Adaptive multivector illumination delivery system

Abstract

To provide a suitable adaptive multivector illumination delivery system.SOLUTION: The present application generally relates to medical systems, devices and methods, and more particularly relates to sanitization, disinfection, and sterilization of medical systems, medical devices, and areas of medical facilities and other areas where the control and prevention of disease are desired. An ultraviolet emitting system for sanitizing target volume can include a plurality of adjustably positionable light sources having a collapsed position and the expanded position. The light sources of the plurality of adjustably positionable light sources can be configured to emit ultraviolet light in substantially homogenous irradiance within the target volume in any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This patent application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 617,755, filed Jan. 16, 2018, and entitled “ADAPTIVE MULTIVECTOR ILLUMINATION DELIVERY SYSTEM, NETWORK AND VOLUME DISINFECTION MATRIX,” to Luis F. Romo, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application relates generally to medical systems, devices, and methods, and more specifically to sanitization, disinfection, and sterilization of medical systems, medical devices, and areas of medical facilities, as well as other areas where disease control and prevention is desired. Sanitation is a general term often used in conjunction with ultraviolet light systems to formally describe agents that reduce bacterial contaminants to safe levels. Disinfection is the more commonly used proper term for ultraviolet light systems, which describes the process of eliminating many or all pathogenic microorganisms on inanimate objects. Sterilization is formally defined as an effective process used to render a product free of all forms of viable microorganisms. A surface is defined as sterile when it is free of all living microorganisms, but validation of sterility is subject to limitations of test sensitivity and practicality. [Background technology]

[0003] Microbial contamination is a global concern within many industries, especially in the healthcare industry. It can cost countries up to billions of dollars in expenses per year, and more importantly, contaminant pathogens plague public and private (e.g., healthcare) settings and environments. These contaminated environments can lead to infectious diseases and ultimately cause death. Furthermore, many infectious diseases are transmitted through contact with contaminated areas and surfaces. The type and severity of infectious diseases transmitted in this way varies. For example, viral and bacterial diseases can be transmitted by physical contact with surfaces on which infectious agents may reside or colonize. Furthermore, awareness and concern of the possibility of widespread outbreaks or even pandemics of infectious diseases is growing worldwide. These concerns arise, in part, from possible natural mutations of influenza and other viruses, and the emergence of new diseases, as well as the increasing resistance of bacterial strains to traditional antibiotics and even newly developed powerful antibiotics.

[0004] Existing disinfection devices and systems for medical facilities may be incomplete in terms of providing sufficient levels of disinfection and reduced disinfection needs. For example, liquid chemical technology is utilized for antimicrobial and disinfection treatment purposes. However, liquid technology is unable to function in some cases, resulting in patient infections and the spread of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Also, due to the resistance of certain pathogens, such as Clostridium difficile, to traditional chemical disinfectants, there is a concurrent need to augment or even replace existing disinfection methods that employ chemicals. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different figures. Like numerals with different subscripts may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0006] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a sterilization device in a collapsed, compact configuration in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates an overhead view of the sterilization device of FIG. 1 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the sterilization device of FIG. 1 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the sterilization device of FIG. 3 in an expanded configuration, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the sterilization device of FIG. 4 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an overhead view of the sterilization device of FIG. 4 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates an overhead view of the sterilization device of FIG. 1 deployed in a room, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary inverse square law and a representative point source disinfection device in the prior art, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] [Figure 9-1] 9A-9D illustrate how ultraviolet light may radiate from a device discussed herein, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9-2]9A-9D illustrate how ultraviolet light may radiate from a device discussed herein, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the sterilization device of FIG. 4 deployed in a room, with a floor and ceiling depicted, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] [Figure 11A] 11A-11C illustrate stages in the deployment of a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] 11A-11C illustrate stages in the deployment of a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11C] 11A-11C illustrate stages in the deployment of a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates a stackable disinfection device in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 illustrates a sterilization device configured to depend from a wall structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 illustrates a sterilization device configured to hang from a ceiling in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] [Figure 15] FIG. 15 illustrates a locking mechanism on the sterilization device of FIG. 1 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] [Figure 16]16A-16D illustrate how a hospital bed may be removed from a patient room and separately disinfected while a disinfection device, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, is moved into the room to disinfect the surfaces in the room.

[0022] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates how a proximity sensor of a sterilization device measures distance and positioning via communication waves of multiple arms, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] [Figure 18A] 18A-18C illustrate a sterilization device installed in different room configurations, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] 18A-18C illustrate a sterilization device installed in different room configurations, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18C] 18A-18C illustrate a sterilization device installed in different room configurations, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Figure 19A] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19C] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19D] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19E] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19F] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19G] 19A-19G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] [Figure 20A] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20B] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20C] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20D] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20E] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20F] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20G] 20A-20G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] [Figure 21A] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21B] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21C] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21D] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21E] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21F] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21G] 21A-21G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] [Figure 22A] 22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22B] 22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22C] 22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22D] 22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22E] 22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22F] 22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22G]22A-22G illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] [Figure 23A] 23A-23B illustrate a rail deployment mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23B] 23A-23B illustrate a rail deployment mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] [Figure 24A] 24A-24F illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24B] 24A-24F illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24C] 24A-24F illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24D] 24A-24F illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24E] 24A-24F illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24F] 24A-24F illustrate a disinfection device with extendable and collapsible arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] [Figure 25A] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25B] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25C] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25D] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25E] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25F] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25G] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Fig. 25H] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25I] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25J] 25A-25J illustrate a controllably driven base with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] [Figure 26A] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26B] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26C] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26D] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26E] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26F] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26G] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Fig. 26H] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26I] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] [Figure 27A] 27A-27F illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable ring structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27B] 27A-27F illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable ring structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27C] 27A-27F illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable ring structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27D] 27A-27F illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable ring structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27E]27A-27F illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable ring structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27F] 27A-27F illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable ring structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] [Figure 28] FIG. 28 illustrates a sterilization device with a horizontally expandable track with a telescoping support structure in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 29] FIG. 29 illustrates a sterilization device with a tension rod extension mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 illustrates a sterilization device with a compression compartment rail mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] [Figure 31A] 31A-31D illustrate a disinfection device with a peripheral geometry multi-base feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31B] 31A-31D illustrate a disinfection device with a peripheral geometry multi-base feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31C] 31A-31D illustrate a disinfection device with a peripheral geometry multi-base feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31D] 31A-31D illustrate a disinfection device with a peripheral geometry multi-base feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] [Figure 32A] 32A-32C illustrate a sterilization device with a peripheral geometry feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 32B]32A-32C illustrate a sterilization device with a peripheral geometry feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 32C] 32A-32C illustrate a sterilization device with a peripheral geometry feature in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] [Figure 33A] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33B] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33C] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33D] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33E] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33F] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33G] 33A-33G illustrate a disinfection device with an expandable base structure with deployment arms in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 illustrates a point source energy volume reference in a room, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] [Diagram 35]FIG. 35 illustrates uniform matrixing of energy volumes within a room achieved by multiple delivery mechanisms as described above, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] [Figure 36A] 36A-36B illustrate irradiation of a central source within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 36B] 36A-36B illustrate irradiation of a central source within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] [Figure 37A] 37A-37B illustrate two source illumination within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 37B] 37A-37B illustrate two source illumination within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] [Figure 38A] 38A-38B illustrate three source illumination within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 38B] 38A-38B illustrate three source illumination within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] [Figure 39A] 39A-B illustrate the irradiation of an energy matrix within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 39B] 39A-B illustrate the irradiation of an energy matrix within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] [Figure 40A] 40A-40D illustrate disinfection data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 40B]40A-40D illustrate disinfection data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 40C] 40A-40D illustrate disinfection data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 40D] 40A-40D illustrate disinfection data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] [Figure 41A] 41A-41D illustrate illumination data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 41B] 41A-41D illustrate illumination data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 41C] 41A-41D illustrate illumination data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 41D] 41A-41D illustrate illumination data for a system discussed herein in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 41E] FIG. 41E shows the irradiance profiles over time for both the walls and floor, showing the average irradiance of the four sides at wall location A over time, and the average irradiance of the four sides at floor location D over time.

[0047] [Figure 42A] 42A-42C illustrate an array of light sources within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 42B] 42A-42C illustrate an array of light sources within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 42C] 42A-42C illustrate an array of light sources within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] [Figure 43A] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 43B] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 43C] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Fig. 43D] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 43E] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 43F] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 illustrates a block diagram illustrating an example computer system machine upon which any one or more of the preceding techniques may be implemented or facilitated, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] [Diagram 45] FIG. 45 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a modular ultraviolet disinfection cassette.

[0051] [Figure 46] FIG. 46 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a modular ultraviolet disinfection cassette.

[0052] [Figure 47] FIG. 47 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a wire mesh cage.

[0053] [Figure 48] FIG. 48 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a frame to which an exemplary embodiment of a modular ultraviolet disinfection cassette may be mounted.

[0054] [Figure 49] FIG. 49 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a cassette disposed within a frame for stackable cassettes and chambers.

[0055] [Figure 50] FIG. 50 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the cumulative effect of multiple vector lights generated from multiple cassettes.

[0056] [Figure 51] FIG. 51 shows an exemplary embodiment of four rectangular cassettes coupled together into an array framework.

[0057] [Figure 52] FIG. 52 shows an exemplary embodiment of 16 rectangular cassettes joined together in a stacked array framework.

[0058] [Figure 53] FIG. 53 shows an exemplary embodiment of eight rectangular cassettes joined together in an octagonal chamber array to create ultraviolet target zones of concentrated multiple vector light.

[0059] [Figure 54] FIG. 54 shows an exemplary embodiment of twelve rectangular cassettes joined together, four on the left, four on the right and four overhead to create a corridor chamber through which items can be passed and sanitized.

[0060] [Figure 55] FIG. 55 shows an exemplary embodiment of 12 rectangular cassettes joined together into a semicircular chamber within which an ultraviolet light target zone is created.

[0061] [Figure 56]FIG. 56 shows an exemplary embodiment of a triangular cassette containing three ultraviolet lamps that can form a three-dimensional shaped chamber, such as a geodesic dome, within which an ultraviolet target zone is generated.

[0062] [Figure 57] FIG. 57 shows an exemplary embodiment of an array of triangular cassettes forming a hexagonal structure that may form part of a geodesic dome within which an ultraviolet light target zone is generated.

[0063] [Figure 58] FIG. 58 shows an exemplary embodiment of a geodesic dome made of triangular cassettes that form a chamber around a completely enclosed ultraviolet light target zone.

[0064] [Figure 59A] 59A-D show examples of self-contained cassettes and mating hinges that may be employed in connecting and stacking arrays of cassettes. [Figure 59B] 59A-D show examples of self-contained cassettes and mating hinges that may be employed in connecting and stacking arrays of cassettes. [Figure 59C] 59A-D show examples of self-contained cassettes and mating hinges that may be employed in connecting and stacking arrays of cassettes. [Fig. 59D] 59A-D show examples of self-contained cassettes and mating hinges that may be employed in connecting and stacking arrays of cassettes.

[0065] [Figure 60A] 60A-C show examples of cassette arrays, illustrated with and without casters, employing mating hinges and end caps for connection to a wall, the latter being a free-floating arrangement supported by wall mating / interlocking, and the cassette array image folds into a compact unit against the wall. [Figure 60B]60A-C show examples of cassette arrays, illustrated with and without casters, employing mating hinges and end caps for connection to a wall, the latter being a free-floating arrangement supported by wall mating / interlocking, and the cassette array image folds into a compact unit against the wall. [Figure 60C] 60A-C show examples of cassette arrays, illustrated with and without casters, employing mating hinges and end caps for connection to a wall, the latter being a free-floating arrangement supported by wall mating / interlocking, and the cassette array image folds into a compact unit against the wall.

[0066] [Figure 61] FIG. 61 shows an exemplary embodiment of a figurative application of a large array of self-contained cassettes, stacked and arranged to form a larger hangar capable of sterilizing a space shuttle, with interlocking hinges. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0067] It should be noted that current disinfection techniques utilizing ultraviolet technology or area ultraviolet disinfection units may not achieve the necessary performance levels or adequate coverage and exposure to all surfaces required to eradicate surface-borne pathogens in healthcare facilities to compete with traditional chemical disinfection methods, and may fail to provide full exposure to all shaded crevices where microorganisms may reside and escape disinfection. Furthermore, currently used area ultraviolet disinfection units often require operating times that negatively impact the schedule and operations of the hospitals to which they are applied. Traditional point source area disinfection systems that have been used to disinfect hospital areas often suffer from a performance limitation in that the irradiance level decreases with distance from the ultraviolet source, approximately following the inverse square law (ISL). One example of point source ultraviolet radiation or light is a single light source or light bulb within a target volume or room. Another example is multiple light sources connected to each other in close proximity. Such multiple light sources may be mounted, for example, to a fixed frame or structure. Examples of these existing disinfection devices, systems, and methods include those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2012 / 0305787, 2017 / 0049915, 2008 / 0213128, and U.S. Patent Nos. 9,165,756, 8,575,567, 6,656,424, 6911177, 6,911,178, 6,911,179, 5,891,399, 9,345,798, and D684671. Other patents and publications that may be relevant to sterilization devices include U.S. Pat. No. 8,907,304, U.S. Pat. No. 9,044,521, TW381489Y, TW556556Y, U.S. Pat. No. 7,459,964, CN206063449, WO2010115183, US20150284206, KR101767055, WO2015012592, and KR20150028153.

[0068] Thus, there is a need for improved disinfection devices, systems, and methods for disinfection that can provide disinfected spaces, surfaces, and / or structures, as well as help combat the spread of diseases that can be transmitted through physical contact with contaminated areas. For the world to transition to and adopt alternative light-based technologies, disinfection performance needs to be reliable, consistent, and sustainable within the work environment. At least some of these challenges are addressed by the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

[0069] The above discussed embodiments may suffer from variable energy, variable germicidal performance, variable shading, variable distance, and performance errors that may ultimately not produce acceptable results in combination. The parameters listed in the prior art may suffer from a major deficiency with respect to the drop in light intensity over a distance, governed by the inverse square law. This deficiency can have a significant impact on the efficacy and performance of disinfection using ultraviolet light, preventing sufficient exposure to be achieved for the entire target volume to be disinfected. This can allow microorganisms that may reside in the shaded crevices or areas furthest from the ultraviolet light source to escape disinfection. To compensate for this significant performance limitation, some of the prior art, systems, and methods include increased operating time, combinations of wavelengths, increased power and light intensity output, or multiple exposures, which can adversely affect proper disinfection performance for all surfaces of interest, especially the target volume. The combination of variable energy levels dissipated with distance has a significant impact on the germicidal performance of the previous solutions. The trust placed in systems using such methods has significant variability in this performance.

[0070] The combination of a list of variable imperfections of shading, intensity, distance, time, energy, as well as variable volume are some of the limitations lacking in previous solutions that leave significant room for improvement of disinfection devices. Volume is the primary variable in the equation of performance with ultraviolet germicidal light, taking into account the inverse square law. Hospitals, clinics, laboratories, classrooms, restrooms, treatment rooms, procedure rooms, operating rooms, scanning rooms, and emergency rooms are all examples of target volumes. All these rooms are essentially target volumes, essentially cube-like, and variable volume.

[0071] The inventors recognize that all these variables need to be overcome in order to fundamentally move towards the adoption of alternative non-chemical technologies for the purpose of disinfecting target volumes. To address these issues, the present disclosure presents solutions, including ultraviolet disinfection devices, systems, and methods, specifically intended to generate precise energy via an ultraviolet light source disposed on one or more extendable and retractable arms, generating a three-dimensional matrix of distributed ultraviolet light energy to disinfect target volumes. One or more extendable and retractable arms allow portability while easily providing customizable disinfection exposure matrices, including large open areas (e.g., large rooms) or smaller constrained areas (e.g., corners, areas with interference, etc.). The arms may also conveniently allow only one setting to disinfect an entire room (e.g., emergency room, ICU room, etc.) within a single rapid light exposure cycle, reducing operation time. The matrix of distributed ultraviolet energy also provides a more effective method of efficiently disinfecting all room surfaces and fixed equipment within a room or target volume by directing ultraviolet energy from multiple angles and directions to minimize or reduce shadowing effects and maximize energy distribution, thereby reducing or eliminating gaps where combinations of microorganisms may otherwise survive the disinfection process. These devices and methods are further easily integrated into, for example, medical logistics, allowing for effective and efficient disinfection.

[0072] In embodiments of the present subject matter, devices, systems, and methods are provided for disinfecting rooms, equipment, and other similar surfaces and items. Specific embodiments of the disclosed devices, delivery systems, and methods will now be described with reference to the drawings. Nothing in the detailed description is intended to imply that any particular component, feature, or step is essential to the invention.

[0073] This overview is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or comprehensive description of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about this patent application.

[0074] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sterilization device in a collapsed or compact configuration. In this embodiment, the device comprises a base structure 1007 in the form of a cylindrical central column. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the base structure may have multiple shapes (e.g., cylindrical, square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, spherical, or irregular) in combination with multiple varying circumferences throughout the base structure. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the base of the base structure is configured to rest on a floor and provide a stable frame for the device. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, multiple casters may be disposed on the base of the base structure. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, one or more ultraviolet radiation sources may be disposed on the base structure.

[0075] FIG. 1 further depicts that the ends of the four arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 are operably coupled to a base structure 1007. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the device possesses one or more arms. Non-limiting examples include one arm, two arms, three arms, four arms, five arms, six arms, seven arms, eight arms, nine arms, ten arms, eleven arms, or twelve arms. Additionally, the four arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 of FIG. 1 are circumferentially disposed within a lamp section 1005 around the top portion of the base structure 1007. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the one or more arms are operably coupled to the base structure at various locations. Non-limiting examples include one end of the one or more arms being attached to the center, top, or bottom portion of the base. In FIG. 1, the four arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 are positioned at the same height on the base structure. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, one or more arms may be positioned at the same height on the base structure, different heights on the base structure, or a combination thereof. Also, the four arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 in FIG. 1 comprise four lamp array sections 1006. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, an arm may carry one or more lamp array sections. Non-limiting examples include one section, two sections, three sections, four sections, five sections, six sections, seven sections, eight sections, nine sections, ten sections, eleven sections, or twelve sections. In this embodiment, each lamp array section 1006 comprises one cylindrical set of upper ultraviolet emitting lamps 1000 extending upward from the section 1006 and passing from the top of the base structure 1007, and a second cylindrical set of lower ultraviolet emitting lamps 1008 extending downward from the section 1006. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, a section may comprise one or more ultraviolet emitting sources. Non-limiting examples include 1 source, 2 sources, 3 sources, 4 sources, 5 sources, 6 sources, 7 sources, 8 sources, 9 sources, 10 sources, 11 sources, or 12 sources.Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the compartment may comprise one or more types of ultraviolet radiation sources. Non-limiting examples include ultraviolet low or medium pressure lamps, or LED ultraviolet sources generating ultraviolet radiation at any ultraviolet wavelength between 180-400 nm. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the ultraviolet radiation sources may be of multiple shapes. Non-limiting examples include cylindrical lamps, bulb lamps, U-tube lamps, biaxial lamps, or point source LEDs. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the ultraviolet radiation sources may comprise various sizes and lengths. Non-limiting examples include ultraviolet radiation source lengths as short as LEDs or as long as typical high output ultraviolet lamps. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the one or more ultraviolet radiation sources may comprise multiple ultraviolet radiation elements. In this exemplary embodiment, the lower set of emitters 1008 do not extend to the bottom of the base to provide clearance with the floor for transport of the device. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the upper ultraviolet radiation lamps may be at the same height or below the top of the base structure. In this embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation lamps 1000 and 1008 are configured to be positioned parallel to the base structure on the lamp array section 1006. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the one or more ultraviolet radiation sources may be positioned at multiple locations on the section. Non-limiting examples include on the top of the extendable arm, or on the bottom, on any side, or any combination thereof. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the ultraviolet radiation sources may be fixed in length or configured to extend and retract radially outward from the arm. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the ultraviolet radiation sources may be positioned at various angles relative to the section. Non-limiting examples include one or more ultraviolet radiation sources positioned perpendicular to the section, across the section, or at any acute or obtuse angle relative to the section.

