Ultraviolet excimer fluorescent lamp system and method

Abstract

To provide excimer lamps, such as may be used to sanitize structures and areas within vehicles or other enclosed spaces, and more particularly systems and methods of providing such lamps in desired or customizable shapes.SOLUTION: An excimer lamp 100 includes a first electrode 110, a dielectric plate 120, and a second electrode 130. The dielectric plate 120 has a first side 122 and a second side 124 opposite the first side 122. The dielectric plate 120 is separated from the first electrode 110 at a predetermined interval to define a space configured to seal gas therein. The first side (122) of the dielectric plate 120 is oriented toward the first electrode 110. The second electrode 130 is oriented toward the dielectric plate 120, and the dielectric plate 120 is interposed between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 130.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to excimer lamps used to sterilize structures and areas within a vehicle or other enclosed space, and more particularly to systems and methods for providing such lamps in a desired or customizable shape.

Background Art

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

[0003] For example, UV light in the vicinity of 222 nm wavelength is available. However, known lamps that emit such wavelengths are of a fixed cylindrical shape or a fixed flat shape. Such shapes were not widely mountable or were difficult to mount in aircraft and other environments.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for systems and methods for providing a sterilizing UV lamp in a shape that conforms to a given environment or application.

[0005] In view of the above desiderata, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an excimer lamp comprising a first electrode, a dielectric plate, and a second electrode. The dielectric plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The dielectric plate is spaced apart from the first electrode by a given distance and defines a space for enclosing a gas. The first surface of the dielectric plate is oriented to face the first electrode. The second electrode is oriented to face the dielectric plate, and the dielectric plate is positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0006] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for assembling an excimer lamp. The method includes disposing a first electrode in the vicinity of a frame having a cavity. The method further includes disposing a dielectric plate spaced apart from the first electrode by a given interval. The dielectric plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, is spaced apart from the first electrode by a given interval, and defines a space for enclosing a gas. The first surface of the dielectric plate is oriented to face the first electrode. The method further includes disposing a second electrode in an orientation facing the dielectric plate, and the dielectric plate is located between the first electrode and the second electrode. The method further includes injecting a gas into the space.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9A

Figure 9B

Figure 10

Figure 11

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] The above summary and the detailed description of several embodiments to be described later will be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, elements or steps described in the singular form do not necessarily exclude a plurality of elements or steps. Also, referring to "one embodiment" should not be construed as intending to exclude the existence of other embodiments incorporating the features described in that embodiment. Further, unless otherwise specified, an embodiment "comprising" or "having" one or more elements meeting a specific condition may further include other elements not meeting that condition.

[0009] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a UV lamp having a shape adapted to the interior of an aircraft (or other environment) with a wavelength of 222 nm, and / or a method of manufacturing such a lamp. For example, in various embodiments, a conductive frame (or a non-conductive frame supporting a conductive electrode) having a desired shape adapted or corresponding to the target environment is provided. In addition, a quartz (or other dielectric) plate having a shape matching this is disposed on the frame, and a conductive mesh is disposed on this quartz plate. In some embodiments, a band filter member is further embedded or mounted on the plate. The quartz plate is sealed to the frame using a sealing mechanism (such as an O-ring, clip, etc.) to enclose the gas for the operation of the lamp inside the frame. A gas (such as krypton chloride) is injected into the internal space defined in the frame using a sealable tube.

[0010] In various embodiments, an excimer lamp (and / or method for manufacturing such a lamp) is provided that has a shape that is compatible with a target environment, such as the design and appearance of an aircraft interior. Thus, UV light emitted from the lamp can be integrated into the curved surface (or target area) of the aircraft interior and used to sterilize surfaces and air in the target area. In some embodiments, bandpass filters are used to provide a desired wavelength (or range of wavelengths) of light for safe and effective sterilization. It should be noted that various embodiments can be incorporated into other types of vehicles instead of aircraft, such as commercial buildings, as another example.

[0011] In various embodiments, the frame is machined or cast to the desired shape. The frame may be, for example, conductive or may be a non-conductive frame carrying conductive electrodes. A transparent cover (e.g., a quartz glass plate or a fused silica glass plate) may be bonded to the frame, for example, by blow molding. In various embodiments, the frame is formed of a material having the same or a corresponding thermal expansion coefficient as the cover. The cover includes a conductive mesh grid. In one example, the conductive mesh grid is formed by screen printing a conductive ink on the surface of the cover, or in another example, it is formed using a woven metal cloth of fine conductive wires. The mesh may be laser cut. In various embodiments, the conductive mesh grid may be formed into a decorative pattern. The conductive mesh functions as an electrode. Optionally, a band-pass filter element may be attached to the cover. As yet another optional configuration, an additional transparent plate may be added on top of the cover, sandwiching the conductive mesh between the additional plate and the cover.

