Purification device with heated filters to kill biological species, including COVID-19

Abstract

The apparatus is used with a power supply to treat an airflow in a facility's air handling system. The frame has a plenum with an air intake and an air exhaust. The frame is configured to be positioned in the airflow to pass through the air handling system. The filter is positioned in the plenum and configured to filter the airflow up to a filtration limit. The ultraviolet light source positioned in the plenum is electrically connected to the power supply and configured to generate ultraviolet light within the plenum. The vented metal barrier positioned in the plenum is configured to impede the airflow up to an impedance limit. The barrier is electrically connected to the power supply and is heated to a surface temperature.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] <Reference to Related Applications> This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 018,442 and 63 / 018,448, filed April 30, 2020, which are incorporated herein by reference. This application has Attorney Docket No. 1766-0002US2 and is co-pending with U.S. patent application Ser. No. __ / __, entitled “Mobile Purification Device Having Heated Filter for Killing Biological Species, Including COVID-19,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] A variety of infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, can cause disease in humans. The pandemic of the deadly human SARS-CoV-2 strain (COVID-19) has affected humans at all levels of life as known worldwide. COVID-19 infection spreads persistently through circulatory air currents, which are the primary transmission mechanism. There are few effective strategies to protect the public from COVID-19, and current strategies, although widely considered, are costly and inefficient. To immediately combat aerosolized COVID-19, passive approaches are required to condition and purify circulating air in all environments. This is because current filter and air purification technologies are not successful in killing the COVID-19 virus, which is small in size (0.05 to 0.2 microns).

[0003] Air filtration is commonly used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to remove dust, pollen, mold, particulates, etc. from the air moving through a facility. Filters used for filtration come in several forms and can be configured to filter particles of a given size with a given efficiency.

[0004] For example, high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are commonly used in clean rooms, operating rooms, pharmacies, homes, etc. These filters may be made of various types of media, such as fiberglass media, ePTFE media, and may have activated carbon-based materials. Generally, HEPA filters can filter out greater than 99% of particles having a diameter of a given size (e.g., sizes 0.3 microns and larger). Even with their efficiency, HEPA filters may not be able to stop pathogens (virions, bacteria, etc.) that are very small in size.

[0005] Ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lamps can kill pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and mold. UV germicidal lamps produce ultraviolet light, which damages the genetic material of microorganisms. That damage kills the pathogens or prevents them from multiplying. Prolonged exposure to UV light can also break down pathogens on irradiated surfaces.

[0006] One example of an ultraviolet light system is an upper room air ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) system. In a UVGI system, ultraviolet light lamps are installed near the ceiling of the room in which they are used. Air circulating by convection near the ceiling at the top of the space is then irradiated within the active area of ​​the UV light. UVGI systems can also be installed in HVAC system ducts to irradiate airborne particles, including microorganisms, as the air flows through the ducts.

[0007] While existing systems for filtration and germicidal irradiation are effective at treating air to remove particulates and damage pathogens, there is a continuing need to purify the air in densely populated areas such as institutions, homes, workplaces, hospitals, nursing homes, sports venues, etc. to better reduce the spread of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and mold.

[0008] In particular, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel virus of global health importance, caused by infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 is believed to spread through respiratory droplets from person to person in close contact. Studies have shown that the virus can survive for hours at a time and can be persistently carried by air currents. For this reason, in situations where people spend extended periods together in a room, a constant 6-foot separation is thought to be ineffective, as it is transmitted simply by air currents.

[0009] For example, COVID-19 (Sars-CoV-2) can survive in droplets after coughing in the air for up to 3 hours, and air convection is thought to be the main mechanism of infection spread. Therefore, droplets and convection may facilitate direct airborne infection, and social distancing may not be effective in enclosed environments where people spend long periods together.

[0010] There is currently no cure for COVID-19, so environmental cleanup strategies can help slow the spread of the virus. Unfortunately, current systems that treat circulating air are expensive and primarily use UV germicidal lights. These products require professional installation, are not accessible to the general public, and have not been used to kill COVID-19. Additionally, filtration in HVAC systems can be ineffective. COVID-19 is between 0.05 and 0.2 microns in size, while HEPA filters can only filter particles larger than 0.3 microns, requiring additional protection against the spread of COVID-19.

[0011] For these reasons, the subject matter of this disclosure is directed to overcoming, or at least reducing the effects of, one or more of the problems set forth above. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The subject matter of the present disclosure is directed to a purification device that attempts to filter air to destroy viruses, bacteria, mold, pollen, volatile organic compounds, allergens, and contaminants. The purification device is intended to be affordable, easy to install, accessible, and usable in both residential and commercial settings. The purification device can be applied to real-world solutions to most effectively reduce viruses, such as COVID-19, and other pathogens in circulating air, and the purification device can be deployed as a specialized heated filter for use in commercial, residential, mass transit, and public places.

[0013] For example, as described below, the purification device includes a barrier heater or heated filter that utilizes targeted thermal conduction on a high efficiency nickel foam / mesh and is heated to a temperature proven to kill pathogens such as coronaviruses (e.g., COVID-19). The purification device further includes an ultraviolet (UV) light source that destroys viruses using UV-C light. The UV light source and barrier heater are combined together in a fire-retardant and flame-resistant filtration system that may be directly coupled to the air return, furnace intake, or other portion of an air handling system in facilities or densely populated environments such as airport terminals, houses of worship, hospitals, workshops, office spaces, homes, transportation vehicles, schools, hotels, cruise ships, recreational venues, etc. As there is currently no cure for COVID-19 and many other pathogens, environmental purification strategies can help slow the spread of viruses, and the air purification provided by the disclosed device may provide a first line of defense against infection.

[0014] In one embodiment, the apparatus is used with a power supply to treat an air flow in an air handling system of a facility. The apparatus includes a frame, a filter, an ultraviolet light source, and a heater. The frame has a plenum with an air intake and an exhaust, and is configured to be positioned in the air handling system air flow for passing the air flow therethrough.

[0015] A filter is disposed over a surface area of ​​the plenum and includes a first material, such as a metal. The filter is configured to filter airflow therethrough up to a filtration limit. An ultraviolet light source is disposed in the plenum. The ultraviolet light source is electrically connectable with a power supply and configured to generate an ultraviolet radiation action field in the plenum. A heater is disposed over a surface area of ​​the plenum and includes a ventilation barrier of a metallic material. The heater ventilation barrier is configured to impede airflow therethrough up to an impedance limit. The heater ventilation barrier is further electrically connected to the power supply and heated to a surface temperature.