[0076] Optionally, in this or other embodiments, one or more arms, one or more compartments, or one or more ultraviolet radiation sources may be configured to rotate or pivot. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the arms, compartments, and ultraviolet radiation sources are modular. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, additional compartments may be added on or removed to provide additional configuration options and extend or reduce the reach of the arms. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, additional ultraviolet radiation sources may be added or removed to provide additional configuration and disinfection options depending on the target area or room settings to be disinfected.

[0077] Figure 2 illustrates an overhead view of the disinfection device of Figure 1. The four arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 on the base structure 1007 are positioned orthogonal and equidistant to each other. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, one or more arms may be positioned at various positions relative to each other. Non-limiting examples include one or more arms evenly spaced from each other, one or more arms unevenly spaced from each other, or a combination of one or more arms evenly and unevenly spaced from each other, or one or more arms separated by 180 degrees, 120 degrees, 90 degrees, 72 degrees, 60 degrees, 45 degrees, 40 degrees, 36 degrees, or 30 degrees from each other on a cylindrical base structure. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the angular spacing of the arms may be adjustable around the central column to accommodate different dimensions of the target volume of space. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, one or more arms may be configured to be extendable radially away from the base structure and retractable back in a linear manner relative to the base structure.

[0078] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 depicts a sterilization device including column support wheels or casters 3006 attached to the bottom of a base structure 1007 to facilitate transport and allow the arms 1001, 1002, and 1004 to be spread out in multiple configurations to conform to the target volume surface and dimensions. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the device may or may not include casters 3006 attached to the bottom of the base structure. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the device may include one or more vertical tracks to allow the extendable arms to translate up or down relative to the base structure. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the device may include one or more tracks extending horizontally along the circumference of the base structure, attached to one or more arms and configured to allow the one or more arms to translate around the base structure. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, one or more arms may further include a pivot on an end that operably couples to the base structure, the pivot configured to allow the arm to be adjusted at various angles relative to the base structure. Non-limiting examples include arms arranged vertically, horizontally, or at any angle between horizontal and vertical. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the pivot may include a releasable locking mechanism to lock the rotation angle of the arm. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the minimum pivot angle may be 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, or 90 degrees from vertical, and the maximum angle may allow up to a full 360 degrees of rotation. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the pivot may include a releasable locking mechanism to lock the rotation angle of the arm and also to fully release the arm from the central column to allow replacement or adaptation to a specific application.

[0079] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the disinfection device of FIG. 3 in an extended configuration. FIG. 4 illustrates four arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004, the end of each arm being operatively coupled to a base structure 1007. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the base structure may comprise one or more ultraviolet emitters. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the ultraviolet emitters may comprise multiple shapes and sizes. Non-limiting examples include cylindrical lamps, U-tube lamps, biaxial lamps, bulb-shaped lamps, LEDs, and the like. In this embodiment, the base structure is about 3 feet. However, in this and other embodiments, the height of the base structure is not limited by any factor except the limited height of any ceiling or doorway in which it is installed, which may typically be 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 feet or higher for very large enclosed spaces. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the device may include one or more arms. Each arm, e.g., 1001, extends radially away from a base structure 1007 that rests on casters 3006. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, each arm may extend outward to contact a wall or corner of a room or the perimeter of a target area. The maximum length of a fully extended arm is not limited only by the number of segments, which in practice will remain within some finite number, such as, but not limited to, 4, 8, 16, 36, or 64. Each arm includes four lamp array sections, e.g., 4001, 4002, 4003, and 4004, each including two ultraviolet radiation sources 4011 and 4012 and four support frame sections, e.g., 4013. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, each arm includes one or more lamp sections. Non-limiting examples include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more ultraviolet lamps. The lamp array segments 4001, 4002, 4003, and 4004 are positioned where the length of the segment extends vertically. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the segments may comprise a number of shapes and sizes. Non-limiting examples include cubes, rectangles, hexagons, spheres, etc.The center of each compartment is connected by a folding type support frame, e.g., 4005, 4007, 4008, and 4009. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, each arm comprises an accordion shape with multiple linkages pivotally coupled together to form folding compartments along the arm and allow the arms to accordion-like fold into an expanded or collapsed configuration. The folding mechanism is just one example of translating the UV light source from a contracted configuration to an expanded configuration. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the frame may comprise multiple shapes and sizes. Non-limiting examples include rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, etc. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the connection points between the compartments and the frame may be configured to rotate at various degrees along a horizontal axis. Non-limiting examples of degrees include 90 degrees to 360 degrees, among others. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the connection points between the compartments and the frame may be configured to rotate at various degrees along a vertical axis. Non-limiting examples of degrees include 90 degrees to 360 degrees, among others. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the support frame is comprised of sections made of steel or aluminum, but may also be comprised of other suitable materials, including, but not limited to, plastic, wood, metal, and other natural or synthetic materials. Each ultraviolet radiation source, e.g., 4011, has a cylindrical shape. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the ultraviolet radiation sources may be any shape, including a lamp bulb shape, a cylindrical shape, a U-tube lamp shape, a biaxial shape, a bulb-shaped lamp, an LED, a laser, and the like. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the ultraviolet emitters may be disposed at various locations on the frame or sections or combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples include the top, bottom, sides, or anywhere in between of the frame or sections or combinations thereof. One set of ultraviolet radiation sources extends radially upward away from the support frame, while another set of ultraviolet radiation sources extends radially downward away from the support frame. Additionally, support wheels or casters on four extended arms, e.g., 4010, are connected to a support structure that is connected to the upper or lower portion of the support frame.Support casters 4010 are connected to the support frame further away from the base structure 1007 to prevent the device from tipping over in the extended configuration. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, each arm may include multiple support wheels connected to an upper portion of multiple compartments. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the support wheels may connect to a lower portion of the compartment or frame. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the arm may include one or more compartments, one or more frames, and one or more ultraviolet light emitters.

[0080] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the sterilization device of FIG. 4, showing the base structure 1007, the extendable arms 1001 and 1003 (as viewed from the side), and one of the extendable arms 1003 (as viewed from the edge), as well as the support frame casters 4010 and the base structure casters 3006.

[0081] Figure 6 illustrates an overhead view of the sterilization device of Figure 1 in a fully extended configuration. In this preferred embodiment, the extendable arms 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 are arranged at right angles to each other and connected to a base structure 1007. One or more arms, for example, 1001, each can be configured to accommodate multiple room shapes, including rectangular rooms, square rooms, circular rooms, trapezoidal rooms, etc.

[0082] Figure 7 illustrates an overhead view of the disinfection device of Figure 1 in a square room in a fully extended configuration. The device is located inside the room with a door through which the disinfection device is transported. In this embodiment, each arm 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 is extended toward the four corners of the room to achieve maximum coverage. In other embodiments, the arms may be extended toward the four walls of the room, the entrance to the room, or other portions along the perimeter of the room or target area.

[0083] FIG. 8 illustrates a typical inverse square law and the manner in which light intensity decays from a representative point source disinfection device in the prior art. The inverse square law is expressed by the equation E=P / (4πr 2 ) 8001. Irradiance is represented by "E" with units of W / m^2, power is represented by "P" with units of W, and the surface area of ​​a sphere is represented by "4πr 2", where r is the radius or distance from the point source in m. A representation of a prior art point source disinfection device with multiple light sources arranged in a circle 8002 is also provided. Assume that the distances from the center of the multiple light sources to the minimum ring, the middle ring, and the maximum ring are measured at 1 meter, 2 meters, and 3 meters, respectively. Under this example utilizing a point source disinfection device, assuming a uniform power distribution of 300W at all distances from the point source device, the amount of irradiation at the minimum ring would be about 23.87W / m^2 at 1m, the amount of irradiation at the middle ring would be about 5.97W / m^2 at 2m, and the amount of irradiation at the maximum ring would be about 2.65W / m^2 at 3m. In short, the amount of ultraviolet irradiation falls off greatly with distance from multiple light sources arranged centrally or closely together. As an example, the graph 8003 further depicts the amount of light irradiation E (Watts / meter^2) 8004 from a 300 watt point source that decays with distance (m) 8005. This significant decay of light from disinfection devices utilizing point sources, e.g., cylindrical lamps, or point source models consisting of several lamps in a concentrated area, illustrates one of the major problems with prior art disinfection units configured to utilize point sources. The highest UV intensity occurs only in close proximity to the UV lamp surface. However, at greater distances, such as may be present in any normal sized room, the intensity of UV light at these distances is often so decayed that it is insufficient to produce a significant level of disinfection without challenging extended exposure times. Furthermore, most currently available point source area disinfection units use either a single lamp, or a cluster of lamps located close together that act similarly to a single source, and as a result, there are often many surfaces within a room that will not be directly exposed to UV light, but will be subject to shadows and variable levels or residual bacteria or pathogens.Both of the aforementioned problems with current point source area disinfection systems and the referenced prior art are overcome in the current embodiment of an Adaptive Multi-Vector Matrix Device by a distributed matrix of ultraviolet lamps that are physically constructed and adapted to form a distributed grid that generates a multi-vector field of ultraviolet light.

[0084] 9A-9D illustrate an example embodiment of how ultraviolet intensity radiates from an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Instead of following a traditional point source device using an inverse square law model, multiple light sources, e.g., in this embodiment, 9003, are positioned along the length of multiple arms, e.g., 9004. The areas of high intensity are then more uniformly distributed by the extended arms, e.g., 9004. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the areas of high intensity of ultraviolet energy are more uniformly distributed within the room or target volume. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the areas of high intensity of ultraviolet energy are uniformly distributed within the room or target volume. In this and other embodiments, the net effect of the distributed light sources provides a more even distribution of multiple vector light while avoiding shadowing issues. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the calculation of the actual intensity within the room at any point depends on the contribution from each of the distributed light sources and the multiple vector summation. In addition, because the lamps are more precisely distributed throughout the room in this and other embodiments, the intensity level throughout the room will be more uniform than the point source model compared to a minimum based on equivalent total lamp wattage and will not suffer from the dramatic decrease in intensity after 0.5 meters, 1, 2, 3, and 4 meters seen with the central point source model of the prior art. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the degree to which the intensity is homogenized across the room or target volume will depend on the number, intensity, or positioning of the light sources. Optionally, in some embodiments, with up to a theoretically infinite number of UV sources, the intensity profile within the room or target volume will be precisely distributed and constant in the average value of the intensity within the room. This approach to overcoming the deficiencies associated with the point source model of light does not depend on having an infinite number of lamps, but in some embodiments there will be some finite number of lamps that will provide a good intensity distribution and also provide multiple vector light coming from a sufficient number of directions where shadowing issues will be overcome.9A illustrates how, optionally, in this and other embodiments, the concentric circular contours 9001 of ultraviolet light intensity overlap, thereby producing better coverage and intensity across various distances throughout the volume of the space or room or target area, as compared to a point source model concentrated at the center of the room. Optionally, in some embodiments, measurements of irradiance utilizing this exemplary adaptive matrix may demonstrate 1-20 W / m^2 at a distance of 1 meter, with only about 1-100 W of power from the center of the embodiment, indicating higher intensity further away from the exemplary embodiment, providing better coverage of all surfaces within the volume of space, higher intensity, and therefore better and faster disinfection, as compared to the point source model.

[0085] In another exemplary embodiment, a lamp is illustrated in FIG. 9B of embodiment 9010 having four extendable arms. Smaller circles, e.g., 9111, around each lamp, e.g., 9112, represent the illumination contour. It can be seen that the overlapping smaller circles form a multiple vector light field outlined by the black straight lines forming an X-shape 9113. Larger thinner circles, e.g., 9114, representing lower illumination levels, also overlap and form a diamond shaped area, e.g., 9115, between the extended arms, e.g., 9116, and the multiple vector light field is lower than the area within the black straight lines forming the X-shape 9113. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, these areas of reduced illumination will be areas near the center area of ​​each wall within a square or rectangular room occupied by the device.

[0086] FIG. 9C illustrates an exemplary embodiment of what happens when a fifth arm 9020 with a lamp 9021 is inserted between any other two extended arms 9022 and 9023 in an area of ​​reduced illumination, the lamp being represented by a small circle and a circular area expanded in FIG. 9D. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, one or more arms may be added or removed on the device. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the fifth extended arm may comprise multiple ultraviolet radiation sources, which may comprise lamps. In this embodiment, when this fifth lamp 9021 on the fifth arm 9020 is placed in an area of ​​lowest illumination in the multiple vector light field, the illumination level is increased and the multiple vector light field is more evenly distributed. That is, a more uniform level of multiple vector light, or a flatter illumination profile, can be achieved by inserting a lamp anywhere where the illumination field demonstrates a potential drop in energy.

[0087] FIG. 9D illustrates a close-up image of the area once a fifth lamp 9020 and a fifth extended arm 9021 are added to the device. A circular area of ​​increased illumination 9030 is generated in a spot between two other extended arms 9022 and 9023 (which may be adjacent to a wall of the room, for example). This method can be repeated for the other three areas of reduced illumination between the arms to make the overall multi-vector profile more uniform. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, adding arms with additional sources to the device for areas of lower illumination can be repeated indefinitely until complete uniformity of the multi-vector illumination field is achieved. Optionally, in other embodiments, only a few additional lamps are added until the multi-vector illumination field is sufficiently uniform or evenly distributed to achieve a high level of disinfection at all points within the room or enclosed space or target area. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, additional point light sources may be added on the device. The method of incrementally adding arms with additional ultraviolet radiation sources creates a well-distributed field of multi-vector light and makes the illumination profile more uniform. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the effective method of disinfecting a target area is performed in a single exposure cycle. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the single exposure cycle can last for 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds, 60 seconds, 70 seconds, 80 seconds, 90 seconds, 100 seconds, 110 seconds, 120 seconds, 130 seconds, 140 seconds, 150 seconds, 160 seconds, 170 seconds, 180 seconds, 190 seconds, or 200 seconds. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the single exposure cycle can last for up to 20 minutes.

[0088] In this and other embodiments, the level of UV intensity is more widely distributed within the available space, creating a more uniform field or distributed matrix of UV light where UV rays from multiple directions can reach all surfaces, thereby providing much more effective and efficient disinfection of these surfaces in less time than traditional point source area disinfection units, the latter advantage being extremely important for medical facilities and operating rooms that operate on tight schedules and have limited time for the disinfection process. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the distributed matrix of UV light can be adaptive through adaptive arms, or UV light sources on the arms or base structure. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the distributed matrix of UV light can be adaptive by adjusting the amount of irradiation resulting from one or more UV light sources on one or more arms. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the arms are collapsible and extendable. In this and other embodiments, designs can be designed to serve a unique function of efficient, effective, and rapid disinfection of hospital-acquired pathogens that is of great value to healthcare facilities that have always struggled with pathogens that are compatible with antibiotics as well as chemical disinfectants, and that, unlike the current disclosure, have found limited effectiveness within the time constraints of normal hospital cleaning procedures and face limitations of the point source model discussed above that incompletely disinfect rooms or surfaces due to shading problems and the inverse square law.

[0089] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a sterilization device deployed in a room, where the floor and ceiling are also illustrated. A base structure 10001 supports extended arms, e.g., 10002, which support ultraviolet lamps, e.g., 10003. The base structure is supported on casters 10004, while the extended arms are supported on casters 10005. In this illustration, the folding mechanism is only partially extended; at full extension, the folding arms would fold flat against each other. In this and other embodiments, the extendable arms may be removable through a simple latching mechanism disposed on the ends of the extendable arms operably coupled to the base structure, which would facilitate part replacement and allow simple configurations (e.g., only three arms, or only two arms) to be implemented as the application may require.

[0090] 11A-11C illustrate exemplary stages of deployment of a disinfection device. FIG. 11A illustrates the device 11001 in its portable configuration being moved through a doorway to a desired resting position in a square-like room 11003 whose surfaces are to be disinfected. Optionally, in this or any embodiment, the device may be placed anywhere in the target area or room. FIG. 11B illustrates each of the four arms of the device, for example, 11002, extending from a base structure 11004 and filling the available volume of space in the room 11003. Optionally, in this or any embodiment, the arms may be simultaneously extended toward the four corners or walls of the room. Optionally, in this or any other embodiment, the arms may be extended manually or automatically. In other embodiments, one or more arms may be extended at different times and at different lengths. In FIG. 11C, each of the four arms, for example 11002, has completed extension from the base structure 11004 and the device is ready for the disinfection process. Optionally, in this or any embodiment, the device provides 80%, 90%, 99%, 99.9%, 99.99%, 99.999%, 99.9999%, or greater eradication of pathogenic microorganisms. The device may optionally be configurable in any embodiment to work within a large open area (e.g., a large room or ward) or a smaller constrained area (e.g., a corner, an area with interference, etc.). The device may additionally be configurable to require only one setting for the entire room (e.g., an emergency room, an ICU room, etc.) with one light cycle. The room to be disinfected may be part of a patient room or may further include a hospital bed. The device may also optionally be configured in any embodiment to be part of a mobile unit for disinfecting temporary medical site operations remote from the hospital. Additionally, FIG. 11C illustrates that when any change in position is detected from the entry or exit point, a tether mechanism 11005 is retracted from the system and attached to an entry or exit point within the volume of space to deactivate the light on the system and prevent accidental exposure of the user upon attempting to enter the volume of space receiving disinfection.The tether can be made of string material, plastic or metal wire that is extendable and retractable from the device, and there can be multiple tethers for multiple exit or entry points. In addition, a timer located outside the room communicates wirelessly with the base 11004 and the control system within the base, and the runtime of the device indicates to the user that a UV light cycle is in progress. In addition, a screen located outside the room 11003 can display the timer or duration of the UV light cycle, as well as an image of the light cycle in progress via a video recording device built into one of the arms of the device.

[0091] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary embodiment as a stackable feature for disinfection. In this embodiment, the present disclosure can be stacked via the attachment 12006 on the lower center column 12002 that is connected to the upper center column 12001, and at the attachment of the support 12005 of the extended arm 12003. The extendable arm 12003 can extend in this stacked arrangement. The stacking allows for the upward extension of the disinfection system, where it may be desired to disinfect surfaces at a higher level. The stacking is not limited to a pair of disinfection devices, more than two devices can be stacked for areas with very high ceilings.

[0092] 13 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a sterilization device configured to hang from a wall structure 13005. In this embodiment, the central column 13001 may be rectangular in configuration and may be coupled with a permanent wall mount (not shown) to facilitate installation and removal. An extendable arm 13002 provides for the extension of the array of ultraviolet lights 13004 away from and parallel to the wall 13005, with additional support being provided by a vertical arm support with rolling casters 13003. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the attachment of the central column to the wall 13005 may be permanent.

[0093] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure configured to hang down from a ceiling. In this embodiment, a rectangular central column 14001 is permanently or temporarily attached to the ceiling. In the example shown, a lamp 14002 is attached from the bottom of the extendable arm, but other embodiments may also include a lamp on the top side of the extendable arm. In this embodiment, additional support such as a ceiling hook may be employed to provide structural support to the extended arm. In other embodiments, the ceiling hook may be absent and the extendable arm may extend downward at an angle, e.g., 45 degrees, and may not require additional support.

[0094] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the locking mechanism and arm extension mechanism on the system of FIG. 1. The mechanism in this embodiment relies on a screw mechanism 15002 that extends or retracts the folding mechanism which extends or retracts the arm 15001. The screw mechanism 15002 is driven by a motor 15004, which in turn will compress a threaded nut 15003. The motor-driven folding mechanism can be locked into place via a controller (not shown), or via a digital control (not shown), or manually (not shown). Alternative locking mechanisms, including manual locking, can be utilized. The folding mechanism with the locking mechanism illustrated in FIG. 14 is utilized for figurative and illustrative purposes only, and arm extension and locking can be accomplished through conventional mechanical and electrical means readily known in the art.