[0012] The cover (e.g., a quartz plate) can be joined or connected to the frame using one or more of an adhesive, an O-ring, or a clip. In various embodiments, the frame includes, or is associated with, a tube used to vacuum-fill the internal space of the frame with a gas such as, for example, krypton chloride (e.g., 45 parts of krypton and 1 part of chlorine). The tube is crimped and sealed after filling. In some embodiments, the frame is coated with a corrosion-preventing material (e.g., enamel) and / or a reflector (e.g., made of aluminum) is attached to the frame.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an excimer lamp 100. The excimer lamp according to the illustrated embodiment is configured to emit UV light (e.g., having a wavelength of about 222 nm). The illustrated excimer lamp 100 includes a first electrode 110, a dielectric plate 120, and a second electrode 130. Generally, a gas (e.g., a mixture of krypton and chlorine or chloride) is enclosed in the space between the electrodes, and when a current is applied to the electrodes, UV light is radiated from this gas. The illustrated example includes a frame 140, which constitutes the first electrode 110 in some embodiments and supports the first electrode 110 in other embodiments. Optionally, a second protective plate (not shown in FIG. 1) may be provided on the second electrode 130.

[0014] The illustrated frame 140 supports the dielectric plate 120 as shown in FIG. 1. For example, the frame supports the dielectric plate 120 at or near the outer peripheral edge of the dielectric plate 120. The frame 140 includes a cavity 142. In various embodiments, the cavity 142 has a shape (e.g., a parabolic shape) that facilitates focusing the emitted light of the excimer lamp 100 or distributing it in a desired light distribution.

[0015] In various embodiments, the dielectric plate 120 is made of a transparent dielectric material. In one example, the dielectric plate 120 is made of quartz glass, and in another example, it is made of fused silica. As shown in FIG. 1 , the exemplary dielectric plate 120 has a first side 122 and a second side 124. The second side 124 is the side opposite the first side 122. The first side 122 of the dielectric plate 120 faces the first electrode 110, and the second side 124 of the dielectric plate 120 faces the second electrode 130. The dielectric plate 120 is spaced apart from the first electrode 110 by a given distance and defines a space 150 for sealing a gas. In the illustrated embodiment, the space 150 is defined between the surface of the cavity 142 and the first side 122 of the dielectric plate 120.

[0016] The second electrode 130 is positioned toward the dielectric plate 120 such that the dielectric plate 120 is located between the first electrode 110 and the second electrode 130. In various embodiments, the second electrode 120 is disposed or formed on the second surface 124 of the dielectric plate 120.

[0017] For example, in various embodiments, the second electrode 130 is formed from a conductive ink that is silkscreened onto the second surface 124 of the dielectric plate 120. As another example, in various embodiments, the second electrode 130 is formed from a conductive mesh that is stretched over or otherwise bonded to the second surface 124 of the dielectric plate 120.

[0018] In various embodiments, the frame 140 includes adaptations to maintain a seal between the frame 140 and the dielectric plate 120 and to facilitate the maintenance of the gas enclosed in the cavity 142. For example, in the illustrated environment, the frame 140 includes a groove 144. The groove 144 is provided on the upper surface of the frame 140 configured to support the dielectric plate 120 and is a circumferentially extending concave groove of the frame 140. Further, the excimer lamp 100 includes an O-ring 160 disposed within the groove 144 and positioned between the dielectric plate 120 and the frame 140. The O-ring 160 seals the excimer lamp 100 and encloses the gas inside the lamp.

[0019] In the illustrated example, the frame 140 further includes a concave surface 146 and a protrusion 148. The concave surface 148 is disposed at a position adjacent to the groove 144 in the lateral or radial inner side of the groove 144 (for example, a position closer to the center of the excimer lamp 100 than the groove 144). The protrusion 148 extends from the concave surface 146 toward the dielectric plate 120 and includes a land portion 149. The land portion is a portion configured to contact the dielectric plate 120 when the dielectric plate 120 is attached to the frame 140. The protrusion 148 helps to protect the O-ring from UV irradiation and / or from the substance enclosed in the cavity 142.

