Infection prevention device and infection prevention method

Abstract

Provided are an infection prevention device and an infection prevention method in which there are provided a light source 11 that emits light in a specific wavelength band and a beam formation optical element 12 that forms the light emitted from the light source 11 onto an emission curtain 20 having a specific width, and in which pathogenic microorganisms that are floating independently or together with droplets or particles can be inactivated or annihilated by the emission curtain 20 formed in the air, or in which moisture in the droplets or particles is caused to evaporate, whereby the floating pathogenic microorganisms can be inactivated or annihilated in the air.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an infection prevention device and an infection prevention method for inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles, or that are airborne independently. [Background technology]

[0002] COVID-19 is currently a social issue and is having a major impact on the economy. It has long been known that ultraviolet light is effective in inactivating viruses. Patent Documents 1 to 7 propose methods for inactivating viruses using ultraviolet light. Furthermore, Patent Documents 8 and 9 propose ultraviolet sterilization devices equipped with a sterilization light film generating unit that generates a sterilization light film in the form of a film. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-286453 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-143249 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-171440 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-519003 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-534816 [Patent Document 6] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-533942 [Patent Document 7] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-78650 [Patent Document 8] Patent No. 6188969 [Patent Document 9] Patent No. 6587783 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in Patent Documents 1 to 7, in order to fully exert the virus inactivation effect of ultraviolet light, the irradiation target is a solution or a filter, and ultraviolet light is irradiated into the solution or ultraviolet light is irradiated onto viruses captured by a filter, but they do not inactivate or kill airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air. Furthermore, Patent Documents 8 and 9 produce a germicidal light film inside a cylindrical housing, and the germicidal light film is not formed by ultraviolet light emitted from an ultraviolet light source, but by reflection from multiple reflecting parts. That is, when forming a germicidal light film using reflection as proposed in Patent Documents 8 and 9, if there is an obstacle in part of the germicidal light film, the germicidal light film cannot be formed and light will be reflected in unexpected directions, making this method unsuitable for spaces where people are present.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an infection prevention device and an infection prevention method that can inactivate or kill airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The infection prevention device 10 of the present invention described in claim 1 uses a lamp, a light emitting diode, or a semiconductor laser as a light source 14 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and forms a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width in the air by the light emitted from the light source 14, thereby inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles, or that are airborne alone. The radiation curtain 20 is folded back by the reflector 16 to form at least two layers of the radiation curtain 20 (20x, 20y). It is characterized by the following. The infection prevention device 10 of the present invention described in claim 2 uses a lamp, light-emitting diode, or semiconductor laser as a light source 14 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and forms a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width in the air using the light emitted from the light source 14, thereby inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne with droplets or particles, or that are airborne alone, and is characterized by having a detector 15 that detects scattered light from the radiation screen 20, and when the detector 15 detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, stops emitting the light from the light source 11. The infection prevention device 10 of the present invention described in claim 3 uses a lamp, a light-emitting diode, or a semiconductor laser as a light source 14 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and forms a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width in the air using the light emitted from the light source 14, thereby inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne with droplets or particles or that are airborne alone, and irradiates the radiation screen 20 with interference light 18 of a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light that forms the radiation screen 20, and the position where the interference light 18 is irradiated is set to the end of the radiation screen 20. Claim 4 The present invention as described above is characterized in that claim 1 Any one of claims 1 to 3 In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the specific wavelength range is set to a wavelength range of 190 nm to 350 nm, and the radiation screen 20 is formed with an average output of 20 W or less per meter of width. Claim 5 The present invention as described above is defined in claim 1 Any one of claims 1 to 3 In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the specific wavelength range is an infrared radiation range of 800 nm or more. Claim 6 The present invention as described above is defined in claim 1 Any one of claims 1 to 3 The infection prevention device 10 described above is characterized in that an ultrashort pulse laser is used as the light source 11, and the specific wavelength range is a visible radiation range or an infrared radiation range of 400 nm or more. Claim 7 The infection prevention device 10 of the present invention described has a light source 11 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and a beam-shaping optical element 12 that shapes the light emitted from the light source 11 into a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width, and the radiation screen 20 formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles or that are airborne alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles. The radiation curtain 20 has a damper 13 disposed at the end thereof, and the damper 13 is made of a low-reflectivity material. It is characterized by: The infection prevention device 10 of the present invention described in claim 8 comprises a light source 11 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and a beam shaping optical element 12 that shapes the light emitted from the light source 11 into a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width, and the radiation screen 20 formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles or that are airborne alone, or evaporates the moisture in the droplets or particles, and has a detector 15 that detects scattered light from the radiation screen 20, and when the detector 15 detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, it stops emitting the light from the light source 11. The infection prevention device 10 of the present invention described in claim 9 comprises a light source 11 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and a beam shaping optical element 12 that shapes the light emitted from the light source 11 into a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width, and is characterized in that the radiation screen 20 formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles or that are airborne alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles, irradiates the radiation screen 20 with interference light 18 of a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light that forms the radiation screen 20, and the position