[0095] 16A-16D illustrate an exemplary embodiment of how a hospital bed or operating table would be removed from a patient room and disinfected separately while the system is moved into the room to disinfect the surfaces of the room. FIG. 16A shows a 16001 hospital patient room with two beds or one bed that is moved out of the room while the room is disinfected by the device. FIG. 16B shows an exemplary embodiment of the current disclosure 16002 that is moved into the patient room through an open door and positioned for deployment. FIG. 16C shows a patient bed 16001 being disinfected separately by a disinfection system 16003 described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,675,720, that is installed around the bed and uses a wall 16004 to enclose the fourth side of the enclosed space. FIG. 15D shows a rectangular patient room with an exemplary embodiment of the current disclosure 16002 deployed to fit the rectangular dimensions of the room, here with the door closed. In this example, the extendable arms 16005 of the sterilization unit 16002 are set at a non-orthogonal angle to fit the rectangular dimensions of the room and obtain maximum coverage. In some cases or embodiments, a patient bed or operating table can remain within the volume of space in the medical environment and be disinfected using the current disclosure during a single cycle of disinfection of the volume of space. In this example, the device will have a suitable central column design to receive the operating table or patient bed and provide sufficient matrix exposure to all reachable sides of the table or bed while simultaneously disinfecting the volume and surfaces within the room, including the walls and corners.

[0096] FIG. 17 illustrates how a proximity sensor 17000 measures distance and positioning via communication waves 17001 of different arms and builds a matrix within various volumes of a space. The sensor is then designed, programmed and configured to build a uniform geometric matrix that translates into an evenly distributed light matrix from the device 17002. The sensor measures the geometric distance between each arm and between the walls and corners of the volume of space 17003 and manually or robotically adjusts the physical geometry and positioning of the current device within the room either radially or angularly or both to provide the best suitable matrix for the desired volume of space targeted for disinfection. This is the primary differentiator between the current disclosure and the prior art.

[0097] Figures 18A-18C illustrate how exemplary embodiments of the sterilization device can be adapted to rooms of various shapes by rotating the extendable arms as well as extending the arms. Figure 18A shows a typical rectangular room inside which an exemplary embodiment of the sterilization device 18001 is installed for a sterilization cycle, with the two extendable arms at the top 18005 and 18002 and bottom 18003 and 18004 at an obtuse angle to each other, while the two extendable arms at the left side 18005 and 18004 of Figure 18A and the two extendable arms at the right side 18002 and 18003 are at an acute angle to each other. Figure 18B shows an example of how the extendable arms of the device 18001 can be rotated significantly to fit a long, narrow room or hallway. Figure 18C illustrates a figurative example of how the extendable arms can be rotated in an asymmetric manner to each other to fit the dimensions of a room with a unique or irregular shape.

[0098] Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the device described in any of the figures above may further include an electronic control system, including a computer processor, configured to execute computer readable instructions and robotic commands for positioning to perform at least one disinfection operation. In further embodiments, the disinfection operation may utilize some or all of the ultraviolet light emitters. Optionally, in this or any embodiment, the control system may be physically configured as part of an extendable frame. Additionally, the control system may include a transceiver configured to transmit and receive information via a communication network. The control system may also be configured to transmit information providing at least one identification of (a) items within the target area and (b) locations of one or more target areas. In some embodiments, the information transmission may indicate that the items or target area locations have been disinfected by the disinfection device. Optional embodiments of the processor may be configured to selectively control the ultraviolet light intensity and duration of the ultraviolet light source for the disinfection operation. Optional embodiments of the processor may further be configured to adjust the power provided to the ultraviolet light source based on the aging of the ultraviolet light source to provide a consistency of ultraviolet light intensity from the radiation source. All embodiments of the processor may also be configured to selectively control a plurality of ultraviolet emitting devices depending on which of a plurality of shapes the extendable arms and array are configured in. All embodiments of the processor may be optionally configured to power on a subset of the ultraviolet emitting devices while one or more of the other ultraviolet emitting devices are powered off, or to receive at least one signal from one or more sensors configured to measure ultraviolet exposure within the target area, or to receive at least one signal from a sensor configured to identify at least one of (a) an item within the target area and (b) a physical location of the target area, or any combination therein.The processor may further employ at least one signal generated based on at least one RFID tag, or decals, indicators, or markers utilizing Bluetooth or wireless communications that may be placed on items within the target area and / or at the physical location of the target area or volume. In further embodiments, the processor may include multiple sub-processors.

[0099] 19A-19G illustrate an ultraviolet radiation device 1900 with extendable and collapsible arms according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 19A-19G are discussed in parallel below. The ultraviolet radiation device 1900 can include a structure 1902, which can include a light source 1904, a base 1906, wheels 1908a-1908d (only wheels 1908a-1908c are visible), also referred to as wheels 1908, and arms 1910a-1910d. The structure 1902 can also include first rails 1912a-1912d and second rails 1914a-1914d. Each of the arms 1910a-1910d may include a bracket 1916 having rollers 1918a-1918d (only the top rollers 1918a-1918b are visible, and the bottom rollers 1918c-1918d may be below the top rollers 1918a-1918b). Each of the brackets 1916 may include a hinge 1920. Each of the arms 1910a-1910d may include links 1922a-1922d and links 1924a-1924d, respectively. Each of the arms 1910a-1910d may further include a second bracket 1926a-1926d, respectively, and a cross member 1928a-1928d, respectively. Also shown in Figures 19A-19G is a central axis A.

[0100] The structure 1902 can be a rigid or semi-rigid structure positionable within the target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume. The light source 1904 can be an ultraviolet light source, such as a light bulb or other device, configured to emit ultraviolet radiation. The light source 1904 can be coupled to the structure 1902 to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed and expanded positions, as discussed in more detail below.

[0101] The base 1906 may be a rigid or semi-rigid member made of a material such as one or more of metal, fibrous material, composite material, plastic, combinations thereof, or the like. The base 1906 may be configured to support the structure 1902 and the light source 1904 within the target volume. The base 1906 may have a height that is relatively greater than its width and length. In some examples, the base 1906 may have a generally rectangular prism geometry. The wheels 1908 may be wheels, casters, or the like configured to allow the ultraviolet radiation emitting device 1900 to roll within the target volume.

[0102] Each of the arms 1910a-1910d, first rails 1912a-1912d, second rails 1914a-1914d, brackets 1916, hinges 1920, links 1922a-1922d, links 1924a-1924d, second brackets 1926a-1926d, and cross members 1928a-1928d may be rigid or semi-rigid, made of a material such as one or more of a metal, plastic, foam, elastomer, ceramic, composite, combinations thereof, or the like.

[0103] The arms 1910a-1910d may be movable arms or supports releasably securable to the first rails 1912a-1912d and the second rails 1914a-1914d, respectively. The arms 1910a-1910d may be movable along the first rails 1912a-1912d and the second rails 1914a-1914d, respectively, generally transverse to the central axis A. The arms 1910a-1910d may be movable between an extended position (away from the base 1906) and a collapsed position (adjacent to the base 1906).

[0104] Each of the first rails 1912a-1912d and the second rails 1914a-1914d can be a long, relatively thin member that can be secured to the base 1906 and configured to support the arms 1910a-1910d thereon. The first rails 1912a-1912d and the second rails 1914a-1914d can be releasably secured to the base 1906 and can extend around the periphery of the base 1906 generally transverse to a central axis. That is, each component of the first rails (1912a, 1912b, 1912c, and 1912d) can be secured to one side of the base 1906 such that it extends completely around the base 1906. In other embodiments, the first rails 1912 can include fewer portions and may not extend completely around the base 1906. The second rails 1914a-1914d can be similarly configured, but spaced apart from the first rails 1912a-1912d generally parallel thereto. In some embodiments, the structure 1902 can include only the first rails 1912a-1912d or the second rails 1914a-1914d, or only a portion of each.

[0105] Although the bracket 1916 can be a coupling member connectable to the first arm 1910a, each arm 1910a-1910d can include a bracket. The bracket 1916 can be hingeably coupled to the arm 1910 via a hinge 1920, which can allow the first arm 1910a to rotate about the hinge 1920 and thus the first rail 1912a and the support 1906. The rollers 1918a-1918d can be wheels or other rolling members, optionally including bearings, connected to the bracket 1916, and can engage with the first rail 1912a such that the rollers 1918a-1918d can assist in the transfer of the weight (force) of the first arm 1910a to the first rail 1912a. The rollers 1918a-1918d can also rotate relative to the bracket 1916, allowing the bracket to translate in a low friction manner relative to the first rail 1912a, allowing the first arm 1910a to translate relative to the first rail 1912a and relative to the support 1906. The bracket 1916 can thereby allow the arms 1910a-1910d to be translated to any position on their respective first rails 1912a-1912d. Although the bracket is discussed as having four rollers, the bracket can include fewer or more rollers, such as 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or the like rollers. The second brackets 1926a-1926d can be similarly configured, but connectable to the second rails 1914a-1914d, respectively. In some examples, the bracket 1916 and the second bracket 1926 can be interchangeable.

[0106] Links 1922a-1922d and links 1924a-1924d can be parallel sets of linkages connectable to brackets 1916a-1916d and brackets 1926a-1926d, respectively. Links 1922a-1922d and links 1924a-1924d can be hingeably coupled to each other to allow arms 1910a-1910d to move between their extended and collapsed positions independently of each other. In some embodiments, links 1922 can be connected to each other in one of a scissor linkage arrangement. FIG. 19E shows inner links 1930a-1930n and outer links 1932a-1932n coupled together to allow movement of arm 1910b. The number of links 1930a-1930n and 1932a-1932n can be any number, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, or the like, to create an arm with a desired range of motion. Other linear linkage arrangements can be used in other embodiments. In other embodiments, non-linear linkages can be used. Cross members 1928a-1928d can be bars, rods, or other rigid members that connect first brackets 1916a-1916d, respectively, to brackets 1926a-1926d, respectively.

[0107] The ultraviolet radiation device 1900 may also include a user interface 1925, which may be a screen connected to a controller and one or more other components in the base or housing 1906, such as sensors and / or actuators or motors. The user interface 1925 may include any or all of the components of the computer system 4400 of FIG. 44, in particular the display device 4410, the input device 4412, and the navigation device 4414. In operation, a user may use the user interface 1925 to control the operation of the ultraviolet radiation device 1900.

[0108] 19C shows a top view of the ultraviolet light emission device 1900 showing that each arm 1910 can include a light source holder 1929a-1929n, each configured to hold one or more light sources 1904a-1904n therein. The light source holders 1929 can each be connected to and supported by links 1922 and 1924 such that the light source holders 1929, and thus the light sources 1904, move with the links 1922 and 1924. The light source holders 1929 can be positioned on each arm 1910 such that, for example, the light sources 1904 of the multiple light sources for arm 1910d are connected to each arm 1910 such that each light source 1904 is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources 1904a-1904n as the arm 1910d is moved between the collapsed and extended positions. The first plurality of light sources of the arm 1910d can also be proportionally spaced apart, for example, to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance in the target volume at any position between the collapsed and extended positions. That is, the light sources 1904a-1904n of the arm 1910a can each be proportionally spaced apart from each adjacent light source of the arm 1910a. The light sources 1904a-1904n can maintain their proportional spacing at any position between the collapsed and extended positions of the arm 1910a. Each arm 1910 can have such a capability to proportionally space the light sources 1904 of that arm. The light sources between the arms 1910 do not have to be proportionally spaced apart, depending on the size and shape of the target volume, as the arms 1910 can extend as far as desired (as long as the arms are long enough) to position the arms 1910 and achieve uniform irradiance in the target volume. In some embodiments, the distance between the light sources 1904 (e.g., 1904a and 1904b) between the arms can be spaced symmetrically, and in some embodiments, the light sources 1904 can be spaced asymmetrically.

[0109] In operation, after the first rail 1912 and the second rail 1914 are secured to the base 1906 and the arms 1910 are connected to the rails 1912 and 1914, respectively, the arms can be pivoted at brackets 1916 and 1926 to extend radially outward from the base 1906, as shown in FIG. 19D. The arms 1910 can be translated along the rails 1912 and 1914, respectively, to a desired position. FIG. 19D shows the arms 1910 to the right of the rails 1912 and 1914, respectively, and FIG. 19E shows the arms 1910 approximately in the middle of the rails 1912 and 1914, respectively. Before or after translating the arms 1910 along the rails 1912 and 1914, one or more of the arms 1910 can be positioned between a collapsed position and an expanded position. Figures 19A-19E show the arms in a generally collapsed position, and Figures 19F-19G show the arms in a generally extended position. The arms 1910 can be positioned anywhere between the collapsed and extended positions.

[0110] FIG. 19F also illustrates how the light sources 1904a-1904n can be evenly (or proportionally) spaced relative to one another in the extended position as related to the dimensions of the target volume. As discussed above, the light source bracket 1929 can be connected to the links 1922 and 1924 to move therewith. As shown in FIG. 19F, the bracket 1929 can translate radially outward from the base 1906 as the arms 1910 translate from the collapsed position to the extended position while maintaining the light sources 1904 evenly or proportionally spaced relative to each light source 1904 on each arm 1910. That is, as shown in FIG. 19F, the light sources 1904a-1904n can be evenly spaced on the (first) arm 1910a.

[0111] Similarly, the second arm 1910b may be releasably securable to the first rail 1912 and the second rail 1914 and may be movable along the first rail 1912 generally transverse to the central axis A and generally perpendicular to the first arm 1910a, and the second arm 1910b may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position. The second arm 1910b may have a second plurality of light sources 1904 connected thereto such that the light sources 1904 may each be spaced proportionally relative to each of the light sources 1904 as the second arm is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position.

[0112] The third arm 1904c and the fourth arm 1910d can be similarly configured. For example, the third arm 1910c can be releasably securable to the first rail 1912 and the second rail 1914 and can be movable along the first rail 1912 generally transverse to the central axis A, generally parallel to the first arm 1910a and generally perpendicular to the second arm 1910b, and the third arm 1910c can be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position. The third arm 1910c can have a third plurality of light sources 1904 connected thereto such that the light sources 1904 can each be proportionally spaced apart relative to each of the light sources 1904 as the third arm is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position. The fourth arm 1910d may be releasably securable to the first rail 1912 and the second rail 1914 and may be movable along the first rail 1912 generally transverse to the central axis A, generally perpendicular to the first arm 1910a and the third arm 1910c, and generally parallel to the second arm 1910b, and the fourth arm 1910d may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position. The fourth arm 1910d may have a fourth plurality of light sources 1904 connected thereto such that the light sources 1904 may each be proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources 1904 as the fourth arm 1910d is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position.

[0113] 20A-20G illustrate a sterilization device 2000 with expandable and collapsible arms according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The sterilization device 2000 may be similar to the sterilization device 1900 of FIG. 19 in that the structure 2002 of the sterilization device 2000 may be similar in design and operation to the sterilization device 1900 discussed above, except that the base 2006 is generally cylindrical and the rails 1912 and 1914 may extend around the circumference of the base 1906 in a cylindrical shape. Such a configuration may allow the arms 2010a-2010d to translate in a circular motion and be spaced substantially evenly around the circumference of the base 2006, as shown in FIGS. 20A-20D and 20F, or asymmetrically (unevenly) as shown in FIGS. 20E and 20G. The sterilization device 2000 can thereby provide an even distribution of light sources 2004a-2004n as shown in FIG. 20D, or an asymmetric distribution as shown in FIG. 20E, which can be useful in providing uniform illumination within a target volume at any position between the collapsed and expanded positions within a target volume having an atypical or abnormal shape.

[0114] 21A-20G illustrate a sterilization device 2100 with extendable and collapsible arms, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The sterilization device 2100 can include a circular base structure 2106 with compartments 2105a-2105d that can allow for storage of the arms 2110a-2110d. The arms 2110 can include a cover 2111 and a handle 2113. The handle 2113 can be operable to move the arms 2110 between an extended position and a collapsed position, and the cover 2111 can protect the light source 2104 during storage and transport of the sterilization device 2100.

[0115] 21D shows the support frame 2115 for each of the arms 2110 in an extended position. Each of the support frames 2115 can be comprised of sections 2117a-2117n such that each of the light sources 2104 is spaced substantially proportionally relative to each of the light sources 2104. The arms 2110 can be spaced evenly around the circumference of the base 2106 in some embodiments and unevenly or asymmetrically in other embodiments. There can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or the like, arms 2110.

[0116] The sections 2117 of the support frame 2115 can be rectangular in shape, but in other examples can be other shapes. Figures 21D and 21E show the light source 2104 structurally supported within the respective dimensions of the sections 2117. The support frame sections 2117 can be hinged together at a preset distance such that when the arms 2110 are extended to accommodate the target volume, the energy field generated by the light source 2104 is substantially evenly distributed proportionally based on geometry, UV light source intensity, and time.

[0117] FIG. 21F illustrates how the sections 2117a-2117n can operate to allow the arms 2110a-2110d to move between collapsed and extended positions using an alternative arm mechanism. That is, the sections 2117a-2117n can be hingedly connected at each end to allow the arms 2110 to expand and collapse in a generally linear manner. In some embodiments, the base 2106 can include rails 2119 to guide the movement and support the arms 2110. This functionality allows the arms 2110 to proportionally adapt to the variable target volumes in which they will be applied in the field. The support frame sections 2117 can fold and pivot about hinges to provide inward and outward movement of the arms similar to that shown and discussed for the arms of FIG. 11B.

[0118] 22A-22G illustrate a sterilization device 2200 with extendable and collapsible arms, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 22A shows a perspective view of the sterilization device 2200. FIG. 22B shows a side view of the sterilization device 2200, and FIG. 22C shows a top view of the sterilization device 2200, which may include a base structure 2206, similar to others discussed above. The sterilization device 2200 may include arms 2210a-2210d and frame support sections 2240a-2240d. The base 2206 may include wheels or casters, as each of the support sections 2240a-2240d may move independently of the base 2206. Figure 22D shows an isometric view of the sterilization device 2200 with the arms 2210a-2210d in a deployed position away from the base 2206, and Figure 22E shows an elevation or side view. Figure 22F shows a top view of the sterilization device 2200 with the arms 2210 deployed and rotated away from the base 2206 and in a collapsed or unextended position. Figure 22G shows a top view of the sterilization device 2200 with the arms 2210 in an extended position.

[0119] It is important to note that for small target volumes, such as a small treatment room or bathroom, the light cycle for the device will begin with the arms undeployed, as shown in FIG. 19C and FIG. 22A-22C, and for larger target volumes, the arms and support frame sections of the device will be deployed and extended, as shown in FIG. 22D-22G. The expansion along the support frame sections will correlate to the dimensions of the target room and / or volume, while at the same time the ultraviolet light sources will position themselves proportionally via the arm extension mechanism to build a precise energy light matrix for the corresponding target room and / or volume.

[0120] 23A-23B illustrate a rail deployment mechanism 2242 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23A shows the rail deployment mechanism 2242, which may include a first portion 2246, a second portion 2248, and a third portion 2250, where the first portion can receive the second portion 2248 and the third portion 2250 therein in a telescopic manner. The first portion 2246 can be secured to the structure or base 2206. The rail deployment mechanism 2242 can include as many portions as required to reach the desired total extension distance required for the application or model within the target volume. Additionally, the telescopic members (portions 2246-2250) can include a lock 2252. As shown in FIG. 23B, locks 2252 can each include a nut 2254 and a bolt 2256 that can be threadably secured to one another to secure portion 2246 to portion 2248 and prevent relative translation (telescopic) therebetween.

[0121] 24A-24F illustrate a sterilization device 2400 with extendable and collapsible arms, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The sterilization device 2400 can include light sources 2404a-2404n, a base 2406, and arms 2410a-2410d. The base 2406 of the sterilization device 2400 is shown as being generally cylindrical, but in other embodiments can be other shapes, such as a rectangular prism, a rectangular prism, a triangular prism, or the like.

