Method for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface, and corresponding system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for controlled selective irradiation of a surface, to enable the irradiation of this surface with a view to obtaining a target effect, this method being implemented by a system comprising an emitting device and a controller device, the emitting device comprising a first emitting source and at least one second emitting source, configured to irradiate the surface with energetic radiations respectively associated with first and second irradiation frequency ranges, the method comprising a step of irradiating the surface by the first and second emitting sources with a view to obtaining the target effect, this irradiation being controlled by the controller device with a view to an emission by the first emitting source of energetic radiation in the irradiation frequency range associated with this first emitting source, for a predetermined duration,and with a view to emission by the second emitting source, independently of the first emitting source, of energetic radiation in the irradiation frequency range associated with this second emitting source, for a predetermined duration. Figure for the abstract: 1 [Fig.1],

Description

Title of the invention: Method for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface, and corresponding system Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the general field of irradiation of surfaces by energetic radiation.

[0002] The invention relates more particularly to a method for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface, as well as a system configured to implement this method. Technical background

[0003] The general principle of the method of irradiating surfaces by energetic radiation is based on the emission of energetic radiation of all types, such as Gamma, Alpha, ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) radiation, towards a surface, with the aim of obtaining a predetermined result at this surface. The surface in question may be, for example, a layer of material, and the predetermined result may be the polymerization of this layer of material, in particular with a view to solidifying it. Another application for such an irradiation method may be the disinfection and / or sterilization of a surface by irradiation, by eradicating the germs or bacteria present on this surface. Other applications may also concern the fields of cosmetology, aesthetics, medicine and paramedical fields.

[0004] In particular, systems and methods for irradiating a surface are known, particularly adapted to the field of additive manufacturing, and configured to emit at least two distinct types of energy, for example in order to obtain the complete polymerization of an irradiated layer of material. These multi-energy systems and methods can also be used in the field of surface disinfection.

[0005] However, the multi-energy irradiation systems currently implemented are disadvantageously complex and bulky / cumbersome. Indeed, they conventionally comprise several energy emitting devices, each of which emits energy at a particular frequency, each of these frequencies being necessary in order to guarantee the complete implementation of the irradiation method.

[0006] Also, according to a known specific configuration, these systems configured to emit at least one energy in several frequencies implements such multi-frequency energy irradiation by means of broad spectrum emitters using Mercury arc lamp technology.

[0007] However, these Mercury arc lamps have many disadvantages. Their manufacture is dangerous, because it involves the use of Mercury, which is a toxic compound, thus having a negative impact on the health of users and on the environment. In addition, the repair index of these lamps is poor since their repair is impossible, and their recyclability is very complex and dangerous.

[0008] Another disadvantage of these multi-energy irradiation systems is that the lifetime of Mercury arc lamps is short and their luminous efficiency is low. This implies the implementation of numerous emitting devices / numerous lamps in an irradiation system, like the bulky multi-energy irradiation systems presented above, resulting in very high energy consumption, inevitably generating harmful and costly energy losses.

[0009] An additional disadvantage of broad spectrum emission sources is the imposed quantitative correlation of each frequency with no other possibility of variation than the use of filters.

[0010] There is therefore a need to provide a multi-energy irradiation method making it possible to implement in a controlled manner all of the steps of the irradiation method, involving several irradiation frequencies, in a simplified manner, while guaranteeing irradiation efficiency, that is to say making it possible to obtain the expected result at the level of the irradiated surface, at least equivalent to that obtained by the implementation of known multi-energy irradiation methods.

[0011] There is also a need to provide a process that has a positive impact on the environment, through the use of a greener energy emitting source, while reducing its implementation costs.

[0012] There is also a need to dissociate the frequency control of each transmitted frequency. Summary of the invention

[0013] For this purpose, the invention proposes a method for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface to enable the irradiation of this surface in order to obtain a target effect, this method being implemented by a controlled multi-frequency irradiation system comprising an emitting device and a controller device, the emitting device comprising a first emitting source comprising at least one emitting element, and at least one second emitting source comprising at least one emitting element, the first and second emitting sources being configured to irradiate the surface with energetic radiations respectively associated with first and second irradiation frequency ranges, this process comprising the following steps: - input into the controller device of first and second predetermined energy parameters respectively associated with at least two irradiation frequencies making it possible to obtain the target effect, as well as time parameters respectively associated with the predetermined energy parameters and corresponding to durations;- irradiation of the surface by the first and second emitting sources in order to obtain the target effect, this irradiation being controlled by the controller device with a view to emission by the first emitting source of energetic radiation at the irradiation frequency associated with the first predetermined energetic parameter, in the irradiation frequency range associated with the first emitting source, for the duration associated with the first predetermined energetic parameter, and with a view to emission by the second emitting source, independently of the first emitting source, of energetic radiation at the irradiation frequency associated with the second predetermined energetic parameter, in the irradiation frequency range associated with the second emitting source, for the duration associated with the second predetermined energetic parameter. ;

[0014] Thus, the method according to the invention makes it possible to irradiate a surface with several distinct irradiation frequencies, with dose control by frequency range, via the use of a system comprising a single emitting device. Such a system according to the invention, and in particular such an emitting device, is simple to implement, and its impact on the environment and the health of users is much less harmful than the irradiation systems of the prior art. Indeed, in particular when these prior systems implement a fixed spectrum using an emitter including a Mercury lamp, necessary to obtain the expected effect (for example, to completely polymerize a surface), they are particularly polluting.In addition to being energy-intensive, these earlier broad-spectrum systems are not in line with the guidelines for the use of Mercury: it is therefore necessary to obtain a usage exemption for their use, as there is currently no technological solution available to replace them. Such an approach is very impractical for users.

