HVAC UVC LED Projection Unit for HVAC Devices

Abstract

An HVAC UVC light projection unit for providing UVC illumination within an air duct includes at least one UVC light source comprising a UVC LED and a lens configured to receive UVC light from the UVC LED. The UVC light projection unit further comprises a mounting platform for securing outside of the duct. An elongate support configured to support the at least one UVC light source connects the mounting platform to the UVC light source through a hole in the duct wall such that the UVC light source is inside the duct. The UVC light source is oriented along the longitudinal direction of the air duct for directing UVC light along the length of the duct.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Related Applications) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 343,271, filed May 18, 2022, entitled "HVAC UV LED PROJECTION MODULE FOR HVAC DUCTING"; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 442,706, filed Feb. 1, 2023, entitled "HVAC UVC LED PROJECTION UNIT FOR HVAC DEVICES"; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 483,293, filed Feb. 5, 2023, entitled "HVAC UVC LED PROJECTION UNIT FOR HVAC DEVICES". The entire contents of each of the applications listed in this paragraph are hereby incorporated by reference into this specification.

[0002] This application generally relates to an apparatus or system for projecting ultraviolet light, and more particularly to an ultraviolet projection unit that provides UVC illumination for the sterilization and / or inactivation of air in, for example, an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system and / or components.

Background Art

[0003] The need for virus sterilization and inactivation became apparent during the recent COVID pandemic. However, applications involving sterilization and inactivation extend beyond this context. More generally, tools that provide the ability to combat airborne infectious viruses and bacteria carried by germs are certainly desirable.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The various designs described herein may potentially provide for reducing the activity of viruses and / or bacteria in the air within an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system and / or equipment. In various such designs, UVC light is projected inside an HVAC device such as an air duct or a plenum device (e.g., a plenum).

[0005] One exemplary design includes an HVAC UVC light projection unit for providing UVC illumination within an HVAC device (e.g., duct, plenum, plenum chamber, plenum device, etc.). The HVAC device has an inner and outer side and a lateral width. The HVAC device extends along a longitudinal direction and air flows through the interior of the HVAC device along the longitudinal direction or on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction. The HVAC UVC light projection unit includes a mounting platform configured to be mounted on the outer side of the HVAC device. The HVAC UVC light projection unit further includes an elongate support extending laterally from the mounting platform such that at least a portion of the elongate support is within the HVAC device when the mounting platform is mounted on the outer side of the HVAC device (e.g., a duct, etc.). (In some cases, a portion of the elongate support or a portion of the mounting platform extends into or through an opening in the HVAC device, e.g., a duct, such that at least one UVC light source is disposed within the HVAC device, e.g., a duct, etc.). The HVAC UVC light projection unit further includes at least one UVC light source supported on the elongate support. The at least one UVC light source includes a UVC light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength and / or peak wavelength in the range of 260 - 280 nm and respective lenses that transmit UVC light. The lenses are arranged to receive UVC light from the UVC LED and transmit the UVC light such that the light is directed towards the HVAC device (e.g., a duct, etc.). The UVC light source is configured to be oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device (e.g., a duct, etc.). Other designs and implementations are possible.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Ultraviolet (UV) light includes wavelengths from 100 nm to 400 nm. This range can often be divided into sub - ranges such as UV - A, which is considered to extend from 315 nm to 400 nm, UV - B, which is considered to have wavelengths from 280 nm to 315 nm, and UV - C (or UVC as used herein), which is considered to be from 200 nm to 280 nm.

[0008] UVC light can be used to kill or reduce the efficacy of various harmful microorganisms present in the air within an air duct. UVC light attacks nucleic acids and damages the DNA of microorganisms. Thus, the techniques described herein can be used to partially or completely sterilize or inactivate inactive viruses and / or bacteria along a length of 10 feet within an HVAC device such as an air duct or a plenum device (e.g., a plenum) when air is flowing.

[0009] Figures 1 and 2 show a part of a UVC light projection unit 10 for use in introducing UVC light into an HVAC device such as an air duct or a plenum device (e.g., a plenum). Figure 1 is a perspective view and Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view. The HVAC-based UVC light projection unit 10 includes a UVC light source 12 configured to be inserted into an HVAC device such as an air duct or a plenum and provide UVC light thereto. In the illustrated example, the UVC light source 12 includes UVC LEDs 14 (see Figure 2). The UVC light source 12 further includes a lens 16 arranged to receive the UVC light from the UVC LEDs 14. The UVC LEDs 14 include electrical conductors 18 for supplying power and receiving such power. The UVC LEDs 14 emit light having wavelengths in the UVC wavelength range and, in certain implementations herein, emit light in the range of, for example, 250 nm to 280 nm, 250 nm to 275 nm, 260 nm to 270 nm, and perhaps have a peak wavelength at one or more of these ranges, for example perhaps at 265 nm. Similarly, the lens 16 may include a material optically transmissive to UVC light such as light in the wavelength range of the UVC light emitted by the UVC LEDs 14. In some implementations, for example, the lens 16 includes a fused silica lens including fused silica that is transmissive to UVC light. In some implementations, for example, the lens 16 is optically transmissive to light in the wavelength ranges of 220 nm to 290 nm, 220 nm to 280 nm, 250 nm to 280 nm, 250 nm to 275 nm, 260 nm to 275 nm, 260 nm to 270 nm, for example 265 nm, or any range formed by any of these values.

[0010] As discussed above, in some implementations, the lens includes fused silica. In various implementations, the lens may include fused silica glass having a transmittance (e.g., internal transmittance or transmittance corrected to reduce or in some cases eliminate the effects of scattering and reflection from the surface) of at least 95% for UVC light having a wavelength of 245 - 280 nm with respect to a 10 mm thickness of the fused silica glass. However, in other implementations, this transmittance may be at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 94%, 96%, 98%, 99%, 99.9%, or 100%, or any range formed by any of these values, or in some cases, less than or greater than these. In various implementations, the OH (e.g., hydroxyl) content is 5 ppm or less. However, in other implementations, the OH content may be 0.05 ppm, 0.01 ppm, 0.5 ppm, 1 ppm, 2 ppm, 3 ppm, 4 ppm, 6 ppm, 8 ppm, 10 ppm, 20 ppm, 30 ppm, 40 ppm, 50 ppm, 60 ppm, 70 ppm or less, 80 ppm, 90 ppm, 100 ppm, 125 ppm, 150 ppm, 200 ppm, 300 ppm, 400 ppm, or 500 ppm, or any range formed by any of these values, or in some cases, less than or greater than these. Further, in various implementations, the content rates of Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Cu are each less than 0.1 ppm. However, in some implementations, any one or more of Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Cu, and in some cases each content rate, may be 0.001 ppm, 0.005 ppm, 0.01 ppm, 0.05 ppm, 0.2 ppm, 0.3 ppm, 0.4 ppm, less than 0.5 ppm, 0.6 ppm, 0.7 ppm, 0.8 ppm, 0.9 ppm, 1 ppm, 1.25 ppm, 1.50 ppm, 2.00 ppm, 3.00 ppm, 4.00 ppm, or 5.00 ppm, or any range formed by any of these values, or in some cases, less than or greater than these.

[0011] In some implementations, the glass has a viscosity coefficient at 1215 °C of 10 11.5Above Pa·s, the diffusion coefficient of Cu ions is 1×10 -10 cm 2 / sec or less in the range where the depth from the surface exceeds 20 μm and is 100 μm or less when left in air at 1050 °C for 24 hours. However, since other mounting forms are possible for the glass, it need not be limited as such.

[0012] In some cases, the glass can be produced by cristobalitizing a powdery silica raw material and then melting the cristobalitized silica material in a non-reducing atmosphere. However, the production method should not be limited as such.

[0013] In some mounting forms, the fused silica glass may exhibit high transmittance to ultraviolet rays, visible light, and infrared rays, high purity and heat resistance, low diffusion rate of metal impurities, or a combination of these characteristics.

