Visible light sterilization system and method

Abstract

To provide a system and method for disinfecting surfaces of structures and components without degrading materials, which can be safely used even in the presence of humans.SOLUTION: A sanitizing system (100) is configured to disinfect at least one surface (104, 106, 108) within an area (102). The sanitizing system (100) includes a lighting assembly (116) configured to emit inactivating visible light (124) onto the at least one surface (104, 106, 108). The inactivating visible light (124) is configured to neutralize microorganisms present on the at least one surface (104, 106, 108).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a sanitizing system, for example, a sanitizing system used for sanitizing structures and areas inside a vehicle such as a commercial aircraft.

Background Art

[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers from place to place. Currently, systems for disinfecting or sanitizing the surfaces inside an aircraft have been developed, for example, those that utilize ultraviolet (UV) light.

[0003] Some known UV light sanitizing methods irradiate a structure with broad-spectrum UVC light to sanitize the surface of the structure. However, it takes a considerable amount of time (for example, 3 minutes) to kill various microorganisms with UVC light. Also, there are types of microorganisms that are not necessarily vulnerable to UVC light. That is, such microorganisms may not be able to be sanitized even when irradiated with UVC light.

[0004] In addition, depending on the type of microorganism, there is a possibility of becoming resistant to UVC light. For example, certain types of microorganisms, even if they can initially be killed by UVC light, may become resistant to UVC light if exposed to UVC light continuously over a long period, and may no longer die even when exposed to UVC light.

[0005] In addition, among UV light, there are types of light that may be harmful when directly irradiated on the human body. For example, among known UV systems, there are those that irradiate UV light with a wavelength of 254 nm, which may be harmful to the human body. Therefore, some known UV light sanitizing systems and methods are only used in situations where there is no person. For example, a UV light sanitizing system for a lavatory is driven when there is no person in the lavatory and is stopped when there is a person in the lavatory.

[0006] In addition, there are materials that deteriorate when continuously irradiated with UV light. Such deterioration may require the replacement of specific textile products, flexible members, interior materials, especially plastics, which can be costly.

Summary of the Invention

[0007] There is a need for a system and method for disinfecting the surfaces of structures and members that can be used safely even in the presence of people and that do not cause deterioration of the materials. Furthermore, there is a need for a system and method for efficiently and effectively neutralizing microorganisms such as bacteria and pathogenic agents.

[0008] In view of these needs, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a sterilization system configured to disinfect at least one surface inside a region. The sterilization system includes an irradiation assembly configured to irradiate inactivated visible light onto the at least one surface. The inactivated visible light is configured to neutralize microorganisms present on the at least one surface. In at least one embodiment, the wavelength of the inactivated visible light is between 400 nm and 410 nm. For example, the wavelength of the inactivated visible light is 405 nm. In at least one embodiment, the irradiation assembly is configured to continuously irradiate the inactivated visible light. In at least one embodiment, the region is, for example, an enclosed space inside a vehicle such as an aircraft, a railway vehicle, a ship, a submarine, or a spacecraft.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, an irradiation control unit is in connection with the irradiation assembly. The irradiation control unit is configured to operate the irradiation assembly to irradiate the inactivated visible light.

[0010] For example, the irradiation control unit is configured to operate the irradiation assembly in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the inactivation visible light is irradiated at a first intensity. In the second mode, the inactivation visible light is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity. In yet another example, the irradiation control unit is configured to operate the irradiation assembly in a third mode. In the third mode, the inactivation visible light is irradiated at a third intensity. The third intensity is different from the first intensity and the second intensity.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, one or more human presence sensors are in communication with the irradiation control unit. The one or more human presence sensors are configured to detect the presence of a person inside the area and output a presence signal to the irradiation control unit. The irradiation control unit selectively switches the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes based on the presence signal received from the human presence sensor.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, a sensor configured to identify when the water in the toilet is flowing is included. The sensor is in communication with the irradiation control unit. The irradiation control unit selectively switches the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes in response to the water in the toilet flowing.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the door is provided with a locking mechanism. The irradiation control unit is in communication with the locking mechanism (e.g., the switch of the locking mechanism). The irradiation control unit selectively switches the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes in response to the door being locked or unlocked.

[0014] As an example, the irradiation assembly includes a first set of visible light emitting elements. The first set of visible light emitting elements is configured to irradiate white light (the light includes spectral components having an inactivating effect). The irradiation assembly further includes a second set of visible light emitting elements. The second set of visible light emitting elements is configured to irradiate the inactivating visible light (the light includes only a small amount of spectral components outside the spectral range having an inactivating effect).

[0015] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a sterilization method configured to sterilize at least one surface inside a region. The sterilization method includes irradiating the at least one surface with inactivating visible light by an irradiation assembly, and the inactivating visible light is configured to neutralize (e.g., inactivate or destroy) microorganisms present on the at least one surface. In at least one embodiment, the irradiation includes continuously irradiating the inactivating visible light.

[0016] In at least one embodiment, the sterilization method further includes communicably connecting an irradiation control unit to the irradiation assembly and operating the irradiation assembly by the irradiation control unit. For example, the operating includes operating the irradiation assembly in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the inactivating visible light is irradiated at a first intensity, and in the second mode, the inactivating visible light is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity. In yet another example, the operating further includes operating the irradiation assembly in a third mode, and in the third mode, the inactivating visible light is irradiated at a third intensity different from the first intensity and the second mode.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, the sterilization method further includes communicably connecting one or more human presence sensors to the irradiation control unit; detecting the presence of a person inside the area by the one or more human presence sensors; outputting a presence signal to the irradiation control unit by the one or more human presence sensors; and selectively switching the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes by the irradiation control unit according to the presence signal received from the human presence sensor.

[0018] In at least one example, the sterilization method includes selectively switching the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes by the irradiation control unit in response to water flowing in the toilet.

[0019] In at least one example, the sterilization method includes selectively switching the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes by the irradiation control unit in response to locking or unlocking of a door.