[0122] Fig. 24A shows an isometric view of the sterilization device 2400 with arms 2410a-2410d in a collapsed or near-collapsed position, Fig. 24B shows an elevation or side view, and Fig. 24C shows a top view. Fig. 24D shows an isometric view of the arms 2410 in an extended position, and Fig. 24E shows an elevation or side view. Figs. 24A-24C show the sterilization device in a collapsed or near-collapsed position, and Figs. 24D-24E show the extended position.

[0123] FIG 24F shows a concentrated view of arm 2410a, which may include brackets 2429a-2429n, first links 2430a-2430n, and second links 2432a-2432n. Also shown in FIG 24F are light sources 2404a-2404n. First link 2430 can be hingeably coupled to a first side of bracket 2429, and second link 2432 can be hingeably coupled to a second side of bracket 2429 to create a link that extends radially and vertically when moving from the collapsed position to the expanded position. For example, the distal end of the first link 2430a can be hingeably coupled to a bottom portion of the bracket 2429a, the proximal end of the first link 2430b can be hingeably coupled to a top portion of the bracket 2429a, the distal end of the second link 2432a can be hingeably coupled to a bottom portion of the bracket 2429a on a second side of the bracket 2429a, and the proximal end of the second link 2432b can be coupled to a top portion of the second side of the bracket 2429a. Such a configuration allows the light source 2404 to distribute ultraviolet light proportionally in correlation with the size and volume of the target volume when the arm 2410 is positioned within the target volume. The light sources 2404a-2404n can extend through the bracket 2429. In some examples, the bracket 2429 can be configured to hold more than one light source. The brackets 2429 can hold the light sources 2404 in different positions and maintain balance between the light sources 2404 during the expansion process, as seen in FIGS. 24E and 24F.

[0124] 25A-25J illustrate a mobile ultraviolet light device 2502 with program logic in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25A shows an isometric view of a single mobile ultraviolet light device 2502, FIG. 25B shows an isometric view of a system 2500 including multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n, and FIG. 25C shows a top view of a system 2500 including multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n. Each mobile ultraviolet light device can include a base 2503, a light source 2504, and a coupler 2506.

[0125] The base 2503 can include a housing or shell made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as one or more of metal, plastic, foam, elastomer, ceramic, composite, combinations thereof, or the like. The base 2503 can be connected to a coupler 2506, which can extend through an upper portion of the base 2503. The base 2503 can also be sized and shaped to accommodate a driver (such as wheels or tracks), which can be engageable with a surface of the target volume. The base 2503 can further support a motor, which can be connected to the driver. The motor can be controllable to operate the driver and move the base 2503 relative to the surface and move the base within the target volume. The light source 2504 can be consistent with those discussed above and can be supported by the base 2503. The base 2503 can further include a controller therein (such as the system 4400 of FIG. 44), which can communicate with the motors and light sources (such as through the network interface 4420 of FIG. 44). The controller can also be operable to position the base 2503 within the target volume. In some embodiments, the multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502 can be configured to operate the light sources 2504a-2504n such that the lights of the multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices together emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume. Such a system of mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502 does not require arms, support frame sections, rails, or rigid mechanical frame systems to extend or deploy the ultraviolet light sources 2504a-2504n for the desired configuration of the light matrix with precise energy. Instead, the present mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502 can use various parameters to operate the communication between the devices and the individual movement of the devices within the target volume.

[0126] Figure 25D shows an isometric view of a system 2500 including multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n, and Figure 25E shows a top view of a system 2500 including multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n, which may be arranged in any pattern as desired within a target volume to achieve a uniform light energy matrix. The mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n are shown in an X or cross configuration in Figures 25D and 25E.

[0127] The mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n may include various sensors (such as input sensor 4418 in FIG. 44 ) built into the base 2503 and light source holder that may detect distance, coordinates relative to other mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n, visual recognition of indicators or symbols that assist in organizing and sizing the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n in constructing precise energy light energy using pre-programmed codes, and / or dual input and output sensors for artificial intelligence and machine learning parameters when initiated within a targeted room and when placed in a multiple target volume field.

[0128] The mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can be deployed within a target volume 50 as shown in FIGS. 25F-25J. The target volume 50 can include surfaces 52, 54, and 56, where surface 52 can be a floor and surfaces 54 and 56 can be walls. The target volume can include more or fewer walls, in other embodiments, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or the like. The target volume 50 can be of various sizes, such as 1 meter to 20 meters wide by 1 meter to 20 meters long by 2 meters to 5 meters high. In some embodiments, the target volume 50 can be 1.5 meters to 8 meters in width and length. In some embodiments, the target volume 50 can be 6 meters to 8 meters in width and length.

[0129] In operation of some embodiments, the system 2500 can include a master control device, such as computer system 4400 of FIG. 44, that can be in contact with each of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n. In some embodiments, the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can communicate with each other and be deployed and organized within the target volume 50. In one embodiment of a deployment process, the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can be deployed into the target volume such that the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n are in one general location within the target volume, as shown in FIG.

[0130] In this example, the target volume 50 can include a map of indicators 60 created by one or more of the controllers of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n or by a master controller. The map 60 can include indicia 62a-62n, represented in FIG. 25F by "X", which can be coordinates defined by the controller based on data from one or more sensors, such as one or more of a proximity sensor, a light sensor, an RFID sensor, an NFC sensor, or the like. The controller can be configured to communicate with each controller of the multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices and create a destination for each mobile ultraviolet light device 2502a-2502n, and an indicia of the destination 62a-62n for each mobile ultraviolet light device 2502a-2502n. Each individual controller of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can be configured to operate a motor to move a base within the target volume 50 based on the map 60 and a destination 62a-62n for each mobile ultraviolet light device 2502a-2502n. In some embodiments, the target volume 50 can include indicia 62a-62n, which can be physical decals or markers.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 25G, some of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can be moved manually or in an automatic manner via programmed motors. While moving, the sensors of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can continue to generate dimensions, coordinates, positioning, and identification parameters based on the collected sensor data. As shown in FIG. 25H, the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can be moved into their corresponding markers in the target volume 50. Once in position, the light source 2504 can be controlled to emit ultraviolet light in the target volume. For example, multiple light sources of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can be positioned in the target volume 50 over the markings 62a-62n to kill at least 90% of the organisms in the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources. In some examples, a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 20 minutes and the substantially uniform irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume may be 50-800 microwatts per square centimeter, with the target volume 50 being a room having dimensions of 1.5-8 meters wide by 1.5-8 meters long by 2-5 meters high. In some examples of operation, the irradiance on some surfaces may be 400-2000 microwatts per square centimeter in a uniform matrix. Once a light cycle is completed, the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n may be reassembled in a compact, undeployed configuration as shown in FIG. 25F.

[0132] In some embodiments, the target volume 50 can include one or more inanimate objects, such as a bed 70, as shown in Figures 25I and 25J. In such embodiments, the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can perform the steps discussed above, and the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can incorporate the volume and dimensions of the inanimate object, such as the bed 70, that occupies the target volume 50. The mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n can position themselves within the target volume 50, accommodating the spacing and proportional distance between the base and the ultraviolet light source that will achieve precise energy. This can also be achieved using a disinfection device as shown in Figure 33.

[0133] In some embodiments, messaging and software parameters can be established by a controller incorporating parameters of interest captured and calculated by multiple proximity, dimensional, and coordinate sensors for constructing a light matrix with precise energy by distributing light bulbs over the variable dimensions of a target volume or room.

[0134] In some embodiments, the system 2500 can include a remote controller (such as the computer system 4000) that can be in communication with the controllers of the mobile ultraviolet light devices 2502a-2502n. The remote controller can be operable to selectively move individual mobile ultraviolet light devices within the target volume 50 as desired.

[0135] 26A-26I illustrate a removable and attachable rail containing an ultraviolet light source with a docking mechanism for a sterilization device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] The disinfection device 2600 can include a frame member 2602a, as shown in Figures 26A-26I, housing an ultraviolet light source 2604 therein. The frame member 2602 can be supported by bases or legs 2608a-2608b, which can include individual casters 2609a-2609b. The arms 2610a, as shown in Figure 26E, can be constructed independently of the base structure of Figures 26A-26D, to which frame members 2602 can be added as needed. The frame members 2602 can be deployed and extended by joining the frame members together, as seen in Figures 26C and 26D, to create arms 2610 at desired lengths. The arms 2610a-2610d can be coupled together by a base 2612 (which may optionally include casters or wheels 2614) as shown in Figures 26E and 26F in a collapsed configuration, and in Figures 26G, 26H, and 26I in an expanded configuration.

[0137] 27A-27F illustrate a sterilization device with an expandable ring structure according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 27A shows a perspective view, FIG. 27A shows an elevation view, and FIG. 27C shows a top view of the sterilization device 2700, which may include a base 2706 (including channels 2708a-2708d, also referred to as compartments 2708). The sterilization device 2700 may include arms 2710a-2710d that are collapsible into and expandable from their respective channels 2708a-2708d. Each of the arms 2710a-2710d may include an arcuate handle 2712 that is sized and shaped to conform to the circumference of the base 2706, which may be cylindrical in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the arms 2710a-2710d can be mechanically connected such that pulling one handle 2712 radially outward can cause all of the arms 2710a-2710d to move radially outward from the channels 2708a-2708d of the base 2706 to the extended configuration, which can help save setup and packaging time.

[0138] 28 illustrates a sterilization device 2800 with a horizontally extendable track with a telescoping support structure, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The sterilization device 2800 can include a base 2806 having wheels 2809 in some embodiments. The sterilization device 2800 can include arms 2810a-2810d including linkages 2814a-2814n that can enable a motor or a user to extend and collapse their respective arms 2810a-2810d. The arms 2810a-2810d can each include a base 2812 for supporting the arms 2810a-2810d in an extended position.

[0139] FIG. 29 illustrates a sterilization device 2900 with a tension rod extension mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] 30 illustrates a sterilization device 3000 with a compression compartment rail mechanism, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The sterilization device 3000 may be similar to the sterilization device 2800, except that the drapes or lamps may be supported by rods that may be telescopic in some embodiments and disassemble in other embodiments. Additionally, the arms of the sterilization device 3000 may include a base with a stand that may be separable from the base and from each other.

[0141] FIG 31A illustrates a perspective view of a sterilization device 3100 with a peripheral geometry multi-base mechanism according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG 31A shows a collapsed position device 3100 and FIG 32B shows an extended position device 3100. The sterilization device 3100 can include bases 3106a and 3106b, which can be separable and movable via wheels or casters 3109 within a target volume 50 having a floor 52 and walls 54 and 56. The sterilization device 3100 can include arms 3110a, which can form a perimeter around the volume 50 for proportional distribution of light sources 3104 (connected to arms 3110) within the target volume.

[0142] FIG. 31C shows an elevation view of the arm 3110a, which may include links 3120 and 3122, drapes 3124a-3124n, and a collar 3126. Each of the drapes 3124a-3124n may include a light source 3104. The links 3120 and 3122 may be hingeably coupled to relatively fold or collapse to move the arm 3110a between an extended position and a collapsed position. FIG. 31C shows a side view of the arm 3110a, showing how the collar 3126 may hook onto the link 3122 and slide or translate thereon to be positioned on the arm 3110a within the target volume, emitting substantially uniform illumination within the target volume 50.

[0143] FIG 31D shows an elevation view of the arm 3110a, which may include links 3130-3138 (each including a track) and a coupler 3140, on which the light source 3104 may be supported. The link 3130 may fold and unfold and move between an expanded position and a collapsed position within the target volume 50. FIG 31D shows a side view of the arm 3110a, showing how the coupler 3140 may hook onto and slide or translate on rails or tracks for the links 3130-3138. FIG 31E also shows how the links 3130-3138 may fold and stack on top of each other.

[0144] 32A-32C illustrate a sterilization device 3200 with a peripheral geometry feature, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The sterilization device 3200 can include a base 3206 and arms 3210a positionable within a target volume. FIG. 32A shows a perspective view of the sterilization device 3200 positioned within the target volume in a collapsed position. FIG. 32B shows a perspective view of the sterilization device 3200 with arms 3210a-3210d in an extended position within the target volume near the periphery of the target volume (such as a wall). In some embodiments, the base 3206 can include one or more light sources to help radiate substantially uniform illumination within the target volume.

[0145] FIG. 32C shows a centralized view of the arms of the sterilization device 3200 illustrating a light bulb distribution mechanism that can be moved between a collapsed position and an extended position by a link such as a scissor linkage arrangement similar to that discussed above. FIGs. 33A-33G illustrate a sterilization device 3300 with an expandable base structure 3306 with deploying arms 3310 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The arms 3310 can be telescopic similar to that discussed above, and the structure 3306 can include multiple links or linkages configured with the deploying arms 3310 to move the arms 3310 between the collapsed position and the extended position to emit substantially uniform illumination within the target volume from multiple light sources 3304 (shown in FIG. 33D). As shown in FIG. 33F, the canopy delivery system of the structure 3306 can include a central base structure that can be expanded upward to accommodate a bed or table in the center of the target volume of the room.

[0146] 34 illustrates a point source energy volumetric reference in a room, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The graph 3400 can represent a room 3402 or target volume 3402 in which a point source (a focused UV light source or a single UV source) is positioned approximately in the center of the target volume 3402. The irradiance 3404 of the point source is represented by a topological mesh, where the irradiance increases along the vertical axis of the graph 3400. As shown by the graph 3400, the irradiance increases sharply near the center 3408 and decreases to approximately zero near the periphery 3406, which has been previously described by the inverse square law.

[0147] FIG 35 illustrates a graphical representation 3500 of a uniform matrix 3504 of energy volumes in a room 3502 achieved by various sterilization devices discussed above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG 35 illustrates an abstract example of a distribution of light intensity for a sterilization device configured to emit a uniform matrix of light with a given energy or UV intensity in a target volume 3502, where the volume 3502 may be a patient room. Such a device can overcome the inverse square law and substantially completely fill the volume of space 3502, depicted in a full abstract perspective view as a cube in FIG 35.

[0148] 36A-36B illustrate the illumination of a central source in a target volume, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 36A shows a perspective view of the illumination of a point source represented by a phase mesh, where the illumination increases along the vertical axis of the graph. FIG. 36B shows a top view of the graph. Similarly, FIG. 37A-37B illustrate the illumination of two sources in a target volume, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 37A shows a perspective view of the illumination of two point sources represented by a phase mesh, where the illumination increases along the vertical axis of the graph, and FIG. 37B shows a top view. FIG. 38A-38B illustrate the illumination of three sources in a target volume, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 38A shows a perspective view of the illumination of three point sources represented by a phase mesh, where the illumination increases along the vertical axis of the graph, and FIG. 38B shows a top view.

[0149] Figures 36A-38B represent some point source devices of the prior art that are single sources (or collections of UV sources) whose irradiance decreases with distance, as discussed above with respect to Figure 34. Conversely, the irradiance of the devices of the present disclosure discussed above is represented in Figures 39A and 39B as a three-dimensional light matrix of a phase mesh, where irradiance increases along the vertical axis.

[0150] As shown in Figures 39A and 39B, substantially uniform light energy can be generated throughout the volume. Figure 39A shows a side view and Figure 39B shows a top view of the illumination generated by the device as observed, where the device is any one of the different embodiments previously discussed in Figures 19A-39G. The illumination (z-axis) is normalized to 100% of maximum illumination. The x-axis of Figures 39A and 39B shows 100 increments representing the increments along a wall, and the y-axis shows 100 increments along an adjacent wall.

[0151] The same wattage was used to generate each of the illuminations in the graphs of Figures 36-39 in different configurations. For the single point light source of Figures 36A-36B, a total of 282 watts is represented by one source in the center of the room. For the dual point light source of Figures 37A-37B, two locations of 141 watts each are represented by two sources located in the center of the room. For the triple point light source of Figures 38A-38B, three locations of 94 watts each are represented by three sources located in the center of the room. For Figures 39A-39B, which represent an embodiment of the described device of the present disclosure, 20 lamps were extended to form an "x" configuration across the room, and the device included five bulbs per arm with a wattage of 14.1 watts per bulb or light source, respectively. As shown in Figures 39A-39B, a substantially uniform illumination is achieved within the room compared to the various point light source examples shown in Figures 36A-38B.

[0152] 40A-40D illustrate experimental setup and disinfection data from an experiment conducted on a system discussed herein, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIGs. 40A-40D illustrate microbiological testing of bacterial survival and results therefrom during an eight-point multi-faceted evaluation of a uniform ultraviolet energy matrix within a 4.57 meter by 4.57 meter room.

[0153] FIG. 40A shows a top view of the test setup, and FIG. 40B shows a perspective view of the test setup. Indicators P1-P4 represent wall test sample locations, indicators P5-P8 represent floor test sample locations, and arrows represent ultraviolet light emitted from multiple light sources. In the experiments of FIG. 40A and 40B, a contamination field with quantitative culture dishes of bacteria is placed inside each of the boxes marked P1-P8. Each section represents three culture dishes per time point (one per bacterium) exposed to ultraviolet energy at time points 0, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 180 seconds. The 0 time point is used as a control. The number of colonies growing on each dish was counted and plotted as a function of time. Isolates of each of the following pathogens were studied: 1) multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 2) carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, and 3) Candida auris (C. auris).

[0154] Inocula were prepared as follows: Inocula for quantitative culture tests were prepared by growing isolates on 5% sheep blood dishes for bacteria and potato dextrose dishes for fungi at 37°C for 24 hours. For bacteria, 4-5 colonies were taken from fresh cultures (sheep blood agar) with a loop and suspended in 3 ml of saline. The turbidity of the suspension was then checked with a spectrophotometer at 600 nm and further diluted accordingly to obtain 0.5 arbitrary units of original suspension. For P. aeruginosa, according to previous calculations, 0.5 arbitrary units @ 600 nm is equivalent to 1 x 10e9 colony forming units per milliliter (CFU / ml). The suspension was then serially diluted (5 x 1:10) to achieve a 1 x 10e4 inoculum. For K. pneumoniae, 0.5 arbitrary units @ 600 nm was calculated to be 1 x 10e8 CFU / ml. The suspension was serially diluted (4x1:10) to obtain a 1x10e4 inoculum. Candida auris inoculum was prepared according to standard methods. Approximately 4-5 colonies of C. auris were taken with a loop from a fresh culture and suspended in 3 ml of saline. The suspension was checked for turbidity at 530 nm using a spectrophotometer. It was then diluted to obtain the required absorbance units of 0.119-0.140 (0.5 McFarland standard). This resulted in a yeast stock suspension of 1x10e6-5x10e6 CFU / ml. The stock suspension was then further diluted 1:100 with saline. This resulted in a final inoculum concentration of 1x10e4-5x10e4 CFU / ml. The dishes were then labeled, inoculated with 0.1 ml of inoculum, placed in the ultraviolet energy field, exposed to ultraviolet energy for a given labeling time, and then incubated for 24 hours at 37° C. The number of colonies on a given dish was then counted and recorded, and averages were calculated for each time point and location.

[0155] Experiments were performed in triplicate for a given species. Values ​​are expressed as the mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM). All treatment groups were compared to an unexposed control group by analysis of variance (ANOVA). A two-tailed P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

[0156] The results of the experiment are summarized in Figure 40C for the wall samples and Figure 40d for the floor samples. Zero in Figures 40C and 40D represents the time of exposure at which the organisms were completely wiped out of the dish. The data shown in Figures 40C-40D represent the average from all samples, one at each symmetrical position. There were six control dishes for each bacteria.

[0157] 41A-41B illustrate experimental irradiance data results of a system discussed herein, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIGs. 41A-41B show experimental results in which UV energy was recorded using a photometric sensor at various distances and locations around an exemplary embodiment in a 4.57 meter by 4.57 meter room. Readings were recorded in microwatts per centimeter squared (uW / cm^2) over time.