[0014] As shown in the figure, the lens 16 may include a plano-convex lens, but other lenses may also be used. In various mounting forms, the lens 16 is configured to collimate the UVC light from the UVC LED 14. In various mounting forms, the lens 16 has a positive power lens. In various designs, the lens 16 is positioned at a distance equal to the focal length from the UVC LED 14, but the lens and the UVC LED may be separated by other distances that include a distance close enough to collimate most of the light. In various designs, the lens 16 reduces the divergence of the UVC light output by the UVC LED 14 that can have a divergence angle, for example, within at least 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170°, or 180°, or any range formed by any of these values. The lens 16 may include, for example, an aspherical lens having at least one aspherical surface that refracts incident light and / or transmitted light.

[0015] In various implementations, the lens 16 can reduce divergence, for example, to 60°, 50°, 40°, 30°, 20°, 10°, 15°, 5°, 3°, or 1°, or any value between any of these ranges, or in some cases, to values below or above these. For example, the divergence can be 40° - 5°, 40° - 10°, 40° - 15°, 30° - 5°, 30° - 10°, 30° - 15°, 20° - 5°, 20° - 10°, 20° - 15°, or, for example, 18°. In some designs, at least 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99% of the light, or 100% (or any range formed by any of these values), even if not all of the light output by these UVC light sources 12, is directed forward, forward (e.g., mostly in the Z direction as indicated by the XYZ coordinate system), or within an angular range of ±60°, ±50°, ±40°, ±30°, ±20°, ±10°, ±15°, ±5°, ±3°, or ±1° in the forward (Z) direction, or any range formed by any of these values, or in some cases, within an angular range of values below or above these. In some designs, the divergence angle and / or beam width vary with the effective focal length. In various designs, the effective focal length can be, for example, 15mm, 14mm, 13mm, 12mm, 11mm, 10mm, 9mm, 8mm, 7mm, 6mm, 5mm, 4mm, 3mm, 2mm, or 1mm, or any range formed by any of these values. Focal lengths outside these ranges are also possible. Similarly, the distance from the UVC LED 14 to the lens 16 can be, for example, 15mm, 14mm, 13mm, 12mm, 11mm, 10mm, 9mm, 8mm, 7mm, 6mm, 5mm, 4mm, 3mm, 2mm, or 1mm, or other distances, but can be any range formed by any of these values, and outside such ranges may also be possible. In some designs, the distance between the UVC LED 14 and the lens 16 may be the same, but in other designs, the distances are not the same.

[0016] In the design shown in FIG. 2, the UVC light source 10 includes an optical mount or an outer optical holding housing or fixture 20 to which the UVC LED 14 and / or the lens 16 is attached. The optical mount or the outer optical holding housing 20 has a channel or cavity 22 therein for the propagation of UVC light (represented by light ray 24) from the UVC LED 14 to the lens 16. The channel 22 may include sidewalls 26 that are reflective with respect to the UVC light emitted by the UVC LED 14, such that the UVC light from the LED can propagate from the LED to the lens 16 by reflecting off these sidewalls. The sidewalls may be inclined or have other shapes. The channel 22 has a front end and a rear end, with the lens 16 closer to the front end and the LED 14 closer to the rear end. In various designs, the optical mount or the outer optical holding housing 20 has a size, e.g., a length, such that the lens 16 is positioned at a focal distance from the UVC LED 14, although the lens and the LED may be separated by other distances that include a distance close enough to collimate most of the light. In some implementations, the distance is such that it at least reduces the divergence angle of the UVC light exiting the UVC LED 14. As discussed above, the reflective sidewalls 26 of the channel or cavity through which the light propagates from the UVC LED 14 to the lens 16 may be inclined. Such an inclination can collect the UVC light from the UVC LED 14 at a wider angle and direct it towards the lens 16, such that the light can pass through the lens at a smaller or narrower angle. Similarly, the angle of the sidewalls (e.g., its slope) may, in some cases, affect the divergence angle of the light exiting the lens 16 and emitted from the UVC light source 12, along with the focal distance of the lens 16 and / or the distance between the lens and the UVC LED 14. The optical mount or the outer optical holding housing 20 may include a metal such as aluminum in some designs.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the UVC light projection unit 10 further includes an elongated support or arm (also referred to herein as an elongated support member) 28, on which the UVC light source 12 is supported. This elongated support or arm or elongated member 28 may be thinner rather than longer in certain mounting configurations. In various mounting configurations, the elongated support or arm or elongated member 28 has a profile that reduces the blockage of air flowing through an HVAC device, such as a duct, or the resistance to air along the length of the HVAC device, such as a duct. Thus, in some mounting configurations, the elongated support or arm or elongated member 28 has a thickness facing an air flow that is smaller than its depth and width. In some mounting configurations, the optical mount or outer optical holding housing 20 and the arm 28 have a monolithic structure, while in other mounting configurations, the optical housing region 20 and the arm 28 are separate components that are fastened or secured together. In some mounting configurations, the elongated member or support arm 28 includes a metal such as aluminum in some designs. However, in some cases, other materials may be used.

[0018] When activated, the UVC LED 14 may generate heat. Similarly, the UVC light source 10 includes a heat sink 29 and heat sink radiation fins 30. In the design shown in FIG. 1, these fins extend radially from the UVC light source 12. In various mounting configurations, the heat sink radiation fins 30 are coupled to the heat sink 29 on which the UVC LED 14 is disposed to dissipate the heat generated by the UVC LED. In the illustrated design, for example, the UVC LED 14 is mounted on a platform such as a printed circuit board (PCB) 27 that may be disposed on the heat sink 29, and the heat sink 29 may serve to transfer heat from the UVC LED to the radiation fins 30. In some mounting configurations, the heat sink 29 and the fins 30 have a monolithic structure such as a monolithic metal structure, but other designs are possible. As shown, the small PCB substrate 27 is in the front center of the heat sink 29. In some mounting configurations, the heat sink 29 and / or the heat sink radiation fins 30 include a metal such as aluminum.

[0019] The example shown in FIG. 1 also includes a base 32 at one end of an elongated support or arm 28. In the illustrated example, the UVC light source 10 is at the other end of the elongated support or arm 28 opposite the base 32. The base 32 is configured to be attached to another structure, such as a mounting platform (see FIG. 3) configured to be attached to an HVAC device (e.g., a duct, a plenum device, or a plenum). The following various examples are discussed in the context where the HVAC device is an air duct, but the HVAC device may alternatively be a plenum device, a plenum, or other HVAC device through which air flows.

[0020] FIG. 3 shows an HVAC UVC light projection unit 10 having a mounting platform 34. In the illustrated design, the elongated support or arm 28 is connected to the mounting platform 34. In various implementations, the mounting platform 34 is configured to be attached to the duct wall outside the duct, and a portion of the elongated support or arm 28 and / or the mounting platform and / or other components extend into the duct through a hole in the duct. Also, in various implementations, the elongated support or arm 28 has a low profile to reduce air resistance. The elongated support or arm 28 may have a thickness (e.g., in the y direction) that is smaller than the width (x direction) and depth (e.g., z direction), for example.

[0021] In the exemplary HVAC UVC light projection unit 10 shown in FIG. 3, the mounting platform 34 includes a housing 36 configured to accommodate electronics for driving, for example, the UVC LED 14. Also, as shown, the mounting platform 34 includes a portion 38 for securing the mounting platform to the duct. In the illustrated example, these portions 38 include through holes for screwing the mounting platform 34 to the duct. FIG. 3 shows screws 40 within the through holes. Such screws 40 may include, for example, self-tapping screws such as sheet metal screws.

[0022] In the illustrated example, portion 38 of mounting platform 34 having the through hole includes a portion of housing 36 that extends outwardly. In some implementations, these portions 38 may comprise, for example, outwardly extending tabs or extensions, and may or may not be part of housing 38. In some implementations, these tabs or extensions 34 may be thinner compared to the thickness of other portions of housing 38 that house, for example, electronics for driving UVC LED 14. By making the thickness thinner in this way, it may be possible to use shorter screws 40. In the illustrated example, portions 38 of mounting platform 34 for fixing the mounting platform to the duct are on opposite sides (e.g., left and right) of the mounting platform and the housing. Other configurations are possible.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3, mounting platform 34 may further include one or more cover pieces 42 for covering a portion of the hole cut into the duct. In various implementations, for example, the hole has a diameter of, for example, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, or 6.0 inches, or is within any range formed by any of these values. Such a size may allow heat sink fins 30 to pass through the hole during insertion of UVC light source 12.