[0015] Furthermore, the independent control of the different emitting sources of the emitting device of the invention, which can irradiate concomitantly, advantageously allows an energy saving. Indeed, the irradiation system as a whole can be activated over a shorter period if the different irradiation frequencies are emitted at the same time on the surface. For example, emitting technologies such as LEDs or Lasers can be used for the emitting device of the invention, the latter a yield of energy consumed versus radiation largely superior to Mercury lamp technology.

[0016] The system according to the invention therefore advantageously makes it possible to eliminate the use of such Mercury lamps, and to replace them with a single emitting device equipped with several emitting sources, each source being associated with a precise range of irradiation frequency. It also makes it possible, more generally, to eliminate the implementation, in prior multi-frequency irradiation systems, of a multitude of emitting devices, each being associated with a precise frequency.

[0017] Furthermore, the irradiation system implemented in the invention allows homogeneity of the irradiation at the level of the irradiated surface, because it is possible to distribute the emitting elements of each emitting source homogeneously in the emitting device, so that each emitting source covers the entire surface to be irradiated.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the controlled multi-frequency irradiation system further comprises an analysis device, and the controlled multi-frequency irradiation method further comprises the following steps: - input into the controller device of the target effect to be obtained; - real-time analysis and recording by the analysis device of the actual effect at the level of the irradiated surface; - transmission to the controller device, by the analysis device, of the actual effect analyzed; - real-time control, by the controller device, of the first and second emitting sources during the irradiation process, independently of each other, taking into account the actual effect received, the actual effect received being compared to the target effect, so that: Al- if the target effect is achieved by the actual effect, the emission of energetic radiation on the surface is stopped; and A2- if the target effect is not achieved by the actual effect, the irradiation frequency and / or the duration of the energy radiation emitted at the surface level are modulated in order to obtain the target effect.

[0019] The method according to the invention thus makes it possible to control the irradiation in real time of the irradiated surface, by theoretically taking into account the target effect, which must theoretically be obtained by several predetermined irradiation frequencies, but also by taking into account the real effect actually obtained at the level of this surface. This method therefore allows an optimized irradiation, which is controlled on demand according to what is actually obtained at the level of the surface studied. Thus, and unlike the irradiation methods of the prior art, according to the method of the invention, the predetermined energy parameters, which serve as a guide for conducting the irradiation process, are not necessarily achieved when this is not useful: in fact, this method according to the invention is capable of determining that the irradiation can be stopped because the target effect is already obtained, although the basic energy parameters entered in the controller device are not achieved. Conversely, it can be determined that the effective irradiation of the surface must continue, although the predetermined parameters are already achieved, because the expected effect has not been achieved on the basis of these predetermined parameters.

[0020] The modulation of the emitting sources in real time, and in particular the stopping of the emission of energetic radiation as soon as it is determined that the target effect is obtained, advantageously makes it possible to reduce the energy and financial losses usually linked to conventional irradiation processes, since the continuous and unnecessary irradiation of the surface for which the target effect is already achieved is limited, or even eliminated.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the first and second predetermined energy parameters respectively comprise thresholds, and the method comprises the following additional steps: - measurement and recording in real time, by the analysis device, of the actual energy generated on the surface by the energy radiation; - transmission of the actual energy measurement to the controller device; - real-time control of the first and second emitting sources by the controller device during the irradiation process, taking into account the measurement of the actual energy, the measurement of the actual energy being compared to the thresholds, so that: Bl- if the energy thresholds are not reached and the target effect is not obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on the surface continues, and the irradiation frequency and / or the duration of the energetic radiation emitted at the surface are modulated in order to obtain the target effect; B2- if the energy thresholds are reached but the target effect is not obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on the surface continues, and the irradiation frequency and / or the duration of the energetic radiation emitted at the surface are modulated in order to obtain the target effect; B3- if the energy thresholds are reached and the target effect is obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on the surface is stopped; B4- if the energy thresholds are not reached but the target effect is obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on the surface is stopped.

[0022] The method according to the invention, in addition to taking into account the real effect obtained at the level of the irradiated surface, is capable of taking into account the real energy generated at this surface. This real energy parameter is an additional guide to further optimize the control of the different emitting sources on demand, to achieve the expected target effect in the most efficient, rapid and precise way possible.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the first and second emitting sources each comprise a plurality of emitting elements, the controller device controlling each element of the plurality of emitting elements independently of one another.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the emitting device is a matrix, and the emitting elements of the matrix are LEDs.

[0025] The use of LEDs as emitting elements of different irradiation frequencies allows for a very high robustness of the system, ensuring in particular several years of operation. Also, the irradiance is optimized immediately, because it is not necessary to provide a stabilization time for these LEDs. Furthermore, the LEDs are devices that are easy to integrate into the system of the invention, simple to implement and handle, and inexpensive.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the controller device is a Human-Machine interface.

[0027] Such an interface is easy to integrate into the system of the invention, and simple to implement and manipulate.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the energy radiation is chosen from visible light, infrared, gamma, ultraviolet, laser radiation, microwaves, X-rays, sound waves and convective or conductive thermal deployment.