where the interference light 18 is irradiated is set to the end of the radiation screen 20. The present invention according to claim 10 comprises: From claim 7 Claim 9 Any one of the following In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the radiation screen 20 is formed at the entrances 33 and 34 of the rooms 31 and 32 or the areas 31 and 32. The present invention as defined in claim 11 comprises: From claim 7 Claim 9 Any one of the following The infection prevention device 10 described above is characterized in that the radiation curtain 20 is formed between people 41 and 42 facing each other. The present invention according to claim 12 comprises: From claim 7 Claim 9 Any one of the following In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the radiation curtain 20 is formed between a stage 61 and an audience seat 62. The present invention according to claim 13 comprises: From claim 7 Claim 9 Any one of the following In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the radiation curtain 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and a space is formed inside the radiation curtain 20 which is formed in a cylindrical shape. The present invention according to claim 14 comprises: From claim 7 Claim 9 Any one of the following The infection prevention device 10 described above is characterized in that the radiation curtain 20 is formed around the periphery of the competition space 70. The present invention as defined in claim 15 is From claim 7 Claim 9 Any one of the following In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the radiation screen 20 is formed on the side or in front or behind the seat 80. The present invention according to claim 16 comprises: Claim 7 The infection prevention device 10 described in any one of claims 1 to 15 is characterized in that the light source 11 and the beam shaping optical element 12 are arranged above, and the radiation screen 20 is formed by radiating the light from above downward. The present invention described in claim 17 is characterized in that, in the infection prevention device 10 described in any one of claims 1 to 16, the light source 11 is a coherent light source, an ultraviolet laser, or a light source consisting of a laser and a wavelength conversion device. The present invention according to claim 18 comprises: Claim 7 from Claim 16 In the infection prevention device 10 described in any one of the above, the beam shaping optical element 12 is characterized in that at least one of a beam expander that expands the light, a cylindrical lens that elongates the light horizontally, and a condenser lens that converts the light into parallel light is used. The present invention according to claim 19 comprises: Claim 7 In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the damper 13 is made of black anodized aluminum. The present invention according to claim 20 comprises: Any one of claims 1 to 3 In the infection prevention device 10 described above, By providing a plurality of the light sources 11e and 11f, the radiation screen 20 (20e and 20f) is formed in at least two layers, The light sources 11e and 11f have different central wavelengths. Claim 21 The present invention as described is Claim 2 or Claim 8 In the infection prevention device 10 described above, the detector 15 is disposed on the side of the light source 11, and the detection direction of the detector 15 is set to the radiation direction of the light. Claim 22 The infection prevention method of the present invention described above forms a radiation curtain 20 of a predetermined width using light in a specific wavelength range, The radiation curtain 20 is folded at the reflector 16 to form at least two layers of the radiation curtain 20 (20x, 20y), The radiation curtain 20 formed in the air is characterized by inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, or evaporating the moisture of the droplets or particles. The infection prevention method of the present invention described in claim 23 is characterized in that it forms a radiation curtain (20) of a predetermined width using light in a specific wavelength range, inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, using the radiation curtain (20) formed in the air, or evaporates the water content of the droplets or particles, and has a detector (15) that detects scattered light from the radiation curtain (20), and when the detector (15) detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, stops irradiating the light from the light source (11). The infection prevention method of the present invention described in claim 24 is characterized in that a radiation curtain 20 of a predetermined width is formed using light in a specific wavelength range, and the radiation curtain 20 formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone, or evaporates water from the droplets or particles, and irradiates the radiation curtain 20 with interference light 18 of a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light that forms the radiation curtain 20, and the position where the interference light 18 is irradiated is set to the end of the radiation curtain 20. The present invention described in claim 25 is characterized in that, in the infection prevention device 10 described in any one of claims 1 to 3 and claims 7 to 9, the radiation curtain 20 has a curtain thickness for performing the inactivation according to the amount of ultraviolet light irradiation that the viruses in the exhaled breath receive within the time it takes them to pass through the radiation curtain 20. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, airborne pathogenic microorganisms are inactivated or killed in the air, thereby making it possible to effectively prevent infection, particularly in crowded, close-contact situations, or in closed rooms. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an infection prevention device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an infection prevention device according to another embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] A plan view and a side view of the main part of a room or area where the radiation curtain formed by the infection prevention device shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2 is partitioned by a predetermined partition. [Figure 4] 1 is a side view of a predetermined space such as a room where the radiation curtain is formed. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a predetermined space, such as a conference room, where the radiation curtain is formed. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a part of a hall equipped with a stage and seating where the radiation curtain is formed. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the playing space where the radiation curtain is formed. [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are a plan view and a side view of a main part showing a space where the radiation curtain is formed and where a plurality of seats are provided; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The infection prevention device according to the first embodiment of the present invention uses a lamp, a light-emitting diode, or a semiconductor laser as a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and forms a radiation curtain of a predetermined width in the air by the light emitted from the light source, thereby inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles, or that are airborne alone. By folding the radiation curtain with a reflector, at least two layers of radiation curtain are formed. According to this embodiment, airborne pathogenic microorganisms are inactivated or killed in the air, thereby making it possible to effectively prevent infection, particularly in crowded, close-contact situations, or in closed rooms. In addition, by using a radiation curtain with two or more layers, even if pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are not inactivated or killed by the first layer, or the moisture in the droplets or particles does not evaporate sufficiently, they can be inactivated or killed, or the moisture in the droplets or particles can be evaporated, by the second layer.