[0020] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicle including an interior cabin defining at least one area and a sterilization system configured to disinfect at least one surface inside the at least one area. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10A

Figure 10B

Figure 11

Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] The above-described summary and the detailed description of some embodiments to be described later will be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, an element or step described in the singular form does not necessarily exclude a plurality of elements or steps. Furthermore, referring to "one embodiment" is not intended to exclude the existence of other embodiments incorporating the features described in that embodiment. Also, unless otherwise specified, an embodiment "comprising" or "having" one element or a plurality of elements meeting a specific condition may further include other elements not meeting that condition.

[0023] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a sterilization system comprising a light assembly that emits inactivating visible light that is safe for human irradiation and can effectively inactivate microorganisms such as bacteria, germs, and viruses. The inactivating visible light has wavelengths included in the light spectrum region visible to the human eye. In at least one embodiment, the wavelength of the inactivating visible light is 400 nm to 425 nm. For example, it has been found that inactivating visible light with a wavelength of 405 nm is effective in inactivating various microorganisms such as certain bacteria, germs, and viruses. As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for sterilizing the surfaces of structures and components by irradiating with visible light.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a visible light sterilization system and method capable of continuously (i.e., without interruption) irradiating inactivating visible light, for example, in the interior cabin of a vehicle. In at least one embodiment, the system and method do not irradiate ultraviolet light and thus can be used more safely in an environment where people are present. Disinfection by visible light can be combined with a presence sensor to operate the light assembly based on a plurality of different modes, and when there is no person in an enclosed space, inactivating visible light can be irradiated at a higher dose. The inactivating visible light can be continuously irradiated from the light assembly, thereby preventing, sterilizing, or disinfecting the occurrence of various microorganisms such as certain bacteria, germs, and viruses.

[0025] In at least one embodiment, the irradiation assembly can be selectively operated based on a travel stroke (e.g., flight phase). For example, in an enclosed space such as a galley, a lavatory, a cargo hold, a flight deck, and / or a crew rest space, the irradiation assembly can continuously irradiate inactivation visible light while switching the irradiation method. The irradiation assembly can be installed in plurality throughout, for example, the interior cabin of a vehicle. By adding a light emitting device for inactivation visible light (e.g., a light emitting diode, a light bulb, or a lamp, etc.), the irradiation assembly can selectively switch between various irradiation modes, and in any mode, it is possible to configure to continuously irradiate inactivation visible light.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, the inactivation visible light is irradiated in a low-intensity mode when a person is present and in a high-intensity mode when no person is present. For example, the high-intensity mode is safe to use even in an environment where a person is present, but the irradiated light may not be, for example, visually comfortable and / or not suitable for reading. The irradiation control unit can automatically control the irradiation assembly based on a predetermined criterion. Additionally or alternatively, the irradiation assembly can be manually controlled. For example, the irradiation control unit can be arranged in communication with one or more occupancy sensors that detect the presence of a person in an enclosed space. The irradiation control unit can selectively switch the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes based on the presence or absence of a person in the enclosed space.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the irradiation assembly can be used inside a dressing room. The irradiation control unit is in communication with the irradiation assembly, a sensor that detects that water has flowed in the toilet, and a sensor that detects the opening and closing of the door. The irradiation control unit monitors these sensors and, when it detects that water has flowed and / or the door has been opened (which indicates that the user has left the dressing room and is absent), increases the intensity of the inactivated visible light to efficiently disinfect the surfaces inside the dressing room. On the other hand, when the sensor indicates that there is a user in the dressing room, the irradiation control unit decreases the intensity of the inactivated light and, optionally, may increase the intensity of warm or cool white light to make the lighting in the dressing room visually more desirable.

[0028] As described, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and method for sterilizing surfaces in an enclosed space such as the interior cabin of a vehicle. The irradiation assembly irradiates inactivated visible light continuously, rather than intermittently (such as systems and methods that utilize ultraviolet light). Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system and method for continuously and automatically sterilizing surfaces in an enclosed space.

[0029] As described, the sterilization system is configured to disinfect at least one surface in an enclosed space. The sterilization system includes an irradiation assembly configured to irradiate the at least one surface with inactivated visible light (rather than UV light). The inactivated visible light is configured to neutralize (e.g., inactivate, sterilize, disinfect, or reduce) microorganisms present on the at least one surface.

[0030] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing a visible light sterilization system 100 for use in an area such as an enclosed space 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The visible light sterilization system 100 can be used in various areas such as enclosed spaces, semi-enclosed spaces, and open spaces. In at least one embodiment, the enclosed space is a space that does not receive direct sunlight.

[0031] The enclosed space 102 is defined by a floor 104, a ceiling 106, and a wall 108 extending between the floor 104 and the ceiling 106. A door 110 is movably attached to one of the plurality of walls 108. The door 110 includes a lock mechanism 112 configured to fix the door 110 in a locked position. When the lock mechanism 112 is in the locked position, the door 110 cannot be opened. When the lock mechanism 112 is in the unlocked position, the door 110 can be opened. The enclosed space 102 may be a narrow space inside a commercial aircraft. For example, the enclosed space 102 may be a lavatory in an aircraft. In another example, the enclosed space 102 may be a galley in an aircraft. In yet another example, the enclosed space 102 may be a passenger cabin in an aircraft. The enclosed space 102 may or may not include the door 110. The enclosed space 102 may also be an enclosed space inside various other vehicles and / or structures. For example, the enclosed space 102 may be a room in a commercial building, a government building, or a residential building, or a passenger cabin in a train, a bus, or a ship.

[0032] The enclosed space 102 includes at least one structure 114 that is desirably sterilized (e.g., disinfected, sterilized, or cleaned) after use. For example, the structure 114 may be a toilet, a washbasin, a floor, a counter, and / or a cabinet in a lavatory provided in an aircraft.