[0158] Figures 41A-41B show the locations of light sensor readings on the walls and floor, respectively, representing the test setup used to record the following measurements. In these representations, both the location and the direction of the light meter are indicated by the direction of the arrow. Two instruments were used to collect the data: an ILT2400 instrument, which collects data over time every 5 seconds, and a General UV512C instrument, which takes a single reading at a specific location. Both locations shown in Figure 41A are at a distance of 228.6 cm from the center of the room, at a height of 64.8 cm from the floor (lower sensor, B) and at a height of 129.5 cm from the floor (upper sensor, A). One sensor is installed on each of walls 1-4 at each height, as indicated by A and B. Both locations shown in Figure 41B are at a height of 0 cm, at a distance of 150.8 cm from the center of the room (inner sensor, D) and at a distance of 189.7 cm from the center of the room (outer sensor, C). Both Figures 41A-41B show light sources arranged in a room in an X configuration.

[0159] FIG. 41C shows Table 1, a summary of photometric readings on the walls. FIG. 41D shows Table 2, a summary of photometric readings on the floor. Data sets from both the ILT instrument and the General light meter are displayed. Both tables show light meter readings every 5 seconds over a 2 minute time period at each location using the ILT instrument. These values ​​are averaged at the bottom of the table. FIG. 41E shows a profile of irradiance over time for both the walls and floor, showing the average irradiance of the four sides at wall location A over time, and the average irradiance of the four sides at floor location D over time. FIG. 41E demonstrates a consistent and uniform energy matrix at different locations and positions around the exemplary embodiment over time.

[0160] 42A-42C illustrate light source arrays 4200A, 4200B, and 4200C, respectively, within a target volume in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGURES 42A-42C depict the balancing of UV light sources in relation to rooms and / or target volumes of varying sizes.

[0161] Array 42A shows light sources 4204 in a relatively compact array within target volume 4202A, where light sources 4204 may each be linearly spaced apart at a distance D1, with the distal source of each line spaced apart at a distance of D2. FIG. 42B shows light sources 4204 in array 4200B, where light sources 4204 may each be linearly spaced apart at a distance D3 that is greater than D1, with the distal source of each line spaced apart at a distance D4 that is greater than D2. The balancing of the spacing of light sources 4204 inside both target volumes 4202A and 4202B can be maintained by any of the sterilization devices of the present disclosure discussed in the figures above. 42C shows the light sources 4204 in an array 4200C where the light sources 4204 may each be linearly spaced apart at a distance D5 greater than D1 and less than D3, with the distal source of each line spaced apart at a distance D6 greater than D2 and less than D4. The balancing of the spacing of the light sources 4204 inside both target volumes 4202A-4200C can be maintained by any of the sterilization devices of the present disclosure discussed in the figures above.

[0162] 43A-43F illustrate light source spacing arrangements within a target volume, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 43A shows a target volume 4302 having dimensions D3 of 304.8 centimeters by D4 of 304.8 centimeters. In such an embodiment, the sterilization device can be positioned within the target volume or room 4302 in an expanded configuration in which the light sources 4304 are proportionally spaced in width by approximately 35.3 centimeters and height D1 by 25.3 centimeters per arm, with the radially inward most light source from each arm being spaced from the radially inward most light source from an adjacent arm by a distance D2 of 50.6 centimeters. Such an arrangement is one example of proportional spacing of light sources 4304 that can achieve substantially uniform illumination throughout the target volume 4302. 43B-43F show further examples of spacing of light sources 4304 within the target volume 4302, where each of the embodiments of FIGS. 43B-43F can provide proportional spacing of the light sources 4304 to achieve substantially uniform illumination throughout the target volume 4302.

[0163] FIG. 44 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer system machine on which any one or more of the previous techniques may be implemented or facilitated. The computer system 4400 may be used in particular in connection with facilitating the operation of the controller of the sanitization and disinfection device discussed above. For example, the computer system 4400 may be a controller for the mobile ultraviolet light device 2502, and / or for a master controller configured to communicate with the mobile ultraviolet light device 2502, and / or for a remote controller configured to communicate with the ultraviolet light device 2502. The computer system 4400 may also be employed in any of the devices configured to emit ultraviolet light discussed above, such as the ultraviolet light emission device 1900, where the computer system 4400 may control one or more devices, such as a motor, operable to move the arm 1910, and may include one or more devices for controlling the power output of the light source 1904. The computer system 4400 may further be included in any of the controllers discussed above or below. The computer system 4400 can also send and receive signals, such as text and / or multimedia messages, to the third party mobile device computer providing the status of any of the ultraviolet light devices as well as instructions as to the point at which operation of a light cycle is initiated and the point at which operation of a light cycle is completed or terminated. Additionally, signals can communicate successful discontinuation of a single or several light cycles initiated over time.

[0164] In alternative embodiments, the machine may operate as a stand-alone device or be connected (e.g., networked) with other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate in either a server or client capacity in a server-client network environment, or act as a peer-to-peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a smartphone, a web appliance, or any machine capable of executing instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by the machine. Furthermore, although only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or sets) of instructions implementing any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

[0165] The exemplary computer system 4400 includes a processor 4402 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both), a main memory 4404, and a static memory 4406, which communicate with each other via a link 1108 (e.g., an interlink, a bus, etc.). The computer system 4400 may further include a video display unit 4410, an alphanumeric input device 4412 (e.g., a keyboard), and a user interface (UI) navigation device 4414 (e.g., a mouse). In an embodiment, the video display unit 4410, the input device 4412, and the UI navigation device 4414 are touch screen displays. The computer system 4400 may additionally include a storage device 4416 (e.g., a drive unit), a signal generation device 4418 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device 4420, which may be in operative communication with a communication network 4426 using wired or wireless communication hardware. The computer system 4400 may further include one or more input sensors 4428 configured to obtain input (including non-contact human input) according to input recognition and detection techniques. The input sensors 4428 may include a camera, microphone, barcode reader, RFID reader, near field communication reader, proximity sensor, light sensor, or other sensor that generates data for input purposes. The computer system 4400 may further include an output controller 4430, such as a serial (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB)), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared (IR)) connection for communicating with or controlling one or more peripheral devices (e.g., printers, card readers, etc.).

[0166] The storage device 4416 may include a machine-readable medium 4422 on which is stored one or more sets of data structures or instructions 4424 (e.g., software) that embody or are utilized by any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The instructions 4424 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 4404, within the static memory 4406, and / or within the processor 1102 during its execution by the computer system 4400, with the main memory 4404, the static memory 4406, and the processor 4402 also constituting machine-readable media.

[0167] While the machine-readable medium 4422 is illustrated in the exemplary embodiment as being a single medium, the term "machine-readable medium" may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more instructions 4424. The term "machine-readable medium" should also be taken to include any tangible medium (e.g., non-transitory media) that can store, encode, or carry instructions for execution by the computer system 4400, cause the computer system 4400 to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure, or store, encode, or carry data structures utilized by or associated with such instructions. The term "machine-readable medium" should therefore be taken to include, without limitation, solid-state memory, and optical and magnetic media. Specific examples of machine-readable media include, by way of example only, non-volatile memory, including semiconductor memory devices (e.g., Electrically Erasable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory devices, magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks, magneto-optical disks, and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.

[0168] The instructions 4424 may further be transmitted or received over a communications network 4426 using a transmission medium via the network interface device 4420 utilizing any one of a number of well-known transport protocols (e.g., Frame Relay, Internet Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)). Examples of communications networks include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, cellular networks, plain old telephone (POTS) networks, and wireless data networks (e.g., Wi-Fi, 3G, and 4G LTE / LTE-A or 5G networks). The term "transmission medium" shall be construed to include any intangible medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the computing system 4400, including digital or analog communications signals or other intangible media for facilitating communication of such software.

[0169] As an additional example, the computing embodiments described herein may be implemented in one or a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. The embodiments may also be implemented as instructions stored on a computer-readable storage device that may be read and executed by at least one processor to perform the operations described herein. A computer-readable storage device may include any non-transitory mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). For example, a computer-readable storage device may include a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk storage medium, an optical storage medium, a flash memory device, and other storage devices and media.

[0170] Cassette Example The present invention relates generally to medical systems, devices, and methods, and more particularly to the disinfection of medical systems, medical devices, and areas of medical facilities and equipment. An exemplary embodiment of a disinfection system is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,675,720, which is incorporated by reference. The demanding and versatile requirements for healthcare infection control, disinfection, and high-speed disinfection performance, as well as the need for high-speed maintenance of disinfection equipment as discussed above, are directly addressed by stackable cassette components.

[0171] Some embodiments of the present invention relate generally to stackable ultraviolet cassettes and methods for disinfection or sterilization. More specifically, some embodiments of the present invention relate to devices for disinfection of a space, surface, or structure, and methods of disinfection of the space in which the cassette or chamber is placed, and / or surfaces and structures within the space.

[0172] The embodiments may address one or more of the problems and deficiencies of the technology discussed above. However, the embodiments may additionally or alternatively prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies within some technical fields. Thus, the scope of the embodiments should not necessarily be interpreted as being limited to addressing any of the specific problems or deficiencies discussed herein.

[0173] Several embodiments of the presently disclosed stackable ultraviolet cassettes and methods have several features, no one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of these devices and methods as defined by the claims that follow, their more prominent features will now be briefly discussed. After considering this discussion, and in particular after perusing the section of this specification entitled "Detailed Description of the Invention," those skilled in the art will appreciate how the features of the various embodiments disclosed herein may offer several advantages over the current state of the art. According to some embodiments, these advantages may include, but are not limited to, providing improved stackable ultraviolet cassettes and chambers and methods thereof that may assist in providing, among other things, disinfected spaces, surfaces, and / or structures; providing customizable disinfection exposure areas; enabling appropriate exposure, dose, and disinfection process of any space, surface, and / or structure requiring disinfection; combating the spread of disease that may be transmitted through physical contact with an infected area; providing devices and methods with highly effective ultraviolet disinfection; providing devices and methods that are easily integrated, for example, into medical logistics; and enabling disinfection in a fast, safe, and effective manner. The presently disclosed stackable ultraviolet cassettes and chambers are designed to be easily replaceable components of a larger, multi-component disinfection system so that failed lamps, ballasts, or other integral components can be easily replaced in the field. Once removed from the unit, the cassette may be easily refitted with new lamps, ballasts, or other components and then reused in other devices. Additional non-limiting unique capabilities of some embodiments of the present invention include buildability and stackability to maximize the disinfection field, eradication of 90% or more of pathogenic microorganisms, compartmentalization to facilitate component replacement, portability, and components that are easily upgradeable (i.e., to higher power).

[0174] According to an embodiment, the stackable ultraviolet cassettes and chambers include an ultraviolet light source configured to emit ultraviolet light and a compartmentalized device that can be inserted into a larger framework of compartmentalized devices and, when included in a larger system array, can direct ultraviolet light from multiple directions to various target surfaces, thereby generating a three-dimensional field of multi-vector ultraviolet light in which internal shadowed areas cannot hide microorganisms.

[0175] The ultraviolet light source may include multiple ultraviolet light emitting devices, such as non-ozone generating low pressure (LP) cylindrical mercury lamps producing a spectral peak at 254 nm wavelength, as in this embodiment, or in further potential embodiments, the ultraviolet light source may be an array of LEDs producing spectral peaks at 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 260-265-270 nm.

[0176] The ultraviolet radiation emitting devices may be inserted into or removed from a larger array of the same device (cassette), and the cassette itself, containing one or more ultraviolet lamps and an ultraviolet reflective backing material (reflector), may be considered an ultraviolet radiation emitting device.

[0177] The stackable ultraviolet cassettes and the chambers into which they are inserted may be selectively reconfigured to achieve multiple configurations within a target area.

[0178] The stackable ultraviolet cassettes and chambers may be controlled by a processor that may be configured to power up a subset of the cassettes while one or more of the other ultraviolet cassettes are powered down.

[0179] The cassette may contain multiple ultraviolet lamps or an array of ultraviolet LEDs. That is, the ultraviolet light source may be a lamp, a cassette of multiple lamps, or multiple cassettes. When the system containing the cassette is extended, the ultraviolet light will be emitted in multiple directions, providing significant ultraviolet light exposure to all crevice within the room, thereby minimizing the shadowing effect (or blocking of ultraviolet light) so that any potentially harmful pathogens do not survive the disinfection process.

[0180] The stackable ultraviolet cassettes and chambers may further include an electronic control system configured to selectively control the amount of ultraviolet radiation emitted from at least one of the cassettes based, at least in part, on the configuration or number of an array of cassettes within a framework comprising the chamber.

[0181] According to an embodiment, the method includes providing a plurality of cassettes, open or extending as part of a larger array and framework of cassettes, that will emit ultraviolet light into an enclosed or partially enclosed chamber called an ultraviolet target zone (or simply target zone) for the purpose of disinfection. One or more sets of cassettes will be configured to provide ultraviolet light exposure to all exposed areas of the zone and emit ultraviolet light from multiple angles, thereby overcoming the problem of shadowing, where pathogens occupying shaded voids may survive standard room disinfection procedures. The arrangement of the cassettes and the arrangement of the ultraviolet lamps on the cassettes creates a surface geometry in which light impinges on all exposed points within the target zone from multiple directions, creating a multi-vector field of ultraviolet light rays. A minimum of four cassettes may be used to create an enclosed four-sided rectangular area within which ultraviolet radiation may be focused on some target equipment to be targeted for disinfection. In an alternative embodiment, a minimum of three cassettes may be used to enclose a triangular area within which the target equipment will be disinfected. For systems with ceiling or upper cassettes, a minimum of five cassettes may be utilized to enclose one piece of equipment located on the floor. For the creation of an enclosed cubic space, a minimum of six cassettes may be utilized.

[0182] Specific embodiments of the disclosed devices, delivery systems, and methods will now be described with reference to the drawings. None of the detailed description is intended to imply that any particular component, feature, or step is essential to the invention.

[0183] FIG. 45 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a modular ultraviolet disinfection cassette. Cassette 4501 is rectangular and contains five ultraviolet lamps 4502, 4503, 4504, 4505, and 4506, a two-part lamp holder 4507, a set of shells or cover plates 4508, a UV blocking window 4509, and a polished aluminum sheet that is highly reflective with respect to ultraviolet light, Alanod TM The cassette 4501, in this embodiment, is approximately 52 inches (132 centimeters) wide by 71 inches (180 cm) long by 2 inches (5 cm) thick (maximum) and includes a cover plate and a reflector plate 4510 made from Alanod TMOther components, including the reflector sheet, also fit within these dimensions. The ends of the lamps 4502, 4503, 4504, 4505, and 4506 are held on the cassette 4501 by a set of lampholders 4507, which are two-part fixtures that hold the lamps at both ends and are bolted or screwed to the cassette 4501. The lampholders 4507 are wired at one end and connected to a power supply that provides power. The lampholders 4507 hold the lamps at both ends, thereby holding them parallel to the cassette surface so that the reflective surface reflects the UV light back towards the target zone. A cover plate 4508 is placed over the ballast or wiring and is bolted or screwed to the cassette 4501. The shape of the cover plate 4508 may be any arbitrary shape that protects the ballast and wiring, in this embodiment the cover plate is an inverted channel with a concave channel that is smooth and flat inside and outside. The UV blocking window 4509, which allows the user to observe the disinfection process, is rectangular, centered and located within the top half of the cassette 4501. The UV blocking window may be any transparent material that blocks UV light, including glass and most types of plastic. The UV lamp is a low pressure mercury lamp that generates UV light in a specific spectrum of 254 nm in this embodiment, but may also deploy wavelength variations and combinations, including the entire UV group C and / or UV group A and B, if desired. The five UV lamps 4502, 4503, 4504, 4505, and 4506 are positioned across the surface of the cassette 4501 in a manner that distributes the emitted UV light across a defined area called the target zone and then concentrates the emitted UV light on a specific surface. The irradiation field generated by multiple lamps on several cassettes is such that the ultraviolet light will strike any target within the target zone from multiple directions, thereby minimizing those shadows that might otherwise allow microbial survival in the protection of the shaded areas.

[0184] 1, three lamps 4503, 4504, and 4505 have their axes oriented vertically and parallel to one another across the approximate center of the cassette, while the remaining two lamps 4502 and 4506 are oriented with their axes horizontally above and below the three vertical lamps 4503, 4504, and 4505 while extending parallel to one another, preferably perpendicular to the vertical lamps. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, cassette 4501 may take on a number of shapes and sizes, including, among others, rectangular, square, triangular, circular, shapes with unequal side lengths and angles, and the like. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the surfaces of cassette 4501 may be made of reflective mylar, magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate, and ePTFE, among others. TMOptionally, in this or other embodiments, the reflector 4510 on the surface of the cassette may be glued, cemented, bolted, or attached by any other equivalent means. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the UV blocking window 4509 may be of any shape and size. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the UV blocking window 4509 may be located anywhere on the cassette 4501 and may be made from either UV blocking glass or plastic. Preferably, the embodiment and window placement within or throughout the stackable cassette 4501 will provide the operator with visualization of the target zone. Thus, the placement of the window 4509 may be approximately 50 inches (127 cm) off the ground so that an operator of average height can easily view the UV target zone through the window 4509 from the non-UV source side of the stackable cassette. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the cassette 4501 may include one or more lamps of any shape, size, or type, but using at least two or more lamps allows the ultraviolet light to be emitted from more than one location on the cassette surface, thereby allowing for better generation of multiple vector light. However, in some embodiments, the cassette is intended to be part of an array of cassettes generating multiple vector light, and there may be 0, 1, 2, and up to 50 lamps per cassette, as desired, depending on the desired application, buildable, stackable chambers. The quantity of lamps is variable with commercial applications. In an ideal embodiment for hospital applications, there are 1-5 lamps per cassette 4501. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the one or more lamps may be arranged in virtually any configuration, including perpendicular to the cassette surface, but in the current configuration, orienting the lamps parallel to and close to the cassette reflector 4510 surface is more efficient overall and allows for the thinnest possible cassette, and therefore the least weight.Multiple cassettes can be used to create a three-dimensional array of cassettes that deliver ultraviolet light from multiple directions toward the target zone. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, some or all of the lamps may be oriented horizontally on the cassette. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, some or all of the lamps may be oriented vertically or protrude away from the cassette surface. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, some or all of the lamps may be oriented across one another. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the lamps may have multiple orientations and may be configured either parallel or perpendicular to the cassette surface. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, one or more lamps may comprise a non-ozone-generating low pressure (LP) cylindrical mercury lamp that produces a spectral peak at 254 nm wavelength, or may employ an MP lamp that produces broad spectrum ultraviolet light. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, one or more lamps may be replaced with an ultraviolet light source that comprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that produces a spectral peak at 265 nm or any other ultraviolet wavelength. Combinations of these may also be used in any embodiment.

[0185] FIG. 46 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a modular ultraviolet disinfection cassette without a cover plate. The cassette 4601 comprises five ultraviolet lamps 4602, 4603, 4604, 4605, and 4606, along with associated lamp holders 4607 housing lamp ballasts 4608, 4609, and 4610, associated wiring, and an ultraviolet blocking window 4611. The ballasts are attached to the cassette 4601 by bolts or screws and are configured to connect to a mains power line. The ballasts are positioned and attached to the surface of the cassette such that the cassette has as low a profile as possible and such that the ballasts can be covered by a cover plate. The ballasts may be placed in various locations on the cassette, but are preferably placed and located to minimize the amount of wiring required, to lower the overall center of gravity of the cassette for chamber stability purposes, etc. The cassette 4601 further comprises a motion sensor 4612, a UV intensity meter 4613, and a terminal block 4614. The motion sensor is configured to turn off the lamp if someone appears on the wrong side of the system during operation. The UV intensity meter provides feedback in terms of the level of UV exposure and helps determine if any part of the system (e.g., lamp or ballast) has failed during operation. The terminal block provides a connection for wiring mounted on the cassette 4601. The cassette includes various bolt or threaded holes for mounting the lamp holder 4607, ballasts 4608, 4609, and 4610, window 4611, motion sensor 4612, UV intensity meter 4613, and a pair of terminal blocks 4614. The bolt or screw holes are positioned as needed to accommodate optimal installation of the various components. In other embodiments, the bolt or screw holes may be replaced with other mounting methods including snap locks, welds, adhesives, and the like. Optionally, in this or any other embodiment, the motion sensor, UV intensity meter, and terminal block may be located anywhere on the cassette and attached by any suitable means, including welds and adhesives.