[0016] In another configuration, the device is used in conjunction with an air filter and a power supply to treat the airflow of an air handling system in a facility. The device includes a frame, an ultraviolet light source, and a heater similar to those disclosed above. The filter may be mounted adjacent to the frame or separately mounted to the air handling system.

[0017] In yet another configuration, a method is used for treating an airflow in an air handling system in a facility. A frame is disposed within the air handling system to pass an airflow. The airflow is filtered up to a filtration limit through a filter disposed across a surface area of ​​a plenum of the frame between an air inlet and an air outlet. An ultraviolet radiation working field within the plenum is generated by powering an ultraviolet light source disposed within the plenum. The airflow is impeded up to an impedance limit through a heater air barrier disposed across a surface area of ​​the plenum and having a metallic material. The heater air barrier is heated to a surface temperature by applying an electrical potential to the air barrier.

[0018] The above summary is not intended to summarize each potential embodiment or every aspect of the present disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a facility having an air handling system with a purification device according to the present disclosure.

[0020] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates another configuration of the disclosed purification device for use in an air handling system. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B illustrates another configuration of the disclosed purification device for use in an air handling system. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C illustrates another configuration of the disclosed purification device for use in an air handling system. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D illustrates another configuration of the disclosed purification device for use in an air handling system. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2E illustrates another configuration of the disclosed purification device for use in an air handling system.

[0021] [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A shows a front view of the purification device of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows a side view of the purification device of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C shows an end view of the purification device of the present disclosure.

[0022] [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a side view showing an overview of the purification device together with the configuration of its components. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a side view showing an overview of the purification device together with the configuration of the components of the purification device.

[0023] [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a side view showing an outline of another purification device together with the configuration of its components.

[0024] [Figure 5A]FIG. 5A is a graph detailing the performance of the barrier heater of the disclosed purification device. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a graph detailing the performance of the barrier heater of the disclosed purification device. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a graph detailing the performance of the barrier heater of the disclosed purification device.

[0025] [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows another heating configuration having multiple electrical elements disposed in the plenum of the frame and connected to a power control.

[0026] [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B shows another arrangement of the disclosed purification device. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C shows another arrangement of the disclosed purification device. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6D shows another arrangement of the disclosed purification device.

[0027] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of an air handling system having multiple purification devices.

[0028] [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A illustrates a configuration having multiple purification devices served by a master control unit.

[0029] [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B illustrates another configuration having environmental components subject to a master environmental control and multiple purification devices.

[0030] [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A shows a side view of a ventilation barrier for the disclosed heater in a flat configuration. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B shows a side view of a breathable barrier for the disclosed heater in a corrugated configuration.

[0031] [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a graph for a barrier heater having a planar configuration. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a graph for a barrier heater having a planar configuration.

[0032] [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a graph for a barrier heater having a corrugated configuration. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a graph for a barrier heater having a corrugated configuration.

[0033] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a graph of exposure time versus temperature. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0034] The subject matter of the present disclosure is directed to a purification device for filtering and instantly eliminating pathogens, such as the COVID-19 virus, from circulating air by exposing them to high temperatures (above 200° C.) (above 392° F.) In doing so, the subject matter of the present disclosure may provide the public with the security and peace of mind to return to work, school, life, recreation, and medical care in a post-COVID-19 world while reducing the transmission of viruses and other biological species that may cause future pandemics.

[0035] The first mechanism of action of the purifier is a specialized heated filter or barrier heater that utilizes low energy, targeted heat transfer of a high performance, highly resistant porous metal foam encased in a flame retardant frame. The disclosed heated filter or barrier heater may be combined with a highly efficient HVAC filter. Additionally, ultraviolet light (UV-C) may be added to the system environment to add a killing effect. Studies have shown that heat and short wavelength light successfully inactivate COVID-19 over the course of exposure.

[0036] As described below, the purification device of the present disclosure may be incorporated into the air handling system of a facility, vehicle, or any other environment. Using the same technology, mobile / robotic COVID-19 purification devices may be deployed for use in public places, medical facilities, nursing homes, schools, airplanes, trains, cruise ships, fairgrounds, theaters, churches, grocery and retail stores, prisons, etc. Further details are described in co-pending U.S. Patent Application No. __ / __, entitled "Mobile Purification Device Having Heated Filter for Killing Biological Species, Including COVID-19," having Attorney Docket No. 1766-0002US2, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, a facility 10, such as a home, hospital, office space, airport terminal, house of worship, or other enclosed environment, has an air handling system 20. As shown in this figure, the system 20 is a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, although other air handling systems may be used. Typically, the HVAC system 20 includes a return 30, flutes 32, return ducts 34, etc., for directing return air drawn from an indoor space to the blower 22, heat exchanger 24, and cooling coil 26 of the system 20. The system 20 then provides conditioned supply air to the space via a supply duct 36, vents 38, etc. The heat exchanger 24 may include an electric or gas furnace for heating the air. The cooling coil 26 may be an evaporator connected in a cooling circuit to other conventional components outside the facility, such as a condenser, compressor, expansion valve, etc.

[0038] Integrated or incorporated into the system 20, one or more purifiers 100 are used in a facility to purify the air stream. In one configuration, as shown, the purifier 100 is used in the air return 30 of the HVAC system 20. Return air is drawn through the air return 30 and passes through the conditioning elements of the HVAC system 20. Each air return 30 in a facility may have a purifier 100 through which return air may be drawn during operation of the HVAC system 20. Because the HVAC system 20 uses different filters of various sizes, the purifier 100 may have dimensions to accommodate the various filter sizes.

[0039] As will be described below, the purifier 100 attempts to heat the return air by flash heating. For this reason, the purifier 100 is preferably located upstream of the return air from the cooling unit 26. This allows it to dissipate some of the heat into the airflow before it is cooled by the cooling unit 26. When heating an indoor space, the purifier 100 may simply increase the heat provided by the system 20. It would be conceivable for the vent 28 of the air distribution system 20 to have such a purifier 100. However, the purifier 100 tends to diffuse the airflow and pushing the airflow through a filter is inefficient, making the use of the device 100 in the vent less preferred, although possible.

[0040] Airflow studies in conference rooms and office spaces have shown that convection patterns continually transport infectious agents between chairs at conference tables and between cubicles in open office spaces, indicating that reliance on person-to-person separation is ineffective due to air convection.