[0033] The visible light sterilization system 100 includes an irradiation assembly 116 including a housing 117 and a visible light emitting device 118. The irradiation assembly 116 is attached to a part of the enclosed space 102, for example, via the housing 117. For example, the irradiation assembly 116 is attached to the ceiling 106. In another example, the irradiation assembly 116 is attached to the wall 108 or the floor 104. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of irradiation assemblies 116 are arranged in the enclosed space 102.

[0034] In at least one embodiment, the visible light emitting device 118 includes one or more visible light elements 120, including, for example, lamps, light emitting diodes (LEDs), microfilaments, optical fiber elements, and / or light bulbs. The visible light emitting device 118 emits visible light 122 including inactivation visible light 124.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the inactivation visible light 124 has a wavelength of 400 nm to 425 nm. In a more specific example, the wavelength of the inactivation visible light 124 is 400 nm to 410 nm. In at least one embodiment, the wavelength of the inactivation visible light 124 is 405 nm. The inactivation visible light 124 with a wavelength of 405 nm has been confirmed to effectively neutralize various microorganisms such as specific bacteria, pathogens, and viruses. For example, visible light with a wavelength of 405 nm excites porphyrin contained in the cells of certain microorganisms. By continuously irradiating visible light with a wavelength of 405 nm, porphyrin is excessively excited to damage the cells, thereby causing an oxidation reaction in the cells and rendering the cells inactive. In particular, oxidative damage occurs to the cell wall, thus causing the cells to stop functioning. The irradiation assembly 116 can inactivate microorganisms present on the surface in the closed space irradiated with the inactivation visible light 124 by continuously irradiating the inactivation visible light 124. Therefore, the irradiation assembly 116 can effectively and efficiently sterilize the surface in the closed space 102.

[0036] Figure 2 shows the optical spectrum 126. The optical spectrum 126 includes ultraviolet light 128, visible light 130, and infrared light 132. The visible light 130 includes inactivation visible light 124 such as indigo light of 405 nm. The inactivation visible light is, for example, light that is contrastive to typical UVC germicidal light 134 such as light with a wavelength of 254 nm or 265 nm. For example, the inactivation visible light 124 such as indigo light of 405 nm is safe for humans. That is, indigo light with a wavelength of 405 nm is safe even when exposed to the human body. Therefore, irradiation with the inactivation visible light 124 can be continuously performed from the irradiation assembly 116 (see FIG. 1A) even when there are people in the enclosed space 102. In contrast, an ultraviolet sterilization system typically intermittently irradiates UVC germicidal light 134 and is used, for example, when there are no people in the enclosed space 102. However, unlike the continuously irradiated inactivation visible light 124, during the intermittent irradiation of UVC germicidal light 134, activation and / or growth of microorganisms are allowed while UVC germicidal light 134 is not being irradiated.

[0037] Referring again to FIG. 1A, the irradiation control unit 136 is in communication with the irradiation assembly 116 via one or more wired or wireless connections. The irradiation control unit 136 is disposed or connected inside the enclosed space 102 or is disposed remotely from the space. In at least one embodiment, the irradiation control unit 136 is housed inside the irradiation assembly 116. The irradiation control unit 136 is configured to control the operation of the irradiation assembly 116, for example, selectively switching between a plurality of different irradiation modes. Note that all of these modes may be modes in which the inactivation visible light 124 is irradiated. In at least one embodiment, the irradiation control unit 136 can use a firmware profile that includes various profiles read, for example, by wireless upload.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, the irradiation control unit 136 is configured to operate the irradiation assembly 116 in a first mode and a second mode. The inactivation visible light 124 is irradiated at a first intensity in the first mode. Also, the inactivation visible light 124 is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity in the second mode. For example, the second intensity is higher than the first intensity. In at least one embodiment, the second intensity is at least four times the first intensity. Further, the irradiation control unit 136 is configured to operate the irradiation assembly 116 in a third mode. The inactivation visible light 124 is irradiated at a third intensity in the third mode. The third intensity is different from the first intensity and the second intensity. For example, the third intensity is higher than the first intensity but lower than the second intensity.

[0039] The user interface 138 is, for example, a computer station, a portable computer, and / or a handheld device (such as a smartphone or a smart tablet), and is in communication with the irradiation control unit 136 via one or more wired or wireless connections. The user interface 138 enables a person to selectively control the irradiation assembly 116. For example, the user interface 138 enables a person to manually perform operations such as turning the irradiation assembly 116 on and off and / or selecting different modes. Optionally, the visible light sterilization system 100 may not include the user interface 138.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, the operational architecture of the visible light sterilization system 100 may be configured to be linked or synchronized with the operational architecture of, for example, an aircraft. For example, when the aircraft reaches its cruising altitude, a signal is sent from the control unit to the irradiation control unit 136 in conjunction with, for example, a wheel stow command, causing the irradiation assembly 116 to automatically operate in a first setting. In another example, a signal is sent to the irradiation control unit 136 during the descent of the aircraft, causing the irradiation assembly 116 to automatically operate in a second setting, such as a high sterilization mode (e.g., the lavatory is not used during descent), and when the aircraft arrives at the gate, it is returned to and operated in the first setting.

[0041] One or more occupancy sensors 140 can be attached to the enclosed space 102. The occupancy sensors 140 are, for example, ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, and / or thermal sensors, and are configured to detect the presence of people in the enclosed space. In at least one embodiment, at least one occupancy sensor 140 (e.g., connected to the floor 104) is a digital weighing scale that detects the presence of people by recognizing and detecting the mass or weight in the enclosed space 102. The occupancy sensors 140 are in communication with the irradiation control unit 136 via one or more wired or wireless connections. The irradiation control unit 136 determines the presence or absence of people in the enclosed space 102 based on the presence signal received from the occupancy sensors 140. In at least one embodiment, the irradiation control unit 136 operates the irradiation assembly 116 to irradiate visible light 122 in different modes based on the presence or absence of people in the enclosed space 102.