[0186] FIG. 47 shows an exemplary embodiment of a wire mesh 4701. The wire mesh 4701 is configured to rest over one or more lamps and protect the lamps from impact and damage during use. The cage 4701 is made from steel. In this or other embodiments, the one or more lamps on the cassette may be protected by a UV transparent window made from plastic or fused quartz, which may either encase each individual lamp or a glass plate that otherwise covers all of the lamps. In other embodiments, the protection is by a UV transparent plastic sheet or by ePTFE TM This may be provided by a wire mesh made from a UV reflective material such as PTFE or a protective sheet. The wire mesh or protective sheet may be located close to and even in contact with the lamp surface, or may be several lamp diameters away as in the current embodiment. In other embodiments, protection against the effects of lamp breakage may be provided by currently available UV transparent Teflon or plastic coatings that are wrapped and sealed directly around the lamp.

[0187] FIG. 48 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a frame 4081 to which an exemplary embodiment of a modular ultraviolet disinfection cassette may be attached and to which multiple cassettes may be attached and stacked to form a framework. The frame 4801 provides structural support and in some embodiments will be attached to the central column of the disinfection system by hinges or connecting links or permanently attached to the wall of the building or hospital by way of connecting links. The frame 4801 will be a floating framework that may be supported on casters or by connecting links and attached to the central column or wall that will create the chamber and on which the control unit will be mounted. The frame 4801 and framework will consist of an outer rectangular structure made from basic structural components such as box frames, channels, or I-beams made from steel, aluminum, plastic, or other suitable materials. The frame should include one or more structural beams across the middle for stability and one or more triangular or other structural components at the corners as in the current embodiment to orthogonally strengthen the overall structure.

[0188] FIG. 49 shows an exemplary embodiment of a pair of rectangular cassettes 4901 and a pair of frames 4902 to which they would be mounted as part of a mobile framework or chamber including a central column 4903. The rectangular cassettes 4901 may be any of the rectangular embodiments described herein. The rectangular frames 4902 may be any of the rectangular embodiments described herein. Each cassette 4901 would be attached to the frame 4902 using bolts or screws, or any other suitable attachment method, which may include magnetic locks or mechanical snaps that allow and facilitate replacement of the cassettes and lock the cassettes to the frame for easy removal. The attachment would be such that in an embodiment in which the cassettes are installed overhead as part of a sterilization system, the cassettes would be affixed to the frame regardless of where the system is installed, whether vertical or hanging from the ceiling. The frame 4902 will be attached to the central column 4903 via hinges so that the cassettes 4901 can be oriented at various angles that allow for the formation of different geometries suitable for specific disinfection applications, including closed geometries such as squares, rectangles, hexagons, octagons, and cubes, as well as open geometries such as semicircles, rectangular corridors, flat extended walls, or angled walls (open triangles). The hinged connection may be of any type that facilitates the shaping of the intended geometry, and may include flexible hinges, axial hinges, or universal joints that may allow the cassette or array of cassettes to be oriented at multiple angles. The disinfection device as shown in the current embodiment includes casters to facilitate mobility, which may or may not be present on each cassette and may or may not be present on the central column, as long as there is a minimum number of casters sufficient to support the weight of the entire disinfection device in its various configurations, which are the shapes the system is conformed to for specific applications.

[0189] FIG. 50 shows an exemplary embodiment of the cumulative effect of multiple vector light originating from multiple cassettes, showing figurative light rays originating from the cassettes and reflecting from the interior surfaces. Four cassettes 5001, 5002, 5003, and 5004 are connected to a central column 5005, each of the four cassettes generating multiple vector light rays that will reflect from the cassettes and also from the walls 5006 to an extent dependent on the reflectivity of the walls. Together, the four cassettes with their integral ultraviolet lamps generate a very full field of multiple vector light, or light originating from multiple directions, so that shadowed zones are minimized, thereby minimizing zones where microorganisms may escape the disinfection process. The summation effect of the ultraviolet light sources (here 5001, 5002, 5003, 5004 cassettes, as well as the ultraviolet lamps they contain) is to generate a volumetric field of multiple vector light of very uniform intensity within the target zone, where the possibility of microorganisms avoiding ultraviolet light exposure within the shaded gaps is minimized. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the cassettes may be arranged in a square, rectangle, triangle, or other two-dimensional geometric shape, or in further embodiments, in a three-dimensional fully enclosed shape such as a cube, rectangular box, chamber, and the like. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, the resulting multiple vector field is so light-filled that no shadowed zones are created where microorganisms can escape the disinfection process. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, four or more sets of cassettes are configured to emit ultraviolet light from multiple angles and provide ultraviolet radiation exposure to multiple areas of a room. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, a minimum of four cassettes are utilized to create an enclosed four-sided rectangular area within which ultraviolet radiation can be focused on some target equipment to be disinfected, for example something as small as a medical or surgical tool, and the stackable ultraviolet cassettes and framework can be expanded to encompass anything as large as a space shuttle and large space equipment requiring disinfection.Optionally, in this or other embodiments, a minimum of two cassettes may be used to enclose a triangular area within which a target device, target area, or target surface may be disinfected, sterilized, or sanitized. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, five cassettes may be used in a system with a ceiling or upper cassette to enclose one device or target area on a space or floor or surface. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, six cassettes may be used to create an enclosed cube or rectangular space. Optionally, in this or other embodiments, one or more cassettes of a disinfection device may have different sizes and shapes relative to each other.

[0190] 51 shows an exemplary embodiment of four rectangular cassettes coupled together into an array framework. In this exemplary embodiment, four rectangular cassettes 5101 are arranged as a flat wall. The control panel is ignored in this view for simplicity. This view illustrates a current embodiment of the invention in which the four rectangular cassettes form a sterilization device that can be configured in various shapes, such as a square or rectangular enclosure, or oriented against a wall for sterilization purposes.

[0191] Figure 52 shows an exemplary embodiment of 16 rectangular cassettes bonded together in a stacked array framework. In this embodiment, multiple rectangular cassettes 8001 are aligned and stacked to create a much larger surface than in Figure 7. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, stacking of multiple cassettes can be used for larger applications or to create large enclosed ultraviolet light target zones.

[0192] 53 shows an exemplary embodiment of eight rectangular cassettes coupled together in an octagonal chamber arrangement to generate an ultraviolet light target zone of concentrated multiple vector light. In this embodiment, a configuration of eight rectangular cassettes 5301 are arranged in an octagon to enclose the ultraviolet light target zone.

[0193] 54 shows an exemplary embodiment of twelve rectangular cassettes 5501 arranged with four cassettes on each side and four on the top to create an enclosed space within which the UV target zone can be used as a corridor through which instruments can be passed for disinfection. In this and other examples, the speed at which instruments pass through the UV corridor will determine the amount of UV light received. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, the corridor can be extended with any cassettes necessary to achieve the appropriate amount of UV light at any speed, for example, to accommodate an assembly line that operates at a particular speed or rate.

[0194] 55 shows an exemplary embodiment of 12 rectangular cassettes joined together in a semicircular chamber, inside which an ultraviolet light target zone is created. In this embodiment, multiple interlocking rectangular cassettes 5501 can be arranged in a semicircle or full circle as needed to provide for disinfection of a large area or equipment. Optionally, in this and other embodiments, such circular arrangements can also be stacked to any reasonable height.

[0195] 56 shows an example embodiment of a triangular cassette 5601 containing three ultraviolet lamps 5602. This alternative shape of the cassette, thus far described as rectangular, can be combined or stacked to create shapes that cannot be easily formed from a rectangle, including spheres and geodesic domes.

[0196] FIG. 57 shows an example embodiment of how six interlocking triangular cassettes 5701, each containing three ultraviolet lamps 5702, can be used to create a hexagon, either a flat hexagon or a hexagon with a raised center point, which can be used to create a geodesic dome.

[0197] FIG. 58 shows an example embodiment of how multiple interlocking triangular cassettes 5801 may be combined to create a geodesic dome, inside which would be an ultraviolet light target zone. The dome would be accessible by a door 5802 created by unfolding three triangular cassettes 5801, through which equipment could be carried in. More than three triangular doors could be employed to encapsulate very large equipment, or the dome could be assembled around equipment or even structures that may be contaminated and require disinfection. By creating icosahedrons and extended icosahedrons, it is possible to encapsulate virtually any equipment or structure, including entire buildings.

[0198] Figures 59A-D show examples of self-contained interlocking cassettes 5901 and connecting hinges 5902 and 5903 that would be employed in connecting and stacking arrays of cassettes. Figure 15A shows a single self-contained cassette 5901 including connecting hinges 5902 and 5903 on the sides and top of each cassette so that ballast and controls are all contained within the cassette itself and the cassettes can be connected to other cassettes and stacked and arranged to enclose any type of three-dimensional space. The male connecting hinge 5902 on the right side of the cassette would connect to the female connecting hinge on the left side of the next cassette and the male connecting hinge on the top of each cassette would connect to the female connecting hinge on the bottom of the cassette stacked above it. In general the hinges of the connecting hinges could be hinge connections that allow for 180 degree rotation or more, although other embodiments can be envisioned with double action hinges that rotate up to 360 degrees, which would allow the invention to be applied to complex shapes. Various types of hinges can be incorporated into the coupling hinges, including strap hinges, Monroe hinges, double-acting spring hinges, elastic or "natural" hinges, multi-axle hinges, watchband hinges, double arm hinges, geared hinges, and universal joint hinges, which can be used to rotate the cassettes in multiple directions and create discontinuous enclosures. The coupling hinges will be of a type that allows easy and simple connection or disconnection of two or more cassettes and can include both power and control connections to link an entire array of multiple cassettes. Figure 15B shows two built-in interlocking cassettes 5901 interlocked together in a flat array with a right and top male coupling hinge 5902 and a left and top female coupling hinge. 15C shows two built-in interlocking cassettes 5901 interlocked together in a 90 degree array with a male mating hinge on the right and top, 5902, and a female mating hinge on the left and top, 5903. In this embodiment, any cassette may be arranged horizontally or vertically at any angle between 180 degrees and 0 degrees (when folded closed), although other embodiments may allow angles from 0 to 360 degrees.FIG. 15D shows an example of eight interlocking cassettes 5901 stacked to form a wall, with each cassette coupled by a male coupling hinge 5902 on its right side to a female coupling hinge 5903 on the next cassette to the right, and coupled by a male coupling hinge 5902 on its upper side to a female coupling hinge 5903 on the cassette above it.

[0199] 60A-C show an example of an array of four cassettes 6001 employing mating hinges 6002 and 6003 and wall-mounted joints 6004 for connecting to a wall 6005, illustrated with and without casters 6006, and an image of the array of four cassettes 6001 folded against a wall for storage. FIG. 60A shows how an array of four interlocking cassettes 6001 employing mating hinges 6002 and 6003 and riding or resting on casters 6006 can be mated to a wall 6005 with wall-mounted joints 6004, which can facilitate both permanent and temporary deployment of the cassette-based disinfection system. The casters 6006 provide mobility, aid in the deployment of the cassettes 6001, and support the weight of the cassettes 6001. The casters can also be replaced by structural supports, which may be permanently attached or replaceable throughout the frame and / or cassette structure. Figure 60B shows how an array of four interlocking cassettes 6001, employing coupling hinges 6002 and 6003, can be mated to a wall 6005 using a wall mounted coupling 6004 that will support the full weight of the cassettes 6001 as they sit flush with the wall and float free a short distance (i.e., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or up to 12 inches) above the floor. Figure 60C shows how an array of cassettes 6001, either supported by casters as in Figure 60A or free floating above the floor as in Figure 60B, can be folded into a compact arrangement for storage when not in use.

[0200] FIG. 61 shows a figurative application of a large array of self-contained interlocking cassettes 6102 stacked and constructed to form a large hangar or large chamber 6101 capable of sterilizing a space shuttle 6103.

[0201] It should be understood that functional units or capabilities described herein may be referred to or labeled as components or modules to more specifically emphasize their implementation independence. A component or module may be implemented in any combination of hardware circuits, programmable hardware devices, other discrete components. A component or module may also be implemented in software for execution by various types of processors. An identified component or module of executable code may comprise, for example, one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may be organized, for example, as an object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executable files of an identified component or module need not be physically located together, but may comprise heterogeneous instructions stored in different locations that, when logically joined together, comprise the component or module and achieve the stated purpose for the component or module. In fact, a component or module of executable code may be a single instruction or multiple instructions, and may be distributed evenly across several different code segments, among different programs, and across several memory devices.

[0202] Similarly, operational data may be identified and illustrated herein within components or modules, and may be embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. Operational data may be collected as a single data set or distributed across different locations, including across different storage devices, and may exist, at least in part, simply as electronic signals on a system or network. Components or modules may be active or passive, including agents operable to perform a desired function.

[0203] Exemplary embodiments may address one or more of the problems and deficiencies discussed above. However, the examples may additionally or alternatively prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies within some technical fields. Thus, the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure should not necessarily be construed as being limited to addressing any of the specific problems or deficiencies discussed herein, but is limited only by the scope of the claims.

[0204] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It is understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. The following claims define the scope of the invention, and it is intended that methods and structures within the scope of these claims, and their equivalents, be covered thereby.

[0205] Notes and Examples

[0206] The following non-limiting examples detail certain aspects of the present subject matter for, inter alia, solving the problems and providing the benefits discussed herein.

[0207] Example 1 is an ultraviolet radiation emitting device comprising a structure positionable within a target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume, and a plurality of light sources connected to the structure to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position of the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0208] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 is optionally wherein multiple light sources are positioned on the structure to kill at least 90% of organisms within the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources.

[0209] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes, wherein a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 20 minutes. In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-3 optionally includes, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned on the structure to kill at least 99.9% of organisms on surfaces within the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources.

[0210] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 2-4 optionally includes, a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 3 minutes.

[0211] In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-5 optionally includes, wherein irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume is substantially uniform and has a minimum irradiance of 50 to 800 microwatts per square centimeter.

[0212] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6 optionally includes, wherein the target volume is a room having dimensions of 1.5-8 meters wide by 1.5-8 meters long by 2-5 meters high.

[0213] In Example 8, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-7 optionally includes, wherein the target volume is a room having dimensions of 6-8 meters wide by 6-8 meters long by 2-5 meters high.

[0214] In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-8 optionally includes the structure including multiple arms extendable away from each other to distribute each light source of the multiple light sources within the target volume such that each light source of each arm is proportionally spaced relative to the multiple light sources of that arm.

[0215] In Example 10, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-9 optionally includes multiple light sources that are adjustably positionable to emit ultraviolet light at substantially uniform irradiance within multiple target volumes of various dimensions.

[0216] In Example 11, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 6-10 optionally includes, wherein the target volume is a room having dimensions of 1.5-6 meters wide by 1.5-6 meters long by 1.5-6 meters high, and the multiple light sources on each arm are spaced apart from each other along the width by 10-127 centimeters and spaced apart from each other along the length by 10-127 centimeters.

[0217] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 6-11 optionally includes, wherein the plurality of light sources in each arm are proportionally spaced apart from each light source in that arm.

[0218] In Example 13, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 9-12 optionally includes including a base, the structure configured to connect to and support each of the multiple arms such that each of the multiple arms is extendable away from the base.

[0219] In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 optionally includes, when the arms are between the collapsed position and the extended position, the base and the plurality of arms are configured to eliminate shadows within the target volume.

[0220] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 13-14 optionally includes that the base includes a plurality of compartments, each compartment of the plurality of compartments configured to receive an arm of the plurality of arms therein when the arms are in the collapsed position.

[0221] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 13-15 optionally includes wherein the base includes a track extending at least partially around a periphery of the base, and each arm of the plurality of arms is connectable to the track and configured to move along the track to adjust a respective position of the arm relative to the plurality of arms.

[0222] In Example 17, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 13-16 optionally includes that the structure includes a plurality of stands, each stand configured to connect to and support a respective one of the plurality of arms when the plurality of arms are between the collapsed position and the extended position.

[0223] In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 optionally includes that one or more of the base and the plurality of stands include wheels configured to enable the ultraviolet radiation emitting device to roll within the target volume.

[0224] Example 19 is an ultraviolet radiation system comprising a structure positionable within a target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume, and a plurality of light sources connected to the structure such that each of the light sources of the plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the structure is moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position so as to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0225] In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 optionally includes, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned on the structure to kill up to 90% of organisms in the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources, and the single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 300 seconds.

[0226] In Example 21, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 19-20 optionally includes a controller connected to and in communication with the plurality of light sources to turn the light sources on and off.

[0227] In Example 22, the subject matter of Example 21 optionally includes a motor connected to the structure and in communication with a controller, the controller configured to operate the motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0228] In Example 23, the subject matter of Example 22 optionally includes one or more proximity sensors connected to the structure and configured to generate a proximity signal based on the proximity of an object within the target volume and a dimension of the object relative to the structure.

[0229] In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 optionally includes the controller being configured to receive a proximity signal from the proximity sensor and to create a map of objects in the room based on the proximity sensor.

[0230] In Example 25, the subject matter of Example 24 optionally includes, wherein the controller is configured to operate the motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position based on a map of the room.

[0231] In Example 26, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 24-25 optionally includes that the controller is configured to operate the motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the extended position to a predetermined balance of the multiple light sources based on a map of the room.

[0232] In Example 27, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 24-26 optionally includes that the controller is configured to determine an illumination set point based on the map and adjust the illumination emitted by the multiple light sources based on the illumination set point.

[0233] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 19-27 optionally includes, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the power levels of individual light sources of the plurality of light sources based on the map and the illumination set points.

[0234] In Example 29, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 24-28 optionally includes, where the controller is configured to create a light energy matrix based on the precise energy and target volume correlation, and the controller is configured to adjust the irradiation emitted by the multiple light sources based on the light energy matrix.

[0235] In Example 30, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 21-29 optionally includes a tether sensor in communication with the controller, the tether sensor connected to the structure and connectable to a door of the target volume, the tether configured to generate a tether signal based on the position of the door, and the controller configured to disable the light source using the tether signal indicating that the door is in an open position.

[0236] Example 31 is an ultraviolet radiation system comprising: a central support positionable within a target volume and extending along a central axis; a first rail releasably securable to the central support and extending around a periphery of the central support generally transverse to the central axis; a first arm releasably securable to the first rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis, the first arm being movable between a collapsed position and an extended position; and a first plurality of light sources connected to the first arm such that as the first arm is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position, each of the light sources of the first plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources.

[0237] In Example 32, the subject matter of Example 31 optionally includes the first plurality of light sources being proportionally spaced to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0238] In Example 33, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-32 optionally includes, wherein the central support has a generally rectangular prism geometry.

[0239] In Example 34, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-33 optionally includes a second rail releasably securable to the central support and extending generally transverse to the central axis and generally parallel to the first rail around the periphery of the central support.

[0240] In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 34 optionally includes a second arm releasably securable to the first rail and the second rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis and generally perpendicular to the first arm, the second arm movable between a collapsed position and an extended position, and a second plurality of light sources connected to the second arm such that as the second arm is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position, each of the light sources of the second plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources.

[0241] In Example 36, the subject matter of Example 35 optionally includes a third arm releasably securable to the first rail and the second rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis, generally parallel to the first arm and generally perpendicular to the second arm, the third arm being movable between a collapsed position and an extended position, and a third plurality of light sources connected to the third arm such that as the third arm is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position, each of the light sources of the third plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources.

