Disinfecting galley carts for the interior cabin of the transport

Abstract

To provide sanitizing systems that may be used to sanitize structures and areas within vehicles, such as commercial aircraft.SOLUTION: A galley cart is for use within an internal cabin of a vehicle. The galley cart is configured to be stored within a cart compartment within a galley of the internal cabin. The galley cart includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources 260 configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the internal cabin to sanitize the one or more surfaces.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to disinfection systems that may be used to disinfect structures and areas within a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between various locations. For example, systems are currently under development for sterilizing or otherwise disinfecting surfaces inside aircraft using ultraviolet (UV) light. However, many known UV light disinfection systems are typically large and bulky, often requiring fixed, stationary infrastructure. Summary of the Invention

[0003] What is needed is a system and method for efficiently disinfecting surfaces within the interior cabin of a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft.

[0004] With this need in mind, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a galley cart for use within an interior cabin of a vehicle. The galley cart is configured to be stored within a cart compartment within a galley of the interior cabin. The galley cart includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the interior cabin to disinfect the one or more surfaces.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, the galley cart includes a base, wheels extending downwardly from the base, end walls extending upwardly from the base, side walls extending upwardly from the base, and a top wall connected to the end walls and side walls and facing the base, wherein an interior chamber is defined between the base, end walls, side walls, and top wall.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, one or more UV light sources are within the interior chamber. Further, one or more of the base, end walls, side walls, and top panel may include one or more transparent portions that allow UV light emitted by the one or more UV light sources to pass therethrough.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the galley cart further includes a mount coupled to the one or more UV light sources and an actuator operably coupled to the mount, the actuator configured to move the one or more UV light sources between a stowed position within the interior chamber and an extended position outside the interior chamber.

[0008] In another embodiment, the one or more UV light sources are secured to one or more exterior surfaces of one or more of the base, end walls, side walls, or top wall.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the galley cart is not configured to contain consumables.

[0010] The galley cart may include a power source configured to provide power to the one or more UV light sources. The power source may include one or more batteries. The one or more batteries may be automatically recharged when the galley cart is stored in the cart compartment.

[0011] The galley cart may include a controller configured to control the operation of the one or more UV light sources.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the galley cart includes a first compartment containing one or more UV light sources and a second compartment configured to contain consumables.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, a galley insert is removably contained within the insert compartment. The galley insert includes at least one UV light source.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, the one or more UV light sources are configured to emit UV light at a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0015] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for disinfecting surfaces of components within an interior cabin of a vehicle. The method includes providing one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources to a galley cart configured to be stored within a cart compartment within a galley of the interior cabin. In at least one embodiment, the method also includes emitting UV light from the one or more UV light sources onto the surfaces of the components.

[0016] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a transport including an interior cabin, a galley within the interior cabin, a cart compartment within the galley, and a galley cart configured to be stored within the cart compartment and removed from the cart compartment, wherein the galley cart includes one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the interior cabin to disinfect the one or more surfaces. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of an interior cabin of an aircraft, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of an interior cabin of an aircraft, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an interior perspective view of an interior cabin of an aircraft, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a side view of a galley cart according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front view of the galley cart of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an internal view of the galley cart taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a galley within the interior cabin according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a side view of a galley cart according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view of the galley cart of FIG. 8. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is an internal view of the galley cart taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a front view of a galley cart according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a side view of the galley cart of FIG. 11. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a front view of a galley cart according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a side view of a galley cart according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a front view of the galley cart of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a galley insert for an insert compartment in a galley according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] The ultraviolet spectrum is shown. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a perspective end view of a UV light source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a perspective end view of a UV light source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a perspective end view of a UV light source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of specific embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As used herein, the singular and the preceding words "a" or "an" should be understood to refer to an element or step that does not necessarily exclude a plurality of such elements or steps. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate features described herein. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" one or more elements having certain conditions may include additional elements that do not have those conditions.

[0019] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide disinfection systems and methods that include ultraviolet (UV) lamps (e.g., excimer lamps) that emit UV light in the far-ultraviolet spectrum, such as at a wavelength of 222 nm, which neutralize (e.g., kill) pathogens (e.g., viruses and bacteria) while posing no risk to humans. The UV lamps may be used within interior cabins to purify and kill pathogens. The UV lamps may be coupled to galley carts configured for use within vehicles such as commercial aircraft.