[0041] Control of the purifier 100 may be handled entirely by the local controller 200, which independently determines whether or not airflow is being directed through the purifier 100. Alternatively, the local controller 200 may be integrated with a system controller 50 for the HVAC system 20, which may signal activation of the HVAC system 20 to indicate to the local controller 200 that airflow is being directed through the purifier 100. In a further alternative, the purifier 100 may lack local control and be centrally controlled by the system controller 50. As will be appreciated, these control configurations may be used in any combination with a facility 10, multiple purifiers 100, conditioning zones, HVAC components, etc.

[0042] 1 shows the purifier 100 positioned in the return 30 of the flute 32 of the air handling system 20, although other configurations may be used. Generally, the purifier 100 may be sized for use with a typical commercially used furnace opening (14-20 inches by 25 inches). Multiple HVAC zones may then be served by the purifier.

[0043] For example, Figure 2A shows the purification device 100 located immediately upstream of the blower 22 and other components of the HVAC system 20, which includes a horizontal furnace 24. Figure 2B shows the purification device 100 located adjacent to the blower 22 and other components of the system 20, such as the horizontal furnace. Finally, Figure 2C shows the purification device 100 located above the blower of a downflow furnace. These and other configurations may be used. The furnace may optionally use gas burners or electric heating elements, and other regulating components may be located further downstream.

[0044] FIG. 2D illustrates an air handling system 80 in an airplane 70 having a purification device 100 of the present disclosure. In the airplane 70, the air in the cabin 74 may be changed 20 to 30 times per hour, with approximately half of it being circulated through filters. Because the cabin 74 is pressurized, outside air enters the inlet 82 of the system 80 at high temperature and pressure from the engines 72. The hot compressed air reaches the airplane 70's air conditioning unit 84, where the air is cooled considerably. For heating, a portion of the incoming air may enter the cabin 74 through the overhead exhaust 75. For cooling, the air from the air conditioning unit 84 passes through a mixing manifold 86a, where the cooled outside air is combined with the cabin air to create a 50 / 50 mixture. The mixed air from the mixing manifold 86a may then be circulated through the cabin 74 via the overhead exhaust 75. A portion of the air within the cabin 74 from the intake 77 is then exhausted through the exhaust 79 in an equal amount to the outside air entering the cabin 74 to maintain balance, and another portion of the cabin air via the buffer manifold 86b is recirculated in the mixing chamber 86a. Since the outside air is fresh, a purification device 100 of the present disclosure is positioned in the mixing manifold 86a and / or the buffer manifold 86b of the air handling system 80 to treat the recirculated cabin air.

[0045] 2E illustrates an air handling system 90 for use on a cruise ship, the air handling system 90 including the purification apparatus 100 of the present disclosure. As shown, return / relief air drawn in through return duct 92a is redirected through a filter 94 on the side of a blower 96a, which forces the air through a heat wheel 98. An additional blower 96b then expels the air through an exhaust 93a to the atmosphere.

[0046] Meanwhile, outside air entering the inlet 92b passes through a filter 94 and then the other end of a heat wheel 98 before being directed to the cooling and filtering elements. In the return duct 92a, the return / relief air is also directed to the cooling and filtering elements. For these elements, the air passes through a filter 94, a cooling coil 95, an ultraviolet treatment 97, a further filter 94, and a steam humidification treatment 99 before exiting into the supply air duct 93b.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 2E, the purifier 100 may be used on the return air from the return duct 92a that is recycled through the system 90. Throughout the cruise ship, various components such as duct heaters, axial fans, dampers, etc. are used to guide the air. Various built-in unit heaters may also be used in various locations on the cruise ship. Because a cruise ship is very much like an institution, purifiers may be incorporated into the various returns, ducts, vents, and stand-alone units used throughout the ship.

[0048] As will be appreciated, other vehicles and mass transit systems having air handling systems can benefit in a similar manner as airplanes and cruise ships. For example, buses, trains, and subways used in mass transit typically have air handling systems that use both outside air and recycled air. The disclosed purification apparatus 100 can be incorporated into these air handling systems in a similar manner as described above.

[0049] With an understanding of how the purification device 100 may be used and where it may be installed in a facility, specific details of the disclosed purification device 100 will now be described. Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C are front, side, and end views of an exemplary purification device 100 of the present disclosure. The purification device 100 includes a frame 110 that is configured to be inserted into an existing air return section of a facility, to completely replace an existing return section, or to be used at a furnace air inlet.

[0050] Generally, the frame 110 has four side walls that enclose a plenum interior 116 and are exposed on opposing open faces, one for the inlet 112 and one for the outlet 118 of the plenum 116. If desired, the inlet 112 may include a rim 114 that would typically engage around an opening in the wall for the return 30 (FIG. 1). Fasteners (not shown) may secure the rim to the surrounding structure. Although configured for a particular embodiment, a typical size for the frame 110 may include overall dimensions of 20 inches wide by 30 inches high by 7 inches deep.

[0051] 3A, the air inlet 112 or rim 114 may form a receptacle for holding a filter (not shown) for filtering the airflow entering the plenum 116. Inside the plenum 116, the frame 110 holds a barrier heater 140. As shown simply here, the barrier heater 140 includes a vent barrier 142, constructed from metal and comprising a mesh, foam, screen, or tortuous media, that is disposed across the plenum 116 to provide a vent surface area for handling the airflow, as described below.

[0052] Also inside the plenum 116, the frame can hold a UV light source 130 as an additional treatment in addition to the barrier heater 140. (Other embodiments disclosed herein may not include the UV light source 130.) As simply illustrated here, the UV light source 130 includes two UV-C light emitting diode (LED) strips positioned across the plenum 116 to provide an action field for treating the airflow, as described below. More or fewer light sources 130 may be used, and different types of light sources 130 may be provided.

[0053] Turning now to FIG. 4A, a side view of the purifier 100 is shown, with an arrangement of its components. As previously mentioned, the purifier 100 may be used in the return section 30 of an air handling system. The wall opening of the return section 30 may typically have an air return grill 31 to protect the internal components. The frame 110 of the purifier 100 fits into the return section 30 and may be held by fasteners (not shown), such as bolts or screws. As previously mentioned, the air filter 120 may fit into a receptacle in the frame 110. Typically, the filter 120 simply fits snugly into the receptacle, but fasteners could be used.

[0054] Preferably, purification device 100 first filters the airflow up to its filtration limit through filter 120. In this manner, filter 120 can prevent dust and other particulates from being drawn into purification device 100 and further into HVAC system 20 (FIG. 1).