[0242] In Example 37, the subject matter of Example 36 optionally includes a fourth arm releasably securable to the first rail and the second rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis, generally perpendicular to the first arm and the third arm, and generally parallel to the second rail, the fourth arm being movable between a collapsed position and an extended position, and a fourth plurality of light sources connected to the fourth arm such that as the fourth arm is moved between the collapsed position and the extended position, each of the light sources of the fourth plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources.

[0243] In Example 38, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-37 optionally includes the first arm including a plurality of linkages hingeably coupled to one another to enable the first arm to move between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0244] In Example 39, the subject matter of Example 38 optionally includes the first arm including a bracket releasably securable to the first rail and connected to a plurality of linkages to connect the first arm to the first rail.

[0245] In Example 40, the subject matter of Example 39 optionally includes the first arm including a second bracket releasably securable to the second rail and connected to a plurality of linkages to connect the second arm to the second rail.

[0246] In Example 41, the subject matter of Example 40 optionally includes where the first arm includes a cross member that rigidly connects the first bracket to the second bracket.

[0247] In Example 42, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 39-41 optionally includes that the first arm includes a roller connected to the first bracket and engageable with the first rail to generate rolling engagement of the first bracket relative to the first rail and enable translational movement of the first arm relative to the first rail.

[0248] Example 43 is an ultraviolet radiation sanitization system comprising a plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices, each device comprising a base positionable within a target volume, a driver connected to the base and engageable with a surface of the target volume, a motor supported by the base and connected to the driver, the motor being controllable to operate the driver to move the base relative to the surface and to move the base within the target volume, a light source supported by the base, and a controller in communication with the motor and the light source, operable to position the base within the target volume and configured to operate the light source such that the light of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices together emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume.

[0249] In Example 44, the subject matter of Example 43 optionally includes the light sources being positioned relative to one another to distribute each light source of the multiple light sources within the target volume such that each light source is proportionally spaced relative to the multiple light sources.

[0250] In Example 45, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 43-44 optionally includes a central controller in communication with each controller of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet devices, and configured to provide each of the controllers with instructions to position the mobile ultraviolet device within the target volume, instructions to each mobile ultraviolet device to position the mobile ultraviolet device within the target volume, and instructions to control the ultraviolet output of each of the light sources.

[0251] In Example 46, the subject matter of Example 45 optionally includes that each of the multiple mobile ultraviolet devices further comprises a proximity sensor connected to the base and configured to transmit a proximity signal to the controller based on the proximity of an object within the target volume and a dimension of the object.

[0252] In Example 47, the subject matter of Example 46 optionally includes, wherein the controller is configured to create a map of the room and objects within the room based on the proximity sensor.

[0253] In Example 48, the subject matter of Example 47 optionally includes, wherein the controller is configured to operate the motor to move the base within the target volume based on a map of the room.

[0254] In Example 49, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 47-48 optionally includes the controller being configured to communicate with each controller of the multiple mobile ultraviolet devices and create a destination for each of the multiple mobile ultraviolet devices, and configured to operate the motor and move the base within the target volume based on the map of the room and the destination for each of the multiple mobile ultraviolet devices.

[0255] In Example 50, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 44-49 optionally includes a remote controller in communication with the controllers of the multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices and operable to selectively move individual mobile ultraviolet light devices within the target volume as desired.

[0256] In Example 51, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 43-50 optionally includes, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned to kill at least 90% of organisms in the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources, the single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 20 minutes, the substantially uniform irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume has a minimum irradiance of 50-800 microwatts per square centimeter, and the target volume is a room having dimensions of 1.5-8 meters wide by 1.5-8 meters long by 2-5 meters high.

[0257] Example 52 is a method of sanitizing a target space, comprising the steps of positioning a structure within the target volume, moving the structure between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume, and moving a plurality of light sources connected to the structure, the plurality of light sources being configured to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0258] In Example 53, the subject matter of Example 52 optionally includes a step of irradiating ultraviolet light to at least 90% of organisms within the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources, wherein the single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 300 seconds and the substantially uniform irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume is at least 50 microwatts per square centimeter.

[0259] In Example 54, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 52-53 optionally includes a target volume being a hospital room having dimensions of 2-7 meters wide by 2-7 meters long by 2-5 meters high.

[0260] In Example 55, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 52-54 optionally includes a step of extending each of the arms of the multiple arms away from each other so that each light source is proportionally spaced relative to the multiple light sources, and distributing each light source of the multiple light sources within the target volume.

[0261] In Example 56, the subject matter of Example 55 optionally includes positioning each arm of the plurality of arms within a compartment of the plurality of compartments when the arms are in the collapsed position.

[0262] Method embodiment 55 further includes positioning each arm of the plurality of arms within a compartment of the plurality of compartments when the arms are in the collapsed position.

[0263] In Example 57, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 55-56 optionally includes a step of adjusting a position of each of the arms relative to the plurality of arms by moving each arm of the plurality of arms along a track connected to the base and extending around a periphery of the base.

[0264] In Example 58, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 55-57 optionally includes a step of supporting each arm of the plurality of arms using a stand, each stand configured to support each of the plurality of arms between a collapsed position and an extended position.

[0265] In Example 59, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 52-58 optionally includes a step of operating a controller connected to and in communication with the multiple light sources to turn the light sources on and off.

[0266] In Example 60, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 50-59 optionally includes a step of generating a proximity signal based on the proximity of an object within the target volume and a dimension of the object using a proximity sensor connected to the structure.

[0267] In Example 61, the subject matter of Example 60 optionally includes creating a map of the room based on the proximity signal.

[0268] In Example 62, the subject matter of Example 61 optionally includes the step of operating a motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position based on a map of the room.

[0269] In Example 63, the subject matter of Example 62 optionally includes determining an illumination set point based on the map, and adjusting the illumination emitted by the multiple light sources based on the illumination set point.

[0270] In Example 64, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 61-63 optionally includes adjusting power levels of individual light sources of the plurality of light sources based on the map and the illumination set points.

[0271] In Example 65, an ultraviolet radiation system for sanitizing a target volume includes a plurality of adjustably positionable light sources having a collapsed position and an expanded position, the light sources of the plurality of adjustably positionable light sources being proportionally spaced relative to each other as the light sources are moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position such that the light sources emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0272] In Example 66, the subject matter of Example 65 optionally includes a plurality of adjustably positionable light sources providing a counterbalance of light sources at extended positions within a plurality of target volumes of various dimensions.

[0273] In Example 67, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 65-66 optionally includes the multiple adjustably positionable light sources further comprising a base positionable within the target volume, a driver connected to the base and engageable with a surface of the target volume, a motor supported by the base and connected to the driver, the motor being controllable to operate the driver to move the base relative to the surface and move the base within the target volume, a light source supported by the base, and a controller in communication with the motor and the light source, operable to position the base within the target volume.

[0274] In Example 68, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 65-67 optionally includes that the multiple adjustably positionable light sources further comprise a structure positionable within the target volume and operable to move the light sources between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume.

[0275] In Example 69, the subject matter of Example 68 optionally includes wherein the base includes a track extending at least partially around a periphery of the base, and each arm of the plurality of arms is connectable to the track and configured to move along the track to adjust a respective position of the arm relative to the plurality of arms.

[0276] In Example 70, the subject matter of Example 69 optionally includes a base configured to connect to and support each of the multiple arms such that each of the multiple arms is extendable away from the base.

[0277] Example 71 is an ultraviolet radiation device comprising a structure positionable within a target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume, and a plurality of light sources connected to the structure to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0278] In Example 72, the subject matter of Example 71 optionally includes that the structure includes multiple arms extendable away from each other to distribute each light source of the multiple light sources within the target volume such that each light source is proportionally spaced relative to the multiple light sources.

[0279] In Example 73, the subject matter of Example 72 optionally includes a base configured to connect to and support each of the multiple arms such that each of the multiple arms is extendable away from the base.

[0280] In Example 74, the subject matter of Example 73 optionally includes the arms being configured to telescopically move between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0281] In Example 75, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 73-74 optionally includes that the arms each include a plurality of links hingeably connected.

[0282] In Example 76, the subject matter of Example 75 optionally includes the multiple links configured to move in a scissor-like manner about a hinge to move the arms between the collapsed position and the expanded position.

[0283] In Example 77, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 75-76 optionally includes that the second arm can be stacked on any of the arms of the plurality of arms.

[0284] In Example 78, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 75-77 optionally includes that the multiple arms are movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position to accommodate different chamber shapes and sizes of multiple target volumes.

[0285] Example 79 is a modular ultraviolet disinfection assembly comprising: a first cassette comprising a first coupling element connected to a periphery of the first cassette and a first plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the first cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light; a second coupling element connected to a periphery of the second cassette, the second coupling element forming a perimeter surrounding and adjacent to the target area and releasably coupleable to the first coupling element to direct ultraviolet light from the first and second plurality of lamps to the target area; and a second cassette comprising a second plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the second cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light.

[0286] In Example 80, the subject matter of Example 79 optionally includes the first cassette further comprising a plurality of ballasts connected to a surface of the first cassette and electrically connected to the first plurality of ultraviolet lamps so as to limit current thereto.

[0287] In Example 81, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 79-80 optionally includes where the first coupling element is a male hinge and the second coupling element is a female hinge.

[0288] In Example 82, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 79-81 optionally includes, when the first coupling element is coupled to the second coupling element, the first coupling element and the second coupling element enable relative rotation of the first cassette by 360 degrees with respect to the second cassette about the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

[0289] In Example 83, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 79-82 optionally includes a third cassette comprising a third coupling element connected to a periphery of the third cassette and a third plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the third cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light, and the first cassette further comprises an opposing coupling element connected to a periphery of the first cassette opposite the first coupling element, the opposing coupling element being releasably coupleable to the third coupling element.

[0290] In Example 84, the subject matter of Example 83 optionally includes a fourth cassette comprising a fourth coupling element connected to a periphery of the fourth cassette and a fourth plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the fourth cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light, and the first cassette further comprises an upper coupling element connected to an upper periphery of the first cassette adjacent to the first coupling element and the opposing coupling element, the upper coupling element being releasably coupleable to the fourth coupling element to support the fourth cassette above the first cassette and to enable relative rotation of the fourth cassette with respect to the first cassette when the upper coupling element is coupled to the fourth coupling element.

[0291] In Example 85, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 79-84 optionally includes that the plurality of ultraviolet lamps of the first cassette, together with the second plurality of ultraviolet lamps of the second cassette, are configured to form an enclosure at least partially around the target area and are configured to distribute multiple vector ultraviolet light around the target area adjacent the first cassette and the second cassette.

[0292] Example 86 is a method of arranging multiple ultraviolet lamps in a cassette assembly, the method including the steps of: providing a first cassette including a first coupling element connected to a periphery of the first cassette; connecting the first plurality of ultraviolet lamps to a surface of the first cassette, the first plurality of ultraviolet lamps being configured to emit ultraviolet light; providing a second cassette including a second coupling element connected to a periphery of the second cassette; connecting the second plurality of ultraviolet lamps to a surface of the second cassette, the second plurality of ultraviolet lamps being configured to emit ultraviolet light; and connecting the first coupling element and the second coupling element to rotatably secure the first cassette to the second cassette.

[0293] In Example 87, the subject matter of Example 86 optionally includes the steps of connecting a plurality of ballasts to a surface of the first cassette and electrically connecting the plurality of ballasts to the first plurality of ultraviolet lamps and limiting current thereto.

[0294] In Example 88, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 86-87 optionally includes a step of using a first plurality of ultraviolet lamps in a first cassette together with a second plurality of ultraviolet lamps in a second cassette to distribute multiple vector ultraviolet light within a target area adjacent the first cassette and the second cassette.

[0295] In Example 89, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 86-88 optionally includes providing a third cassette including a third coupling element connected to a periphery of the third cassette, and connecting a third plurality of ultraviolet lamps to a surface of the third cassette, the third plurality of lamps being configured to emit ultraviolet light.

[0296] In Example 90, the subject matter of Example 89 optionally includes a step of connecting an opposing coupling element of the first cassette to a third coupling element, the opposing coupling element being connected to a periphery of the first cassette opposite the first coupling element.

[0297] In Example 91, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 86-90 optionally includes a step of rotating the first cassette relative to the second cassette about the first coupling element and the second coupling element when the first coupling element is coupled to the second coupling element.

[0298] Example 92 is a modular ultraviolet disinfection assembly comprising: a first cassette comprising a first plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the first cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light; a second cassette comprising a second plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the second cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light; and a frame configured to releasably receive and support the first cassette therein and configured to releasably receive and support the second cassette therein adjacent to the first cassette.

[0299] In Example 93, the subject matter of Example 92 optionally includes a protective wire mesh cage configured to at least partially encapsulate at least one lamp of the first plurality of lamps.

[0300] In Example 94, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 92-93 optionally includes a central column connectable to the frame to support the frame, the first cassette, and the second cassette away from the floor surface.

[0301] In Example 95, the subject matter of Example 94 optionally includes, where the central column includes a coupling element connecting the central column to the frame and configured to allow the frame to rotate relative to the central column.

[0302] In Example 96, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 94-95 optionally includes a plurality of casters connected to the center column and the frame.

[0303] In Example 97, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 94-96 optionally includes a third cassette comprising a third plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the third cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light, a fourth cassette comprising a fourth plurality of ultraviolet lamps connected to a surface of the fourth cassette and configured to emit ultraviolet light, and a second frame configured to releasably receive and support the third cassette therein and configured to releasably receive and support the fourth cassette adjacent to the third cassette therein, the second frame being releasably coupleable to the frame.

[0304] In Example 98, the subject matter of Example 97 optionally includes that the second frame includes a hinge connecting the frame to the second frame and enabling the frame to rotate relative to the second frame column.

[0305] In Example 99, the devices, systems, and / or methods of any one or any combination of Examples 1-98 can be optionally configured such that all of the elements or options described are available for use or selection.

[0306] The following devices, systems, and / or methods can be configured such that, optionally, all elements or options can be combined with one or more of the above examples. 1) A device with a singular or expandable base structure capable of generating physical geometries that translate into a uniform matrix of light energy emitted by a light source. 2) The expandable base consists of hinges and coupling joints that allow a cavity within the base to be formed, allowing space to accommodate a large object, such as a hospital bed or operating table. 3) The expandable base structure allows for simultaneous disinfection of objects and spaces from all sides using a single cycle. 4) The expandable base can be utilized for very small rooms or expanded for very large rooms while maintaining a uniform physical geometry. 5) The extendable or singular base contains an arm that houses the light source. 6) These arms can be deployed in a number of ways and mechanisms, however the mechanisms are designed to proportionally self-adjust the precise distance between the light sources to create a uniform physical geometry depending on the volume or space being disinfected. 7) These arms can be extended or retracted. 8) These arms can move like scissors. 9) These arms can be folded. 10) These arms can swivel. 11) These arms can be layered. 12) These arms can be constructed. 13) These arms can be stacked. 14) An armless device can have a multi-base structure containing at least one light source per base that can be robotically programmed via controllers and logic to scan and identify markers, self-assemble into a predetermined uniform physical geometry, and accomplish this assembly manually or in an automated or robotic manner through motors and drivers. 15) Devices with multiple base structures can be scanned using RFID, color schemes, or proximity sensing sensors. 16) Devices with multiple base, singular base, or expandable base structures can accommodate various dimensions of rooms through adjustable arms in a radial or linear fashion. 17) Devices with multiple bases, unique bases, or expandable base structures can be motorized to move, contract, and / or expand within various chambers based on programmed logic and / or indication markers. 18) Devices with multiple base, singular base, or expandable base structures containing light sources create a uniform physical geometry delivery system that establishes a uniform volume of light matrix energy. 19) The geometry of the light matrix is ​​self-adjusting to accommodate small or large rooms such as one, two or sometimes three person patient rooms and / or small bathrooms. 20) The geometry of the Light Matrix is ​​pre-programmed to achieve precise energies in various volumes that are self-adjusting to achieve possible volumes of 250 cubic feet, 4000 cubic feet, and up to 6250 cubic feet. 21) The device and delivery system can construct a uniform volume of energy for a variety of different spaces. While such spaces can be cylindrical, cubic, rectangular, or triangular, the delivery system conforms to the physical geometry, converting it into a light energy matrix with a correlation to a precise energy calibration for the precise room or volume. 22) Such calibration can be in-room pre-programmed or learned logic or intelligence based on distance or dimensional sensors or lasers built into the base or arm mechanism of the device. 23) Physical sensors that detect volume and / or physical rooms can be utilized for calibration. 24) A tethered sensor could be utilized for dimension and / or safety trigger when secured to a room door, where a change in dimension in response to a bystander's entry would trigger the device to deactivate for safety purposes. 25) The device may contain an electric motor via A / C or battery operation. 26) The device can communicate wirelessly through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to mobile devices and remote monitoring and reporting.

[0307] The above detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. The inventors also contemplate examples that use any combination or permutation of these elements (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described, either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof) or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0308] In the event of inconsistent usage between this document and any document so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document takes precedence.