[0029] The method according to the invention can thus advantageously be adapted to any type of irradiation, and can, according to at least one embodiment, combine them.

[0030] According to one embodiment, when the system comprises an analysis device, the latter is chosen from an image sensor, for example a camera, or a thermal and / or radiative imaging sensor associated with an image analysis module.

[0031] Thus, the analysis device implemented in the irradiation method according to the invention is capable both of measuring the actual energy at the irradiated surface, or even the actual energy at the zones adjacent to a target zone specifically irradiated at the surface, and of analyzing the progress / state of the actual effect at the surface / target zone, while avoiding damaging it. It can therefore transmit these two types of data to the controller device, which is then able to determine how to control the emitting device to achieve the predetermined energy parameters / thresholds and at the same time the expected target effect.

[0032] According to a second object, the invention proposes a system for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface of a product, this system implementing the controlled multi-frequency irradiation process as defined above, this system comprising: - a transmitting device, comprising: — a first emitting source, comprising at least one emitting element, the first emitting source being configured to irradiate the surface with energetic radiation associated with a first frequency range, and — at least one second emitting source, comprising at least one emitting element, the second emitting source being configured to irradiate the surface with energetic radiation associated with a second frequency range; and - a controller device, configured to receive first and second predetermined energy parameters associated with at least two frequencies making it possible to obtain a target effect, as well as time parameters respectively associated with the predetermined energy parameters and corresponding to durations, the controller device being configured to control the first emitting source for the purpose of emitting energy radiation at the frequency associated with the first predetermined energy parameter, for the duration associated with the first predetermined energy parameter, and to control the second emitting source, independently of the first emitting source, for emission of energy radiation at the frequency associated with the second predetermined energy parameter, for the duration associated with the second predetermined energy parameter.

[0033] This system has at least the same advantages as those presented in relation to the corresponding method. It corresponds to a closed loop, which is advantageously fully traceable.

[0034] According to one embodiment, this controlled multi-frequency irradiation system further comprises an analysis device comprising an analysis and recording means configured to analyze the actual result obtained at the surface and to transmit this actual result to the controller device.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the analysis device further comprises a measuring and recording means configured to measure the actual energy generated on the surface by the energy radiation and to transmit the actual energy to the controller device. Brief description of the figures

[0036] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear during the reading of the detailed description which follows, for the understanding of which reference will be made to the attached drawing in which:

[0037] [Fig.l] - [Fig.l] shows a diagram of the controlled multi-frequency irradiation system according to the invention;

[0038] [Fig.2] - [Fig.2] shows a diagram of the controlled multi-frequency irradiation system according to [Fig.l], further comprising an analysis device capable of analyzing the actual effect obtained at the irradiated surface;

[0039] [Fig.3] - [Fig.3] shows a diagram of the controlled multi-frequency irradiation system according to [Fig.3], wherein the analysis device is further capable of measuring the actual energy at the irradiated surface;

[0040] [Fig.4] - [Fig.4] shows a diagram of an irradiation surface divided into several zones, with at least one irradiated target area;

[0041] [Fig.5] - [Fig.5] shows a diagram of the controlled multi-frequency irradiation system according to [Fig.3], comprising an irradiation surface according to [Fig.4], where only the radiations from the first emitting source are represented, in which the analysis device is further capable of measuring the actual collateral energy of at least one zone adjacent to the irradiated target zone. Detailed description of the invention

[0042] The controlled selective irradiation method according to the invention is implemented by an irradiation system as illustrated in [Fig.l].

[0043] Such a system comprises an emitting device 11, for irradiating a surface S, which communicates with a controller device 12. Generally, the controller device 12 controls the emitting device 11 by modulating the energy parameters of the energy radiation emitted by the latter, which are of at least two different frequencies, taking into account the predetermined parameters loaded into this controller device 12 (in particular, emission frequencies and emission durations necessary to obtain the expected result at the irradiated surface).

[0044] In the embodiment of [Fig.l], the emitting device 11 comprises a plurality of emitting sources, which are grouped together, each group of emitting sources being capable of emitting energy radiation in a very specific frequency range. In this embodiment, the emitting device 11 comprises two groups of emitting sources SI 11 and SI 12. The first group SI 11 comprises a plurality of emitting elements 111a, 111b, 11In, which are identical and all capable of emitting in the irradiation frequency range fl 11, and the second group S112 comprises a plurality of emitting elements 112a, 112b, 112n, which are identical and all capable of emitting in the irradiation frequency range fl 12, distinct from the frequency range fl 11. It is understood that more than two emitting sources could be provided within the emitting device 11.

[0045] According to one example, it may be imagined to provide a first group of emitting sources capable of emitting in the frequency range 250-270 nm (corresponding to ultraviolet A (UV-A)), a second group of emitting sources capable of emitting in the frequency range 340-370 nm (corresponding to ultraviolet C (UV-C)), a third group of emitting sources capable of emitting in the frequency range 380-410 nm (corresponding to ultraviolet C 2 (UV-C2)), and finally a fourth group of emitting sources capable of emitting in the frequency range 550-900 nm (corresponding to infrared (IR)).