[0055] As previously mentioned, a UV radiation field can be generated within the plenum 116 of the purifier 100 by powering the UV light source 130 located in the plenum 116. In the plenum of the purifier 100, airflow is impeded up to the impedance limit via a barrier heater 140 located in the plenum 116. The barrier heater 140 includes a ventilation barrier 142 (e.g., mesh, foam, screen, serpentine media) of a metallic material such as nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, steel alloy, etc. The ventilation barrier 142 may be flat, corrugated, curved, pleated, etc., and may be arranged in one or multiple layers. The metallic mesh / foam 142 of the heater 140 is heated to a surface temperature by applying a voltage potential across the mesh / foam. Preferably, the UV light source 130 is positioned within the plenum 116 between the filter 120 and the barrier heater 140 such that radiation from the light source 130 can treat the airflow passing therethrough and also treat the exposed surfaces of the filter 120 and the barrier heater 140.

[0056] 4B, another schematic side view of the purification apparatus 100 is shown with the layout of its components. The frame 110 of the purification apparatus 100 is shown holding the filter 120, the UV light source 130, and the barrier heater 140 in the plenum 116. The purification apparatus 100 is used with control circuitry and a power supply. For example, the control circuitry includes a controller 200 having appropriate power and processing circuitry to power and control the purification apparatus 100. The controller 200 may be connected to one or more types of power sources 40, such as the facility's available AC power, battery power, or other power sources. The power supply circuitry of the controller 200 may convert the power supply as needed to generate DC power and voltage levels.

[0057] Looking at the frame 110, the filter 120 is positioned in the plenum 116 of the frame 110 and is held in a receptacle 115 facing the air inlet 112. The filter 120 is constructed of a first material and is configured to filter the airflow therethrough up to a filtration limit. Preferably, the filter 120 is a metal filter media 122 made of stainless steel, aluminum, or the like, meshed in one or more layers depending on the amount of airflow and the level of filtration required. The filter 120 has a case 125, which is also constructed of metal and has a metal filter media fitted therein. Generally, the metal filter 120 may be a metal, fire-resistant, flame-retardant, and high-efficiency rated, 1-inch thick HVAC filter.

[0058] A barrier heater 140 may also be disposed in the plenum 116 and mounted facing the exhaust 118. Insulation 145, both thermal and electrical, may separate the barrier heater 140 from the frame 110. The barrier heater 140 includes a mesh / foam of metallic material and is configured to impede airflow therethrough up to an impedance limit.

[0059] The UV light source 130 may be disposed within the plenum 116, preferably between the metal filter 120 and the barrier heater 140, as described above. The UV light source 130 generates a UV-C light field within the plenum 116 to treat the airflow passing therethrough. As described herein, pathogens such as viruses can be eliminated by exposure to a dose of UV light. For example, sRNA coronaviruses up to 0.11 μm in size can be eliminated with a dose of approximately 611 μj / cm. 2 A UVGI dose of just 1000 nm can remove >99% of light.

[0060] Both the UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140 are electrically connected to the power source 40 via a controller 200 , which controls the illumination of the light source 130 and the heating of the barrier heater 140 within the plenum 116 .

[0061] The UV light source 130 may include one or more UV-C lamps, light emitting diodes, etc., disposed in the plenum 116. For example, the light source 130 may use one or more ultraviolet germicidal lamps, such as mercury vapor lamps. The light source 130 may also use light emitting diodes having semiconductors that emit UV-C radiation.

[0062] One or more structures may be disposed on the frame 110 to support the UV light source 140. The structure used may depend on the type of light source 140 used and may include fixtures for lamps and strips for UV-C light emitting diodes. For example, the UV light source 130 may use multiple strips of UV-C light emitting diodes that extend across the plenum 116.

[0063] The effectiveness of UVGI treatment in an air stream depends on many factors, such as the microbiological species of interest, the intensity of exposure, the duration of exposure, the amount of moisture in the air, etc. A sufficient dose of radiation can kill DNA-based microorganisms. Thus, the intensity, exposure time, and other factors of the UVGI treatment can be configured and even controlled in the purification device 100 and HVAC system to reach the desired effectiveness.

[0064] The UVGI treatment provided by the purification device 100 can be effective in destroying pathogens such as COVID-19. UV-C light or short wavelength light with wavelengths between 100 and 280 nanometers generated by a UV light source can have a proven germicidal effect. In particular, short far UVC light at 222 nanometers is effective in killing and inactivating aerosolized viruses over time of exposure.

[0065] In contrast to conventional uses of UVGI in HVAC systems, the disclosed purifier 100 does not require expensive and specialized installation into the air return or duct systems. Instead, the disclosed purifier 100 offers installation and operation that is as simple and practical as changing an HVAC filter in a home every one to three months.

[0066] As described in more detail below, the metallic ventilation barrier of the barrier heater 140 may include nickel mesh / foam. The barrier heater 140 is configured to provide a foam with at least 80% porosity to impede airflow therethrough up to an impedance limit of 20%.

[0067] The purification device 100 may include an antimicrobial coating on one or more surfaces to eliminate live bacteria and viruses. For example, the filter 120 may have an antimicrobial coating to eliminate pathogens captured by the filter media. The inner walls of the frame plenum 116 may also have an antimicrobial coating. If practical under the heating conditions, the mesh / foam of the barrier heater 140 may have an antimicrobial coating.

[0068] As further shown in FIG. 4B , a controller 200 disposed in electrical communication with the UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140 is configured to control (i) the emission of the UV light source 130 powered by the power source 40, and (ii) the heating of the barrier heater 140 by the power source 40. The controller 200 may be a local controller and may include a communication interface 212 to communicate with other purification devices and other components of the air handling system 20 ( FIG. 1 ) within the facility, such as the system controller 50. The local controller 200 may receive a signal indicating that the HVAC system 20 is on / off, which indicates the passage of airflow through the device 100. The controller 200 may then control the heating of the barrier heater 140 and the illumination of the UV light source 130 based on the received signal.

[0069] To do this, the controller 200 is placed in electrical communication with a heater circuit 214 connected to the barrier heater 140. During at least the period during which air is passing through the purification device 100 (drawn by the HVAC system), the controller 200 may control the heating of the barrier heater 140 by the heater circuit 214 powered by the power source 40. As will be appreciated, the controller 200 and heater circuit 214 include any switches, relays, timers, power transformers, etc. required to regulate and control the power provided to the barrier heater 140.

[0070] The controller 200 heats the barrier heater 140 at least while a signal is received notifying the controller 200 that the HVAC system 20 is operating and signaling airflow through the purifier 100. Pre-heating before the HVAC system 20 draws return air may occur before air is drawn through the purifier 100 so that the target temperature can be reached early. This may require an advance signal from the system controller 50, or may involve intermittent heating of the barrier heater 140 to maintain some baseline temperature. Post-heating after the HVAC system 20 is turned off may also be beneficial for several reasons.