[0020] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a galley cart configured for use within an interior cabin of a vehicle, the galley cart including one or more UV light sources configured to emit UV light onto surfaces of components within the interior cabin to disinfect the surfaces.

[0021] By utilizing the frame of an existing galley cart to include a UV light system, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable disinfection system that can be stored on board a vehicle (e.g., a commercial aircraft) and moved through the interior cabin, such as between flights, during maintenance, and / or when the vehicle is in storage. The galley carts can be half carts, full carts, etc. Because the galley carts are already sized and shaped to be used and stored within the interior cabin, they are easily used with existing vehicles, such as commercial aircraft. That is, there may be no need to provide separate and / or customized storage for the galley carts.

[0022] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a galley cart for use within the interior cabin of a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft. The galley cart includes one or more UV light sources, a power source (e.g., one or more batteries), a controller, and at least one transparent wall. In at least one embodiment, UV light from the UV light source is emitted from all sides. In at least one embodiment, the galley cart has a first compartment for UV light disinfection and a second compartment for storing food, snacks, and / or beverages. In at least one embodiment, the galley cart has a separate, removable, built-in UV light source.

[0023] The galley cart is configured to be stored in a standard galley cart stowage bay within an aircraft, and once stored, the galley cart may be automatically charged.

[0024] The galley cart may include an extension arm that allows the UV light source to extend beyond the interior of the galley cart. The extension arm may include a UV light emitting bulb that allows light to be emitted in all directions.

[0025] The galley carts can be stowed like any other galley cart. Attendants can move the carts to areas that need disinfection. In at least one embodiment, the UV light source emits UV light at a wavelength of 222 nm, which is safe for use around humans and therefore can operate in the presence of people.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, the built-in UV light source may be contained within a galley insert, such as a container that locks into a specific location in the galley within the interior cabin. The sides of the insert may be transparent to allow UV light to diffuse from the container. The battery may be charged while the insert is located in the cart compartment. Such charging may be accomplished via a blind-mate power connect that is attached when the galley insert is pushed in and disconnected when the insert is removed. The galley insert may be removed from the cart compartment and placed where UV light disinfection is required.

[0027] As described herein, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for disinfecting surfaces of components within an interior cabin of a vehicle. The method includes providing one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources to a galley cart configured to be stored within a cart compartment within a galley of the interior cabin. The method further includes emitting UV light from the UV light sources onto the surfaces.

[0028] 1 is a front perspective view of an aircraft 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 10 includes a propulsion system 12 including, for example, engines 14. Optionally, the propulsion system 12 may include more engines 14 than those shown. The engines 14 are carried by wings 16 of the aircraft 10. In other embodiments, the engines 14 may be carried by a fuselage 18 and / or a tail 20. The tail 20 may also support horizontal stabilizers 22 and vertical stabilizers 24.

[0029] The fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 defines an interior cabin 30, which may include a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work areas (e.g., galley, crew baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and coach areas), one or more lavatories, etc. The interior cabin 30 may include one or more lavatory systems, lavatory units, or lavatories, as described herein.

[0030] Alternatively, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in various other vehicles instead of aircraft, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and trains, ships, spacecraft, etc. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used on fixed structures such as commercial and residential buildings.

[0031] FIG. 2A is a top view of an interior cabin 30 of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 30 may be within a fuselage 32 of an aircraft, such as the fuselage 18 of FIG. 1 . For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior cabin 30. The interior cabin 30 includes multiple zones, including a forward zone 33, a first class zone 34, a business class zone 36, a forward galley 38, an extended economy or coach zone 40, a standard coach economy zone 42, and an aft zone 44, which may include multiple lavatories and galleys. It should be understood that the interior cabin 30 may include more or fewer zones than those shown. For example, the interior cabin 30 may not include a first class zone or may include more or fewer galleys than those shown. Each zone may be separated by a cabin transition area 46, which may include a class divider assembly between aisles 48.

[0032] 2A, the interior cabin 30 includes two passageways 50 and 52 that lead to the aft section 44. Optionally, the interior cabin 30 may have fewer or more passageways than shown. For example, the interior cabin 30 may include a single passageway extending through the center of the interior cabin 30 that leads to the aft section 44.