[0010] An infection prevention device according to a second embodiment of the present invention uses a lamp, light-emitting diode, or semiconductor laser as a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range. The light emitted from the light source forms a radiation screen of a predetermined width in the air, inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles, or floating alone. The device also has a detector that detects scattered light from the radiation screen, and stops emitting light from the light source when the detector detects scattered light above a predetermined value. According to this embodiment, by inactivating or killing airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, and closed rooms. Furthermore, even if the radiation screen uses a wavelength range that is undesirable for the human body, light emission can be stopped if scattered light occurs depending on the usage environment or conditions, ensuring safety.

[0011] An infection prevention device according to a third embodiment of the present invention uses a lamp, light-emitting diode, or semiconductor laser as a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range. The light emitted from the light source forms a radiation curtain of a predetermined width in the air, inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles, or floating alone. The radiation curtain is then irradiated with interference light of a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation curtain, and the position where the interference light is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation curtain. According to this embodiment, by inactivating or killing airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, and closed rooms. Furthermore, the light forming the radiation curtain can be prevented from reflecting or scattering at the end without the need for a physical damper.

[0012] The present invention Fourth The first embodiment of the present invention is to any of the third In this infection prevention device according to the embodiment, the specific wavelength range is set to a wavelength range of 190 nm to 350 nm, and the radiation curtain is formed with an average output of 20 W or less per meter of width. According to this embodiment, the radiation curtain can have little effect on the human body.

[0013] The present invention No. 5 The first embodiment of the present invention is to any of the third In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, the specific wavelength range is an infrared radiation range of 800 nm or more. According to this embodiment, droplet infection can be prevented by evaporating the water in droplets or particles, and the heat generated when the water evaporates increases the possibility of inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms.

[0014] The present invention No. 6 The first embodiment of the present invention is to any of the third In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, an ultrashort pulse laser is used as the light source, and the specific wavelength range is the visible radiation range or infrared radiation range of 400 nm or more. According to this embodiment, pathogenic microorganisms can be inactivated by the energy of photons in the ultraviolet radiation range, which is less harmful to the human body than ultraviolet radiation.

[0015] The present invention Seventh The infection prevention device according to the embodiment has a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and a beam-shaping optical element that shapes the light emitted from the light source into a radiation screen of a predetermined width, and the radiation screen formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles or that are airborne independently, or evaporates the moisture in the droplets or particles. The radiation curtain has a damper placed at the end of the curtain, and the damper is made of low-reflectivity material. According to this embodiment, airborne pathogenic microorganisms are inactivated or killed in the air, or moisture in droplets or particles is evaporated, thereby making it possible to effectively prevent infection, particularly in crowded, close-contact situations, or in closed rooms. Furthermore, the light forming the radiation screen can be prevented from being reflected or scattered at the end.

[0016] An infection prevention device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention includes a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range and a beam-shaping optical element that shapes the light emitted from the light source into a radiation screen of a predetermined width. The radiation screen formed in the air inactivates or kills airborne pathogenic microorganisms, either airborne with droplets or particles or airborne alone, or evaporates the moisture from the droplets or particles. The device also includes a detector that detects scattered light from the radiation screen, and stops emitting light from the light source when the detector detects scattered light above a predetermined level. According to this embodiment, by inactivating or killing airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air or evaporating the moisture from droplets or particles, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, or closed rooms. Furthermore, even if the radiation screen uses a wavelength range undesirable for the human body, light emission can be stopped if scattered light occurs depending on the usage environment or conditions, ensuring safety.

[0017] An infection prevention device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention includes a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range and a beam-shaping optical element that shapes the light emitted from the light source into a radiation screen of a predetermined width. The radiation screen forms in the air to inactivate or kill pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles or independently, or to evaporate the moisture from the droplets or particles. The radiation screen is then irradiated with interference light of a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation screen, and the position where the interference light is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation screen. According to this embodiment, by inactivating or killing floating pathogenic microorganisms in the air or evaporating the moisture from the droplets or particles, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, or closed rooms. Furthermore, the light forming the radiation screen can be prevented from reflecting or scattering at the end without the need for a physical damper.

[0018] The tenth embodiment of the present invention is From 7 No. 9 Either In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, the radiation curtain is formed at the entrance of a room or area. According to this embodiment, the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms through the entrance can be prevented.

[0019] The eleventh embodiment of the present invention is From 7 No. 9 Either In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, a radiation curtain is formed between people facing each other. According to this embodiment, infection by pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets can be particularly prevented.

[0020] The twelfth embodiment of the present invention is From 7 No. 9 Either In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, a radiation curtain is formed between the stage and the audience seats. According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms between the stage and the audience seats.

[0021] The thirteenth embodiment of the present invention is From 7 No. 9 EitherIn the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, the radiation curtain is formed in a cylindrical shape, and a space is formed inside the cylindrical radiation curtain. According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent pathogenic microorganisms from leaking out of the space formed inside the radiation curtain or from entering into the space formed inside the radiation curtain.

[0022] The fourteenth embodiment of the present invention is From 7 No. 9 Either In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, a radiation curtain is formed around the perimeter of the competition space. This embodiment can isolate the competition space and prevent pathogenic microorganisms from entering or leaving the competition space.

[0023] A fifteenth embodiment of the present invention is From the 7th No. 9 Either In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, the radiation curtains are formed on the sides or in front and behind the seats. According to this embodiment, the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms between seats can be prevented, and infection between seats in close proximity can be prevented.

[0024] A sixteenth embodiment of the present invention is Seventh In the infection prevention device according to any one of the embodiments from to fifteen, the light source and the beam shaping optical element are arranged above, and the radiation screen is formed by radiating light from above downward. According to this embodiment, compared to a case where the radiation screen is formed from below upward or in the horizontal direction, it is difficult to see, and therefore the impact on the human eyes can be reduced.

[0025] The seventeenth embodiment of the present invention is an infection prevention device according to any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments, in which a coherent light source, an ultraviolet laser, or a light source consisting of a laser and a wavelength conversion device is used as the light source. According to this embodiment, it is easy to form a radiation curtain with a specific wavelength range.

[0026] An eighteenth embodiment of the present invention is Seventh from No. 16In the infection prevention device according to any one of the embodiments, at least one of a beam expander that expands light, a cylindrical lens that elongates light horizontally, and a condenser lens that collimates light is used as the beam shaping optical element. According to this embodiment, by using the beam expander, the cylindrical lens, and the condenser lens, a radiation curtain of a predetermined thickness and a predetermined width can be formed.