[0020] The dielectric plate 120 may be mechanically fixed to the frame 140. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame 140 has a cut 141 that extends circumferentially on the side surface 143 of the frame 140. Further, in the illustrated example, the excimer lamp 100 includes a strip 170 attached to the frame 140 so as to engage with the cut 141. The strip 170 functions as a clip for fixing the dielectric plate 120 to the frame 140. In some embodiments, the dielectric plate 120 is fixed to the frame 140 by arranging and using a plurality of separate clips. Although not essential, as another example, the dielectric plate 120 is sealed to the frame 140 by joining it by a method such as soldering.

[0021] In some embodiments, the frame 140 is made of a conductive material, and the first electrode 110 is integrally formed with the frame 140. (See, for example, FIG. 5 and the related description.) In some embodiments, the frame 140 is made of an electrically insulating material, and the first electrode 110 is supported by the frame 140. (See, for example, FIG. 6 and the related description.)

[0022] Since the excimer lamp 100 has such a configuration, for example, by forming the frame 140 and / or the dielectric plate 120 into a desired shape, excimer lamps 100 of various shapes can be manufactured. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the excimer lamp 100 has a disc shape, and a disc-shaped second electrode 130 is formed at the center of the excimer lamp 100. As another example, the perspective view of FIG. 3 shows an example of an excimer lamp 100 formed in a shape that conforms to an existing environment.

[0023] Also, the dielectric plate does not necessarily have to be flat. For example, the cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 shows an example of an excimer lamp in which both the dielectric plate 120 and the second electrode 130 have a concave shape. This concave shape is, for example, a shape corresponding to the object to be irradiated by the excimer lamp 100. In FIG. 4, a simple concave curve is shown, which is for the sake of simplification and clarity of the illustration. In other embodiments, for example, a more complex shape including a portion where the curvature changes, a convex portion, a flat portion, an angled portion, etc. may be used, whereby, for example, the shape of the irradiation object can be more accurately matched. Further, the cavity of the frame 140 can be formed in a shape that matches, corresponds to, or is complementary to the shape of the dielectric plate 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 140 is formed to exhibit a curved surface similar to the curved surface of the dielectric plate 120, whereby the distance between the electrodes can be made uniform. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the upper surface of the cavity and the lower surface of the dielectric plate 120 are complementary non-flat surfaces having a uniform separation distance.

[0024] As described above, in some embodiments, the frame 140 is made of a conductive material. FIG. 5 shows an excimer lamp 500 having a frame 510 made of a conductive material. Note that the excimer lamp 500 includes one or more aspects described for the excimer lamp 100 and is an example of the excimer lamp 100.

[0025] The excimer lamp 500 includes a frame 510, a dielectric plate 520, and a second electrode 530. The frame 510 is made of a conductive material and constitutes a first electrode 512. The frame 510 is made of a material (e.g., Kovar, Invar) having a thermal expansion coefficient equivalent to that of the dielectric plate 520, so that when the temperature condition changes, stress or strain caused by dimensional changes of the members can be reduced or eliminated. The frame 510 has a cavity 514.

[0026] The dielectric plate 520 has a first surface 522 and a second surface 524 opposite to the first surface 522, and the dielectric plate 520 is disposed with the first surface 522 facing the frame 510. The dielectric plate 520 is spaced apart from the frame 510 by a given distance, and a space 550 is defined by the first surface 522 of the dielectric plate 520 and the surface of the cavity 514. The space 550 is configured to enclose a gas. The second electrode 530 is disposed toward the dielectric plate 520 (e.g., toward the second surface 524 of the dielectric plate 520) such that the dielectric plate 520 is located between the frame 516 and the second electrode 530.

[0027] Generally, the space between the dielectric plate 520 and the frame 510 is sealed to enclose a gas in the space 550. For example, in various embodiments, the frame 510 includes a groove 516 extending in the circumferential direction (e.g., along the outer peripheral edge). Further, in the excimer lamp 500, an O-ring 560 is disposed in the groove 516 to seal the space between the dielectric plate 520 and the frame 510. In some embodiments, a hollow metal O-ring is used (e.g., in combination with brazing) to attach the dielectric plate 520 to the conductive frame 510.