[0033] The passageways 48, 50, and 52 extend into an exit path or doorway 60. An exit door 62 is located at the end of the exit path 60. The exit path 60 may be perpendicular to the passageways 48, 50, and 52. The interior cabin 30 may include more exit paths 60 than those shown in various locations. As described herein, the toilet system may be located at or near the intersection of the passageways 48, 50, 52 and the exit path 60.

[0034] 2B is a top view of an interior cabin 80 of an aircraft, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 80 is an example of the interior cabin 30 shown in FIG. 2A. The interior cabin 80 may be within a fuselage 81 of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the interior cabin 80. The interior cabin 80 includes multiple sections, including a main cabin 82 having passenger seats 83 and an aft section 85 behind the main cabin 82. It should be understood that the interior cabin 80 may include more or fewer sections than those shown.

[0035] The interior cabin 80 may include a single passageway 84 that leads to the aft section 85. The single passageway 84 may extend through the center of the interior cabin 80 that leads to the aft section 85. For example, the single passageway 84 may be aligned to be coaxial with a central longitudinal section of the interior cabin 80.

[0036] The passageway 84 extends to an exit path or doorway 90. An exit door 92 is located at the end of the exit path 90. The exit path 90 may be perpendicular to the passageway 84. The interior cabin 80 may include more exit paths than those shown. As described herein, the toilet system may be located at or near the intersection of the passageway 84 and one or more exit paths 90.

[0037] FIG. 3 is an interior perspective view of an aircraft interior cabin 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Interior cabin 100 is an example of interior cabin 30 shown in FIG. 2A . Interior cabin 100 includes an outboard wall 102 connected to a ceiling 104. Windows 106 may be formed within outboard wall 102. A floor 108 supports a row of seats 110. As shown in FIG. 3 , row 112 may include two seats 110 on either side of aisle 113. However, row 112 may include more or fewer seats 110 than shown. Additionally, interior cabin 100 may include more aisles than shown.

[0038] On either side of the aisle 113, passenger service units (PSUs) 114 are fixed between the outboard wall 102 and the ceiling 104. The PSUs 114 extend between the forward and aft ends of the interior cabin 100. For example, the PSUs 114 may be positioned above each seat 110 in the row 112. Each PSU 114 may generally include a housing 116 above each seat 110 (or group of seats) in the row 112 that contains air vents, reading lights, an oxygen bag lowering panel, a crew call button, and other such controls.

[0039] The overhead bin assemblies 118 are secured to the ceiling 104 and / or outboard wall 102 above and inboard from the PSUs 114 on either side of the aisle 113. The overhead bin assemblies 118 are secured above the seats 110. The overhead bin assemblies 118 extend between the forward and aft ends of the interior cabin 100. Each bin assembly 118 may include a pivoting bin or bucket 120 pivotally secured to a strongback (not visible in FIG. 3 ). The overhead bin assemblies 118 may be positioned above and inboard of the underside of the PSUs 114. The overhead bin assemblies 118 are configured to pivot open, for example, to accommodate passenger carry-on baggage or personal belongings.

[0040] As used herein, the term "outboard" means a location further away from the central longitudinal plane 122 of the interior cabin 100 than another component. The term "inboard" means a location closer to the central longitudinal plane 122 of the interior cabin 100 than another component. For example, the underside of the PSU 114 may be outboard relative to the storage bin assembly 118.

[0041] 1-3, the galley carts are stored in cart compartments within a galley, such as galley 38. The galley carts are sized and shaped to be stored within the cart compartments, removed therefrom, and moved into an aisle of the interior cabin, such as aisle 113. As described herein, at least one of the galley carts includes one or more UV light sources configured to emit UV light that sanitizes surfaces of components within the interior cabin (e.g., seats, monuments, bins, PSUs, floors, ceilings, etc.).

[0042] 4 is a side view of a galley cart 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The galley cart 200 includes a base 202, an end wall 204 extending upward from the base 202, a side wall 206 extending upward from the base 202, and a counter or top wall 208 connected to the end wall 204 and the side wall 206 and facing the base 202. An interior chamber 210 is defined between the base 202, the end wall 204, the side wall 206, and the top wall 208. Wheels 212 extend downward from the base 202. For example, the galley cart 200 includes four wheels 212 located proximate the four corners of the base 202. The wheels 212 are configured to be supported on the floor of the interior cabin, allowing the galley cart 200 to be rolled to various locations within the interior cabin.