[0046] According to the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.l], the emitting device 11 corresponds to a matrix which comprises a plurality of emitting elements 111a, 111b, 11 In, 112a, 112b, 112n, these emitting elements being grouped into two emitting sources 111 and 112. Each element of an emitting source is identical to the other elements of this source. But the elements of one source are different from the elements of another source. Each emitting source 111 and 112 can be activated and controlled independently of the other source. In addition, according to one embodiment, each emitting element of a source can also be activated and controlled independently of the other elements of this same emitting source. According to one example, these emitting elements 111a, 111b, 111n, 112a, 112b, 112n are LEDs.

[0047] In this embodiment, the controller device 12 is loaded with predetermined energy parameters associated with the two irradiation frequency ranges fl 11 and fl 12, these predetermined energy parameters being those making it possible to obtain the expected result at the surface S to be irradiated. In the case of [Fig.l], the controller device 12 therefore comprises the predetermined energy parameter E-l1Ix corresponding to the frequency fl 1 Ix that the first emitting source SI 11 must emit, and the predetermined energy parameter E-l12x corresponding to the frequency fl 12x that the second emitting source SI 12 must emit. Each of these predetermined energy parameters is associated in the controller device 12 with a duration, necessary for obtaining the expected final result on the surface S. The parameter E-l1 Ix is therefore associated with the duration Tl 1 Ix and the parameter E-l12x is therefore associated with the duration Tl 12x.

[0048] Thus, during the controlled multi-frequency irradiation process at the surface S, the controller device 12 controls the first source SI 11 so that it emits energy radiation R-111x, according to the predetermined energy parameter El 1 Ix, and for the duration Tl 1 Ix, and it controls the second source SI 12 so that it emits energy radiation Rl 12x, according to the predetermined energy parameter El 12x, and for the duration Tl 12x. The system 1 therefore operates as a closed loop.

[0049] The two emitting sources SI 11 and SI 12 can emit radiation simultaneously or sequentially. Also, each of the emitting elements constituting the two emitting sources SI 11 and SI 12 can emit simultaneously or sequentially.

[0050] In another embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 2], the system 1, and more particularly the controller device 12, can take into account the real effect obtained in real time at the irradiated surface S, to control the emitting device 11 more precisely. For this, the system 1 further comprises an analysis device 13, which comprises a module A configured to analyze and record the real effect OR at the irradiated surface S, either at the areas of this surface S on which the radiation Rl 1 Ix associated with the first frequency range fl 11 is emitted, or at the areas on which the radiation R-l12x associated with the second frequency range fl 12 is emitted, or at all of these areas of the surface S. According to a particular example, the analysis device 13 corresponds to an image sensor, for example a camera.

[0051] After having recorded this real effect OR, the analysis device 13 transmits this data to the controller device 12. The latter has been loaded upstream with the same predetermined parameters of energy El 1 Ix, E-112x and time Tl 1 Ix, Tl 12x as in the first embodiment described above in relation to [Fig.l], and has in addition been loaded with the target effect O expected for the irradiated zone S. It is then able to take this information into account to control in an even more precise and optimal manner the different emitting sources SI 11, SI 12 of the system 1. For this, it comprises means for comparing the target effect O and the real effect OR at the level of the surface S, and depending on the results of this comparison, it adapts its control of the emitting device 11.

[0052] Thus, if the result of the comparison of target effect O / actual effect OR corresponds to the fact that the target effect O is achieved by the actual effect OR, the controller device 12 controls the emitting device 11 so that it stops the emission of energy radiation on the surface S.

[0053] On the contrary, if the result of this comparison of target effect O / actual effect OR corresponds to the fact that the target effect O is not achieved by the actual effect OR, the controller device 12 modulates the irradiation frequency fl 1 Ix, fl 12x and / or the duration Tl 1 Ix, Tl 12x of the energy radiations Rl 1 Ix, Rl 12x emitted by one and / or the other of the emitting sources SI 11, SI 12, at the surface S, so that the target effect O is obtained.

[0054] In another embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 3], the system 1, and more particularly the controller device 12, can also take into account the real energy generated at the level of the irradiated surface S, to further optimize the control of the emitting device 11. For this, the analysis device 13 of the system 1 further comprises a module M configured to measure and record the real energy Gl 1 Ix, Gl 12x generated at the irradiated surface S, either at the zones of this surface S on which the radiation Rl 1 Ix associated with the first frequency range fl 11 is emitted, or at the zones on which the radiation R-l12x associated with the second frequency range fl 12 is emitted, or at the level of all of these zones of the surface S. This real energy can be for example the temperature.

[0055] According to a particular example, the analysis device 13 corresponds to a thermal imaging sensor, for measuring the temperature at the irradiated surface S, which temperature corresponds to the real energy at this surface, and / or a radiative sensor, for measuring any type of energy radiation emitted by the emitting device 11. These devices can also be associated with an image analysis module, such as a camera.

[0056] After recording this real energy, the analysis device 13 transmits this data to the controller device 12. The latter, like the embodiment of [Fig.2], has been loaded upstream with the predetermined parameters of energy El 1 Ix, E-l12x and time Tl 1 Ix, Tl 12x respectively associated with the frequency ranges necessary to obtain the expected result at the surface to be irradiated: in this case, the energy parameters El 1 Ix, El 12x include, in addition to the necessary irradiation frequencies, energy thresholds S-lllx, S-l12x. The controller device 12 has also been loaded with the target effect O expected for the irradiated area S. It is therefore able to take into account both the real OR effect and the real energy Gl 1 Ix, Gl 12x of the irradiated surface to control with optimal precision the different emitting sources SI 11, SI 12 of system 1.For this, in addition to the means for comparing the target effect O and the actual effect OR at the surface level S, it includes means for comparing the different energy thresholds S-lllx, S-l12x with the actual energy Gl 1 Ix, Gl 12x at the surface level S, and depending on the results of this comparison, it adapts its control of the emitting device 11. .