[0027] A nineteenth embodiment of the present invention is Seventh In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, black anodized aluminum is used as the damper. According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the light forming the radiation screen from being reflected or scattered at the end.

[0028] A twentieth embodiment of the present invention is Any of 1 to 3 In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment of By providing multiple light sources, at least two layers of radiation screens are formed, According to this embodiment, by using a radiation curtain with multiple layers each having a different central wavelength, it is possible to combine, for example, a wavelength range with a high inactivation or killing effect with a wavelength range with a high moisture evaporation effect, and a high barrier effect can be expected. In addition, by using a radiation curtain with two or more layers, even if pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are not inactivated or killed by the first layer, or the moisture in the droplets or particles does not evaporate sufficiently, they can be inactivated or killed, or the moisture in the droplets or particles can be evaporated, by the second layer.

[0029] The present invention No. 21 The embodiment of the present invention is 2nd or 8th In the infection prevention device according to the embodiment, the detector is disposed on the light source side, and the detection direction of the detector is set to the direction of light emission. According to this embodiment, scattered light from the radiation screen can be effectively detected.

[0030] The present invention 22 The infection prevention method according to the embodiment of the present invention includes forming a radiation curtain of a predetermined width using light in a specific wavelength range, By folding the radiation curtain with a reflector, at least two layers of radiation curtain are formed.The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills airborne pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles, or that are airborne independently, or evaporates the moisture from the droplets or particles. According to this embodiment, by inactivating or killing airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air or evaporating the moisture from droplets or particles, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact situations, or in closed rooms. In addition, by using a radiation curtain with two or more layers, even if pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are not inactivated or killed by the first layer, or the moisture in the droplets or particles does not evaporate sufficiently, they can be inactivated or killed, or the moisture in the droplets or particles can be evaporated, by the second layer.

[0031] A 23rd embodiment of the infection prevention method of the present invention involves forming a radiation curtain of a predetermined width using light in a specific wavelength range, and using the radiation curtain formed in the air to inactivate or kill airborne pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne with droplets or particles or that are airborne alone, or to evaporate the moisture from the droplets or particles. According to this embodiment, airborne pathogenic microorganisms are inactivated or killed in the air, or the moisture from the droplets or particles is evaporated, and by stopping the light irradiation when a predetermined level or more of scattered light is detected from the radiation curtain, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, or closed rooms. Furthermore, even if the radiation curtain uses a wavelength range undesirable for the human body, light irradiation can be stopped if scattered light occurs depending on the usage environment or conditions, ensuring safety.

[0032] A 24th embodiment of the present invention provides an infection prevention method that uses light in a specific wavelength range to form a radiation curtain of a predetermined width. The radiation curtain forms in the air and inactivates or kills airborne pathogenic microorganisms, either airborne with droplets or particles or airborne alone, or evaporates the moisture from the droplets or particles. The radiation curtain is then irradiated with interference light in a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation curtain, and the position where the interference light is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation curtain. According to this embodiment, by inactivating or killing airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air or evaporating the moisture from the droplets or particles, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, or closed rooms. Furthermore, the light forming the radiation curtain can be prevented from reflecting or scattering at the end without the need for a physical damper.

[0033] The 25th embodiment of the present invention is an infection prevention device according to any one of the first to third and seventh to ninth embodiments, wherein the radiation curtain has a thickness that allows inactivation according to the amount of ultraviolet radiation that the viruses in the exhaled breath receive within the time it takes to pass through the radiation curtain. [Example]

[0034] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an infection prevention device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1(a), the infection prevention device 10 of this embodiment has a light source 11 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, a beam-shaping optical element 12 that shapes the light emitted from the light source 11 into a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width, and a damper 13 that is placed at the end of the radiation screen 20.

[0035] A coherent light source, an ultraviolet laser, or a light source consisting of a laser and a wavelength conversion device is used as the light source 11. By using such a light source 11, it is easy to form a radiation screen 20 with a specified wavelength range. Alternatively, an ultrashort pulse laser can be used as the light source 11. When an ultrashort pulse laser is used as the light source 11, its properties allow it to produce light with a high electric field intensity. It has been discovered that light with a high electric field intensity exhibits a nonlinear or multiphoton process, in which multiple photons function as if they were a single photon. This means that the energy of a 260 nm photon is equivalent to that of three 780 nm photons. Therefore, an ultrashort pulse laser with a 780 nm wavelength can impart the same absorption characteristics to molecules as a 260 nm photon with three photons. In other words, inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms using ultraviolet wavelengths can be achieved with an ultrashort pulse laser with a wavelength twice, three times, or four times the ultraviolet wavelength. Therefore, by using an ultrashort pulse laser with a visible radiation range or infrared radiation range of 400 nm or more, it is possible to inactivate pathogenic microorganisms without causing harm to the human body, unlike ultraviolet radiation. As an ultrashort pulse laser with infrared radiation in the range of 800 nm to 1 mm, wavelengths of, for example, 800 nm, 1030 nm, or 1500 nm are particularly suitable.