[0042] For example, if the irradiation control unit 136 determines that there is a person in the enclosed space 102 based on the presence signal received from the human sensor 140, the irradiation control unit 136 operates the irradiation assembly 116 in the first mode (e.g., standard irradiation mode). In this mode, the visible light emitting device 118 irradiates white light including inactivation visible light 124 (e.g., wavelength 405 nm) as visible light 122. By irradiating white light including inactivation visible light 124, the enclosed space 102 can be illuminated with general white light illumination, and the inactivation visible light 124 is not recognized by the people in the enclosed space 102. By continuously irradiating the inactivation visible light 124 in this way, while sterilizing the surfaces in the enclosed space 102, the enclosed space 102 can be illuminated with visually desirable and familiar white light.

[0043] When the presence signal from the human sensor 140 indicates that there is no person in the enclosed space 102, the irradiation control unit 136 can operate the irradiation assembly 116 in a second mode different from the first mode. For example, the second mode is a deep clean mode, which irradiates the inactivation visible light 124 with increased intensity or output. For example, in the deep clean mode, the irradiation assembly 116 irradiates the inactivation visible light 124 with a wavelength of 405 nm at an intensity four times that of the first mode. In the second mode, the irradiation assembly 116 may or may not irradiate white light. Therefore, regarding the power supplied to the irradiation assembly 116, it is possible to branch the power supplied to one or more parts of the visible light emitting device 118 that irradiate wavelengths other than the inactivation visible light and supply it to one or more parts that irradiate the inactivation visible light 124. In this way, the power consumption of the irradiation assembly 116 is adjusted by the redistribution of power, and the power consumption does not increase.

[0044] In the second mode, higher-intensity inactivation visible light 124 is irradiated, but the inactivation visible light 124 is safe even if exposed to humans. However, since the inactivation visible light 124 may be felt by people as visually undesirable, it may not be irradiated when there are people in the enclosed space 102.

[0045] The irradiation assembly 116 can also operate in a third mode, such as a white light plus high sterilization mode, under the control of the irradiation control unit 136. This mode is used, for example, when there is no person in the enclosed space 102. In this mode, white light (including at least a part of the inactivation visible light 124) and the inactivation visible light 124 with enhanced sterilization effect by increasing the intensity are used. For example, some of the light-emitting elements may be light-emitting elements dedicated to inactivation visible light. Thereby, the high-intensity inactivation visible light 124 can be irradiated in combination with white light. Since adding the inactivation visible light 124 may lower the overall illuminance, by utilizing this, it is possible to provide illumination for reading while enhancing the sterilization effect. For example, the third mode can be used in the nighttime when there are also sleeping passengers in the internal cabin.

[0046] In this specification, terms such as first, second, third, etc. are merely used as labels. For example, the first mode may optionally be the second mode or the third mode, the second mode may optionally be the first mode or the third mode, and the third mode may optionally be the first mode or the second mode.

[0047] The user interface 138 is used to selectively switch the irradiation assembly 116 between a plurality of different modes. In other examples, the mode of the irradiation assembly is automatically switched by the irradiation control unit 136, and this switching is based on, for example, the presence or absence of people in the enclosed space 102 (such as the internal cabin of a vehicle), the time of day, and the flight phase (such as takeoff, cruise, and landing in a commercial aircraft).

[0048] In other examples, the structure 114 includes a sensor 140. For example, the structure 114 is a toilet, and the sensor 140 is configured to detect when water flows in the toilet. For example, the sensor 140 is a sound sensor, a fluid flow sensor, and / or a pressure sensor, etc. The irradiation control unit 136 is in communication with this flushing sensor and may be configured to selectively switch modes based on water flowing in the toilet. For example, the irradiation control unit 136 may be configured to switch the irradiation assembly 116 to the high purification mode when a predetermined time, such as 1 minute, elapses after water flows in the toilet and / or after the occupancy sensor 140 detects that the user has exited and is absent from the closed space 102.

[0049] In other examples, the irradiation control unit 136 may be configured to determine that the closed space is empty by communicating with the locking mechanism 112. For example, the irradiation control unit 136 may determine that the closed space 102 is empty when the door 110 is locked. When the door 110 is locked, the irradiation control unit 136 operates the irradiation assembly 116 only in the standard irradiation mode as described, for example. In other examples, the irradiation control unit 136 can perform the switching to the second mode (for example, the high purification mode) based on a series of events, for example, starting with the structure 114 being used, then the door 110 being unlocked, and then the door 110 being closed, and perform the switching based on this series of events.

[0050] FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram showing a visible light sterilization system for an area according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the irradiation assembly 116 includes, for example, a visible light emitting device 118 supported by a stand 119. The stand 119 may include one or more movable parts. For example, the irradiation assembly 116 is a lamp configured to be supported on a surface such as a desk, a cabinet, or a floor. In other examples, the irradiation assembly 116 is part of a handheld system. For example, the irradiation assembly 116 may be incorporated into a wand.

[0051] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a visible light sterilization method for a closed space according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 3, at 200, the irradiation control unit 136 operates the irradiation assembly 116 in a first mode. In this mode, white light including inactivated visible light 124 is irradiated. At 202, the irradiation control unit 136 determines the presence or absence of a person in the closed space as described herein, for example, via one or more presence sensors 140 and / or via the lock mechanism 112. If a person is present, the method returns to 200. On the other hand, if no person is present, the method proceeds from 202 to 204, and the irradiation control unit 136 operates the irradiation assembly 116 in a second mode. In this mode, the inactivated visible light 124 is irradiated at a higher intensity (e.g., four times the intensity of the first mode). In the second mode, white light may or may not be irradiated. Then, the method returns to 202. This visible light sterilization method may further include a third mode. In this mode, white light (including at least a part of the inactivated visible light) is irradiated with additional inactivated visible light.

[0052] In at least one other embodiment, the method may include, as an alternative step (or as an additional step that is not essential) to detecting the presence or absence of a person at 202, operating based on a timer, a program, or various other types of sensors, microphones, etc. For example, the irradiation assembly may switch modes after a predetermined time has elapsed. In another example, the irradiation assembly may switch modes based on a voice command such as voice from a microphone.