[0043] Figure 5 is a front view of the galley cart 200 of Figure 4. The front end wall 204 of the galley cart 200 includes a main door 214 configured to be selectively opened and closed. The main door 214 includes a latch handle 216 adjacent to the first side wall 204 and is pivotally connected to a hinge 218 adjacent to the second side wall 204 opposite the first side wall 204. The main door 214 is configured to be pivotally opened and closed about the hinge 218. The galley cart 200 may also include a handle 220 extending from a top portion, such as one or both ends.

[0044] Figure 6 is an interior view of galley cart 200 through line 6-6 of Figure 5. Interior chamber 210 of galley cart 200 is typically configured to contain consumable items such as beverages 222 (e.g., soft drinks, canned beer, bottled liquor, etc.), bottled water 224, ice 226, coffee ingredients 228, prepared meals 230, snacks 232, etc. Additionally, a work surface 234, such as a counter or shelf, may extend into and / or from interior chamber 210 adjacent top wall 208.

[0045] 4-6, galley cart 200 is sized and shaped to be contained or otherwise stored within a cart compartment within the interior cabin of a vehicle. Galley cart 200 is further sized and shaped to move into and through aisles of the interior cabin, such as aisle 113 shown in FIG. 3 between rows of seats. Galley cart 200 may be a full-size cart, a half-size cart, etc. As described herein, galley cart 200 includes one or more UV light sources configured to emit UV light to sterilize components within the interior cabin.

[0046] 7 is a perspective view of a galley 240 within an interior cabin 242, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The galley 240 includes one or more cart compartments 244. The cart compartments 244 are configured to receive and hold the galley carts 200. For example, the galley carts 200 are configured to be moved in and out of the cart compartments 244 in the direction of arrow A.

[0047] 8 is a side view of a galley cart 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. One or both of the side walls 206 include a transparent portion 250, such as a panel, an entire wall, or a section thereof. For example, the transparent portion 250 can be or can include a glass panel or a Plexiglas panel that forms the side wall 206 or a portion thereof. The transparent portion 250 allows UV light emitted from a UV light source inside the galley cart 200 to pass therethrough. Optionally, instead of the transparent portion 250, the side wall 206 can include an outer frame with an open space therebetween.

[0048] Figure 9 is a front view of the galley cart 200 of Figure 8. One or both of the end walls 204 include a transparent portion 252, such as a panel, an entire wall, or a section thereof. For example, the transparent portion 252 can be or can include a glass panel or a Plexiglas panel that forms the end wall 204 or a portion thereof. The transparent portion 250 allows UV light emitted by a UV light source inside the galley cart 200 to pass therethrough. Optionally, instead of the transparent portion 250, the end wall 204 can include an outer frame with an open space therebetween.

[0049] 10 is an interior view of the galley cart 200 taken through line 10-10 in FIG. 5. As shown, one or more UV light sources 260 are secured within the interior chamber 210. In at least one embodiment, the galley cart 200 does not include consumables. Instead, the galley cart 200 includes the UV light source 260 and associated components, such as a power source 262 coupled to the UV light source 260, and a controller 264 (e.g., one or more processors configured to control the operation of the UV light source 260) coupled to the UV light source 260. Because the UV light source 260 is contained within the interior chamber 210, the UV light source 260 is protected from being touched, bumped, inadvertently blocked, damaged, etc., from outside the galley cart 200.

[0050] 8-10 , the UV light source 260 is configured to emit UV light through the transparent portions 250 and 252 to disinfect surfaces of components within the interior cabin. The interior chamber 210 includes the UV light source 260, which emits UV light in a forward direction 266, a rearward direction 268, a first lateral direction 270, and a second lateral direction 272 opposite the first lateral direction. That is, the UV light source 260 is configured to emit UV light around the galley cart 200 from inside the interior chamber 210. Optionally, the galley cart 200 may include a UV light source 260 that emits UV light in fewer directions than all of the forward direction 266, the rearward direction 268, the first lateral direction 270, and the second lateral direction 272.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the galley cart 200 includes one or more UV light sources 260 proximate (e.g., within less than 5 inches) to the top wall 208, one or more UV light sources 260 proximate (e.g., within less than 5 inches) to the junction of one or both end walls 204 and one or both side walls 206, one or more UV light sources 260 proximate to the base 202, etc. The one or more light sources 260 may be located at or proximate to the center of the galley cart 200. The galley cart 200 may include more or fewer UV light sources 260 than those shown.