[0036] The specific wavelength range can be within the range of 190 nm to 350 nm. For example, when a wavelength range of 225 nm is used, the output power is 2 mW / cm 2 The bactericidal effect in 1 second is over 95%. If the droplet speed is 30cm / s to 80cm / s, the time it takes to pass through 1mm is 3.3 x 10 -3 seconds~1.25×10 -3 Therefore, if the thickness of the radiation curtain 20 is 1 mm and the width of the radiation curtain 20 is 1 m, a sufficient sterilizing power can be obtained with an average output of 6 W to 16 W. In this way, by setting the specific wavelength range to a wavelength range of 190 nm to 350 nm and forming the radiation curtain 20 with an average output of 20 W or less per meter of width, it is possible to create a radiation curtain 20 that has little effect on the human body. When using a wavelength range of 190 nm to 350 nm, it is effective to set the center wavelength to 215 nm or 266 nm. In particular, setting the center wavelength to 215 nm is highly safe as it does not cause acute damage to the skin. The specific wavelength range may be ultraviolet radiation of 350 nm to 400 nm or infrared radiation of 800 nm to 1 mm, particularly 1.5 μm to 2.0 μm. When infrared radiation is used, droplet infection can be prevented by evaporating the water in droplets or particles, and the heat generated when the water evaporates can be expected to inactivate or kill pathogenic microorganisms. At least one of a beam expander that expands light, a cylindrical lens that elongates light horizontally, and a condenser lens that collimates light is used as the beam shaping optical element 12. By using a combination of a beam expander, a cylindrical lens, and a condenser lens in this way, a radiation screen 20 with a predetermined thickness and width can be formed. A low-reflectivity material, such as black anodized aluminum, is used for the damper 13. By using the damper 13 in this way, it is possible to prevent the light forming the radiation screen 20 from being reflected or scattered at the end.

[0037] The infection prevention device 10 according to this embodiment inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, by forming a radiation curtain 20 in the air. Pathogenic microorganisms are classified into bacteria, rickettsia, viruses, etc., and also include fungi, protozoa, parasites, and poisonous organisms. In this way, by inactivating or killing airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air, infection can be effectively prevented, particularly in crowded, close-contact, and closed rooms.

[0038] FIG. 1(b) shows the infection prevention device of this embodiment when used in a vertical format, and FIG. 1(c) shows the infection prevention device of this embodiment when used in a horizontal format. The arrows in the figure indicate the direction of radiation of the light that forms the radiation screen 20. As shown in FIG. 1(b), when the light source 11 and the beam-shaping optical element 12 are arranged above and the radiation screen 20 is formed by radiating light from above downward, it is difficult to see compared to when the radiation screen 20 is formed from below upward or when it is formed in the horizontal direction, and therefore the impact on the human eye can be reduced.

[0039] Although FIG. 1(c) shows a case where the surface of the radiation screen 20 is a vertical surface, the surface of the radiation screen 20 may be a horizontal surface, or may be inclined at a predetermined angle from the horizontal surface. 1, the radiation screen 20 is formed by the light emitted from the light source 11, and is formed without using reflected light, but at least a portion of the reflected light may be superimposed on the position where the radiation screen 20 is formed, or a reflecting member may be disposed instead of the damper 13. However, when a reflecting member is used instead of the damper 13, it is preferable to form the radiation screen 20 without diffusing the light reflected by the reflecting member. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a low-reflectivity material is used as the damper 13, but the damper 13 may also be made of a light absorbing material, a wavelength changing material, or a structural member that does not emit incident light.

[0040] 1(d) and 1(e) are cross-sectional views taken along line XX shown in FIGS. 1(b) and 1(c), and show the cross-sectional shape of the radiation curtain 20. FIG. 1(d) and 1(e), the radiation screen 20 is formed by unidirectional radiation light, and the width dimension of the radiation screen 20 is at least longer than the thickness of the radiation screen 20. In this embodiment, the unidirectional radiation light that forms the radiation screen 20 is parallel light.

[0041] Figure 2 is a structural diagram showing an infection prevention device according to another embodiment of the present invention, where Figure 2(a) is a conceptual side view of the infection prevention device, and Figures 2(b) and 2(c) are conceptual YY cross-sectional views of Figure 2(a). As shown in Figure 2(a), the infection prevention device 10 of this embodiment uses a lamp, light-emitting diode, or semiconductor laser as a light source 14 that emits light in a specific wavelength range, and forms a radiation screen 20 of a predetermined width in the air using the light emitted from the light source 14, thereby inactivating or killing pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne with droplets or particles, or that are airborne alone. In FIG. 2(a), four light sources 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d are provided as the light source 14. The light source 14a forms a radiation screen 20a, the light source 14b forms a radiation screen 20b, the light source 14c forms a radiation screen 20c, and the light source 14d forms a radiation screen 20d. Each of the radiation curtains 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d may be a radiation curtain 20 that expands in a conical shape as shown in Fig. 2(b), or a radiation curtain 20 that expands in a rectangular shape as shown in Fig. 2(c). The radiation curtain 20 that expands in a conical shape as shown in Fig. 2(b) or the radiation curtain 20 that expands in a rectangular shape as shown in Fig. 2(c) has a constant thickness in the thickness direction and expands only in the width direction. The radiation screens 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d according to this embodiment are formed by unidirectional radiation light, and have a width dimension that is at least longer than the thickness of the radiation screen 20. In this embodiment, the unidirectional radiation light that forms the radiation screen 20 is not parallel but is light that expands radially.

[0042] In this embodiment, the light sources 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d are arranged so that the multiple radiation curtains 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d at least partially overlap in the width direction of the radiation curtain 20. In this way, a high barrier effect can be expected by arranging the multiple light sources 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d and by making the multiple radiation curtains 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d at least partially overlap in the width direction of the radiation curtain 20. In particular, by overlapping the radiation curtains 20, which are radially expanded rather than parallel light, in the width direction, light can be irradiated from different directions against pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles, or floating alone in the air, and therefore an even higher barrier effect can be expected. The infection prevention device 10 according to this embodiment has a high barrier effect in the center compared to the periphery, and is therefore effective when used between the stage 61 (see FIG. 6) and the audience seats 62 (see FIG. 6). Furthermore, the infection prevention device 10 according to this embodiment has a detector 15 that detects scattered light from the radiation screen 20. The detector 15 is disposed on the side of the light source 14, and the detection direction of the detector 15 is the radiation direction of light from the light source 14. By setting the detection direction of the detector 15 to the radiation direction of light, scattered light from the radiation screen 20 can be detected effectively.