[0028] In the illustrated example, the frame 510 further includes a notch 518 extending circumferentially along a side surface 519 of the frame 510, and the excimer lamp 500 further includes a strip 570 attached to the frame 510 so as to engage with the notch 518. The strip 570 functions to fix the dielectric plate 520 to the frame 510. In yet other examples, a sealant may be applied between the frame 510 and the dielectric plate 520 to seal and / or bond them, or the frame 510 and the dielectric plate 520 may be joined by brazing.

[0029] In various embodiments, a reflector or a reflective surface may be provided on the surface of the cavity 514. In the illustrated example, the excimer lamp 500 includes a reflector 570 attached to the surface 515 of the cavity 514 of the frame 510. For example, the reflector 570 is made of polished aluminum and is fixed to the frame 510 with a screw-type fastener. In an alternative example, the surface 515 may be coated. For example, the surface 515 may be coated with enamel or other materials having a protective function against arc pitting.

[0030] In some embodiments, the excimer lamp 500 (or the excimer lamp 100, 600) includes a protective plate 525 disposed near the second electrode 530. The second electrode 530 is located between the dielectric plate 520 and the protective plate 525. In various embodiments, the protective plate 525 is made of the same material as the dielectric plate 520 and is thicker than the dielectric plate 520.

[0031] In the illustrated example, the first electrode 512 (i.e., the frame 510) is connected to a ground conductor 580. For example, the ground conductor 580 is crimped to the frame 510 by caulking an eyelet.

[0032] Also, in the illustrated example, the second electrode 530 is connected to a positive conductor 590. In the illustrated example, for instance, the positive conductor 590 includes an insulated high-voltage lead, with the conductor exposed at its end, and this end is soldered or crimped to the second electrode 530.

[0033] The gas in the space 550 can be injected using a fill tube. The fill tube is made of, for example, Kovar or Invar and is pushed into place by interference fit from an opening in the frame 510 to a predetermined position. In other examples, the fill tube is brazed in place. After filling the space 550 with gas, the end of the fill tube is crimped to enclose the gas inside the space 550.

[0034] As described above, in some embodiments, the frame 140 is made of an electrically insulating material. FIG. 6 shows an excimer lamp 600 having a frame 610 made of an insulating material. Note that the excimer lamp 600 encompasses one or more aspects described for the excimer lamp 100 and is an example of the excimer lamp 100.

[0035] The excimer lamp 600 includes a frame 610 made of an insulating material and having a cavity 612, and a first electrode 620 made of a conductive material and attached to the frame 610. The excimer lamp 600 further includes a dielectric plate 630 (e.g., quartz glass or fused silica glass) having a first surface 632 and a second surface 634. The second surface 634 is the surface on the side opposite to the first surface 632, and the first surface 632 faces the frame 610. The dielectric plate 630 is spaced a given distance from the first electrode 620 and defines a space 613 for enclosing gas (between the surface of the cavity 612 and the first surface 632 of the dielectric plate 630).

[0036] The excimer lamp 600 further includes a second electrode 640 oriented to face the dielectric plate 630. The dielectric plate 630 is located between the first electrode 620 and the second electrode 640. The second electrode 640 is formed or disposed on the second surface 634 of the dielectric plate 620. In one example, the second electrode 640 is formed by a decorative silk screen printing 632 applied to the second surface 634 of the dielectric plate 630. In another example, the second electrode 640 is formed by a conductive mesh 634 extended on the second surface 634 of the dielectric plate 630.

[0037] Both electrodes are connected to a power source to cause the gas to emit light. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the first electrode 620 is connected to the positive conductor 680, and the second electrode 640 is connected to the ground conductor 690. For example, the positive electrode 681 is pressed into the frame 610 together with the sealant, and a wire is crimped to the positive electrode 681. For example, when the frame 610 is made of Teflon, epoxy can be used for sealing. For example, when the frame 610 is made of ceramic, active metal braze can be used. In some embodiments, the air supply pipe is pressed into a predetermined position together with the sealant and used to inject gas into the cavity 612.

[0038] In the illustrated example, the space between the frame 610 and the dielectric plate 630 is sealed by an O-ring 650. The O-ring 650 is disposed in a groove 614 provided in the frame 610 so as to extend in the circumferential direction of the frame 610. Further, the frame 610 in the illustrated example further includes a notch 618 extending in the circumferential direction of the side surface 619 of the frame 610, and the excimer lamp 600 further includes a strip 670 attached to the frame 610 so as to engage with the notch 618. The strip 670 functions to fix the dielectric plate 630 to the frame 610. In still other examples, a sealant may be applied to seal and / or join the space between the frame 610 and the dielectric plate 630, or the frame 610 and the dielectric plate 630 may be joined by brazing.