[0053] As used herein, the terms "control unit", "central processing unit", "CPU", "computer", or terms similar thereto include any system based on a processor or microprocessor, and such systems include microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), logic circuits, and any other circuits or processors having hardware, software, or combinations thereof capable of performing the functions described herein. However, these are merely examples and do not limit the definition and / or meaning of such terms in any way. For example, the irradiation control unit 136 may include one or more processors configured to control the operation of the irradiation assembly 116 as described above.

[0054] The irradiation control unit 136 is configured to process data by executing a set of instructions stored in one or more data storage devices or elements (e.g., one or more memories). For example, the irradiation control unit 136 includes or is connected to one or more memories. The data storage device can also store data or other information as desired or necessary. The data storage device may be a form of information source included in the processor device or a physical memory element.

[0055] The set of instructions may include various commands that instruct the irradiation control unit 136 as a processor device to execute specific operations such as methods and processes according to various embodiments of the gist described herein. The set of instructions may be in the form of a software program. Further, such a software program may be in various forms, such as system software or application software. Furthermore, such software may be an aggregate of a plurality of individual programs, a sub-program included in a larger program, or a part of a program. In addition, such software may include program modules by object-oriented programming. The processor device may execute the processing of input data according to a user command, according to the result of the previously performed processing, or in response to a request from another processing machine.

[0056] The drawings of the embodiments in this specification show one or more control units or processing units such as the irradiation control unit 136. The processing unit or control unit represents a circuit or a part thereof, which can be realized as hardware associated with instructions (for example, software stored in a tangible non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a computer hard drive, ROM, or RAM) for executing the operations described in this specification. Such hardware includes a state machine circuit physically wired to execute the functions described in this specification. Such hardware is not essential, but may include one or more logic devices such as a microprocessor, a processor, or a controller, and / or an electronic circuit connected thereto. Although not essential, the irradiation control unit 136 may be a processing circuit composed of one or more of, for example, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or a microprocessor. The circuits in various embodiments can be configured to execute one or more algorithms for executing the functions described in this specification. Whether or not the one or more algorithms are explicitly shown in a flowchart or method, they may include aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0057] In this specification, the terms "software" and "firmware" are used synonymously and include any computer program stored in a data storage device (for example, one or more memories) and executed by a computer. Examples of such memories include RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The types of data storage devices described above are merely examples and do not limit the types of memories that can be used for storing computer programs.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the irradiation assembly 116 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the visible light emitting device 118 includes a first set of visible light emitting elements 300 (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs)) and a second set of visible light emitting elements 302 (e.g., LEDs). The visible light emitting element 300 is configured to emit light in a first wavelength range, and the visible light emitting element 302 is configured to emit light in a second wavelength range different from the first wavelength range. For example, the first wavelength range is a white light range. Thus, the visible light emitting element 300 is configured to emit white light. The second wavelength range is, for example, an inactivating visible light range such as 400 nm to 410 nm. Thus, the visible light emitting element 302 is configured as a dedicated element that emits only inactivating visible light. In contrast, the visible light emitting element 300 is configured to emit light in a wider wavelength range, including inactivating visible light.

[0059] As shown, the visible light emitting elements 300 and 302 are arranged to form a row or a column. As another option, the visible light emitting elements 300 may be arranged as a first set in proximity to each other, and the visible light emitting elements 302 may be arranged as a second set in proximity to each other. As another example, the visible light emitting elements 300 may be arranged to be interspersed among the visible light emitting elements 302, or may be arranged at intervals (e.g., alternately).

[0060] FIG. 5 is a graph showing the time variation of the bacterial level when inactivating visible light is continuously irradiated. The continuous irradiation curve 400 shows that by continuously irradiating inactivating visible light, the bacterial level decreases effectively and efficiently and stably over time. In contrast, when UV light is intermittently irradiated, as shown by the pattern 402, although the bacteria rapidly decrease due to the UV light, the intermittent (i.e., sporadic) irradiation allows the bacteria to grow again between the irradiations at times t1, t2, and t3.

[0061] FIG. 6 is a graph showing the spectral irradiance in the standard irradiation mode (e.g., the first mode) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The standard irradiation mode is a mode configured to be used in an environment where people are present. Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 6, when the irradiation control unit 136 determines that there is a person in the closed space 102, the irradiation control unit 136 operates the irradiation assembly 116 in the standard irradiation mode. As shown, white light 500 is irradiated during the standard irradiation mode. The white light 500 includes inactivation visible light 124 of a first intensity 502. In the standard irradiation mode, for example, by driving a white LED of 6500K, an LED of 405 nm, and a white LED of 2800K, the visible light shown in the graph is emitted.

[0062] FIG. 7 is a graph showing the spectral irradiance in the high sterilization mode (e.g., the second mode) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The high sterilization mode is a mode configured to be used in an environment where people are not present. Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 7, in the high sterilization mode, white light is not irradiated. Instead, only the inactivation visible light 124 is irradiated. The inactivation visible light 124 can be irradiated at a second intensity 602 that is higher than the first intensity 502 (see FIG. 6). For example, the second intensity 602 is 4 to 5 times the first intensity. In the high sterilization mode, by driving only the 405 nm LED, the visible light shown in the graph is emitted.