[0043] Detector 15a mainly detects the scattered light from radiation screen 20a caused by light source 14a, detector 15b mainly detects the scattered light from radiation screen 20b caused by light source 14b, detector 15c mainly detects the scattered light from radiation screen 20c caused by light source 14c, and detector 15d mainly detects the scattered light from radiation screen 20d caused by light source 14d. When the detector 15 detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, it stops emitting light from the light source 14. Therefore, even if the radiation screen 20 has a wavelength range that is undesirable for the human body, safety can be ensured because light emission can be stopped if scattered light occurs due to the usage environment or conditions.

[0044] In this embodiment, since multiple light sources 14 are provided, when detector 15a detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, light irradiation from light source 14a is stopped, when detector 15b detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, light irradiation from light source 14b is stopped, when detector 15c detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, light irradiation from light source 14c is stopped, and when detector 15d detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, light irradiation from light source 14d is stopped. In this way, by stopping the light irradiation for each light source 14, safety from scattered light can be ensured, and the barrier function of the light source 14 that is not generating scattered light can be maintained.

[0045] Such a radiation curtain 20 can also inactivate or kill airborne pathogenic microorganisms in the air, effectively preventing infection, particularly in crowded, close-contact situations, or closed rooms. In the case of the radiating curtain 20 that expands radially as in this embodiment, it is particularly effective to provide the damper 13. In this embodiment, the radiation screen 20 is also formed by the light emitted from the light source 14, and is formed without using reflected light, but at least a portion of the reflected light may be superimposed on the position where the radiation screen 20 is formed, or a reflective member may be placed instead of the damper 13. Furthermore, as the damper 13, in addition to a low-reflectivity material, a light absorbing material, a wavelength changing material, or a structural material that does not emit incident light can also be used.

[0046] Figures 3 to 7 are conceptual diagrams showing the positions at which the radiation curtain is formed by the infection prevention device shown in Figure 1 or 2. Note that a description of the damper 13 and other components will be omitted.

[0047] FIG. 3(a) is a plan view of a room or area separated by a predetermined partition, and FIG. 3(b) and FIG. 3(c) are side views taken along the line ZZ in FIG. 3(a). In FIG. 3( a ), a radiation curtain 20 is formed at an entrance 33 between one room (area) 31 and another room (area) 32 adjacent to the room (area) 31 , and at an entrance 34 of the room 32 .

[0048] As shown in FIG. 3(b), the infection prevention device 10 is placed above, and light is emitted from above downward, forming a radiation screen 20. The infection prevention device 10 according to this embodiment has a detector 15 that detects scattered light from the radiation screen 20. The detector 15 is disposed on the light source 11 side, and the detection direction of the detector 15 is the radiation direction of light from the light source 11. By setting the detection direction of the detector 15 to the radiation direction of light, scattered light from the radiation screen 20 can be detected effectively. When the detector 15 detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, it stops emitting light from the light source 11. Therefore, even if the radiation screen 20 has a wavelength range that is undesirable for the human body, safety can be ensured because light emission can be stopped if scattered light occurs due to the usage environment or conditions. A damper 13 is disposed at the end of the radiation curtain 20, i.e., below the infection prevention device 10. By disposing the damper 13, it is possible to prevent the light forming the radiation screen 20 from being reflected or scattered at the end. As the damper 13, in addition to a low-reflectivity material, a light absorbing material, a wavelength changing material, or a structural material that does not emit incident light can also be used.

[0049] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3(c), a reflector 16 may be placed below the infection prevention device 10, and the radiation curtain 20 may be folded back at the reflector 16, thereby forming at least two layers of radiation curtains 20x and 20y. In this way, by making the radiation curtain 20 have two or more layers, even if pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are not inactivated or killed by the first layer of radiation curtain 20x, or the moisture in the droplets or particles does not evaporate sufficiently, they can be inactivated or killed by the second layer of radiation curtain 20y, or the moisture in the droplets or particles can be evaporated. Furthermore, when the radiation curtain 20 has two or more layers, it is preferable that the first layer radiation curtain 20x and the second layer radiation curtain 20y are not parallel to each other. By not parallelizing the first layer radiation curtain 20x and the second layer radiation curtain 20y, a higher barrier effect can be expected compared to when the first layer radiation curtain 20x and the second layer radiation curtain 20y are formed parallel to each other.