[0024] These cover pieces 42 may optionally comprise extensions of housing 36. These cover pieces 42 may also comprise, for example, separate components attached to housing 36.

[0025] Mounting platform 34 shown in FIG. 3 also includes warning lights or LEDs 41, 43. One light 41 indicates that power to the unit is on. A second warning light 43 indicates that UVC LED 14 is operating.

[0026] The example shown in FIG. 3 includes a single UVC light source 12. The elongated support member 28 extends laterally with respect to the mounting platform 34 and the duct. In particular, in the illustrated example, the elongated support member 28 extends in a direction perpendicular to the mounting platform 34 and / or the bottom of the mounting platform. Thus, when the mounting platform 34 is attached to the outside of the duct wall, the elongated support member 28 can position the UVC light source 12 inside the duct. In some implementations, the elongated member or arm 28, the housing 36 or other portions of the mounting platform 34, or other components, or any combination thereof, may extend into and / or pass through the holes in the duct wall such that the UVC light source 12 can be inside the duct.

[0027] As shown, both the UVC light source 12 and the UVC light emitted therefrom are configured to be directed along the length of the air duct in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction according to the XYZ coordinate system shown at the lower left of FIG. 3). For example, in some designs, the lens 16 has an optical axis configured to be directed along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction) along the length of the air duct. Since air flows along the length of the duct or shaft, directing the UVC light along the length of the duct or shaft (opposite to or with the air flow) increases the time that a portion of the air is exposed to the UVC light and can enhance the effectiveness of the sterilization and / or inactivation process.

[0028] This UVC HVAC light projection unit 10 may output a radiant flux formed by only one UVC light source 12, for example, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, or 200 mW, or any range formed by any of these values, for example, 100 - 200 mW. The radiant flux output by some designs may be larger or smaller. Various implementations of the UVC HVAC light projection unit 10 having the same or different numbers of UVC light sources 12 may output a radiant flux in any range formed by, for example, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 220, 250, 275, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, or 4000 mW or any of these values or other amounts.

[0029] Other UVC HVAC light projection units 10 may have more UVC light sources 12. For example, FIGS. 4 and 5 show HVAC UVC light projection units 10 having two and three UVC light sources, respectively.

[0030] As shown, the HVAC UVC light projection unit 10 of FIG. 4 includes two (and only two) UVC light sources 12, with the first UVC light source 12a being laterally spaced from the second UVC light source 12b. The first UVC light source 12a is supported by an elongated support member or arm 28, and the second UVC light source 12b is supported by another elongated support member 44 connected to the first UVC light source. In the illustrated example, both of the (first and second) elongated support members 28, 44 extend laterally with respect to the mounting platform 34 and the duct, in the same direction in this example, for example, orthogonally to the mounting platform and / or the bottom of the mounting platform. Thus, when the mounting platform 34 is attached to the outside of the duct wall, at least a portion of the elongated support member 28 may be within the duct, and the UVC light source 12 can be positioned within the duct. In some implementations, the elongated support 28, the housing 36 or other portions of the mounting platform 34, or other components, or any combination thereof, may also extend into and / or through the holes in the duct wall. Also, in various implementations, the elongated support or arm 28 has a low profile to reduce air resistance. The elongated support or arm 28 may have a thickness (e.g., in the y direction) that is smaller than, for example, the width (x direction) and depth (e.g., z direction).

[0031] Other configurations are possible. For example, the second elongated support member 44 need not extend in the same direction as the first elongated support member 28. In other designs, the first and second light sources 12a, 12b may be supported on the same elongated support or arm 28. Nevertheless, in some such cases, when the mounting platform 34 is attached to the outside of the duct wall, the elongated support member 28 can position the UVC light source 12 inside the duct. As discussed above, in some implementations, the elongated support 28, the housing 36 or other portions of the mounting platform 34, or other components, or any combination thereof, may also extend into and / or through the holes in the duct wall.

[0032] As shown, both the first and second light sources 12a, 12b are configured to be directed in the same direction and along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction) along the length of the air duct. Since air flows along the length of the duct or shaft, directing UVC light along the length of the duct or shaft (opposite to or with the air flow) results in a longer exposure time of a portion of the air to the UVC light, enhancing the effectiveness of the sterilization and / or inactivation process.

[0033] The two UVC light sources in the HVAC UVC light 10 shown in FIG. 4 may each output a radiant flux formed by, for example, 50, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or 250 mW, or any range formed by any of these values, such as 100 - 200 mW. The radiant flux output by some designs may be larger or smaller. Various implementations of the UVC HVAC light projection unit 10 having the same or different numbers of UVC light sources 12 may output a radiant flux in any range formed by, for example, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 220, 250, 275, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, or 4000 mW or any of these values or other amounts.

[0034] The HVAC UVC light projection unit 10 shown in FIG. 5 includes three (and only three) UVC light sources 12. The first UVC light source 12a is laterally spaced from the second UVC light source 12b, and the third UVC light source 12c is laterally spaced from the first and second UVC light sources. The first UVC light source 12a is supported by an elongated support member or arm 28, and the second UVC light source 12b is supported by another elongated support member 44 connected to the first UVC light source. The third UVC light source 12c is supported by another elongated support member 46 connected to the second UVC light source 12b. In the illustrated example, the three elongated support members (first, second, and third) 28, 44, 46 extend laterally with respect to the mounting platform 34 and the duct, in the same direction in this example. In particular, in the example of FIG. 5, the three elongated support members (first, second, and third) 28, 44, 46 extend in a direction perpendicular to the mounting platform 34, for example, the bottom of the mounting platform. Thus, in some such cases, when the mounting platform 34 is attached to the outside of the duct wall, the UVC light sources 12a, 12b, 12c may be inside the duct. As discussed above, in some implementations, the elongated support 28, the housing 36 or other portions of the mounting platform 34, or other components, or any combination thereof, may extend into and / or through the holes in the duct wall. Also, in various implementations, the elongated support or arm 28 has a low profile to reduce air resistance. The elongated support or arm 28 may have a thickness (e.g., in the y direction) that is smaller than the width (x direction) and depth (e.g., z direction), for example.

[0035] However, other configurations are possible. For example, the second and / or third elongate support members 44, 46 need not extend in the same direction as the first elongate support member 28 and / or each other. In other designs, the first, second, and third light sources 12a, 12b, or different combinations thereof (first and second, or second and third) may be supported on the same elongate support or arm 28, 44, 46. Nevertheless, in at least some such cases, when the mounting platform 34 is attached to the outside of the duct wall, the UVC light sources 12a, 12b, 12c may be inside the duct. As discussed above, in some implementations, the elongate support 28, the housing 36 or other portions of the mounting platform 34, or other components, or any combination thereof, may also extend into and / or through the holes in the duct wall.

[0036] As shown, the first, second, and third light sources 12a, 12b, 12c are oriented in the same direction and are configured to be oriented along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) along the length of the air duct. Since air flows along the length of the duct or shaft, directing UVC light along the length of the duct or shaft (opposite to or with the air flow) increases the time that a portion of the air is exposed to the UVC light and can enhance the effectiveness of the sterilization and / or inactivation process.

[0037] The three UVC light sources 12 in the HVAC UVC light 10 shown in FIG. 4 may all output a radiant flux formed by, for example, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, or 350 mW, or any range formed by any of these values, for example, 180 - 250 mW. The radiant flux output by some designs may be larger or smaller. Various implementations of the UVC HVAC light projection unit 10 having the same or different numbers of UVC light sources 12 may output a radiant flux in any range formed by, for example, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 220, 250, 275, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, or 4000 mW or any of these values or other amounts.

