detecting the presence of an individual, b) when no individual is detected anymore, rotating at least a part of the door handle in order to put the portion of the door handle which was outside the casing, inside the casing c) activating the UVC device, d) repeating steps a), b) and c).

17. Operating method according to the preceding claim, in which a cleaning step of the whole door handle is activated after the reset of the apparatus and any maintenance action.

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