[0057] Thus, if the result of the comparison of target effect O / actual effect OR and energy thresholds -11 Ix, S-112x / actual energy Gl 1 Ix, Gl 12x corresponds to the fact that the energy thresholds Sl 1 Ix, Sl 12x are not reached and the target effect O is not obtained, the controller device 12 modulates the irradiation frequency fl 1 Ix, fl 12x and / or the duration Tl 1 Ix, Tl 12x of the energy radiations Rl 1 Ix, Rl 12x emitted by one and / or the other of the emitting sources SI 11, SI 12, at the surface S, so that the target effect O is obtained. If the result of this comparison corresponds to the fact that the energy thresholds Sl 1 Ix, Sl 12x are reached but the target effect O is not obtained, the controller device 12 also modulates the irradiation frequency fl 1 Ix, fl 12x and / or the duration Tl 1 Ix, Tl 12x of the energetic radiations Rl 1 Ix, R-l12x emitted by one and / or the other of the emitting sources SI 11, SI 12, at the surface S, so that the target effect O is obtained. In particular, it can increase these irradiation frequencies, and their duration. If the result of this comparison corresponds to the fact that the energy thresholds Sl 1 Ix, S-l12x are reached and the target effect O is obtained, the controller device 12 controls the emitting device 11 so that it stops the emission of energy radiation on the surface S.

[0058] And finally, if the result of this comparison corresponds to the fact that the energy thresholds Sl 1 Ix, Sl 12x are not reached but the target effect O is obtained, the controller device 12 also controls the emitting device 11 so that it stops the emission of the energetic radiations on the surface S, since the radiations R-111x, Rl 12x actually emitted have made it possible to reach the target effect O (it does not matter that the predetermined energy thresholds are not reached).

[0059] The controller device 12 thus allows an advantageous energy gain, since it is capable of stopping the irradiation of the surface S irradiated by the emitting device 11 when it is determined that the expected effect is obtained, independently of the basic energy thresholds entered in the controller device 12. The emission of unnecessary radiation is therefore advantageously limited, as soon as the target effect O is obtained, which is very interesting from a financial and environmental point of view.

[0060] The controller device 12 is also capable of independently controlling the plurality of emitting elements 111a, 111b, 11 In, 112a, 111b, 112n of each emitting source SI 11 and SI 12 of the emitting device 11, as a function of the actual effect OR analyzed at the irradiated surface S throughout the irradiation process, to adapt the irradiation process to what is actually obtained at this surface S.For example, if the controller device 12 determines that the actual effect OR at the surface S corresponds to the target effect O on only a portion of this surface S, but that this target effect O is not yet obtained on the entirety of this surface S, it can act on the emitting device 11 to deactivate the emitting elements located above the zone or zones of the surface S for which the target effect O is obtained, and modulate the irradiation frequency of the emitting elements located above the zone or zones of the surface S for which the target effect O is not yet obtained.This modulation of irradiation frequency may consist of modifying the specific irradiation frequency of the emitting elements concerned: for example, if the emitting elements in question are capable of emitting radiation in the frequency range 250-270nm, and they initially emitted at 250nm, the controller device 12 can control them so that they emit specifically at 260. nm, for a certain duration. Thus, the surface S is advantageously not always irradiated as a whole.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the controller device 12 is a Human-Machine interface, which may for example be a computer, a tablet or a smartphone, or even an automaton.

[0062] Generally, the analysis device 13 may comprise analysis means which are of the spectrometer, temperature sensor, infrared imaging, or even microphone type.

[0063] The surface S can be divided into a plurality of zones SI, S2.. .Si.. .Sn, as illustrated in [Fig.4]. The irradiation by the emitting sources SI 11, SI 12 can concern a target zone, which can correspond to a single zone of the plurality of zones SI, S2.. .Si.. .Sn, to the combination of several zones of the plurality of zones SI, S2.. .Si.. .Sn, or even to the entirety of the surface S, that is to say include the entirety of the plurality of zones which compose this surface S.

[0064] According to another embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 5], when the surface S is divided into a plurality of zones SI, S2...Si...Sn, and at least one target zone Si of this surface S is irradiated, for example by at least one emitting element 111a of the first irradiation source SI 11, the analysis device 13 is also capable of measuring the real collateral energy of one or more zones, for example the real collateral energy 1-11 Ix of a zone Sn, which is adjacent / collateral to the irradiated target zone Si. This measurement is recorded by the analysis device 13, which transmits it to the controller device 12.In this, secondary energy thresholds associated with each of the zones constituting the surface S have previously been entered, in particular the secondary energy threshold H-11 Ix associated with the zone Sn: the controller device 12 is then able to compare the collateral energy 1-11 Ix measured at the level of the zone Sn adjacent to the irradiated target zone Si with the predetermined secondary energy threshold H1 1 Ix of this zone. Depending on the result of this comparison, it can modulate the emitting elements of the first emitting source SI 11 which are able to irradiate the target zone Si to impact in one direction or the other the real collateral energy 1-11 Ix of the zone Sn adjacent to the target zone Si.In particular, it can reduce the irradiation frequency of these emitting elements, to reduce this collateral energy 1-11 Ix, if it is determined that it has reached the predetermined secondary energy threshold Hl 1 Ix of this zone, or on the contrary it can increase the irradiation frequency of these emitting elements, to increase this collateral energy 1-11 Ix, if it is determined that it has not yet reached the predetermined secondary energy threshold H-lllx of this zone. Thus, the interpretation of the measurements from secondary sensors linked to the energies generated collaterally to the irradiated target zone makes it possible to preserve the integrity of the target.