[0309] The terms "a" or "an" are used herein to include "one" or "more than one," as is common in patent documents, independently of any other instance or usage of "at least one" or "one or more." The term "or" is used herein to refer to a non-exclusive "or," such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. The terms "including" and "in which" are used herein as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, i.e., a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those recited after such term in a claim will still be deemed to be within the scope of that claim. Also, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0310] The above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. For example, the embodiments described above (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments may also be used by those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the above description. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as an example or embodiment, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The present specification also provides, for example, the following items: (Item 1) 1. An ultraviolet light emitting device, comprising: a structure positionable within a target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume; a plurality of light sources coupled to the structure to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position of the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position; An ultraviolet radiation device comprising: (Item 2) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 1, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned on the structure to kill at least 90% of organisms in the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources. (Item 3) 3. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 2, wherein a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 20 minutes. (Item 4) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 1, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned on the structure to kill at least 99.9% of organisms on surfaces within the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources. (Item 5) 3. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 2, wherein a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources is less than 3 minutes. (Item 6) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 1, wherein the irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume is substantially uniform and has a minimum irradiance of 50 to 800 microwatts per square centimeter. (Item 7) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device according to item 1, wherein the target volume is a room having dimensions of 1.5 to 8 meters wide by 1.5 to 8 meters long by 2 to 5 meters high. (Item 8) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device according to item 1, wherein the target volume is a room having dimensions of 6 to 8 meters wide by 6 to 8 meters long by 2 to 5 meters high. (Item 9) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 1, wherein the structure includes a plurality of arms extendable away from one another to distribute each of the light sources of the plurality of light sources within the target volume such that each light source of each arm is proportionally spaced relative to the plurality of light sources of that arm. (Item 10) 2. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 1, wherein the multiple light sources are adjustably positionable to emit ultraviolet light at substantially uniform irradiance within multiple target volumes of various dimensions. (Item 11) 7. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 6, wherein the target volume is a room having dimensions of 1.5-6 meters width by 1.5-6 meters length by 1.5-6 meters height, and the multiple light sources in each arm are spaced apart from each other along the width by 10-127 centimeters and spaced apart from each other along the length by 10-127 centimeters. (Item 12) 7. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 6, wherein the light sources in each arm are proportionally spaced apart from each other. (Item 13) 10. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 9, wherein the structure includes a base configured to connect to and support each of the plurality of arms such that each of the plurality of arms is extendable away from the base. (Item 14) Item 14. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 13, wherein the base and the plurality of arms are configured to eliminate shadows within the target volume when the arms are between the collapsed position and the extended position. (Item 15) Item 14. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 13, wherein the base includes a plurality of compartments, each of the plurality of compartments configured to receive an arm of the plurality of arms therein when the arm is in the collapsed position. (Item 16) Item 14. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 13, wherein the base includes a track extending at least partially around a periphery of the base, and each arm of the plurality of arms is connectable to the track and configured to move along the track to adjust a respective position of the arm relative to the plurality of arms. (Item 17) Item 14. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 13, wherein the structure includes a plurality of stands, each stand configured to be connected to and support a respective one of the plurality of arms when the plurality of arms are between the collapsed position and the extended position. (Item 18) Item 18. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 17, wherein the base and one or more of the plurality of stands include wheels configured to enable the ultraviolet radiation device to roll within the target volume. (Item 19) 1. An ultraviolet radiation system comprising: a structure positionable within a target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume; a plurality of light sources, the plurality of light sources being connected to the structure such that each of the light sources of the plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the structure is moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position so as to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position; An ultraviolet radiation system comprising: (Item 20) 20. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 19, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned on the structure to kill up to 90% of organisms in the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources, the single operating cycle of the multiple light sources being less than 300 seconds. (Item 21) 20. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 19, further comprising a controller connected to and in communication with the plurality of light sources to turn the light sources on and off. (Item 22) 22. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 21, further comprising a motor connected to the structure and in communication with the controller, the controller configured to operate the motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position. (Item 23) 23. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 22, further comprising one or more proximity sensors connected to the structure and configured to generate a proximity signal based on the proximity of an object in the target volume and a dimension of the object relative to the structure. (Item 24) 24. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 23, wherein the controller is configured to receive the proximity signal from the proximity sensor and to create a map of objects in the room based on the proximity sensor. (Item 25) 25. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 24, wherein the controller is configured to operate the motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position based on a map of the room. (Item 26) 25. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 24, wherein the controller is configured to operate the motors to move the structure between the collapsed position and the extended position to a predetermined balance of the multiple light sources based on a map of the room. (Item 27) 25. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 24, wherein the controller is configured to determine an irradiance set point based on the map and to adjust the irradiance emitted by the multiple light sources based on the irradiance set point. (Item 28) 20. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to adjust power levels of individual light sources of the plurality of light sources based on the map and the irradiance set points. (Item 29) 25. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 24, wherein the controller is configured to create a light energy matrix based on a precise energy and target volume correlation, and the controller is configured to adjust the irradiation emitted by the multiple light sources based on the light energy matrix. (Item 30) 22. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 21, further comprising a tether sensor in communication with the controller, the tether sensor connected to the structure and connectable to a door of the target volume, the tether configured to generate a tether signal based on a position of the door, and the controller configured to disable the light source using the tether signal indicating that the door is in an open position. (Item 31) 1. An ultraviolet radiation system comprising: a central support positionable within the target volume and extending along a central axis; a first rail releasably securable to the central support and extending generally transverse to the central axis around a periphery of the central support; a first arm releasably securable to the first rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis, the first arm being movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a first plurality of light sources connected to the first arm such that each of the light sources of the first plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the first arm is moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position; An ultraviolet radiation system comprising: (Item 32) Item 32. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 31, wherein the first plurality of light sources are proportionally spaced to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position. (Item 33) Item 32. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 31, wherein the central support has a generally rectangular prism geometry. (Item 34) Item 32. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 31, further comprising a second rail, the second rail being releasably securable to the central support and extending generally transverse to the central axis and generally parallel to the first rail around the periphery of the central support. (Item 35) a second arm, the second arm releasably securable to the first rail and the second rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis and generally perpendicular to the first arm, the second arm being movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a second plurality of light sources connected to the second arm such that each of the light sources of the second plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the second arm is moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position; Item 35. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 34, further comprising: (Item 36) a third arm, the third arm releasably securable to the first rail and the second rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis, generally parallel to the first arm and generally perpendicular to the second arm, the third arm movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a third plurality of light sources, the third plurality of light sources being connected to the third arm such that each of the light sources in the third plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the third arm is moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position; Item 36. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 35, further comprising: (Item 37) a fourth arm, the fourth arm being releasably securable to the first rail and the second rail and movable along the first rail generally transverse to the central axis, generally perpendicular to the first arm and the third arm, and generally parallel to the second arm, the fourth arm being movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a fourth plurality of light sources, the fourth plurality of light sources being connected to the fourth arm such that each of the light sources in the fourth plurality of light sources is proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the fourth arm is moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position; Item 37. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 36, further comprising: (Item 38) Item 32. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 31, wherein the first arm includes a plurality of linkages hingeably coupled to each other to enable the first arm to move between the collapsed position and the expanded position. (Item 39) Item 39. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 38, wherein the first arm includes a bracket, the bracket being releasably securable to the first rail and connected to the plurality of linkages to connect the first arm to the first rail. (Item 40) 40. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 39, wherein the first arm includes a second bracket, the second bracket being releasably securable to the second rail and connected to the plurality of linkages to connect the second arm to the second rail. (Item 41) Item 41. The ultraviolet radiation system of item 40, wherein the first arm includes a cross member that rigidly connects the first bracket to the second bracket. (Item 42) 40. The ultraviolet radiation system of claim 39, wherein the first arm includes a roller connected to the first bracket and engageable with the first rail to generate rolling engagement of the first bracket relative to the first rail and enable translational movement of the first arm relative to the first rail. (Item 43) 1. An ultraviolet radiation sanitization system comprising: A plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices, each of which comprises: a base positionable within the target volume; a driver connected to the base and engageable with a surface of the target volume; a motor supported by the base and connected to the driver, the motor being controllable to operate the driver to move the base relative to the surface and to move the base within the target volume; a light source supported by the base; a controller in communication with the motor and the light source, the controller operable to position the base within the target volume and configured to operate the light source such that the lights of the multiple mobile ultraviolet light devices together emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume; and 1. An ultraviolet radiation sanitization system comprising: (Item 44) Item 44. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 43, wherein the light sources are positioned relative to one another to distribute each light source of the plurality of light sources within the target volume such that each light source is proportionally spaced relative to the plurality of light sources. (Item 45) a central controller in communication with the controller of each of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices, the central controller comprising: instructions for positioning the mobile ultraviolet light device within the target volume; For each mobile ultraviolet light device, instructions for positioning said mobile ultraviolet light device; instructions for controlling the ultraviolet light output of each of said light sources; a central controller configured to provide each of the controllers with Item 44. The ultraviolet radiation sanitization system of item 43, further comprising: (Item 46) 46. ​​The ultraviolet radiation sanitization system of claim 45, wherein each of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices further comprises a proximity sensor connected to the base and configured to transmit a proximity signal to the controller based on the proximity of an object within the target volume and a dimension of the object. (Item 47) Item 47. The ultraviolet radiation sanitization system of item 46, wherein the controller is configured to create a map of the room and objects within the room based on the proximity sensor. (Item 48) Item 48. The ultraviolet radiation sanitization system of item 47, wherein the controller is configured to operate the motor and move the base within the target volume based on a map of the room. (Item 49) 48. The ultraviolet radiation sanitization system of claim 47, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with each of the controllers of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices and create a destination for each of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices, and to operate the motor and move the base within the target volume based on the map of the room and the destination for each of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices. (Item 50) Item 45. The ultraviolet radiation sanitization system of item 44, further comprising a remote controller, the remote controller in communication with controllers of the plurality of mobile ultraviolet light devices and operable to selectively move individual mobile ultraviolet light devices within the target volume as desired. (Item 51) Item 44. The ultraviolet radiation device according to item 43, wherein the multiple light sources are positioned to kill at least 90% of organisms in the target volume within a single operating cycle of the multiple light sources, the single operating cycle of the multiple light sources being less than 20 minutes, the substantially uniform irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume having a minimum irradiance of 50-800 microwatts per square centimeter, and the target volume is a room having dimensions of 1.5-8 meters wide by 1.5-8 meters long by 2-5 meters high. (Item 52) 1. A method of sanitizing a target space, the method comprising: Positioning a structure within a target volume; moving the structure between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume and moving a plurality of light sources coupled to the structure, the plurality of light sources configured to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position; A method comprising: (Item 53) irradiating at least 90% of organisms within the target volume with the ultraviolet light within a single operating cycle of the plurality of light sources, the single operating cycle of the plurality of light sources being less than 300 seconds, and a substantially uniform irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume being at least 50 microwatts per square centimeter; 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising: (Item 54) 53. The method according to item 52, wherein the target volume is a hospital room having dimensions of 2-7 meters width by 2-7 meters length by 2-5 meters height. (Item 55) 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising extending each of the arms of the plurality of arms away from each other such that each light source is proportionally spaced relative to the plurality of light sources, and distributing each light source of the plurality of light sources within the target volume. (Item 56) Item 56. The method of item 55, further comprising positioning each arm of the plurality of arms within a compartment of a plurality of compartments when the arms are in the collapsed position. (Item 57) Item 56. The method of item 55, further comprising adjusting a position of each of the plurality of arms relative to the plurality of arms by moving each arm of the plurality of arms along a track connected to the base and extending around a periphery of the base. (Item 58) supporting each arm of the plurality of arms using a stand, each stand configured to support a respective one of the plurality of arms between the collapsed position and the extended position; 56. The method of claim 55, further comprising: (Item 59) Item 53. The method of item 52, further comprising operating a controller connected to and in communication with the plurality of light sources to turn the light sources on and off. (Item 60) 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising generating a proximity signal based on the proximity of an object within the target volume and a dimension of the object using a proximity sensor connected to the structure. (Item 61) Item 61. The method of item 60, further comprising creating a map of the room based on the proximity signal. (Item 62) Item 62. The method of item 61, further comprising operating the motor to move the structure between the collapsed position and the expanded position based on a map of the room. (Item 63) determining irradiance set points based on the map; and adjusting the irradiance emitted by the plurality of light sources based on the irradiance set points; Item 63. The method of item 62, further comprising: (Item 64) Item 62. The method of item 61, further comprising adjusting a power level of an individual light source of the plurality of light sources based on the map and the irradiance set point. (Item 65) 1. An ultraviolet radiation system for sanitizing a target volume, the system comprising: a plurality of adjustably positionable light sources having a collapsed position and an expanded position, the light sources of the plurality of adjustably positionable light sources being proportionally spaced relative to each of the light sources as the light sources are moved between the collapsed position and the expanded position such that the light sources emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position; A system comprising: (Item 66) Item 66. An ultraviolet radiation system for sanitizing a target volume as described in item 65, wherein the multiple adjustably positionable light sources provide a balance of the light sources in the extended positions in multiple target volumes of various sizes. (Item 67) The plurality of adjustably positionable light sources further comprises: a base positionable within the target volume; a driver connected to the base and engageable with a surface of the target volume; a motor supported by the base and connected to the driver, the motor being controllable to operate the driver to move the base relative to the surface and to move the base within the target volume; a light source supported by the base; a controller in communication with the motor and the light source, the controller operable to position the base within the target volume; 66. An ultraviolet radiation system for sanitizing a target volume according to item 65, comprising: (Item 68) The plurality of adjustably positionable light sources further comprises: a structure positionable within the target volume and operable to move the light source between the collapsed position and the expanded position within the target volume; 66. An ultraviolet radiation system for sanitizing a target volume according to item 65, comprising: (Item 69) Item 69. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 68, wherein the base includes a track extending at least partially around a periphery of the base, and each arm of the plurality of arms is connectable to the track and configured to move along the track to adjust a respective position of the arm relative to the plurality of arms. (Item 70) 70. The ultraviolet radiation device of claim 69, wherein the structure includes a base configured to connect to and support each of the plurality of arms such that each of the plurality of arms is extendable away from the base. (Item 71) 1. An ultraviolet light emitting device, comprising: a structure positionable within a target volume and movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position within the target volume; a plurality of light sources, the plurality of light sources being coupled to the structure to emit ultraviolet light at a substantially uniform irradiance within the target volume at any position between the collapsed position and the expanded position; An ultraviolet radiation device comprising: (Item 72) Item 72. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 71, wherein the structure includes a plurality of arms extendable away from one another to distribute each of the plurality of light sources within the target volume such that each light source is proportionally spaced relative to the plurality of light sources. (Item 73) Item 73. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 72, wherein the structure includes a base configured to connect to and support each of the plurality of arms such that each of the plurality of arms is extendable away from the base. (Item 74) Item 74. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 73, wherein the arm is configured to telescopically move between the collapsed position and the expanded position. (Item 75) Item 74. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 73, wherein each of the arms includes a plurality of links that are hingeably connected. (Item 76) Item 76. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 75, wherein the links are configured to move in a scissor-like manner about the hinge to move the arms between the collapsed position and the expanded position. (Item 77) Item 76. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 75, wherein a second arm can be stacked on any of the arms of the plurality of arms. (Item 78) Item 76. The ultraviolet radiation device of item 75, wherein the multiple arms are movable between the collapsed position and the expanded position to accommodate different chamber shapes and sizes of multiple target volumes. (Item 79) 1. A method for arranging a plurality of ultraviolet lamps in a cassette assembly, the method comprising: providing a first cassette, the first cassette including a first coupling element connected to a periphery of the first cassette; connecting a first plurality of ultraviolet lamps to a surface of the first cassette, the first plurality of ultraviolet lamps configured to emit ultraviolet light; providing a second cassette, the second cassette including a second coupling element connected to a periphery of the second cassette; connecting a second plurality of ultraviolet lamps to a surface of the second cassette, the second plurality of ultraviolet lamps configured to emit ultraviolet light; connecting the first coupling element and the second coupling element to rotatably secure the first cassette to the second cassette; A method comprising: (Item 80) connecting a plurality of ballasts to a surface of the first cassette; electrically connecting said plurality of ballasts to said first plurality of ultraviolet lamps to limit current thereto; 80. The method of claim 79, further comprising: (Item 81) 80. The method of claim 79, further comprising using a first plurality of ultraviolet lamps of the first cassette in conjunction with a second plurality of ultraviolet lamps of the second cassette to distribute multiple vector ultraviolet light within a target area adjacent the first cassette and the second cassette. (Item 82) providing a third cassette, the third cassette including a third coupling element connected to a periphery of the third cassette; connecting a third plurality of ultraviolet lamps to a surface of the third cassette, the third plurality of lamps configured to emit ultraviolet light; 80. The method of claim 79, further comprising: (Item 83) connecting a counter coupling element of the first cassette to the third coupling element, the counter coupling element being connected to a periphery of the first cassette opposite the first coupling element; 80. The method of claim 79, further comprising: (Item 84) 80. The method of claim 79, further comprising rotating the first cassette relative to the second cassette about the first coupling element and the second coupling element when the first coupling element is coupled to the second coupling element.

Claims

1. An ultraviolet (UV) emitting device, comprising: a central support positionable within the target volume and extending along a central axis; one or more arms movably coupled to the central support, the one or more arms being movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position and further movable along the central support in at least one direction perpendicular to the central axis, each of the one or more arms including a plurality of UV light sources coupled thereto, the plurality of UV light sources being configured to emit UV light; A UV radiation device comprising:

2. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein the multiple UV light sources are configured to emit the UV light so that irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume is substantially uniform and has a minimum irradiance of 50 to 800 microwatts per square centimeter.

3. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein the central support is coupled to a wall of the target volume, and the one or more arms include at least a first arm configured to extend along the wall when in the extended position, and a second arm configured to extend away from the wall when in the extended position.

4. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein the central support is coupled to the ceiling of the target volume and each of the plurality of light sources of each individual arm is coupled to an underside of the individual arm.

5. A UV radiation device as described in claim 4, wherein each of the one or more arms is configured to be coupled to the ceiling, each of the one or more arms extends downwardly at an angle toward a floor of the target volume when in the extended position, or both.

6. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein the central support includes one or more compartments defined therein, each of the one or more compartments housing an individual one of the one or more arms when the individual arm is in the collapsed position, and a distal end of each individual one of the one or more arms forms a cover for the compartment in which the individual one of the one or more arms is housed.

7. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein each of the one or more arms is formed from one or more frame members joined together, and the multiple light sources of each individual arm are housed within the one or more frame members, and (i) the one or more frame members of each individual arm define an interior space in which the multiple light sources are mounted, (ii) the one or more frame members of each of the one or more arms include a plurality of frame members foldably joined to each other, the plurality of frame members of each individual arm being folded relative to each other when the individual arm is in the collapsed position and arranged end-to-end when the individual arm is in the extended position, or (iii) both (i) and (ii).

8. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein each individual arm of the one or more arms includes a plurality of drapes depending from the individual arm, and the plurality of light sources of each arm includes at least one light source coupled to each of the plurality of drapes.

9. A UV radiation device as described in claim 8, wherein each individual arm is formed from a plurality of folding linkages coupled together, and the UV radiation device further comprises a motor configured to move the individual arms between the collapsed position and the expanded position by folding and unfolding the plurality of folding linkages of each individual arm.

10. Each of the one or more arms is coupled to an upper end of the central support, 9. The UV radiation device of claim 8, wherein when each of the one or more arms is in its extended position, the multiple drapes extend from (i) at the same height as the top end of the central support to (ii) a floor of the target volume.

11. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, wherein the one or more arms include multiple arms, the multiple arms being positioned around a periphery of the target volume when in their extended position.

12. A UV radiation device as described in claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to generate data associated with the position of the UV radiation device within the target volume, the position of one or more objects within the target volume, or both.

13. The UV radiation device of claim 12, wherein the one or more sensors include one or more proximity sensors, one or more cameras, or any combination thereof.

14. An ultraviolet (UV) radiation system comprising: a first base positionable within a target volume, the first base being movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position and including a first arm and a second arm coupled to the first base; a second base positionable within the target volume, the second base being movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position and including a third arm and a fourth arm coupled to the second base; a plurality of UV light sources coupled to the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, and the fourth arm; Equipped with a UV radiation system, wherein the first arm is coupled to the third arm and the second arm is coupled to the fourth arm such that the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, and the fourth arm are positioned around a periphery of the target volume when each arm is in its extended position.

15. A UV radiation system as described in claim 14, wherein the multiple light sources on each individual arm are coupled to multiple drapes mounted on the individual arms, and the multiple drapes on each individual arm are slidable along the individual arms to position the multiple light sources around the periphery of the target volume.

16. A UV radiation system as described in claim 14, wherein the multiple UV light sources are configured to emit the UV light so that irradiance of all surfaces within the target volume is substantially uniform and has a minimum irradiance of 50 to 800 microwatts per square centimeter.

17. An ultraviolet (UV) radiation system for sanitizing a target volume, the UV radiation system comprising: A master control device; A plurality of UV emitting devices; Equipped with Each individual UV emitting device is A base and a driver mounted within the base, the driver configured to engage a surface of the target volume to move the base within the target volume; a light source configured to emit UV light; a controller configured to be communicatively coupled to the master control device; Including, A UV radiation system, wherein the master control device is operable to cause the controller of each individual UV radiation device to control the light source and the driver of the individual UV radiation device.

18. The UV radiation system of claim 17, wherein the driver for each individual UV radiation device includes one or more wheels, one or more rails, or both, and the master control device is operable to move the multiple UV radiation devices and position the multiple UV radiation devices in a desired pattern within the target volume.

19. A UV radiation system as described in claim 17, wherein the base of each individual UV radiation device includes one or more sensors configured to generate data associated with a position of the individual UV radiation device within the target volume, and the master control device is configured to determine a location of each individual UV emitter relative to at least one other UV emitter, a location of one or more obstacles within the target volume, or both, by analyzing the data generated by each individual UV emitter.

20. The master control device, beginning to position the plurality of UV emitting devices in a desired pattern within the target volume, the positioning of the plurality of UV emitting devices in the desired pattern resulting in a substantially uniform illumination of the target volume when the light source of each of the plurality of UV emitting devices is activated; detecting an object within the target volume based at least in part on the data generated by at least one of the plurality of UV emitting devices; positioning the plurality of UV emitting devices in a modified pattern within the target volume, the positioning of the plurality of UV emitting devices in the modified pattern resulting in a substantially uniform illumination of the target volume that is the same as the desired pattern; 20. A UV radiation system according to claim 19, configured to:

21. The master control device, determining an intended location of each of the plurality of UV emitting devices within the target volume by analyzing the data generated by each individual UV emitter; moving each individual UV emitter to its intended location such that the plurality of UV emitters are arranged in a desired pattern within the target volume; 20. A UV radiation system according to claim 19, configured to:

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