[0038] The mounting platform 34 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 includes portions 38 for fixing the mounting platform to the duct. In the illustrated example, these portions 38 include through - holes for screwing the mounting platform 34 into the duct. FIG. 3 shows screws 40 within the through - holes. Such screws 40 may include, for example, self - tapping screws such as sheet metal screws.

[0039] In the illustrated example, the portion of the mounting platform 34 having the through hole includes the portion of the mounting platform extending outward. In the illustrated example, these outwardly extending portions 38 are part of the housing 36. In some implementations, these extensions 38 may be thinner compared to the thickness of other portions of the housing 36 that house, for example, the electronics for driving the UVC LED 14. By making the thickness thinner in this way, it may be possible to use shorter screws 40. In the illustrated example, the portions 38 of the mounting platform 34 for fixing the mounting platform to the duct are on opposite sides (e.g., left and right sides) of the mounting platform and the housing. Other configurations are possible.

[0040] The mounting platform 34 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 also has heat dissipation grooves 48. In the illustrated example, these heat dissipation grooves 48 are within the housing 36.

[0041] FIG. 6 shows the mounting platform 34 attached to the air duct 50. The air duct 50 includes a wall (e.g., side wall) 52 made of, for example, sheet metal. The mounting platform 34 is fixed to the air duct 50, particularly to the wall / side wall 52 of the duct, via screws 40 that pass through holes in the portion of the housing 36. As discussed above, the screws 40 may include self-tapping screws. Additionally, these screws 40 may include sheet metal screws. The through holes 51, 53 in the housing 36 can receive the screws for fixing the mounting platform 34 to the duct 50. As further shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 below, the mounting platform 34 is oriented such that the UVC light source 12 is directed along the longitudinal direction (Z direction) of the duct 50, such that as a result, the UVC light emitted by the UCV light source (e.g., most of the UVC light) is directed along the longitudinal direction and propagates along the length of the duct.

[0042] FIG. 6 further shows a power source 54 that is electrically connected to the electronics within the mounting platform 34 via an electric wire 56 such as an electrical cable or wiring. Although the power source 54 is shown separately, in some designs, the power source may be incorporated inside the mounting platform 34.

[0043] Another view of the UVC light projection unit 10 attached to the duct 50 is shown in FIG. 7. This view also shows the inside 58 of the duct 50 that houses the UVC light source 12. The mounting platform 34 is shown secured to the wall 52 of the duct 50. The elongate support 28 is shown extending within the inside 58 of the duct 50 such that the UVC light source 12 is positioned inside the duct. As shown, the UVC light projection unit 10 (e.g., the mounting platform 34) is oriented such that the UVC light source 12 is directed along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction) of the duct 50, such that the UVC light emitted by the UCV light source (e.g., most of the UVC light) is directed along the longitudinal direction and propagates along the length of the duct.

[0044] Another view of the interior 58 of the duct 50 is shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 shows a hole 60 in the wall 52 of the duct 50 that enables the UVC light source 12 to be connected to the mounting platform 34. As discussed above, the mounting platform 34 may house electronics inside for driving the UVC light source 12 and the UVC LED 14 in addition to fixing the UVC light projection unit 10 to the duct 50. In such a case, the mounting platform 34 may include a control box for controlling the operation of the light source 12. As shown, the UVC light source 12 is on an elongated support 28. In various implementations, electrical wires such as electrical wires and / or cables electrically connect the electronics within the mounting platform 34 to the UVC light source 12 such as the UVC LED 14. Such wires or wires may be included in and / or on the elongated supports 28, 44, 46 and / or may be supported by the elongated supports 28, 44, 46. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the elongated support 28 is connected to the bottom of the mounting platform 34 (e.g., the bottom of the housing 36) via a base 32. The bottom of the mounting platform 34 to which the base 32 is attached (e.g., the bottom of the housing 36) can be seen through the hole 60 in the wall 52 of the duct 50. Other configurations are possible. For example, the housing 36 or other portions of the mounting platform 34 may extend through the hole 60 in the duct 50, e.g., the hole in the wall 52 of the duct. In various implementations, this hole 60 in the wall of the duct may be 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, or 6.0 inches wide (e.g., diameter), or any range formed by any of these values. In various implementations, the size of the hole 60 is large enough so that the light source 12 including the heat dissipation fins 30 can be inserted into the duct through the hole.

[0045] As shown, the length of the elongated support or arm 28 extends in a direction orthogonal or perpendicular to the mounting platform 34, e.g., a direction orthogonal or perpendicular to the bottom of the mounting platform 34.

[0046] The screws 40 that fix the mounting platform 34 to the duct 50, for example, to the wall 52 of the duct, can be seen to penetrate into the inside 58 of the duct. As discussed above, these screws 40 may be self-tapping screws and / or sheet metal screws.

[0047] FIG. 8 also shows the UVC light source 10 disposed within the inside 58 of the duct 50. Further, the UVC light source 10 is oriented so as to be directed along the longitudinal direction along the length of the duct 50, for example, in the Z direction. Similarly, the UVC light source 10 is oriented so as to direct the UVC light (e.g., most of the UVC light) output by the UVC light source along the length of the duct 50.

[0048] Although not bound by any scientific theory, UVC light can potentially inactivate certain viruses and / or bacteria as a result of the absorption of UVC wavelengths by DNA. Thus, the UVC light source 10 and UVC LED 14 used in the UVC light projection unit 12 are configured to emit UVC light that can destroy, disable, or weaken viruses and bacteria and / or their replication. This light output by the LED 14 may include light having a wavelength, for example, in the range of 250 nm to 290 nm, 250 nm to 280 nm, 260 nm to 290 nm, 260 nm to 280 nm, 260 nm to 270 nm, 262 nm to 268 nm, for example, light having a wavelength of 265 nm. In various implementations, most, all, or substantially all of the light emitted from the UVC LED 14 and the corresponding UVC light source 12 may include UVC light in the range of 250 nm to 290 nm or 250 nm to 280 nm or 258 - 274 nm or 260 - 271 nm, or 261, 262, 263, 264, or 265 - 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 276 nm, or 260 - 280 nm, or 260 - 270 nm, or 263 nm - 267 nm, 265 nm - 275 nm, or 265 nm, or any range formed by any of these percentages and / or wavelength values, although values outside of these ranges are also possible. Similarly, in various implementations, the UVC light output by the UVC light projection unit 10, the UVC light source 12, the UVC LED 14, or any combination thereof may have a peak in the range of 250 nm to 280 nm or 258 - 274 nm or 260 - 271 nm, or 261, 262, 263, 264, or 265 - 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 276 nm, or 260 - 280 nm, or 260 - 270 nm, or 263 nm - 267 nm, 265 nm - 275 nm, or 265 nm, or any range formed by any of these percentages and / or wavelength values, although values outside of these ranges are also possible.

[0049] Accordingly, various designs include a UVC light source 12 or UVC light sources (12a, 12b, 12c) as shown in FIGS. 3-5 and have a spectral distribution as shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a plot on axes of intensity (relative units) and wavelength (nanometers) showing the wavelength distribution of light output by the UVC light source 12 and / or the UVC LED 14. This intensity-versus-wavelength curve 62 has a wavelength peak at 265 nm. This distribution 62 also has a full width at half maximum having a value of about 260.5 nm to 271 nm. Accordingly, in various implementations, the UVC light source 12 and / or the UVC LED 14 may be configured to emit, for example, more than 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.9%, or 100% of the light output therefrom within the UVC range in a wavelength range of 250 nm to 280 nm or 258 to 274 nm or 260 to 271 nm, or 261, 262, 263, 264, or 265 to 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 276 nm, or 260 to 280 nm, or 260 to 270 nm, or 263 nm to 267 nm, 265 nm to 275 nm, or any range formed by any of the wavelength values, although values outside of these ranges are also possible.