[0052] As shown, the UV light sources 260 may be a linear UV light array. As another option, one or more of the UV light sources 260 may be a spherical UV light source that emits UV light in all directions. For example, in at least one embodiment, the galley cart 200 includes a single spherical UV light source 260 within the interior chamber 210. The UV light source 260 may emit UV light in all directions.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the top wall 208 and the base 202 may also include transparent portions. One or more UV light sources 260 may be configured to emit UV light through the top wall 208 and the base 202 to disinfect surfaces above and below the galley cart 200.

[0054] 7-10 , the controller 264 and the UV light source 260 may be powered through a main power system within the interior cabin 242. For example, the galley cart 200 may include a plug 280 configured to dock with a reciprocal receptacle 282 within the cart compartment 244 (or vice versa) when stored within the cart compartment 244. When the plug 280 is connected to the receptacle 282 (which is connected to a power source), electrical energy is transferred to a power source 262, such as one or more batteries, thereby automatically charging or recharging the batteries. In at least one other embodiment, the power source 262 may be electrically connected to an electrical cord including a plug configured to be removably coupled to a reciprocal receptacle within the interior cabin.

[0055] Figure 11 is a front view of a galley cart 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12 is a side view of the galley cart of Figure 11. Referring to Figures 11 and 12, in this embodiment, the UV light source 260 may be or may otherwise include a spherical UV lamp 261. The spherical UV lamp 261 may be fixed in place within the interior chamber 210 and configured to emit UV light in all radial directions.

[0056] In at least one other embodiment, the UV light source 260 (whether a spherical UV lamp 261, a linear UV array, or the like) is coupled to a mount 290, such as a telescope, articulator, pivot, or similar arm and / or beam, connected to an actuator 292, such as a motor. The actuator 292 is configured to move the UV light source 260, such as the UV lamp 260, extending through an opening 297 in the top wall 208, between a stowed position 294 within the interior chamber 210 and an extended position 296 outside the interior chamber. For example, a door 298 can be open to expose the opening 297. In at least one other embodiment, the extended position is through one or more walls other than and / or in addition to the top wall 208.

[0057] 13 is a front view of a galley cart 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the interior chamber 210 may include a divider wall 300 that separates the interior chamber 210 into a first compartment 302 and a second compartment 304. The first compartment 302 contains one or more UV light sources 260, as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 8-13. The second compartment 304 is shielded from UV light by the divider wall 300 and is configured to contain consumables, as shown and described with respect to FIG. 6.

[0058] FIG. 14 is a side view of a galley cart 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a front view of the galley cart 200 of FIG. 14. Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, in this embodiment, one or more UV light sources 260 are secured to the exterior surfaces of one or more of the base 202, end walls 204, side walls 206, and / or top wall 208. The galley cart 200 may or may not include transparent portions. More or fewer UV light sources 260 than those shown may be used. Additionally, fewer than all of the base 202, end walls 204, side walls 206, and top wall 208 may include UV light sources 260 on their exterior surfaces.

[0059] 16 is a perspective view of a galley insert 320 relative to an insert compartment 322 in a galley 324, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The galley insert 320 includes a container 326 defining an interior chamber 328. The container 326 is configured to be stored within the insert compartment 322. In at least one embodiment, the galley insert 320 includes one or more UV light sources 260. For example, spherical UV lamps 260 are located within the interior chamber 328, and the walls of the container 326 are transparent, thereby allowing UV light emitted by the UV lamps 260 to pass therethrough. Optionally, the one or more UV light sources 260 may be a linear array and / or affixed to the exterior surface of the container 326, which may or may not include transparent walls.

[0060] When the galley insert 320 is in a stowed position within the insert compartment 322, a latch 330 may be engaged to secure the galley insert 320 within the insert compartment 322. Additionally, the galley insert 320 may include a plug 332 that connects with a reciprocal receptacle 334 within the insert compartment 322 so that a power source (e.g., one or more batteries) of the galley insert 320 can be charged and recharged.