[0065] It is therefore understood that, according to the invention, each of the zones constituting the surface S to be irradiated is associated with two types of predetermined energy thresholds, entered into the controller device 12: first predetermined energy thresholds S-lllx, S-112x, called main energy thresholds, and second predetermined energy thresholds H-lllx, H-112x, called secondary energy thresholds.

[0066] Although [Fig.5] only represents the irradiation of the surface by the first emitting source SI 11, the second emitting source SI 12 operates in the same way in the system 1, and more than two emitting sources could also be provided within the emitting device 11.

[0067] The energy radiations R-11 Ix, R-112x emitted by the emitting device 11 may be visible light, infrared, gamma, ultraviolet, laser radiation, microwaves, X-rays, sound waves or even convective or conductive thermal deployment.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the emitting device 11 and the surface S to be irradiated can be integrated into a chamber under a controlled atmosphere, insulated for example with nitrogen or argon, or having a high humidity level, in order to optimize the expected result at the surface level, in particular when the irradiation system is used to polymerize the latter.

[0069] Several examples of implementation of the method and the irradiation system according to the invention are presented below for different applications. It is understood that these examples are not limiting, and that the invention can be implemented for any type of application involving the energy irradiation of a surface to obtain a given effect. First example of realization

[0070] The method and the system according to the invention can be implemented in the case of the polymerization of resins by irradiation.

[0071] It is known to polymerize resins by irradiation using Mercury lamps. However, as presented above, it has been admitted that these Mercury lamps are dangerous for the health of users and for the environment, because they are very polluting. Such lamps also have low integrity durability, and do not allow the energy variants to be separated: this is a broad spectrum technology.

[0072] In the early 2000s, Europe at government level banned the sale of high-pressure mercury vapor lamps, as these lamps were deemed to be among the most polluting lamps.

[0073] However, these mercury lamps are still used in industry today, thanks to a European exemption.

[0074] The invention therefore aims, among other things, to replace Mercury lamps, for polymerizing resins by irradiation, with a more ecological and more economical emitting system.

[0075] Thus, as developed further, the principle of the invention consists of integrating on the same emitting matrix all of the required irradiation frequencies allowing a complete irradiation polymerization process to be carried out. Each frequency is implemented through a specific emitting source. A controller and its associated software make it possible to combine the irradiation frequencies by providing power and time regulation for each frequency.

[0076] A concrete application is the polymerization of tropicalization varnish on electronic cards.

[0077] According to this example, the emitting device 11 is a matrix, for example having the shape of a panel, in which a plurality of emitting elements are arranged, for example emitting diodes, to cover a wide spectrum of radiation, typically ranging from 250 nm to 800 nm, i.e. from ultraviolet UVA (UV-A) radiation to infrared (IR) radiation.

[0078] This type of varnish polymerizes thanks to photoinitiators targeted around 265 nm and 395 nm. A panel 11, for example 400 mm wide and 500 mm long, is therefore used, incorporating a first emitting source SI 11 comprising a plurality of 265 nm LEDs, for example 1200 LEDs, and a second emitting source SI 12 comprising a plurality of 395 nm LEDs, for example 600 LEDs. The two emitting sources S111 and S112 are combined in order to allow perfectly homogeneous coverage of the two frequencies 265 nm and 395 nm.

[0079] In this example, each LED can be controlled independently of another LED, in the two emitting sources SI 11 and SI 12.

[0080] This radiant panel 11 is positioned above a conveyor on which electronic cards pass. When a card is positioned under the radiant panel 11, the controller device 12 of the system, which may be a computer and which communicates with the panel 11, controls for a predetermined duration, respectively Tl 12x and Tl 1 Ix, first the irradiation of the LEDs 112 at 395 nm, then the irradiation of the LEDs 111 at 265 nm.

[0081] Each frequency being controlled in a dissociated manner, it is thus possible to associate each polymerization mode independently. For example, it is possible to first apply IR radiation for an initial temperature rise, then UV-A radiation for core polymerization. It is also possible to apply ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation for surface polymerization, at the same time as the UV-A radiation, or subsequently.

[0082] An analysis device 13 may also be integrated into the system. It may be configured to measure the actual effect obtained at the level of the polymerized varnish layer, and transmit this data to the controller device 12 so that it adapts the control of the radiant panel 11 accordingly. For this, this analysis device 13 comprises a camera, or any other visual analysis module.