[0039] 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method 700 for assembling an excimer lamp (e.g., excimer lamps 100, 500, 600). In various embodiments, method 700 uses and / or implements one or more of the aspects described above with respect to excimer lamps 100, 500, 600. Note that in various embodiments, steps may be added or omitted, and / or various steps may be performed in a different order than shown in FIG.

[0040] At 702, a first electrode is disposed adjacent a frame having a cavity. In one example, the frame is made of a conductive material and the first electrode is integrally formed with the frame (e.g., the frame defines, constitutes, or functions as the first electrode). In another example, the frame is made of an insulating material and the first electrode is attached, secured, or otherwise disposed on a surface of the frame.

[0041] At 704, a dielectric plate is positioned a given distance away from the first electrode to define a space, as described herein, configured to contain a gas for discharging light when the excimer lamp is operated. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, at 706, an O-ring is placed in a groove in the frame, and at 708, the dielectric plate is attached to the frame with the O-ring positioned between the dielectric plate and the frame.

[0042] At 710, a second electrode is positioned. The second electrode is oriented to face the dielectric plate, with the dielectric plate positioned between the first and second electrodes. In some embodiments, at 712, a conductive ink is printed on the dielectric plate by silkscreen or other printing method, and the conductive ink forms the second electrode. In some embodiments, at 714, the second electrode is formed from a conductive mesh (e.g., by laser cutting).

[0043] At 716, the dielectric plate is fixed to the frame by the strip. The strip is attached to the frame so as to engage with a notch extending in the circumferential direction on the side surface of the frame.

[0044] At 718, the internal space is filled with gas. With the space filled with gas, the electrodes are connected to a power source, whereby the excimer lamp becomes available. According to method 700, it is possible to fabricate excimer lamps of various shapes and also to fabricate a lamp of a shape suitable for a desired place of use.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an aircraft 210 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure as seen from the front. The aircraft 210 includes a propulsion system 212 such as an engine 214, for example. Although not essential, the propulsion system 212 can include more engines 14 than shown. The engine 214 is mounted on a wing 216 of the aircraft 210. In other embodiments, the engine 214 may be mounted on the fuselage 218 and / or the tail 220. The tail 220 also supports a horizontal stabilizer 222 and a vertical stabilizer 224.

[0046] An internal cabin 230 is defined in the fuselage 218 of the aircraft 210, and the cabin includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (e.g., galley, in-flight 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 230 includes one or more lavatory systems, lavatory units, or lavatories as described herein.

[0047] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in various other vehicles such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and railway vehicles, ships, etc., in addition to aircraft. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in fixed structures such as commercial buildings and residential buildings.

[0048] FIG. 9A is a plan view of the interior cabin 230 of an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 230 is provided in the fuselage 232 of the aircraft, for example, in the fuselage 218 shown in FIG. 8. The interior cabin 230 is defined by, for example, one or more fuselage walls. The interior cabin 230 includes a plurality of sections including a forward section 233, a first-class section 234, a business-class section 236, a forward galley station 238, a premium economy section 240, a standard economy section 242, and a rear section 244, and these sections may include a plurality of lavatories and galley stations. Note that the number of sections included in the interior cabin 230 may be more or less than that shown in the figure. For example, the interior cabin 230 may not include a first-class section, or may include more or fewer galley stations than shown in the figure. Each section is separated by a cabin boundary area 246 including, for example, a partition assembly that separates the aisles 248 by class.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 9A, the interior cabin 230 includes two aisles 250 and 252 leading to the rear section 244. Although not essential, the number of aisles in the interior cabin 230 may be more or less than that shown in the figure. For example, the interior cabin 230 may be configured to include only one aisle in the center of the interior cabin 230 that extends to the rear section 244.

[0050] Passages 248, 250, and 252 extend to an escape route or door passage 260. Exit doors 262 are installed at both ends of the escape route 260. The escape route 260 extends, for example, at a right angle to passages 248, 250, and 252. More escape routes 260 than shown may be provided in the interior cabin 230 at positions different from those shown. The portable sterilization system 100 illustrated and described in FIGS. 1-11 is used to sterilize various structures in the interior cabin 230, for example, passenger seats, monument structures, stowage bin assemblies, members provided in the lavatory, and / or equipment and members in the galley.