[0071] The controller 200 is also disposed in electrical communication with a driver circuit 213 that is connected to the UV light source 130. During at least the period when air is passing through the purifier 100 (as drawn by the HVAC system), the controller 200 may control the illumination of the UV light source 130 using the driver circuit 213 powered by the power source 40. As will be appreciated, the controller 200 and driver circuit 213 may include any switches, relays, timers, power transformers, electronic ballasts, etc. necessary to regulate and control the power provided to the light source 130.

[0072] At a minimum, the controller 200 illuminates the light source 130 when the controller 200 has been signaled that the HVAC system 20 is operational and signals airflow through the purifier 100. To reach the target illumination, some pre-illumination of the lamps of the UV light source 130 or the like may be required to reach full illumination before air is drawn through the purifier 100. This may require an advance signal from the system controller 50. Post-illumination of the light source 130 after the HVAC system 20 is turned off may also be beneficial for several reasons.

[0073] For monitoring and control, the controller 200 may include one or more sensors 216, 217, and 218. For example, the controller 200 may include a temperature sensor 216 disposed adjacent to the barrier heater 140 within the plenum 116 and in electrical communication with the controller 200. The temperature sensor 216 is configured to measure a temperature associated with the heating of the barrier heater 140 so that the controller 200 can reach a target temperature. Depending on the embodiment and the pathogens affected, the barrier heater 140 may be heated to a surface temperature of about 54° C. (130° F.) or higher. Indeed, studies have shown that heating to temperatures above about 56° C. or about 56-67° C. (133-152° F.) can kill the SARS coronavirus, and that 222 nanometer far-UVC light is effective in killing and inactivating aerosolized viruses.

[0074] The controller 200 may be connected to a light sensor 218, such as a photocell or other light-sensing element, to monitor the illuminance, intensity, wavelength, operation, etc., of the UV light source 130. For example, the UV light source 130 may be configured to emit at least 611 μJ / cm in an applied field within the plenum 116. 2 and measurements from the light sensor 218 may monitor the radiation.

[0075] The controller 200 may be connected to further sensors 217, such as a flow sensor for sensing flow, velocity, etc., through the plenum 116. Detection of airflow at the flow sensor 217 may be utilized by the controller 200 to initiate operation of the purifier 100 if not signaled remotely. The velocity of the airflow may be measured by the flow sensor 217 and a target flow rate through the purifier 100 may be adjusted such that heating of the airflow by the barrier heater 140 is adjusted to the detected flow rate and the target heating level. If the device 100 is integrated with an HVAC system 20 capable of operating at various flow levels, then feedback from the flow sensor 217 may be used to control or indicate the level of air drawn through the device 100. The velocity of the airflow may also be monitored to adjust the target irradiation of the airflow by the UV light source 140 such that an appropriate exposure level is achieved.

[0076] As described herein, the purification device 100 combines thermal energy with UV-C light and is built into a fire- and flame-resistant filtration system. The purification device 100 may be located in the return behind the HVAC grill for return air. As disclosed herein, embodiments of the purification device 100 may include a barrier heater 140, and therefore may include various features such as a controller 200, sensors, etc., as described above with respect to the barrier heater 140. Some embodiments may not include a UV light source 130, while other embodiments may include a UV light source 130 along with various features such as a controller 200, sensors, etc., as described above with respect to the UV light source 130. In particular, FIG. 4C shows another schematic side view of the purification device 100 with the arrangement of components without a UV light source. Similar components are numbered the same as in other embodiments and will not be described again here.

[0077] As proposed, the disclosed purification device 100 is capable of filtering air up to 99.97% (ASME, USDOE) of particles while eliminating pathogens such as COVID-19. As disclosed in a co-pending application incorporated herein, the configuration may be incorporated into a mobile housing for use in larger public locations, including airport terminals, houses of worship, hospitals, and other enclosed areas, to reduce infectious air particles.

[0078] Although the purifier 100 is described as including a frame 110 that houses an air filter in the frame 110, the purifier 100 may include a frame 110 that already houses a filter and is mounted behind a conventional air return 30. Alternatively, the purifier 100 may include a frame 110 that is mounted to a furnace inlet downstream of a separately held air filter 120. The purifier 100 may be sized to fit the opening of a furnace for commercial applications (e.g., 14-20 inches by 25 inches). The HVAC zone may then be targeted. In this type of configuration, the purifier 100 may again include the frame 110, UV light source 130, and barrier heater 140, but the frame 110 may not necessarily hold or accept the air filter 120. Alternatively, a separate air filter may be installed elsewhere in the HVAC system, such as in the return.

[0079] The description now turns to the details of the barrier heater 140 of the disclosed purification device 100. The metal mesh / foam of the barrier heater 140 may have one or more layers of material and may have any suitable thickness. By way of example, the mesh / foam may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm. When constructed from nickel (Ni), the metal mesh / foam may have a thickness of 1.43×10 7 Cm 2 The Ni mesh / foam may have a surface charge density (σ) of about 1.0×10. The Ni mesh / foam is electrically conductive and highly porous with random three-dimensional channels defined therein. The mesh / foam exhibits a resistance of about 0.000.178 Ω, with the electrical resistivity of an exemplary Ni foam being about 1.51×10. -5 It is calculated to be Ωm.

[0080] For example, FIG. 5A shows a first graph 60A of the temperature (° C.) generated by an exemplary Ni foam material for a barrier heater per unit of power supplied (W). A foam sample having dimensions of 1.65 mm×195 mm×10 mm was examined. After applying a voltage, the temperature was measured until it stabilized. As shown in graph 60A, the temperature is shown to increase approximately linearly per unit of power supplied, such that a temperature of about 120° C. is obtained at about 7 watts.

[0081] FIG. 5B shows a second graph 60B of the measured temperature of a gas (e.g., N2) after flowing through an exemplary barrier heater Ni foam material heated to a temperature. The measurement gas was sent at a distance of about 3.5 cm upstream from the heated Ni foam material while the room temperature was about 21.7° C. Temperature measurements were taken at various downstream distances for the exemplary Ni foam material heated to an initial temperature of about 115° C. (239° F.). As can be seen, the measured temperature of the gas decreased from about 29° C. to about 23° C. (84° F. to 73° F.) for downstream distances ranging from 1 cm to 4 cm from the exemplary Ni foam material. This shows that the heating produced by a barrier heater 140 constructed with such an exemplary Ni foam material results in a complex heated surface area that the airflow and any pathogens may impinge upon, but the heating is localized and dissipates into the downstream airflow.