[0083] It can thus be determined that the predetermined energy parameters entered into the controller device 12 have not allowed the complete polymerization of the varnish layer, and that the controller device 12 must modulate these parameters, in terms of irradiation frequency and duration, to obtain complete polymerization. Also, on the contrary, it can be determined that the complete polymerization of the varnish layer is obtained, although the predetermined duration of irradiation of one or more emitting sources SI 11, SI 12 of the radiating panel 11 is not reached. In this case, the controller device 12 can completely stop the irradiation by the radiating panel 11.

[0084] This analysis device 13 can also be configured to measure the actual energy felt at the irradiated varnish layer, in addition to the analysis of the actual effect, and transmit this data to the controller device 12 so that it adapts the control of the radiant panel 11 accordingly. As for the actual effect above, the controller device 12 is capable of modulating the frequency and duration of irradiation of the different emitting sources SI 11, SI 12 of the panel 11 so that the actual energy at the polymerized varnish layer approaches the predetermined energy thresholds entered in the controller device 12, in order to obtain the expected effect. In this case, the analysis device 13 further comprises a thermal camera, or any other module capable of measuring the radiation dose and / or the temperature.

[0085] The analysis device 13 can also, if necessary, measure the collateral energy around the target zone of the irradiated surface S, relative to secondary energy thresholds associated with the zones adjacent to this target zone.

[0086] Thus, the replacement of mercury lamps by such a single radiating panel 11, which in particular allows selective control of radiation, makes it possible to irradiate a surface with several irradiation frequencies in a simple and practical manner. This also makes it possible to no longer use mercury, which has a positive impact on the environment and the health of users. In addition, this selective control of radiation makes it possible to minimize the overall temperature rise of the irradiated surface, which has a direct impact on the integrity of the electronic cards. Second example of embodiment

[0087] The method and system according to the invention can also be implemented in the case of the polymerization of layers of varnish on the nails, with the aim of obtaining a target effect which corresponds to the total solidification / drying of the layer of varnish.

[0088] In this case, the emitting device 11 is a lamp which emits UV radiation, consisting of a multitude of UV LEDs grouped into at least two distinct groups of emitting sources SI 11, SI 12 associated respectively with two irradiation frequency ranges fl 11, fl 12.

[0089] The controller device 12 is a computer, into which the target visual state of the final polymerization of the layers of varnish has been entered, and possibly the predetermined temperature which a priori allows the total polymerization of these layers of varnish to be obtained.

[0090] When present, the analysis device 13 comprises a module for visual analysis of the state of polymerization of the layers of varnish, and possibly a UV radiation probe coupled with a thermal camera, which comprises a module for measuring the UV dose and the actual temperature at the surface of the irradiated nails covered with varnish.

[0091] In this case, the computer 12 also comprises means for comparing the actual temperature data with the predetermined temperature data for the surface S to be irradiated, as well as means for comparing the actual state of polymerization of the varnish layers with the expected state of polymerization for this surface S.

[0092] In this example of application of the invention, the irradiation method comprises the same steps as the irradiation method of the previous example.

[0093] Thus, the irradiation method and system according to the invention advantageously allow a substantial energy and financial saving in the field of cosmetics, in particular nail care, because the control of the different emitting sources of the emitting device 11 used to polymerize the layers of varnish on the nails can be adapted to the demand in a closed loop, depending on the evolution of the real situation, and in a simple manner. They also make it possible to minimize the risks of skin cancer linked to UV exposure and the risks of burning linked to adjacent UV or IR radiation, and they are not harmful to the environment.

Claims

1. Claims A method for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface (S), to enable the irradiation of said surface (S) in order to obtain a target effect (O), said method being implemented by a controlled multi-frequency irradiation system (1) comprising an emitting device (11) and a controller device (12), said emitting device (11) comprising a first emitting source (SI 11) comprising at least one emitting element (111a, 111b, 11 In), and at least one second emitting source (SI 12) comprising at least one emitting element (112a, 112b, 112n), said first and second emitting sources (SI 11, SI 12) being configured to irradiate said surface (S) with energetic radiations respectively associated with first and second irradiation frequency ranges (fl 11, fl 12), said method comprising the following steps: - input into said controller device (12) of first and second predetermined energy parameters (E-lllx, E-112x) respectively associated with at least two irradiation frequencies making it possible to obtain said target effect (O), as well as time parameters (Tlllx, T112x) respectively associated with said predetermined energy parameters and corresponding to durations; - irradiation of said surface (S) by said first and second emitting sources (SI 11, SI 12) in order to obtain said target effect (O), said irradiation being controlled by said controller device (12) in order to emit by said first emitting source (SI 11) an energetic radiation (Rl 1 Ix) at the irradiation frequency associated with said first predetermined energetic parameter (El 1 Ix), in the irradiation frequency range (f 111) associated with said first emitting source (SI 11), for the duration (Tl 1 Ix) associated with said first predetermined energetic parameter (El 1 Ix), and in order to emit by said second emitting source (SI 12), independently of said first emitting source (SI 11), an energetic radiation (R-l12x) at the irradiation frequency associated with said second predetermined energetic parameter (E-112x), in the irradiation frequency range (f 112) associated with said second emitting source (S 112), for the duration (Tl 12x) associated with said second predetermined energy parameter (E-112x).