[0051] FIG. 9B is a plan view of an aircraft interior cabin 280 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above. The interior cabin 280 is an example of the interior cabin 230 shown in FIG. 8. The interior cabin 280 is provided, for example, in the fuselage 281 of the aircraft. The interior cabin 280 is defined, for example, by one or more fuselage walls. The interior cabin 280 is provided with a plurality of sections including a main cabin 282 in which passenger seats 283 are installed and a rear section 285 located behind the main cabin 282. It will be understood that the number of sections included in the interior cabin 280 may be more or less than that shown.

[0052] The interior cabin 280 includes a single passage 284 that extends to the rear section 285. This single passage 284 extends, for example, through the center of the interior cabin 280 to the rear section 285. For example, the single passage 284 is arranged coaxially with the central longitudinal plane of the interior cabin 280.

[0053] Passageway 284 extends to an escape route or door passageway 290. Exit doors 292 are installed at both ends of the escape route 290. The escape route 290 extends, for example, at a right angle to the passageway 284. The interior cabin 280 may be provided with more escape routes than shown. The portable sterilization system 100 illustrated and described in FIGS. 1-11 is used to sterilize various structures in the interior cabin 230, for example, passenger seats, monument structures, storage shelf assemblies, members provided in the lavatory, and / or used for sterilizing galley facilities and members.

[0054] FIG. 10 is an interior perspective view of an aircraft interior cabin 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 300 includes an outboard wall 302 connected to the ceiling 304. The outboard wall 302 is provided with, for example, windows 306. The floor 308 supports rows of seats 310. As shown in FIG. 10, in one row 312, two seats 310 are provided on each side of the passageway 313. However, the number of seats 310 included in the row 312 may be more or less than shown. In addition, the interior cabin 300 may be provided with more passageways than shown.

[0055] The passenger service unit (PSU) 314 is attached between the outboard wall 302 on both sides of the passageway 313 and the ceiling 304. A plurality of PSUs 314 are provided between the front end and the rear end of the interior cabin 300. For example, one PSU 314 is provided above each seat 310 included in the row 312. Each PSU 314 has a housing 316, and generally, vents, reading lights, oxygen cylinder drop panels, crew request buttons, and other controllers provided above each seat 310 (or a group of seats) in the row 312 are accommodated in the housing.

[0056] The overhead storage bin assembly 318 is fixed to the ceiling 304, which is located above and closer to the inside than the PSU 314, and / or to the outboard wall 302, on both sides of the aisle 313. The overhead storage bin assembly 318 is fixed above the seat 310. A plurality of overhead storage bin assemblies 318 are provided between the front end and the rear end of the interior cabin 300. Each storage bin assembly 318 includes a pivotal box or container 320 pivotally fixed to a strongback (hidden and not visible in FIG. 10). The overhead storage bin assembly 318 is arranged, for example, above and closer to the inside than the lower surface of the PSU 314. The overhead storage bin assembly 318 is configured to open pivotally and can hold passengers' luggage and belongings.

[0057] As used herein, the term "outboard" means the side farther from the central longitudinal plane 322 of the interior cabin 300 compared to other components. Also, the term "inboard" means the side closer to the central longitudinal plane 322 of the interior cabin 300 compared to other components. For example, the lower surface of the PSU 314 is located outboard of the storage bin assembly 318.

[0058] Using the excimer lamp described in this specification, various structures illustrated as being included in the interior cabin 300 can be sterilized.

[0059] FIG. 11 is an internal perspective view of a dressing room 330 in an interior cabin of a vehicle, such as the internal cabin described in this specification. The dressing room 330 is an example of an enclosed space, a monument structure, or a chamber in, for example, the interior cabin of a vehicle. The dressing room 330 is provided, for example, in an aircraft as described above. Although not essential, the dressing room 330 may be provided in various other vehicles. In other embodiments, the dressing room 330 is provided, for example, within a fixed structure such as a commercial building or a residential building. The dressing room 330 includes a floor surface 331 that supports a toilet 332, a cabinet 334, and a washbasin 336 or a washbowl. The arrangement configuration of the dressing room 330 may be different from that shown in the drawings. Also, the dressing room 330 may include more members or fewer members than shown in the drawings. Various structures, components, and surfaces within the dressing room 330 can be sterilized using the excimer lamp described in this specification.