[0050] FIG. 10 shows the angular distribution of the light output by the UVC light source 10. In particular, FIG. 10 is a polar plot of intensity (relative units) versus angle (degrees) showing the angular distribution of the light output by the UVC light source 10 comprising the UVC LED 12 and the lens 16. As discussed above, the UVC LED 12 emits UVC light that spreads, for example, over an angle of perhaps 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170°, or 180°, or any range formed by any of these values. The UVC light may diverge by other amounts. However, the lens 16 is configured to reduce the divergence. The lens 16 can reduce the divergence, for example, to 60°, 50°, 40°, 30°, 20°, 10°, 15°, 5°, 3°, or 1°, or any value between any of these ranges. For example, the divergence may be between 40° and 5°, 40° and 10°, 40° and 15°, 30° and 5°, 30° and 10°, 30° and 15°, 20° and 5°, 20° and 10°, 20° and 15°, for example 18°. In some designs, most, if not all, of the light output by the UVC light source 12, or in some cases at least 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%, or 100% (or any range formed by any of these values) of the light is directed forward, forward (for example, mostly in the Z direction as shown by the XYZ coordinate system), or within an angular range of ±60°, ±50°, ±40°, ±30°, ±20°, ±10°, ±15°, ±5°, ±3°, or ±1° of the forward (Z) direction, or any range formed by any of these values, or in some cases, a range of values less than or greater than this, and projects the light. In some designs, the divergence angle and / or beam width vary with the effective focal length. In various designs, the effective focal length may be, for example, 15 mm, 14 mm, 13 mm, 12 mm, 11 mm, 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm, or any range formed by any of these values. Focal lengths outside of these ranges are also possible.Similarly, the distance from the UVC LED 14 to the lens 16 is, for example, 15 mm, 14 mm, 13 mm, 12 mm, 11 mm, 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm, or other distances, and may be any range formed by any of these values. It may also be possible outside of such a range. In some designs, the distance between the UVC LED 14 and the lens 16 may be the same, but in other designs, the distances are not the same.

[0051] The distributions 64, 66 in the angular planes of 0 to 180° and 90 to 270° are shown respectively. In the illustrated example, the divergence is estimated to be about 18° for the lens 16 having an effective focal length of 7.0 mm. The focal length may vary similarly to the divergence of the UVC light output by the lens 16.

[0052] As discussed above, in various designs, the UVC light source 12 is configured and / or oriented to face along the length of the duct 50, for example along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction). The orientation of the UVC light source 12, the UVC LED 14, and the lens 16 (e.g., the optical axis of the lens or the optical system combining the UVC LED and the lens) can be, for example, within ±45°, ±40°, ±35°, ±30°, ±25°, ±20°, ±15°, ±10°, ±5°, ±4°, ±3°, ±2°, or ±1° of the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction) and / or the direction in which the length of the duct 50 extends, and / or can be configured to be within any range between any of these values.

[0053] Similarly, in various implementations, most of the UVC light emitted from the UVC light projection unit 10 and the UVC light source 12 (e.g., at least 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%, or any range between any of these values) can be oriented or configured to be greater in a different direction along the length of the duct 50, e.g., along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction). For example, most of the emitted UVC light (e.g., at least 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%) and / or the orientation of the UVC light source 12 can be within ±45°, ±40°, ±35°, ±30°, ±25°, ±20°, ±15°, ±10°, ±5°, ±4°, ±3°, ±2°, ±1° of the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Z direction) and / or the direction in which the length of the duct 50 extends, or any range between any of these percentages or angles, or be configured as such. In various implementations, the UVC light is directed in a direction opposite to the air flow, but in other implementations, the UVC light can be directed along the direction of the air flow. The UVC light projection unit 10, e.g., the elongated support or arm 28, is designed to direct the UVC light source 12 and thus direct the UVC light towards the opposing air flow. In other implementations, the UVC light projection unit can be arranged to direct the UVC light source 12 and thus direct the UVC light behind the air flow or along the direction of the air flow.

[0054] As discussed above, since air flows along the length of the duct or shaft, directing the UVC light along the length of the duct or shaft results in a longer exposure time of a portion of the air to the UVC light, which can enhance the effectiveness of the sterilization and / or inactivation process.

[0055] Accordingly, in various implementations, the UVC light source 10 can be oriented or configured to be oriented in a direction parallel to the mounting platform 34 and / or the bottom of the mounting platform, and / or in a direction perpendicular to the normal of the mounting platform 34 and / or the bottom of the mounting platform, or within ±45°, ±40°, ±35°, ±30°, ±25°, ±20°, ±15°, ±10°, ±5°, ±4°, ±3°, ±2°, or ±1°, or any range between any of these values. Similarly, in various implementations, the elongated support or arm 28 can be oriented or configured to be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the mounting platform 34 and / or the bottom of the mounting platform, or within ±45°, ±40°, ±35°, ±30°, ±25°, ±20°, ±15°, ±10°, ±5°, ±4°, ±3°, ±2°, or ±1°, or any range between any of these values.

[0056] A configuration of the UVC light projection unit 10 other than that shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 can be adopted to direct the UVC light along the length direction of the duct 50. For example, FIG. 11 shows a UVC light projection unit 10 having a different design.

[0057] The UVC light projection unit 10 includes a plurality of light sources 12, three in this example, but the number may be more or less. For example, the UVC light projection unit 10 may have a single light source 12 in some designs, or in some implementations, only two light sources or only three light sources (as in the example shown in FIG. 11). The UVC light source 12 is supported by an elongated support or support arm 28. The elongated support or arm 28 has a low profile to reduce air resistance. The elongated support or arm 28 may have a thickness (e.g., in the y direction) that is smaller than the width (x direction) and depth (e.g., z direction), for example. The elongated support or arm 28 is supported by a frame 68. As discussed above, in various implementations, the elongated support or arm 28 has a shape that reduces air resistance. The front end of this elongated support or arm 28 facing the air flow may have, for example, a curved profile, and / or the thickness of the elongated support or arm 28 may be tapered at the opposite end or rear end. Thus, in some implementations, the elongated support or arm 28 is wing-shaped. In some implementations, this elongated support or arm 28 is located in the center of an air duct or plenum and / or the frame 68. In the illustrated example, the frame 68 has a circular shape (e.g., along the cross-section of the frame orthogonal to the length of the frame and / or orthogonal to the length of the air duct) that fits within an air duct 50 having a circular cross-section (e.g., orthogonal to the length of the air duct). Other shapes such as square or rectangular may be used in other cases.

[0058] In various implementation forms, the size of the frame is approximately equal to the size of the air duct that fits therein. In various implementation forms, for example, the size, such as width, height, diameter, or any combination thereof, is about 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 inches or more, or any range between any of these values. Similarly, in various implementation forms, for example, the size, such as width, height, diameter, or any combination thereof, is 5 - 7 inches, 7 - 9 inches, 9 - 11 inches, 11 - 13 inches, 13 - 15 inches or more, or any range formed by any of these values. Smaller or larger sizes are also possible. In some implementation forms, the size and shape of the frame are sufficiently close to the size and shape of the duct (e.g., in a cross-section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction such as the z-direction and length of the duct), and thus the frame fits snugly and / or conformally within the duct. However, in some implementation forms, the frame is slightly smaller to fit within the duct. In some implementation forms, the frame is fixed to the duct, for example, by screws or other fasteners.

[0059] As discussed above in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2, the UVC light source 12 (e.g., 12a, 12b, 12c) may include a UVC LED 14 and a lens 16 that is optically transmissive to UVC light such as the UVC light emitted by the LED. The UVC light source 12 (e.g., 12a, 12b, 12c) may include an optical housing region or an outer optical holding housing 20 to which the LED 12 and / or the lens 16 is attached. As shown, the UVC light source 12 (e.g., 12a, 12b, 12c) also includes heat dissipation fins 30. The UVC light source 12 (e.g., 12a, 12b, 12c) may have other features such as other features of the UVC light source discussed herein. Further other configurations and variations are possible.