[0050] According to this embodiment, the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms through the entrances 33 and 34 can be prevented. Specifically, it is effective to form the radiation curtain 20 at the entrances to hospital rooms, entrances to hospital wards, entrances between stairs or elevators and entrance halls, and entrances to food factories and plant factories. It is also effective to form the radiation curtain 20 not only at the entrances 33 and 34 but also at the boundary between the infected area and the non-infected area. Furthermore, by forming the radiation curtain 20 along the line on or beside the line in a food factory or the like, it is possible to disinfect or sterilize the food on the line.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a side view of a predetermined space such as a room. In FIG. 4, a radiation curtain 20 is formed in a predetermined space 40 between two people 41 and 42 facing each other. Specifically, the predetermined space 40 can be used in a press conference room, a classroom, a conference room, or a dining room. In a press conference room, the radiation curtain 20 is formed between the interviewer and the reporters, and in a classroom, it is formed between the teacher and the students.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 4, the infection prevention device 10 is placed above, and light is emitted from above downwards to form a radiation screen 20. The infection prevention device 10 according to this embodiment has a detector 15 that detects scattered light from the radiation screen 20. The detector 15 is disposed on the light source 11 side, and the detection direction of the detector 15 is the radiation direction of light from the light source 11. By setting the detection direction of the detector 15 to the radiation direction of light, scattered light from the radiation screen 20 can be detected effectively. When the detector 15 detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, it stops emitting light from the light source 11. Therefore, even if the radiation screen 20 has a wavelength range that is undesirable for the human body, safety can be ensured because light emission can be stopped if scattered light occurs due to the usage environment or conditions. A damper 13 is disposed at the end of the radiation curtain 20, i.e., below the infection prevention device 10. By disposing the damper 13, it is possible to prevent the light forming the radiation screen 20 from being reflected or scattered at the end. As the damper 13, in addition to a low-reflectivity material, a light absorbing material, a wavelength changing material, or a structural material that does not emit incident light can also be used.

[0053] The infection prevention device 10 of this embodiment is provided with multiple light sources 11e, 11f, thereby forming at least two layers of radiation curtains 20e, 20f. In this way, by forming the radiation curtain 20 with two or more layers, even if pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles or floating alone in the air are not inactivated or killed by the first layer of radiation curtain 20e, or the moisture in the droplets or particles does not evaporate sufficiently, the second layer of radiation curtain 20f can inactivate or kill them, or evaporate the moisture in the droplets or particles. It is also effective to differentiate the central wavelengths of the light sources 11e, 11f when forming the multi-layer radiation screen 20 in this manner. By using multi-layer radiation screens 20e, 20f with different central wavelengths, it is possible to combine, for example, a wavelength range with a high inactivation or killing effect with a wavelength range with a high moisture evaporation effect, and a high barrier effect can be expected. According to this embodiment, infection by pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets can be particularly prevented.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a predetermined space such as a conference room. In FIG. 5, in a conference room 50, a radiation curtain 20 is formed above a table 51 between people 41 and 42 facing each other.

[0055] In FIG. 5, the light source 11 forming the radiation screen 20 is arranged above, but the light source 11 may be placed on a table 51 so that light is emitted from below upward. As shown in FIG. 5, when used on a table 51, it is particularly preferable to provide a detector 15 for detecting scattered light from the radiation screen 20. When the detector 15 detects scattered light of a predetermined value or more, it stops emitting light from the light source 11. Therefore, even if the radiation screen 20 is in a wavelength range undesirable for the human body, if scattered light of a predetermined value or more is detected depending on the usage environment, the infection prevention device 10 of this embodiment cannot be used, but if scattered light of a predetermined value or more is not detected depending on the usage environment, the infection prevention device 10 of this embodiment can be used. Furthermore, even if the infection prevention device 10 can be used depending on the usage environment, if scattered light occurs depending on the usage situation, the light irradiation can be stopped, so safety can be ensured even during use. Although FIG. 5 shows a conference room 50, it is also effective to form a radiation curtain 20 between people 41 and 42 facing each other in a bar, restaurant, cafe, etc. According to this embodiment, infection by pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets can be particularly prevented.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a part of a hall equipped with a stage and seating. As shown in FIG. 6, by forming a radiation curtain 20 between a stage 61 and an audience seat 62, the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms between the stage 61 and the audience seat 62 can be prevented. 6 shows a case where radiation curtains 20A and 20B are installed between a stage 61 and audience seats 62. Here, radiation curtains 20A are the infection prevention device 10 shown in FIG. 1, and radiation curtains 20B are the infection prevention device 10 shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, the radiation screen 20 (20C) is formed in a cylindrical shape, and a space is formed inside the radiation screen 20C which is formed in a cylindrical shape. The radiation curtain 20C can prevent pathogenic microorganisms from leaking out of the space formed inside the radiation curtain 20C or from entering into the space formed inside the radiation curtain 20C.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the competition space. As shown in Figure 7, by forming a radiation curtain 20 around the periphery of the competition space 70, the competition space 70 can be isolated from the spectator seats 71, preventing pathogenic microorganisms from entering the competition space 70 or leaking out of the competition space 70. Furthermore, for example, when multiple competition spaces 70 are set up adjacent to each other, forming a radiation curtain 20 for each competition space 70 can prevent the inflow and outflow of pathogenic microorganisms between the competition spaces 70.

[0058] FIG. 8(a) is a plan view showing a space equipped with a plurality of seats. As shown in Figure 8(a), by forming a radiation curtain 20 on the side or in front or behind the seats 80, the transfer of pathogenic microorganisms between seats 80 can be prevented, and infection between seats 80 in close proximity can be prevented. The light sources 11 for forming the radiation curtain 20 are preferably arranged on the floor. The light sources 11 arranged on the sides or in front and behind the seats 80 are preferably supplied with light from optical fibers 17.

[0059] FIG. 8(b) is a schematic side view of a part of FIG. 8(a). 8(b), the radiation screen 20 is irradiated with interference light 18 in a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation screen 20, and the position W where the interference light 18 is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation screen 20. The interference light 18 is formed into a curtain shape by an interference light source 19 and is irradiated. In this way, by irradiating the radiation screen 20 with interference light 18 of a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation screen 20 and changing the wavelength of the radiation screen 20, even if the radiation screen 20 has a wavelength range that is undesirable for the human body, it is possible to prevent the light forming the radiation screen 20 from being reflected or scattered at the end without providing a physical damper 13. Specifically, it can be formed between seats 80 in movie theaters, concert halls, bullet trains, and other vehicles.