[0060] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes examples according to the following appendices.

[0061] Appendix 1. A first electrode (110), A dielectric plate (120) having a first surface (122) and a second surface (124) opposite to the first surface (122), the dielectric plate (120) being spaced apart from the first electrode (110) by a given interval and defining a space for enclosing a gas, and the dielectric plate (120) being oriented such that the first surface (122) faces the first electrode (110), A second electrode (130) oriented to face the dielectric plate (120), the excimer lamp (100) comprising the dielectric plate (120) positioned between the first electrode (110) and the second electrode (130).

[0062] Appendix 2. The excimer lamp (100) according to Appendix 1, further comprising a frame (140) configured to support the dielectric plate (120).

[0063] Supplementary Note 3. The frame (140) has a groove (144) extending in the circumferential direction thereof, and the excimer lamp (100) is provided with an O-ring (160) disposed in the groove (144) and positioned between the dielectric plate (120) and the frame (140), the excimer lamp (100) according to Supplementary Note 2.

[0064] Supplementary Note 4. The frame (140) further includes a concave surface (146) and a protrusion (148), the concave surface (146) is positioned in the vicinity of the groove (144), the protrusion (148) has a land portion, and extends from the concave surface (146) toward the dielectric plate (120), the excimer lamp (100) according to Supplementary Note 3.

[0065] Supplementary Note 5. The frame (140) has a notch extending in the circumferential direction on a side surface (143) of the frame (140), the excimer lamp (100) is provided with a strip body (170) attached to the frame (140) so as to engage with the notch, and the strip body (170) fixes the dielectric plate (120) to the frame (140), the excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 4.

[0066] Supplementary Note 6. The frame (140) is formed of a conductive material, and the first electrode (110) is integrally formed with the frame (140), the excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 5.

[0067] Supplementary Note 7. The frame (140) is formed of an electrically insulating material, and the first electrode (110) is supported by the frame (140), the excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 6.

[0068] Supplementary Note 8. The second electrode (130) is formed of a silk-screen printed conductive ink, the excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7.

[0069] Supplementary Note 9. The excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, wherein the second electrode (130) is formed of a conductive mesh.

[0070] Supplementary Note 10. The excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9, wherein the excimer lamp (100) has a disk shape.

[0071] Supplementary Note 11. The excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, wherein the dielectric plate (120) and the second electrode (130) have non-flat surfaces with corresponding shapes and a uniform separation distance from each other.

[0072] Supplementary Note 12. The excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 11, wherein the dielectric plate (120) and the second electrode (130) have a concave shape corresponding to an object to be irradiated.

[0073] Supplementary Note 13. A frame (140) made of a conductive material and constituting the first electrode (110), the frame (140) having a cavity (142); A dielectric plate (120) having a first surface (122) and a second surface (124) opposite to the first surface (122), the dielectric plate (120) being spaced apart from the frame (140) at a given interval and defining a space for enclosing a gas, and the dielectric plate (120) being oriented such that the first surface (122) faces the frame (140); A second electrode (130) oriented to face the dielectric plate (120), the excimer lamp (100) comprising the dielectric plate (120) located between the frame (140) and the second electrode (130).

[0074] Supplementary Note 14. The excimer lamp (100) according to Supplementary Note 13, wherein the frame (140) has a groove (144) extending in the circumferential direction, and the excimer lamp (100) includes an O-ring (160) disposed in the groove (144) and located between the dielectric plate (120) and the frame (140).

[0075] Appendix 15. The excimer lamp (100) according to Appendix 13 or 14, further comprising a reflector mounted on the surface of the cavity (142) of the frame (140).

[0076] Appendix 16. The frame (140) has a cut extending in the circumferential direction on the side surface of the frame (140), and the excimer lamp (100) includes a strip body (170) attached to the frame (140) so as to engage with the cut, and the strip body (170) fixes the dielectric plate (120) to the frame (140). The excimer lamp (100) according to Appendix 13, 14, or 15.

[0077] Appendix 17. The frame (140) of the excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Appendices 13 to 16 is connected to a ground conductor.

[0078] Appendix 18. The second electrode (130) of the excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Appendices 13 to 17 is connected to a positive electrode conductor.