[0060] Another example is shown in FIGS. 12A - 12D. FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a UVC light projection unit 10 having three light sources 12a, 12b, 12c, similar to that shown in FIG. 5. However, as discussed above, a greater or lesser number of light sources 12 may be included in the UVC light projection unit 10. Also shown are a mounting platform 34 and an elongated support or arm 28 to which the light sources 12a, 12b, 12c are attached or supported.

[0061] FIG. 12B is an exploded perspective view of the UVC light projection unit 10 of FIG. 12A. FIG. 12B shows that in this design, a single elongated support or arm 28 supports a plurality (e.g., three) of light sources 12a, 12b, 12c. This elongated support or arm 28 may also support electrical wiring 70, such as for supplying power to the UVC LEDs 14. The wiring 70 may be included within and / or on the elongated support or arm 28. The ends of the wires 70 for connection to each UVC LED 14 are shown in FIG. 12B. Such wiring 70 may electrically connect the electronics within the mounting platform or control box 34 to the UVC LEDs 14 within each UVC light source 12a, 12b, 12c. As discussed above, a greater or lesser number of UVC light sources 12 may be included in the UVC light projection unit 10.

[0062] FIG. 12C is a perspective view showing one of the UVC light sources 12a, 12b, 12c in the designs of FIGS. 12A and 12B, showing a UVC LED 14 electrically connected to a wire 70 that can be supported by an elongated support or arm 28. FIG. 12C also shows a UVC LED 14 mounted on a platform such as a printed circuit board (PCB) 27, and the PCB 27 may be disposed on a heat sink 29 that can serve to transfer heat from the UVC LED to heat dissipation fins 30. In some implementations, the heat sink 29 and fins 30 comprise a monolithic structure such as a monolithic metal structure, although other designs are possible. Screws for fixing the PCB, for example to the heat sink 27, are shown. In particular, the PCB substrate is shown held in place by two small screws on opposite sides of the PCB in this example. As shown, the small PCB substrate is in the front center of the heat sink 29. The wire 70 enters from different sides and is soldered to small terminals on both sides of the PCB substrate.

[0063] FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of an optical mount or holder 20 and a lens 16 for one of the UVC light sources 12a, 12b, 12c in the designs of FIGS. 12A - 12C. FIG. 12D shows a UVC LED 14 and a channel 22 through which UVC light passes from the UVC LED to the lens 16. This optical mount or holder 20 and / or channel 22 may be configured to establish a suitable distance between the lens 16 and the UVC LED 14 and, for example, provide appropriate divergence and / or collimation of the UVC light exiting the light source 12. FIG. 12D also shows an inclined reflective surface 26 that forms the sidewall of the channel 22. Other shaped surfaces 26 are possible. Such a surface 26 may serve to collect light from the UVC LED 14 that is widely divergent (e.g., 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170°, 180°, or any range between any of these values), reduce divergence, and / or help collimate the UVC light using the lens 16. As discussed above, such an inclination can direct the UVC light from the UVC LED 14 to be collected at a wider angle and transmitted through the lens at a smaller angle. Similarly, the angle of the sidewall (e.g., its inclination) may, in some cases, affect the divergence angle of the light emitted from the UVC light source 12 exiting the lens 16, along with the focal length of the lens 16 and / or the distance between the lens and the UVC LED 14. Also shown is a through-hole 74 for holding a screw.

[0064] Modifications are possible. For example, the number of light sources 12a, 12b, 12c may vary.

[0065] Still other configurations and modifications are possible.

[0066] As discussed above, the various designs of the UVC light projection unit 10 described herein can be partially or fully effective in sterilizing and / or inactivating, for example, viruses and / or bacteria in the air of HVAC devices such as air ducts or plenum devices (e.g., air ducts). In various implementations, the UVC light projection unit 10 is configured to emit UVC light of sufficient power to destroy or disable airborne bacteria and / or viruses towards which the UVC light is directed. In various implementations, the UVC light source 12 is configured to provide sufficient output, and the lens 16 is configured to sufficiently reduce the divergence angle of the light emitted by the UVC LED and / or collimate the UVC light and is disposed within an HVAC device (e.g., an air duct, a plenum device, a plenum) and is configured to affect (e.g., partially or fully destroy and / or disable) certain viruses and bacteria within 10 feet of the UVC LED (e.g., an air duct, a plenum device, a plenum) along the length of the HVAC device (e.g., in the z-direction) from a UVC light source directed, for example, in the z-direction. However, in other implementations, the distance can be longer or shorter, for example, 13 feet, 12 feet, 11 feet, 10 feet, 9 feet, 8 feet, 7 feet, 6 feet, 5 feet, 4 feet, 3 feet, 2 feet, or 1 foot, or any range between any of these values, or in some cases, can be longer or shorter.

[0067] As discussed above, various examples are presented and / or discussed herein in the context of use with ducts such as air ducts. However, such structures, methods, features, characteristics, etc. may be more generally applicable to HVAC devices, for example, to plenum devices and / or plenums and / or plenum chambers.