[0082] 5C shows another graph 60C of measured temperatures taken at various downstream distances for an exemplary Ni foam material at another initial temperature, where the Ni foam material is at an initial temperature of about 54° C. The measured temperature of the gas decreased from about 24.5° C. to 21.7° C. (76° F. to 71° F.) for distances ranging from 1 cm to 4 cm from the exemplary Ni foam material.

[0083] As described herein, the barrier heater 140 may use nickel, but nickel-based or iron-based alloys developed for use in high service temperatures and corrosive environments could also be used. Nickel is slowly oxidized by air at room temperature and is considered to be corrosion resistant. Nickel is a high performance metal that can be easily tailored to reach high temperatures with minimal heat transfer to the surroundings and passing air molecules. For example, nickel mesh / foam (1.43×10 7 When a voltage is applied across the Ni mesh / foam (σ), the metal conducts energy to a target temperature hot enough to kill pathogens, including COVID-19, on contact. The target temperature can be 56°C-66°C or higher, or even 93°C or higher (133°F-150°F or higher, or even 200°F or higher). In this way, the Ni mesh / foam (0.5mm-2.0mm) provides a heated, charged surface area for pathogens to impinge on and be eliminated by the heated grid. Meanwhile, the porosity of the foam / mesh of the barrier heater 140 (80-90%) does not unduly impede airflow or significantly increase the energy required from the HVAC system.

[0084] As previously disclosed, heating of the plenum 116 may be accomplished by a barrier heater 140 having a mesh / foam that is heated to a target temperature and provides a tortuous path for return air to pass through the mesh / foam. Other forms of heating may be utilized. As previously disclosed, UV illumination of the plenum 116 may be accomplished using UV light strips. Other forms of UV illumination may be used.

[0085] For example, Figure 6A shows another configuration having multiple electrical elements (UV light source 130 and barrier heater 140) disposed in a plenum 116 of a frame 110 and connected to a power control device 201. The plenum 116 includes carbon media 152 on one or more side walls for absorption and purification. The plenum 116 may also include a filter 120 disposed at the air intake.

[0086] As mentioned above, the disclosed purification device 100 may be used separately or in combination with air handling systems and other purification devices 100. As an example, FIG. 6B shows a configuration of a purification device 100 according to the present disclosure including a UV light source 130 and a barrier heater 140 controlled by a control / power circuit 202. The UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140 may be similar to those disclosed herein and may be housed together in a housing or frame 110 to fit the air flow of the air handling system. For example, the housing or frame 110 may be retrofitted or added to an existing duct of the air handling system, may be located upstream of an operable component of the air handling system, or may be located elsewhere in the air flow. Filtration may be achieved elsewhere in the air handling system. For its part, the control / power circuit 201 may have the necessary components disclosed herein to control the UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140.

[0087] In another example, FIG. 6C shows another configuration of a purification device 100 according to the present disclosure, including a barrier heater 140 controlled by a control / power circuit 203. This device 100 shown may not include a UV light source, although such a light source could be used elsewhere in the facility or other environment. The barrier heater 140 may be similar to those disclosed herein and may be housed within a housing or frame 110 to fit into the airflow of the air handling system. For example, the housing or frame 110 may be retrofitted or added to an existing duct of the air handling system, may be located upstream of an operable component of the air handling system, or may be located elsewhere in the airflow. Filtration may be achieved elsewhere in the air handling system, or may be incorporated into the frame 110 using a filter (not shown) as disclosed elsewhere herein. For its part, the control / power circuit 203 may have the necessary components disclosed herein to control the barrier heater 140.

[0088] As yet another example, FIG. 6D illustrates yet another configuration of a purification device 100 according to the present disclosure, including a UV light source 130 controlled by a control / power circuit 204 and a barrier heater 140 controlled by a control / power circuit 203. The UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140 may be similar to those disclosed herein and may be housed in separate housings or frames 110a-b to fit into the airflow of the air handling system. For example, the housings or frames 110a-b may be retrofitted or added to existing ducts of the air handling system, may be located upstream of the operable components of the air handling system, or may be located elsewhere in the airflow. Filtration may be accomplished elsewhere in the air handling system or may be incorporated into one or both of the frames 110a-b using filters (not shown) as disclosed elsewhere herein. For their part, the control / power circuits 203, 204 may have the necessary components as disclosed herein to control the UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140, respectively.

[0089] As alluded to above, the disclosed purification devices 100 may be used separately or in combination with air handling systems and other purification devices 100. Figure 7 shows a schematic of an air handling system 20 configuration having multiple purification devices 100a-n. As mentioned above, one or more purification devices 100a-n may be used within a facility, and these purification devices 100a-n may have a control configuration for remote or local control.

[0090] For example, the air handling system 20 (e.g., an HVAC system) may include its system controller 50 and may have a user / communication interface 502. The system controller 50 includes a central processing unit and memory as typically found in an environmental controller. The user / communication interface 502 may include a graphical user interface, a control panel, wired communications, and wireless communications as typically found in an environmental controller. As previously mentioned, the HVAC system 20 includes components such as the blower 22, the furnace 24, the compressor 27, the thermostat 29, and any other conventional components.

[0091] The system controller 50 may communicate via wired or wireless communication with one or more stand-alone purification devices 110a-100n located within the facility. These stand-alone purification devices 110a-100n have a local controller 210 and a user / communication interface 212. The local controller 210 includes a central processing unit and memory as typically found in an environmental controller. The user / communication interface 212 may include a graphical user interface, a control panel, wired communications, and wireless communications as typically found in an environmental controller. As previously described, the stand-alone devices 100a-100n include the disclosed purification components, such as a UV source driver 213, a heater circuit 214, a sensor 216, etc.

[0092] As further shown, the system controller 50 may also communicate via wired or wireless communication with one or more integrated purification devices 110b located within the facility. These integrated purification devices 110b may have no local control and may be directly controlled by the system controller 50. As previously described, the integrated purification device 100b includes the disclosed purification components such as the UV source driver 213, heater circuit 214, sensor 216, etc.

[0093] Based on the above configuration, it will be appreciated that a facility can be configured to have multiple system components for different zones, rooms, areas, etc. of the facility. Briefly, Fig. 8A shows a master control unit 250 having a central processing unit 252 and a communication interface 245 for communicating via wired and / or wireless communication 256 with multiple local controllers 200a-n of different zones 104a-n of the facility configuration 102. Each local controller 200a-n can control one or more purification devices 100a-n of a given zone 104a-n.