[0060] In this way, a radiation curtain 20 of a predetermined width is formed using light in a specific wavelength range, and pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, are inactivated or killed by the radiation curtain 20 formed in the air, thereby effectively preventing infection, particularly in crowded, close-contact, and closed rooms. [Industrial Applicability]

[0061] The present invention can be used by being installed in a predetermined space, but can also be used by being attached to a hat, clothing, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 10 Infection prevention equipment 11, 11e, 11f light source 12 Beam shaping optical elements 13 Damper 14, 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d light source 15, 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d detectors 16 Reflector 17 Optical Fiber 18 Interference light 19 Interference light source 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, 20f, 20x, 20y, 20A, 20B, 20C radiation curtain Rooms 31 and 32 (areas) Entrances 33 and 34 40 Predetermined space 41, 42 people 50 conference rooms 51 Table 61 Stages 62, 71 seats 70 Competition Space 80 seats W position

Claims

1. A lamp, a light-emitting diode, or a semiconductor laser is used as a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range, By forming a radiation curtain of a predetermined width in the air by the light emitted from the light source, pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are inactivated or killed, The radiation curtain is folded back by a reflector to form at least two layers of the radiation curtain. An infection prevention device characterized by:

2. A lamp, a light-emitting diode, or a semiconductor laser is used as a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range, By forming a radiation curtain of a predetermined width in the air by the light emitted from the light source, pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are inactivated or killed, a detector for detecting scattered light from the radiation curtain; When the detector detects the scattered light having a predetermined value or more, the light source stops emitting the light. An infection prevention device characterized by:

3. A lamp, a light-emitting diode, or a semiconductor laser is used as a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range, By forming a radiation curtain of a predetermined width in the air by the light emitted from the light source, pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles or floating in the air alone are inactivated or killed, Irradiating the radiation screen with interference light having a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation screen, The position where the interference light is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation curtain. An infection prevention device characterized by:

4. The specific wavelength range is a wavelength range of 190 nm to 350 nm, The radiation curtain is formed with an average output of 20 W or less per meter of width. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The specific wavelength range is an infrared radiation range of 800 nm or more. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. An ultrashort pulse laser is used as the light source, and the specific wavelength range is a visible radiation range or an infrared radiation range of 400 nm or more. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. a light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range; a beam shaping optical element that shapes the light emitted from the light source into a radiation screen with a predetermined width; and The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles, a damper disposed at an end of the radiation curtain; The damper is made of a low-reflectivity material. An infection prevention device characterized by:

8. A light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range; a beam shaping optical element that shapes the light emitted from the light source into a radiation screen with a predetermined width; and The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles, a detector for detecting scattered light from the radiation curtain; When the detector detects the scattered light having a predetermined value or more, the light source stops emitting the light. An infection prevention device characterized by:

9. A light source that emits light in a specific wavelength range; a beam shaping optical element that shapes the light emitted from the light source into a radiation screen with a predetermined width; and The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles, Irradiating the radiation screen with interference light having a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation screen, The position where the interference light is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation curtain. An infection prevention device characterized by:

10. The radiation curtain is formed at the entrance of a room or area. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

11. The radiation curtain is formed between people facing each other. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

12. The radiation curtain is formed between the stage and the audience seats. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

13. The radiation curtain is formed into a cylindrical shape, A space is formed inside the cylindrical radiation curtain. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

14. The radiation curtain is formed around the periphery of the playing space. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

15. The radiation screen is formed on the side or in front or behind the seat. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

16. the light source and the beam shaping optical element are disposed above; The radiation curtain is formed by radiating the light from above downward.

16. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 15.

17. The light source used is a coherent light source, an ultraviolet laser, or a light source consisting of a laser and a wavelength conversion device.

17. An infection prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The beam shaping optical element is at least one of a beam expander that widens the light, a cylindrical lens that elongates the light horizontally, and a condenser lens that converts the light into parallel light.

17. An infection prevention device according to any one of claims 7 to 16.

19. The damper is made of black anodized aluminum.

8. The infection prevention device according to claim 7.

20. By providing a plurality of the light sources, at least two layers of the radiation curtain are formed, The central wavelengths of the light sources are different from each other. The infection prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

21. The detector is disposed on the light source side, The detection direction of the detector is set to the radiation direction of the light. The infection prevention device according to claim 2 or 8.

22. A radiation curtain of a predetermined width is formed by light of a specific wavelength range, The radiation curtain is folded back by a reflector to form at least two layers of the radiation curtain; The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms that are airborne together with droplets or particles, or that are airborne independently, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles. An infection prevention method characterized by:

23. A radiation curtain of a predetermined width is formed by light of a specific wavelength range, The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles, When scattered light of a predetermined value or more is detected from the radiation curtain, the irradiation of the light is stopped. An infection prevention method characterized by:

24. A radiation curtain of a predetermined width is formed by light of a specific wavelength range, The radiation curtain formed in the air inactivates or kills pathogenic microorganisms floating in the air together with droplets or particles, or floating in the air alone, or evaporates the moisture of the droplets or particles, Irradiating the radiation screen with interference light having a wavelength range different from the specific wavelength range of the light forming the radiation screen, The position where the interference light is irradiated is set as the end of the radiation curtain. An infection prevention method characterized by:

25. An infection prevention device described in any one of claims 1 to 3 and claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the radiation curtain has a curtain thickness that enables the inactivation to be carried out according to the amount of ultraviolet radiation that the viruses in the exhaled breath receive within the time it takes them to pass through the radiation curtain.

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