Example

[0068] The following is a numbered list of exemplary embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure. The recited exemplary embodiments should in no way be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments. The various features of the recited exemplary embodiments can be removed, added, or combined to form additional embodiments that are part of the present disclosure. Part I (Example 1) An HVAC UVC light projection unit that has an inside and an outside, has a width in a lateral direction, provides UVC illumination within an HVAC device that extends along a longitudinal direction, and flows air within the HVAC device along the longitudinal direction or on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction, the HVAC UVC light projection unit comprising: a mounting platform configured to be attached to the outside of the HVAC device; an elongated support extending laterally from the mounting platform, the elongated support being such that at least a portion of the elongated support is within the HVAC device when the mounting platform is attached to the outside of the HVAC device; at least one UVC light source supported on the elongated support, the at least one UVC light source comprising a UVC light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength in the range of 250 - 280 nm and respective lenses that transmit UVC light, the lenses being arranged to receive UVC light from the UVC LED and transmit the UVC light such that the UVC light is directed towards the HVAC device, the UVC light source being configured to be oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device; An HVAC UVC light projection unit comprising the above. (Example 2) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 1, wherein the UV light source comprises an optical mount and the lens is attached to the optical housing region. (Example 3) The lens is at the front end of the optical mount, and the UVC LED is at the rear end of the optical mount. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 2. (Example 4) The optical mount contains aluminum. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 2 or 3. (Example 5) The optical mount contains a channel therein. The channel has a front end and a rear end. The lens is at the front end of the channel, and the UVC LED is at the rear end. As a result, the UVC light from the UVC LED propagates through the lens to the front end of the channel. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 2 to 4. (Example 6) The channel has side walls, and at least a part of the light from the UVC LED is reflected by the side walls, thereby propagating from the UVC LED to the lens. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 5. (Example 7) The UVC light source is configured to output collimated UVC light. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 6. (Example 8) The lens has a positive refractive power. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 7. (Example 9) The lens has a focal length and is arranged at the focal length from the UVC LED. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 8. (Example 10) The lens includes an aspherical lens having at least one aspherical surface configured to refract UVC light. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 9. (Example 11) The lens includes a fused silica lens. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 10. (Example 12) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, further comprising a heat sink having a plurality of fins extending in a plurality of lateral directions radially from the UVC light source. (Example 13) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, having a single UVC light source. (Example 14) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 13, wherein the single UVC light source outputs a radiant flux in the range of 100 to 200 mW. (Example 15) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, comprising two UVC light sources, not exceeding two UVC light sources, the two UVC light sources comprising a first UVC light source laterally spaced from a second UVC light source. (Example 16) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 15, wherein the first UVC light source is supported by the elongated support member, and the second UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member connected to the first UVC light source. (Example 17) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 15, wherein the first and second UVC light sources are supported on the elongated support. (Example 18) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 15 to 17, wherein the first and second UVC light sources both output a radiant flux in the range of 100 to 200 mW. (Example 19) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, comprising three UVC light sources, not exceeding three UVC light sources, the three UVC light sources comprising a first UVC light source laterally spaced from a second UVC light source and a third UVC light source laterally spaced from the first and second UVC light sources. (Example 20) The first UVC light source is supported by the elongated support member, and the second UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member connected to the first UVC light source, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Embodiment 19. (Embodiment 21) The third UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member connected to the second UVC light source, the HVAC UVC light projection unit of Embodiment 20. (Embodiment 22) The first, second, and third UVC light sources are supported on the elongated support, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Embodiment 19. (Embodiment 23) The first, second, and third light sources all output a radiant flux in the range of 180 to 250 mW, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Embodiments 19 to 22. (Embodiment 24) The mounting platform includes electronics for driving the UVC LED, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 23. (Embodiment 25) The mounting platform includes a housing having the electronics therein and a portion having a through hole for screwing the mounting platform into the HVAC device, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 24. (Embodiment 26) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 24 further includes a portion having a through hole for screwing the mounting platform into the HVAC device. (Embodiment 27) A part of the elongated support or a part of the mounting platform or both extend into or through the hole of the HVAC device, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 24. (Embodiment 28) The UVC light-emitting diode (LED) is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 27, configured to emit light most brightly at wavelengths in the range of 260 to 280 nm. (Example 29) The HVAC device further includes the HVAC device having the mounting platform attached to the outside of the HVAC device, the HVAC device includes a hole therein, the elongated support is connected to the mounting platform, and when the mounting platform is attached to the outside of the HVAC device, the at least one UVC light source is inside the HVAC device and is oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 28. (Example 30) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 29, further comprising a screw for fixing the mounting platform to the HVAC device. (Example 31) The HVAC device includes an air duct. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 30. (Example 32) The HVAC device includes a plenum, a plenum chamber, or a plenum device. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 30. (Example 33) The at least one UVC light source is configured such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air in the HVAC device. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 32. (Example 34) The at least one UVC light source is oriented such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air in the HVAC device. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 33. (Example 35) The lens includes fused silica having an internal transmittance corrected to eliminate at least 90% of the effects of scattering, absorption, and surface reflection of UVC light with wavelengths from 245 to 280 nm with respect to fused silica glass having a thickness of 10 mm, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 34. (Example 36) The lens includes fused silica having an internal transmittance corrected to eliminate at least 95% of the effects of scattering, absorption, and surface reflection of UVC light with wavelengths from 245 to 280 nm with respect to fused silica glass having a thickness of 10 mm, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 35. (Example 37) The lens includes fused silica having an OH content of 5 ppm or less, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 36. (Example 38) The lens includes fused silica having a content of each of Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Cu of less than 0.1 ppm, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 37. (Example 39) The lens includes fused silica produced by cristobalitizing a powdery silica raw material and melting the cristobalitized silica material in a non-reducing atmosphere, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 38. Part II (Example 1) An HVAC UVC light projection unit that has an inner and an outer side, has a width in the lateral direction, and provides UVC illumination within an HVAC device extending along a longitudinal direction, and for flowing air within the HVAC device along the longitudinal direction or on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction, the HVAC UVC light projection unit includes a frame configured to be inserted inside the HVAC device, An elongated support extending laterally with respect to the frame, such that when the frame is inside the HVAC device, the elongated support is inside the HVAC device and the elongated support is supported by the frame, the elongated support; At least one UVC light source supported on the elongated support, the at least one UVC light source including a UVC light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength in the range of 250 to 280 nm and respective lenses that transmit UVC light, the lenses receiving UVC light from the UVC LED and being arranged to transmit the UVC light such that the UVC light is directed towards the HVAC device, the UVC light source being configured to be oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device, at least one UVC light source; An HVAC UVC light projection unit comprising. (Example 2) The UV light source comprises an optical mount, and the lens is attached to the optical housing region, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 1. (Example 3) The lens is at the front end of the optical mount, and the UVC LED is at the rear end of the optical mount, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 2. (Example 4) The optical mount includes aluminum, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 2 or 3. (Example 5) The optical mount includes a channel therein, the channel having a front end and a rear end, the lens being at the front end of the channel and the UVC LED being at the rear end, such that UVC light from the UVC LED propagates through the lens to the front end of the channel, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 2 to 4. (Example 6) The channel has side walls, and at least a portion of the light from the UVC LED is reflected by the side walls and thereby propagates from the UVC LED to the lens, as described in Example 5 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 7) The UVC light source is configured to output collimated UVC light, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 6 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 8) The lens has a positive refractive power, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 7 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 9) The lens has a focal length and is disposed at the focal length from the UVC LED, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 8 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 10) The lens includes an aspherical lens having at least one aspherical surface configured to refract UVC light, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 9 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 11) The lens includes a fused silica lens, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 12) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 11 further includes a heat sink having a plurality of fins extending in a plurality of lateral directions radially from the UVC light source. (Example 13) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 12 has a single UVC light source. (Example 14) The single UVC light source outputs a radiant flux in the range of 100 to 200 mW, as described in Example 13 of the HVAC UVC light projection unit. (Example 15) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 12 includes two UVC light sources, with no more than two UVC light sources, and the two UVC light sources include a first UVC light source laterally spaced from a second UVC light source. (Example 16) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 15, wherein the first UVC light source is supported by the elongated support member, and the second UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member. (Example 17) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 15, wherein the first and second UVC light sources are supported on the elongated support. (Example 18) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 15 to 17, wherein the first and second UVC light sources both output a radiant flux in the range of 100 to 200 mW. (Example 19) An HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, comprising three UVC light sources, not exceeding three UVC light sources, the three UVC light sources comprising a first UVC light source laterally spaced from a second UVC light source and a third UVC light source laterally spaced from the first and second UVC light sources. (Example 20) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 19, wherein the first UVC light source is supported by the elongated support member, and the second UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member. (Example 21) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 20, wherein the third UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member. (Example 22) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to Example 19, wherein the first, second, and third UVC light sources are supported on the elongated support. (Example 23) The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 19 to 22, wherein the first, second, and third light sources both output a radiant flux in the range of 180 to 250 mW. (Example 24) The UVC light-emitting diode (LED) is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, which is configured to emit light most brightly at a wavelength in the range of 260 to 280 nm. (Example 25) The frame has the same shape as the cross-section of the HVAC device orthogonal to its length, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 24. (Example 26) The frame has a circular shape, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 25. (Example 27) The HVAC UVC light projection unit further includes the HVAC device contained therein, and the elongated support is connected to the frame such that when the frame is within the HVAC device, the at least one UVC light source is inside the HVAC device and is oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device. This unit is according to any one of Examples 1 to 26. (Example 28) The HVAC device includes an air duct, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 27. (Example 29) The HVAC device includes a plenum, a plenum chamber, or a plenum device, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 27. (Example 30) The at least one UVC light source is configured such that the UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is oriented opposite to the flow of air within the HVAC device, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 29. (Example 31) The at least one UCV light source is oriented such that the UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air within the HVAC device, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 30. (Example 32) The lens includes fused silica having an internal transmittance corrected to eliminate at least 90% of the effects of scattering, absorption, and surface reflection of UVC light with wavelengths of 245 to 280 nm with respect to fused silica glass having a thickness of 10 mm, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 31. (Example 33) The lens includes fused silica having an internal transmittance corrected to eliminate at least 95% of the effects of scattering, absorption, and surface reflection of UVC light with wavelengths of 245 to 280 nm with respect to fused silica glass having a thickness of 10 mm, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 32. (Example 34) The lens includes fused silica having an OH content of 5 ppm or less, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 33. (Example 35) The lens includes fused silica having a content of each of Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Cu of less than 0.1 ppm, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 34. (Example 36) The lens includes fused silica produced by cristobalitizing a powdery silica raw material and melting the cristobalitized silica material in a non-reducing atmosphere, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 35. (Example 37) The plurality of UVC LEDs output light having a radiant flux in the range of 200 to 400 mW, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 36. (Example 38) The HVAC UVC light projection unit emits radiation sufficient to kill or disable most of the bacteria and / or viruses on the 6-inch surface from the HVAC UVC light projection unit within 15 seconds, and is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 37. (Example 39) The HVAC UVC light projection unit is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 38, which emits radiation sufficient to kill or inactivate most of the bacteria and / or viruses on the surface one foot from the HVAC UVC light projection unit within 15 seconds. (Example 40) The HVAC UVC light projection unit is the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to any one of Examples 1 to 39, which includes a lithium phosphate rechargeable power system powered by a lithium phosphate rechargeable battery. Part III (Example 1) A method of installing an HVAC UVC light projection unit to provide UVC illumination within an HVAC device having an inner and outer side, a lateral width, and extending along a longitudinal direction, and to flow air within the HVAC device along the longitudinal direction or on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction, the method comprising: providing the HVAC UVC light projection unit, wherein the HVAC UVC light projection unit comprises: a mounting platform configured to be attached to the outside of the HVAC device; an elongated support extending laterally from the mounting platform; at least one UVC light source supported on the elongated support, the at least one UVC light source being a UVC light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength in the range of 250 - 280 nm; and comprising; inserting the elongated support and the at least one UVC light source into the HVAC device through a hole in the HVAC device; attaching the mounting platform to the outside of the HVAC device; and including. (Example 2) The method according to Example 1, further comprising cutting the hole in a wall of the HVAC device. (Example 3) The method according to embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising the step of orienting the at least one UVC light source such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device. (Example 4) The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising the step of orienting the mounting platform when the mounting platform is outside the HVAC device such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device. (Example 5) A method further comprising the step of orienting the at least one UVC light source such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air within the HVAC device, the method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4. (Example 6) The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, further comprising the step of orienting the mounting platform when the mounting platform is outside the HVAC device such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air within the HVAC device. (Example 7) The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, further comprising the step of screwing the mounting platform onto the HVAC device. (Example 8) The HVAC device comprises an air duct, the method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7. (Example 9) The HVAC device comprises a plenum, a plenum chamber, or a plenum device, the method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7.