[0094] As another simple example, FIG. 8B shows a master environmental controller 50 having a central processor and communication interfaces 52a-b for communicating with multiple system components of the facility configuration 102 via wired and / or wireless communication 56. The master environmental controller 50 may communicate with local controllers 200a-n in different zones 104a-n of the facility configuration 102. Each of the local controllers 200a-n may control one or more purification devices 100a-n in a given zone 104a-n. Additionally, the master controller 50 may communicate with local environmental systems 21a-n of the facility's air handling system 20. These local environmental systems 21a-n may be dedicated to different zones (e.g., floors, rooms, buildings, etc.) of the facility.

[0095] As previously mentioned, the ventilation barrier 142 of the barrier heater 140 disclosed herein may have various layers and configurations. In FIG. 9A, a portion of a barrier heater 140a is shown, where the ventilation barrier 142 is flat and has a specified thickness T1. One or more such flat barriers 142 may be used adjacent to each other in series to impede and interact with impinging airflows. To increase the surface area and interaction, a portion of a barrier heater 140b has folds, corrugations, or pleats 142 in the ventilation barrier 142, as shown in FIG. 9B. The mesh material of the ventilation barrier 142 may have its original thickness T1, but the corrugated barrier heater 140b exhibits a thickness T2 with respect to the impinging airflow. One or more such corrugated barriers 142 may be used adjacent to each other in series to impede and interact with the impinging airflows.

[0096] Considering the flexibility of the Ni foam, the corrugated barrier heater 140b offers several advantages. First, the resistance of the Ni foam is much greater with the bends 144, which benefits the barrier heater 140 when used with residential voltages (110V). Second, as shown in FIG. 9B, the bends 144 are several times the thickness T1, creating an effective distance T2 for interacting with the impinging air. The gaps between the bends 144 of the hot Ni foam create high temperatures effective for damaging pathogens. It should be noted that the number of bends, bend length, etc. can be easily controlled, and the longer the bend length, the higher the temperature reached. Third, compared to a flat Ni foam with two major faces exposed to air, the folded Ni foam barrier 140b of FIG. 9B has a much smaller area exposed to the ingress and egress air, minimizing heat loss, allowing the temperature of the barrier heater 140 to increase more rapidly and reach much higher values ​​with the same power consumption.

[0097] For example, Figure 10A shows a graph of input voltage versus current induced for a barrier heater 140a with a flat Ni foam configuration. Figure 10B shows a graph of current versus temperature level induced for a barrier heater 140 with a flat Ni foam configuration. Meanwhile, Figure 11A shows a graph of input voltage versus current induced for a barrier heater 140b with a corrugated Ni foam configuration. Figure 11B shows a graph of current versus temperature level induced for a barrier heater 140b with a corrugated Ni foam configuration. As can be seen from Figures 10B and 11B, at the same voltage of 1.0V, the temperature of the corrugated barrier heater 140b is more than twice as high as the temperature of the flat barrier heater 140a.

[0098] As will be appreciated, various features of the disclosed purification device 100, including the UV light source 130 and the barrier heater 140, may be adapted to a particular embodiment and configured to treat the air for specific pathogens. Testing with actual pathogens requires careful control and has been performed in a laboratory environment.

[0099] With respect to the UV light source 130, the intensity, active area, wavelength, and other variables of the ultraviolet light from the UV light source 130 may be configured to treat the air for specific pathogens, which are best determined by direct testing with actual pathogens in a controlled laboratory setting. With respect to the barrier heater 140, the thickness, material, active surface area, permeability, waveform, temperature, and other variables of the ventilation barrier 142 of the barrier heater 140 may be configured to treat the air for specific pathogens, which variables are best determined by direct testing with actual pathogens in a controlled laboratory setting.

[0100] Previous studies with SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV have established that coronaviruses can be inactivated by heat. See, for example, Leclerca, 2014; Darnell, 2004; Pastorino, 2020. Results of preliminary studies in a BSL3 facility showed that SARS-CoV-2 is remarkably heat resistant for an enveloped RNA virus. Only a protocol of 100°C (212°F) for 10 minutes completely inactivated the virus.

[0101] In particular, the heat resistance of human SARS-CoV-2 strains (COVID-19) has been studied in a BSL3 facility. The protocol for the study involved using water and saline at either room temperature or boiling temperature (Figure 12). For the latter, 10 L of SARS-CoV-2 was added to 90 L of water or saline preheated at 100 °C (212 °F). These solutions were incubated at 100 °C for 30 seconds or 10 minutes, while in the control group they were incubated at room temperature.

[0102] After incubation, 900 L of room temperature medium was added and titrated. The control group incubated at room temperature for 10 min 30 s remained ineffective in reducing the viral load. In contrast, the 100°C-30 s protocol showed a trend. However, the exposure was apparently not long enough to effectively reduce the viral load, as the viral load in water was relatively low compared to saline. Only 10 min at 100°C in either water or saline was able to completely inactivate the virus (>5 Log 10 decrease).

[0103] The data generated confirmed that the virus is highly heat resistant as an enveloped RNA virus. Further studies on thermal inactivation can plot curves for variable temperatures (50°C, 100°C, 150°C, 200°C, 250°C, and 300°C) and exposure durations (1 sec, 5 sec, 15 sec, 30 sec, 1 min, 3 min, and 5 min), which can then be correlated with the expected thermal damage caused by a barrier heater as disclosed herein, such as with vented Ni foam.

[0104] Recent studies, however, have shown that the heated filter of the disclosed barrier heater 140 can be safely used at high temperatures [(200-250°C) (392-482°F)] to kill COVID-19. Notably, the study was conducted at the Galveston National Laboratory / NIAID Biodefense Laboratory Network (Biosafety Level 4) and includes controlled experimental findings. The study found that COVID-19 evaporates in aerosolized air upon contact with the special heated filter system of the present disclosure (i.e., the disclosed barrier heater 140). The results show a 100-fold reduction in active COVID-19 virus by the heated barrier heater 140 and a 100% kill rate. The study shows that COVID-19 can be eliminated from the air.

[0105] The disclosed purification device 100 can effectively kill viruses and bacteria in circulating air at high temperatures of about 250°C (482°F). As disclosed herein, a barrier heater 140 such as nickel (Ni) foam is low cost, electrically conductive, porous with random channels, mechanically strong, and has good flexibility, making it a good filter for sterilization and disinfection in HVAC systems or other environments. Also, the bent Ni foam provides a high resistance, low voltage structure and increases the surface area for sterilization. Temperature-based mechanical destruction and pressurized high performance metals may be applied in COVID-19 settings.