[0063] FIG. 8 is a graph showing the spectral irradiance in the night light mode (e.g., the third mode) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 8, the white light 700 in the night light mode has a redistributed output compared to the white light 500 shown in FIG. 6. Further, the inactivation visible light 124 can be irradiated at a third intensity 702 that is higher (compared to the first intensity 502 shown in FIG. 6). For example, the third intensity 702 is twice the first intensity 502. In the night light mode, for example, by driving a 405 nm LED and a white LED of 6500K or 2800K, the light shown in the graph is emitted.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, a mode of using an LED that emits 222 nm UVC may be additionally provided. By driving this LED in an empty dressing room, it is possible to irradiate sterilizing light with a dose that enables inactivation quickly (e.g., within 60 seconds). This mode may start quickly (e.g., within 5 seconds) after the latch or lock mechanism is released (indicating an empty state). Such an inactivation mode is suitable for areas where the empty state is constant, such as cargo compartments or other areas.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 - 8, the visible light sterilization system and method are particularly suitable and useful for use in areas where people frequently stay and move, such as the interior cabin of a vehicle. The inactivation visible light 124 is safe to irradiate human skin and eyes (if the continuous exposure is up to 2.8 hours for an adult viewing the irradiation source with the naked eye and up to 0.5 hours for a child viewing the irradiation source with the naked eye), and can continuously irradiate to reduce microorganisms in an environment without people. The irradiation control unit 136 can automatically operate the irradiation assembly 116 as described. Since the irradiation assembly 116 emits visible light, it is, for example, lower in cost and requires little maintenance compared to, for example, UV light.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an aircraft 810 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 810 includes a propulsion system 812 such as, for example, an engine 814. Although not essential, the propulsion system 812 can include more engines 814 than shown. The engine 814 is mounted on the wing 816 of the aircraft 810. In other embodiments, the engine 814 may be mounted on the fuselage 818 and / or the tail 820. The tail 820 also supports a horizontal stabilizer 822 and a vertical stabilizer 824.

[0067] The fuselage 818 of the aircraft 810 defines an internal cabin 830, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (e.g., galley, in-cabin carry-on baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger cabin sections (e.g., first class, business class, and economy class), and / or one or more lavatories, etc. The internal cabin 830 is a closed space such as the closed space 102 shown in FIG. 1A, or includes such a space.

[0068] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in various other vehicles such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and railway vehicles, ships, etc. instead of aircraft. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure can also be used in fixed structures such as commercial buildings and residential buildings.

[0069] FIG. 10A is a plan view of the internal cabin 830 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The internal cabin 830 is provided in the fuselage 832 of the aircraft, for example, provided in the fuselage 818 shown in FIG. 9. The internal cabin 830 is defined by, for example, one or more fuselage walls. The internal cabin 830 includes a plurality of sections including a front section 833, a first class section 834, a business class section 836, a forward galley station 838, a premium economy section 840, a standard economy section 842, and a rear section 844, and may also include a plurality of lavatories and galley stations. Note that the internal cabin 830 may include more or fewer sections than shown. For example, the internal cabin 830 may not include a first class section, or may include more or fewer galley stations than shown. Each section is separated by a cabin boundary area 846 that includes, for example, a partition assembly that separates the aisles 848 for each class.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 10A, the internal cabin 830 includes two passages 850 and 852 leading to the rear section 844. Although not essential, the internal cabin 830 may have more or fewer passages than shown. For example, the internal cabin 830 may be configured to include only one passage extending to the rear section 844 in the center of the internal cabin 830.

[0071] Passages 848, 850, and 852 extend to an escape route or door passage 860. Exit doors 862 are installed at both ends of the escape route 860. The escape route 860 extends, for example, at a right angle to passages 848, 850, and 852. The internal cabin 830 may have more escape routes 860 provided at positions different from those shown than illustrated. One or more irradiation assemblies 116 as shown in FIG. 1A are provided in the internal cabin 830. The irradiation assembly 116 is used to sterilize various structures in the internal cabin 830 (using inactivated visible light), and is used, for example, for sterilizing passenger seats, monument structures, stowage bin assemblies, members provided in the lavatory, and / or equipment and members in the galley.

[0072] FIG. 10B is a plan view of an aircraft internal cabin 880 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The internal cabin 880 is an example of the internal cabin 830 shown in FIG. 9. The internal cabin 880 is provided in the fuselage 881 of the aircraft. The internal cabin 880 is defined, for example, by one or more fuselage walls. The internal cabin 880 includes a main cabin 882 in which passenger seats 883 are arranged, and a plurality of sections including a rear section 885 behind the main cabin 882. It will be understood that the internal cabin 880 may include more or fewer sections than shown.

[0073] The interior cabin 880 includes a single passageway 884 that extends to the rear section 885. This single passageway 884, for example, extends through the center of the interior cabin 880 to the rear section 885. For example, the single passageway 884 is arranged coaxially with the central longitudinal plane of the interior cabin 880.

[0074] The passageway 884 extends to an escape route or door passageway 890. Exit doors 892 are installed at both ends of the escape route 890. The escape route 890 extends, for example, at a right angle to the passageway 884. The interior cabin 880 may be provided with more escape routes than shown. The interior cabin 880 is provided with one or more irradiation assemblies 116 as shown in FIG. 1A. The irradiation assembly 116 is used to sterilize various structures in the interior cabin 880 (using inactivated visible light), for example, passenger seats, monument structures, side walls near the seats used by passengers, storage shelf assemblies, boarding passageways, crew spaces and berths, cargo compartments, members provided in lavatories, and / or used for sterilizing galley facilities and members.

[0075] FIG. 11 is an interior perspective view of an aircraft interior cabin 900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 900 includes an outboard wall 902 that connects to the ceiling 904. The outboard wall 902 is provided with, for example, windows 306. The floor 908 supports a row of seats 910. As shown in FIG. 11, for example, one row 912 includes two seats 910 on each side of the passageway 913. However, the number of seats 910 included in the row 912 may be more or less than shown. In addition, the interior cabin 900 may be provided with more passageways than shown.

[0076] The passenger service unit (PSU) 914 is fixed between the outermost walls 902 on both sides of the aisle 913 and the ceiling 904. A plurality of PSUs 914 are provided between the front end and the rear end of the interior cabin 900. For example, one PSU 914 is arranged above each seat 910 included in the row 912. Each PSU 914 has a housing 916, and usually, vents, reading lights, oxygen cylinder drop panels, crew request buttons, and other controllers provided above each seat 910 (or multiple seats) in the row 912 are accommodated in the housing.