[0069] A wide range of modifications are possible. Structures, components, and / or features can, for example, be added, removed, and / or rearranged.

[0070] (Conclusion) Various embodiments of the present invention have been described herein. Although the present invention has been described with respect to these specific embodiments, this description is illustrative of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art may envision various modifications and applications without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An HVAC UVC light projection unit that has an inner side and an outer side, has a width in a lateral direction, and provides UVC illumination within an HVAC device that extends along a longitudinal direction and through which air flows within the HVAC device along the longitudinal direction or on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction, the HVAC UVC light projection unit comprising: a mounting platform configured to be attached to the outer side of the HVAC device; an elongate support extending laterally from the mounting platform, the elongate support being such that at least a portion of the elongate support is within the HVAC device when the mounting platform is attached to the outer side of the HVAC device; at least one UVC light source supported on the elongate support, the at least one UVC light source comprising a UVC light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength in the range of 250 to 280 nm and respective lenses that transmit UVC light, the lenses being arranged to receive UVC light from the UVC LED and transmit the UVC light such that the UVC light is directed towards the HVAC device, the at least one UVC light source being configured to be oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device; An HVAC UVC light projection unit comprising the above.

2. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the at least one UVC light source comprises an optical mount and the lenses are attached to an optical housing region.

3. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 2, wherein the lenses are at a front end of the optical mount and the UVC LED is at a rear end of the optical mount.

4. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 2, wherein the optical mount comprises aluminum.

5. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 2, wherein the optical mount includes a channel therein, the channel having a front end and a rear end, the lenses being at the front end of the channel and the UVC LED being at the rear end, such that UVC light from the UVC LED propagates through the lenses to the front end of the channel.

6. The channel has side walls, and at least a portion of the light from the UVC LED is reflected by the side walls, thereby propagating from the UVC LED to the lens, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 5.

7. The UVC light source is configured to output collimated UVC light, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

8. The lens has a positive refractive power, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

9. The lens has a focal length and is disposed at the focal length from the UVC LED, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

10. The lens comprises an aspherical lens including at least one aspherical surface configured to refract UVC light, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

11. The lens includes a fused silica lens, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

12. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, further comprising a heat sink having a plurality of fins extending in a plurality of lateral directions radially from the UVC light source.

13. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, having a single UVC light source.

14. The single UVC light source outputs a radiant flux in the range of 100 to 200 mW, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 13.

15. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, comprising two UVC light sources, not exceeding two UVC light sources, the two UVC light sources comprising a first UVC light source laterally spaced from a second UVC light source.

16. The first UVC light source is supported by the elongated support member, and the second UVC light source is supported by another elongated support member connected to the first UVC light source, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 15.

17. The first UVC light source and the second UVC light source are supported on the elongated support, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 15.

18. The first UVC light source and the second UVC light source both output a radiant flux in the range of 100 to 200 mW, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 15.

19. Three UVC light sources, comprising no more than three UVC light sources, the three UVC light sources comprising a first UVC light source laterally spaced from a second UVC light source and a third UVC light source laterally spaced from the first UVC light source and the second UVC light source, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

20. The first UVC light source is supported by the elongated support member, and the second UVC light source is supported by a second elongated support member connected to the first UVC light source, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 19.

21. The third UVC light source is supported by a third elongated support member connected to the second UVC light source, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 20.

22. The first UVC light source, the second UVC light source, and the third UVC light source are supported on the elongated support, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 19.

23. The first UVC light source, the second UVC light source, and the third UVC light source together output a radiant flux in the range of 180 to 250 mW, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 19.

24. The mounting platform includes electronics for driving the UVC LED, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

25. The mounting platform includes a housing having the electronics therein and a portion having a through hole for screwing the mounting platform into the HVAC device, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 24.

26. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, further comprising a portion having a through hole for screwing the mounting platform into the HVAC device.

27. A portion of the elongated support or a portion of the mounting platform extends into or through a hole in the HVAC device, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

28. The UVC light emitting diode (LED) is configured to emit light most brightly at a wavelength in the range of 260 to 280 nm, the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1.

29. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, further comprising the HVAC device, wherein the mounting platform is attached to the outside of the HVAC device, the HVAC device includes a hole therein, the elongated support is connected to the mounting platform, and when the mounting platform is attached to the outside of the HVAC device, the at least one UVC light source is inside the HVAC device and is oriented to direct UVC light along the longitudinal direction of the HVAC device.

30. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 29, further comprising screws for fixing the mounting platform to the HVAC device.

31. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the HVAC device comprises an air duct.

32. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the HVAC device comprises a plenum, a plenum chamber, or a plenum device.

33. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the at least one UVC light source is configured such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air within the HVAC device.

34. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the at least one UVC light source is oriented such that UVC light from the at least one UVC light source is directed opposite to the flow of air within the HVAC device.

35. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the lens comprises fused silica having an internal transmittance corrected to reduce or eliminate at least 90% of the effects of scattering, absorption, and surface reflection of UVC light having a wavelength of 245 - 280 nm with respect to fused silica glass having a thickness of 10 mm.

36. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the lens comprises fused silica having an internal transmittance corrected to reduce or eliminate at least 95% of the effects of scattering, absorption, and surface reflection of UVC light having a wavelength of 245 - 280 nm with respect to fused silica glass having a thickness of 10 mm.

37. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1, wherein the lens comprises fused silica having an OH content of 5 ppm or less.

38. The lens of the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1 comprises fused silica in which the content of each of Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Cu is less than 0.1 ppm.

39. The lens of the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1 comprises fused silica produced by cristobalitizing a powdery silica raw material and melting the cristobalitized silica material in a non-reducing atmosphere.

40. The plurality of UVC LEDs of the HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1 output light having a radiant flux in the range of 200 to 400 mW.

41. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1 emits radiation sufficient to kill or disable most of the bacteria and / or viruses on the surface of 6 inches from the HVAC UVC light projection unit within 15 seconds.

42. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1 emits radiation sufficient to kill or disable most of the bacteria and / or viruses on the surface of 1 foot from the HVAC UVC light projection unit within 15 seconds.

43. The HVAC UVC light projection unit according to claim 1 comprises a lithium phosphate rechargeable power system powered by a lithium phosphate rechargeable battery.

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