2. A method of controlled multi-frequency irradiation according to claim 1, wherein said system (1) of controlled multi-frequency irradiation further comprises an analysis device (13), said method further comprising the following steps: - inputting into said controller device (12) said target effect (O) to be obtained; - analysis and recording in real time by said analysis device (13) of the real effect (OR) at the level of said irradiated surface (S); - transmission to said controller device (12), by said analysis device (13), of said analyzed real effect (OR); - real-time control, by said controller device (12), of said first and second emitting sources (SI 11, SI 12) during the irradiation process, independently of one another, taking into account said actual effect (OR) received, said actual effect (OR) received being compared to said target effect (O), so that: Al- if said target effect (O) is achieved by said actual effect (OR), the emission of energetic radiation on said surface (S) is stopped; and A2- if said target effect (O) is not achieved by said real effect (OR), the irradiation frequency and / or the duration of the energy radiation (Rl 1 Ix, R-l12x) emitted at said surface (S) are modulated in order to obtain said target effect (O).

3. A method of controlled multi-frequency irradiation according to claim 2, wherein said first and second predetermined energy parameters (E-lllx, E-112x) respectively comprise energy thresholds (S-lllx, S-112x), said method comprising the following additional steps: - measuring and recording in real time, by said analysis device (13), the actual energy (G-lllx, G-112x) generated on said surface (S) by the energy radiation (R-lllx, R-112x); - transmission of the measurement of said real energy (Gl 1 Ix, G-l12x) to said controller device (13); - real-time control of said first and second emitting sources (SI 11, SI 12) by said controller device (13) during the irradiation process, taking into account said measurement of the actual energy (G-11 Ix, G-112x), said measurement of the actual energy (Gl 1 Ix, G-l12x) being compared to said energy thresholds (S-lllx, S-112x), so that: Bl- if said energy thresholds (S-lllx, S-112x) are not reached and said target effect (0) is not obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on said surface (S) continues, and the irradiation frequency and / or the duration of the energetic radiation (R-lllx, R-l12x) emitted at said surface (S) are modulated in order to obtain said target effect (0);B2- if said energy thresholds (S-lllx, S-112x) are reached but said target effect (0) is not obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on said surface (S) continues, and the irradiation frequency and / or the duration of the energetic radiation (R-lllx, R-l12x) emitted at said surface (S) are modulated in order to obtain said target effect (0); B3- if said energy thresholds (S-lllx, S-112x) are reached and said target effect (0) is obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on said surface (S) is stopped; B4- if said energy thresholds (S-lllx, S-112x) are not reached but said target effect (0) is obtained, the emission of energetic radiation on said surface (S) is stopped.;

4. A method of controlled multi-frequency irradiation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said first and second emitting sources (SI 11, SI 12) each comprise a plurality of emitting elements (111a, 111b... 11 In, 112a, 112b... 112n), said controller device (12) controlling each element of said plurality of emitting elements independently of each other.

5. A method of controlled multi-frequency irradiation according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said emitting device (11) is a matrix, and said emitting elements (111a, 111b... 11 In, 112a, 112b... 112n) of said matrix are LEDs.

6. A method of controlled multi-frequency irradiation according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said controller device (12) is a Human-Machine interface.

7. A controlled multi-frequency irradiation method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said energy radiations (R-lllx, R-112x) are selected from visible light, infrared, gamma, ultraviolet, laser radiations, microwaves, X-rays, sound waves and convective or conductive thermal deployment.

8. Method of controlled multi-frequency irradiation according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein, when said system (1) comprises an analysis device (13), the latter is chosen from an image sensor, for example a camera, or a thermal and / or radiative imaging sensor associated with an image analysis module.

9. System (1) for controlled multi-frequency irradiation of a surface (S) of a product, said system (1) implementing the controlled multi-frequency irradiation method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, said system (1) comprising: - an emitting device (11), comprising: - a first emitting source (SI 11), comprising at least one emitting element (111), said first emitting source (SI 11) being configured to irradiate said surface (S) with energy radiation associated with a first frequency range (fl 11), and - at least one second emitting source (S 112), comprising at least one emitting element (112), said second emitting source (SI 12) being configured to irradiate said surface (S) with energy radiation associated with a second frequency range (fl 12);and - a controller device (12), configured to receive first and second predetermined energy parameters (El 1 Ix, E-112x) associated with at least two frequencies making it possible to obtain a target effect (0), as well as time parameters (Tl 1 Ix, T112x) respectively associated with said predetermined energy parameters and corresponding to durations, said controller device (12) being configured to control said first emitting source (SI 11) with a view to emitting energy radiation (Rl 1 Ix) at the frequency associated with said first predetermined energy parameter (El 1 Ix), during; the duration (Tl 1 Ix) associated with said first predetermined energy parameter (El 1 Ix), and to control said second emitting source (SI 12), independently of said first emitting source (SI 11), with a view to emitting energy radiation (R-l12x) at the frequency associated with said second predetermined energy parameter (El 12x), during the duration (Tl 12x) associated with said second predetermined energy parameter (El 12x).

10. Controlled multi-frequency irradiation system according to claim 9, further comprising an analysis device (13) comprising analysis and recording means (A) configured to analyze the actual result (OR) obtained at said surface (S) and to transmit this actual result (OR) to said controller device (12).

11. Controlled multi-frequency irradiation system according to claim 10, wherein said analysis device (13) further comprises measuring and recording means (M) configured to measure said actual energy (Gl 1 Ix, G-l12x) generated on said surface (S) by the energetic radiations (Rl 1 Ix, R-l12x) and to transmit said actual energy (Gl 1 Ix, G-l12x) to said controller device (12).

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