[0077] The overhead storage shelf assembly 918 is fixed to the ceiling 904 and / or the outermost wall 902 located above and closer to the inside than the PSU 914 on both sides of the aisle 913. The overhead storage shelf assembly 918 is fixed above the seat 910. A plurality of overhead storage shelf assemblies 918 are provided between the front end and the rear end of the interior cabin 900. Each storage shelf assembly 918 includes a pivotable box or container 920 pivotally fixed to a strongback (hidden and not visible in FIG. 11). The overhead storage shelf assembly 918 is arranged, for example, above and closer to the inside than the lower surface of the PSU 914. The overhead storage shelf assembly 918 is configured to open pivotally and can hold passengers' carry-on luggage and personal items.

[0078] As used herein, the term "outboard" means the side farther from the central longitudinal plane 922 of the interior cabin 900 compared to other components. Also, the term "inboard" means the side closer to the central longitudinal plane 922 of the interior cabin 900 compared to other components. For example, the lower surface of the PSU 914 is located outboard compared to the storage shelf assembly 918.

[0079] The interior cabin 900 is provided with one or more irradiation assemblies 116 as shown in FIG. 1A. The irradiation assembly 116 is used to sterilize various structures in the interior cabin 900 (using inactivation visible light), for example, used for sterilizing passenger seats, monument structures, storage shelf assemblies, members provided in the lavatory, and / or equipment and members in the galley.

[0080] FIG. 12 is an interior perspective view of a lavatory 930 in an interior cabin of a vehicle, such as the interior cabin described herein. The lavatory 930 is an example of an enclosed space, a monument structure, or a chamber in, for example, the interior cabin of a vehicle. The lavatory 930 is provided, for example, in an aircraft as described above. Although not essential, the lavatory 930 may be provided in various other vehicles. In other embodiments, the lavatory 930 may be provided, for example, within a fixed structure such as a commercial building or a residential building. The lavatory 930 includes a floor surface 931 that supports a toilet 932, a cabinet 934, and a washbasin 936 or a washbowl. The arrangement configuration of the lavatory 930 may be different from that shown in the figure. Also, the lavatory 930 may include more members or fewer members than shown in the figure. The lavatory 930 is provided with one or more irradiation assemblies 116 as shown in FIG. 1A. By using the irradiation assembly 116, various structures in the lavatory 930, such as the floor surface 931, the toilet 932, the cabinet 934, and the washbasin 936, etc., can be sterilized (with inactivation visible light).

[0081] As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods that can be safely implemented even in an environment where people are present in order to efficiently sterilize the surfaces of structures and members. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods that safely, efficiently, and effectively neutralize various microorganisms such as bacteria and pathogenic bacteria.

[0082] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes examples according to the following appendices.

[0083] Appendix 1. A sterilization system (100) configured to disinfect at least one surface inside a region, comprising an irradiation assembly (116) configured to irradiate the at least one surface with inactivating visible light (130), the inactivating visible light (130) being configured to neutralize microorganisms present on the at least one surface, the sterilization system (100).

[0084] Appendix 2. The sterilization system (100) according to Appendix 1, wherein the wavelength of the inactivating visible light (130) is 400 nm to 410 nm.

[0085] Appendix 3. The sterilization system (100) according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the wavelength of the inactivating visible light (130) is 405 nm.

[0086] Appendix 4. The sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3, wherein the irradiation assembly (116) is configured to continuously irradiate the inactivating visible light (130).

[0087] Appendix 5. The sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 1 to 4, wherein the region is a closed space inside a vehicle.

[0088] Appendix 6. The sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5, further comprising an irradiation control unit (136) in communication with the irradiation assembly (116), the irradiation control unit (136) being configured to operate the irradiation assembly (116) to continuously irradiate the inactivating visible light (130).

[0089] Appendix 7. The sterilization system (100) according to Appendix 6, wherein the irradiation control unit (136) is configured to operate the irradiation assembly (116) in a first mode and a second mode, in the first mode, the inactivating visible light (130) is irradiated at a first intensity, and in the second mode, the inactivating visible light (130) is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity.

[0090] Appendix 8. The irradiation control unit (136) is further configured to operate the irradiation assembly (116) in a third mode, in which the inactivation visible light (130) is irradiated at a third intensity different from the first intensity and the second intensity. The sterilization system (100) according to Appendix 7.

[0091] Appendix 9. The irradiation control unit (136) further includes one or more human presence sensors in communication therewith. The one or more human presence sensors are configured to detect the presence of a person inside the area and output a presence signal to the irradiation control unit (136). The irradiation control unit (136) selectively switches the irradiation assembly (116) between a plurality of different modes based on the presence signal received from the human presence sensor. The sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 6 to 8.

[0092] Appendix 10. The sterilization system (100) further includes a sensor configured to identify when the water in the toilet is flowing. The sensor is in communication with the irradiation control unit (136), and the irradiation control unit (136) selectively switches the irradiation assembly (116) between a plurality of different modes in response to the water in the toilet flowing. The sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 6 to 9.

[0093] Appendix 11. The sterilization system (100) further includes a door (110) having a locking mechanism (112). The irradiation control unit (136) is in communication with the locking mechanism (112), and the irradiation control unit (136) selectively switches the irradiation assembly (116) between a plurality of different modes in response to locking or unlocking of the door (110). The sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 6 to 10.

[0094] Appendix 12. The irradiation assembly (116) includes a first set of visible light (130) emitting elements (300) configured to emit white light (700), and A second set of visible light (130) emitting elements (300), the second set of visible light (130) emitting elements (300) configured to emit the inactivation visible light (130), and the sterilization system (100) according to any one of Appendices 1 to 11.

[0095] Appendix 13. A sterilization method configured to disinfect at least one surface inside a region, including irradiating the at least one surface with inactivation visible light (130) by an irradiation assembly (116), wherein the inactivation visible light (130) is configured to neutralize microorganisms present on the at least one surface.