[0106] Other related research disclosed herein has found that given the high performance and design, there is no significant temperature rise in air passing through the disclosed heated filter. Primary research on the filter and its conductivity was conducted at the Texas Superconductivity Center at the University of Houston. Research partners include the Texas A&M University College of Engineering and Engineering Experiment Station, and the University of Texas Medical Branch. As shown, the temperature of the Ni foam barrier heater 140 rises very quickly and can be heated to high temperatures with low wattage power. After passing through the heated Ni foam of the barrier heater 140, the temperature of the air drops very quickly and is at room temperature after 4 cm away, even at temperatures over 100°C.

[0107] The above description of preferred and other embodiments is not intended to limit the scope or applicability of the inventive concepts conceived by the applicants. It will be understood, with the benefit of this disclosure, that features described above in connection with any embodiment or aspect of the disclosed subject matter can be utilized alone or in combination with other described features in any other embodiment or aspect of the disclosed subject matter.

[0108] Applicant desires all patent rights afforded by the appended claims in exchange for disclosing the inventive concepts described herein, and it is accordingly intended that the appended claims include all modifications and variations that come within the scope of the following claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for use with a power supply to treat an air flow in an air handling system, comprising: a frame having a plenum having an air intake and an air exhaust, the frame being configured to be positioned in the air flow for passing air through the air handling system; a filter disposed across a surface area of ​​the plenum, the filter being constructed from a first material and configured to filter airflow passing through the plenum; a heater disposed across the surface area of ​​the plenum, the heater comprising a ventilation barrier of a metallic material, the ventilation barrier configured to impede the air flow, the ventilation barrier electrically connected to the power supply and heated to a surface temperature; Equipped with The heater heats the surface temperature of the breathable barrier to at least 56° C. (133° F.).

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the ventilation barrier of the heater comprises a mesh, foam, screen, or serpentine media.

3. 3. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the metallic material of the ventilation barrier is nickel.

4. 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first material of the filter is a metallic material.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an ultraviolet light source disposed in the plenum, the ultraviolet light source electrically connected to the power supply and configured to generate an ultraviolet radiation interaction field within the plenum.

6. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising one or more structures disposed on the frame to support the ultraviolet light source.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the one or more structures comprise one or more strips or one or more fasteners.

8. 8. The apparatus of claim 5, claim 6, or claim 7, wherein the ultraviolet light source comprises one or more UV-C lamps or a plurality of UV-C light emitting diodes disposed in the plenum.

9. The ultraviolet light source has an intensity of at least 611 μJ / cm ２ 9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 8, configured to generate the ultraviolet light at a UV germicidal dose of

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a controller arranged in electrical communication with the ultraviolet light source, the controller configured to control (i) the heating of the ventilation barrier by the supplied power, and (ii) the emission of the ultraviolet light source by the supplied power.

11. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the controller is disposed in electrical communication with a drive circuit connected to the ultraviolet light source, the controller being configured to control ultraviolet emission of the ultraviolet light source with the drive circuit powered by the supply power.

12. 12. The apparatus of claim 10 or 11, further comprising a light sensor disposed adjacent to the ultraviolet light source and in electrical communication with the controller, the light sensor configured to measure the ultraviolet radiation of the ultraviolet light source.

13. 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of side walls, the plurality of side walls enclosing the plenum between an open side of the intake port and an opposite open side of the exhaust port.

14. 14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an electrical insulator disposed between an end of the ventilation barrier and the frame.

15. 15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the filter is disposed within the plenum on the intake side, the ventilation barrier is disposed within the plenum on the exhaust side, and the ultraviolet light source is disposed between the filter and the barrier heater.

16. 16. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a controller disposed in electrical communication with the ventilation barrier and the ultraviolet light source and configured to control heating of the ventilation barrier by the supplied electrical power.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the controller is disposed in electrical communication with a heater circuit connected to the ventilation barrier, the controller configured to control heating of the ventilation barrier when the heater circuit is powered by the supply power.

18. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed adjacent to the ventilation barrier and in electrical communication with the controller, the temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature associated with heating of the ventilation barrier.

19. 19. An apparatus as described in claim 16, claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the controller has a communications interface capable of communicating with the air handling system and is configured to receive signals indicative of the passage of the air flow through the apparatus, the controller configuring control based on the received signals.

20. 20. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a flow sensor disposed adjacent to the plenum and in electrical communication with the controller, the flow sensor configured to measure the air flow through the plenum, and the controller configuring control based on the measured air flow.

21. The frame is a return of said air handling system within a facility; a furnace inlet of said air handling system within the facility; an exhaust outlet of the air handling system within the facility; and Mixing chamber of said air handling system of a vehicle 21. Apparatus according to any preceding claim adapted to be disposed on at least one of:

22. 1. An apparatus for use with a power supply to treat an airflow of an air handling system for pathogens, comprising: a heater having a ventilation barrier of metal material; the ventilation barrier has a surface area exposed to the airflow and is configured to impede the airflow therethrough; the ventilation barrier is electrically connected to the power supply; The apparatus, wherein the breathable barrier is heated to a surface temperature of at least greater than 200° C. that is targeted to the pathogen.

23. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising a frame having a plenum disposed between an intake and an exhaust, the frame configured to be disposed in the airflow of the air handling system, the heater being disposed in the plenum of the frame.

24. 24. The apparatus of claim 22 or claim 23, further comprising an ultraviolet light source electrically connected to the power supply and configured to generate an ultraviolet radiation action field in the airflow.

25. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, further comprising a frame having a plenum disposed between an air intake and an air exhaust, the frame configured to be disposed in the airflow of the air handling system, the ultraviolet light source and the heater being disposed in the plenum of the frame.

26. 1. A method for treating an airflow of an air handling system for pathogens, comprising positioning a frame of the air handling system through which the airflow passes; filtering the airflow through a filter disposed across a surface area of ​​the plenum of the frame between an air inlet and an air outlet; impeding the air flow through a heater air barrier disposed across the surface area of ​​the plenum and having a metallic material; heating the breathability barrier by applying a voltage potential across the breathability barrier of the heater; Contains The method of claim 1, wherein the breathable barrier of the heater is heated to a surface temperature of at least 200° C. that is targeted to the pathogen.

27. 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising powering an ultraviolet light source disposed in the plenum to generate an ultraviolet radiation effect field within the plenum.

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