[0079] Appendix 19. The excimer lamp (100) according to any one of Appendices 13 to 18 further includes a protective plate located near the second electrode (130), and the second electrode (130) is located between the dielectric plate (120) and the protective plate.

[0080] Appendix 20. A frame (140) made of an insulating material, the frame (140) having a cavity (142), a first electrode (110) mounted on the frame (140), a dielectric plate (120) having a first surface (122) and a second surface (124) opposite to the first surface (122), the dielectric plate (120) being spaced apart from the first electrode (110) by a given interval and defining a space for enclosing a gas, and the dielectric plate (120) being oriented such that the first surface (122) faces the frame (140), An excimer lamp (100) comprising a second electrode (130) oriented to face the dielectric plate (120), wherein the dielectric plate (120) is positioned between the first electrode (110) and the second electrode (130).

[0081] 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 used only with respect to the directions shown in the drawings. These directions can be changed by inversion, rotation, or other means, such that the upper side becomes the lower side, or vice versa, or the horizontal direction becomes the vertical direction, or vice versa.

[0082] 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 doubt, 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.

[0083] Note that the above description is merely illustrative and not intended to be limiting. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt these teachings to specific situations and materials without departing from the scope of the various embodiments. 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 considering the above description. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be determined by referring to the appended claims in conjunction with the equivalent scope recognized in these claims. 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.

[0084] The description in this specification discloses various embodiments including best modes using examples, and enables those skilled in the art to implement various embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, it enables the fabrication and use of any device or system, and the implementation of incorporated methods. The patentable scope of various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples conceivable to those skilled in the art. If such other examples include components that do not differ from the language of the claims, or include equivalent components that have only non-essential differences from the language of the claims, such examples are intended to be encompassed by the claims of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. a first electrode, a dielectric plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the dielectric plate being spaced apart from the first electrode by a given interval and defining a space for enclosing a gas, the first surface of the dielectric plate being oriented to face the first electrode, a second electrode oriented to face the dielectric plate, a frame configured to support the dielectric plate and having a groove extending in the circumferential direction, an O-ring disposed in the groove and positioned between the dielectric plate and the frame, and the dielectric plate is located between the first electrode and the second electrode, the frame further includes a concave surface and a protrusion, the concave surface is located in the vicinity of the groove, the protrusion has a land portion and extends from the concave surface toward the dielectric plate, an excimer lamp.

2. A first electrode, a dielectric plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the dielectric plate being spaced apart from the first electrode by a given interval and defining a space for enclosing a gas, the first surface of the dielectric plate being oriented to face the first electrode, a second electrode oriented to face the dielectric plate, a frame configured to support the dielectric plate and having a cut extending in the circumferential direction on its side surface, a strip body attached to the frame so as to engage with the cut, and the dielectric plate is located between the first electrode and the second electrode, the strip body fixes the dielectric plate to the frame, an excimer lamp.

3. A first electrode, a dielectric plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the dielectric plate being spaced apart from the first electrode by a given interval and defining a space for enclosing a gas, the first surface of the dielectric plate being oriented to face the first electrode, a second electrode oriented to face the dielectric plate, and the dielectric plate is located between the first electrode and the second electrode, the second electrode is formed from a silk screen printed conductive ink, an excimer lamp. Claim 4: The frame has a groove extending in the circumferential direction thereof, and the excimer lamp includes an O-ring disposed in the groove and positioned between the dielectric plate and the frame. The frame further includes a concave surface and a protrusion, the concave surface is located near the groove, the protrusion has a land portion, and extends from the concave surface toward the dielectric plate. The excimer lamp according to claim 2.

5. The frame has a notch extending in the circumferential direction on a side surface of the frame, and the excimer lamp includes a strip body attached to the frame so as to engage with the notch. The strip body fixes the dielectric plate to the frame. The excimer lamp according to claim 1.

6. The frame is formed of a conductive material, and the first electrode is integrally formed with the frame. The excimer lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4 to 5.

7. The frame is formed of an electrically insulating material, and the first electrode is supported by the frame. The excimer lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4 to 6.

8. The excimer lamp further includes a frame configured to support the dielectric plate. The frame has a groove extending in the circumferential direction thereof, and the excimer lamp includes an O-ring disposed in the groove and positioned between the dielectric plate and the frame. The excimer lamp according to claim 3.

9. The second electrode is formed of a conductive mesh. The excimer lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4 to 8.

10. The excimer lamp has a disk shape. The excimer lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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