[0096] Appendix 14. The sterilization method according to Appendix 13, wherein the wavelength of the inactivation visible light (130) is 405 nm.

[0097] Appendix 15. Communicably connecting an irradiation control unit (136) to the irradiation assembly (116), and further including operating the irradiation assembly (116) by the irradiation control unit (136), wherein the operating includes operating the irradiation assembly (116) in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the inactivation visible light (130) is irradiated at a first intensity, and in the second mode, the inactivation visible light (130) is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity. The sterilization method according to Appendix 13 or 14.

[0098] Appendix 16. The operating further includes operating the irradiation assembly (116) in a third mode. In the third mode, the inactivation visible light (130) is irradiated at a third intensity different from the first intensity and the second mode. The sterilization method according to Appendix 15.

[0099] Appendix 17. Communicably connecting one or more human presence sensors to the irradiation control unit (136), Detecting the presence of a person inside the area by the one or more human sensors; Outputting a presence signal to the irradiation control unit (136) by the one or more human sensors; Further comprising selectively switching the irradiation assembly (116) between a plurality of different modes by the irradiation control unit (136) according to the presence signal received from the human sensor, the sterilization method according to appendix 15 or 16.

[0100] Appendix 18. The sterilization method according to any one of appendices 15 to 17, further comprising selectively switching the irradiation assembly (116) between a plurality of different modes by the irradiation control unit (136) according to the fact that the water in the toilet has flowed.

[0101] Appendix 19. The sterilization method according to any one of appendices 15 to 18, further comprising selectively switching the irradiation assembly (116) between a plurality of different modes by the irradiation control unit (136) according to the locking or unlocking of the door (110).

[0102] Appendix 20. An interior cabin defining at least one area, A vehicle comprising a sterilization system (100) configured to disinfect at least one surface inside the area, The sterilization system (100) includes an irradiation assembly (116) configured to irradiate the at least one surface with inactivation visible light (130), the inactivation visible light (130) is configured to neutralize microorganisms present on the at least one surface, and the wavelength of the inactivation visible light (130) is 400 nm to 410 nm. The sterilization system further includes an irradiation control unit (136) in communication with the irradiation assembly (116), and the irradiation control unit (136) is configured to operate the irradiation assembly (116) to continuously irradiate the inactivation visible light (130). The irradiation control unit (136) is configured to operate the irradiation assembly (116) in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the inactivation visible light (130) is irradiated at a first intensity, and in the second mode, the inactivation visible light (130) is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity. Vehicle.

[0103] In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, various terms related to space and direction, such as up, down, below, center, side, horizontal, vertical, front, etc., may be used, but these terms are only used for the directions shown in the drawings. These directions can be changed by inversion, rotation, or other methods, so that the upper side becomes the lower side, or vice versa, or the horizontal direction becomes the vertical direction, or vice versa.

[0104] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element "configured to" perform a certain process or operation is specifically structurally formed, configured, or adapted to correspond to the process or operation. For the sake of clarity and to avoid ambiguity, it should be added that what can merely be modified to perform the process or operation does not fall within what is referred to herein as "configured to" perform the process or operation.

[0105] Note that the above description is illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Additionally, many modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the various embodiments, adapting these teachings to specific situations and materials. The dimensions and types of materials described herein are for the purpose of clarifying the parameters in the various embodiments of the present disclosure, and these embodiments are not intended to impose any limitations and are merely exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the above description. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the equivalents recognized within the scope of these claims. Also, the terms "including" and "in which" used in the appended claims and the detailed description herein are used as ordinary English expressions having the same meaning as "comprising" and "wherein", respectively. Also, terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. are used merely as labels for distinction and do not impose numerical requirements on the objects referred to thereby.

[0106] The description herein discloses various embodiments including a best mode using examples and enables those skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, to make and use any device or system and to practice incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples conceivable by those skilled in the art. If such other examples include elements that do not differ from the language of the claims or include equivalent elements that have only non-essential differences from the language of the claims, such examples should be considered to be encompassed within the claims of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A sterilization system configured to disinfect at least one surface inside an aircraft area, comprising an irradiation assembly configured to irradiate the at least one surface with inactivating visible light, the inactivating visible light being configured to neutralize microorganisms present on the at least one surface, further comprising an irradiation control unit in communication with the irradiation assembly, the irradiation control unit being configured to operate the irradiation assembly to irradiate the inactivating visible light at a first setting or a second setting different from the first setting according to the flight state of the aircraft. A sterilization system.

2. The sterilization system according to claim 1, wherein the wavelength of the inactivating visible light is 400 nm to 410 nm.

3. The sterilization system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wavelength of the inactivating visible light is 405 nm.

4. The sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the irradiation assembly is configured to continuously irradiate the inactivating visible light.

5. The sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the area is an enclosed space inside the aircraft.

6. The aircraft further comprises a door having a locking mechanism, the irradiation control unit is communicatively connected to the locking mechanism, and is configured to switch the irradiation assembly between different operating modes according to whether the door is locked or unlocked. The sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The irradiation control unit is configured to operate the irradiation assembly in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the inactivating visible light is irradiated at a first intensity, and in the second mode, the inactivating visible light is irradiated at a second intensity different from the first intensity. The sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The irradiation control unit is further configured to operate the irradiation assembly in a third mode. In the third mode, the inactivating visible light is irradiated at a third intensity different from the first intensity and the second intensity. The sterilization system according to claim 7.

9. The sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising one or more human presence sensors in communication with the irradiation control unit, wherein the one or more human presence sensors are configured to detect the presence of a person inside the area and output a presence signal to the irradiation control unit, and the irradiation control unit selectively switches the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes based on the presence signal received from the human presence sensor.

10. The sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a sensor configured to identify when water in a toilet in the aircraft is drained, the sensor being in communication with the irradiation control unit, and the irradiation control unit selectively switching the irradiation assembly between a plurality of different modes in response to the draining of water in the toilet.

Images