[0061] The galley insert 320 may be removed from the insert compartment 322 and placed in a location within the interior cabin to disinfect the surfaces of the components. For example, the galley insert 320 may be positioned in the flight deck, seating area, restroom, etc. within the interior cabin, and the UV light source 260 may be activated to emit light to disinfect various surfaces. Additionally, the galley insert 320 may be positioned in the galley cart 200 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4-15).

[0062] Figure 17 illustrates an ultraviolet light spectrum. Referring to Figures 4-17, in at least one embodiment, UV light source 260 is configured to emit disinfecting UV light in the far ultraviolet spectrum, such as from 200 nm to 230 nm. In at least one embodiment, UV light source 260 emits disinfecting UV light having a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0063] Disinfecting UV light with a wavelength of 222 nm has been found to kill pathogens (e.g., viruses and bacteria) instead of inactivating them. In contrast, UVC light with a wavelength of 254 nm inactivates pathogens by disrupting their DNA, resulting in a temporary inactive state, but not killing them. Instead, pathogens can be reactivated by exposure to normal white light at a reactivation rate of approximately 10% per hour. Therefore, UVC light with a wavelength of 254 nm may not be effective in illuminated areas, such as the interior cabin of a vehicle. Furthermore, 254 nm UVC light is not recommended for human exposure because it can penetrate human cells.

[0064] In contrast, disinfecting UV light with a wavelength of 222 nm is safe for human exposure and kills pathogens. Furthermore, disinfecting UV light with a wavelength of 222 nm can be emitted at full power within 1 millisecond of UV light source 260 being activated (in contrast, UVC light with a wavelength of 254 nm can take several seconds or even minutes to reach full power).

[0065] Alternatively, the UV light source 260 may emit disinfecting UV light at a wavelength other than 220 nm to 230 nm. For example, the UV light source 260 may emit disinfecting UV light between 230 nm and 280 nm in the UVC spectrum.

[0066] Figure 18 is an end perspective view of a UV light source 260, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The UV light source 260 shown in Figure 18 is merely exemplary. The UV light source 260 may be configured other than as shown and described.

[0067] In at least one embodiment, UV light source 260 includes UV lamp 440 and reflector 442. For example, UV lamp 440 and reflector 442 may be secured within a shroud. In at least one embodiment, reflector 442 may be secured to the underside of the shroud, such as via one or more adhesives. In another embodiment, reflector 442 is an integral part of the shroud. For example, reflector 442 may be the underside of the shroud or may otherwise provide the underside of the shroud. Reflector 442 provides a reflective surface 443 (e.g., formed from Teflon, mirrored, etc.) configured to reflect UV light emitted by UV lamp 440 outward. In at least one embodiment, the shroud may be or include an outer shell formed from fiberglass, and reflector 442 may be formed from Teflon, which provides 98% reflectivity.

[0068] The reflector 442 may extend along the entire length of the underside of the shroud. Optionally, the reflector 442 may extend along less than the entire length of the underside of the shroud.

[0069] The UV lamp 440 can extend along the entire length (or substantially the entire length). For example, the UV lamp 440 can be secured to the reflector 442 and / or to the shroud via one or more brackets. The UV lamp 440 can include one or more UV light emitters, such as one or more bulbs, light-emitting elements (e.g., light-emitting diodes), etc. In at least one embodiment, the UV lamp 440 is configured to emit UV light in the far-ultraviolet spectrum, such as wavelengths of 200 nm to 230 nm. In at least one embodiment, the UV lamp 440 is configured to emit UV light having a wavelength of 222 nm. For example, the UV lamp 440 can be or include a 300 W bulb configured to emit UV light having a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0070] As shown, the reflector 442 includes flat, straight side walls 444 connected together via a top curved wall 446. The top curved wall 446 may bow outward away from the UV lamp 440. For example, the top curved wall 446 may have a parabolic cross section and / or profile.

[0071] It has been found that straight, linear sidewalls 444 provide the desired reflection and / or focusing of UV light emitted from UV lamps 440 toward or onto desired locations. Alternatively, sidewalls 444 do not have to be linear and flat.

[0072] Figure 19 is an end perspective view of a UV light source 260 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The UV light source 260 shown in Figure 19 is merely exemplary. The UV light source 260 may be configured other than as shown and described. The reflector 442 shown in Figure 19 is similar to the reflector 442 shown in Figure 18, except that the side walls 444 may be angled outward from the top curved wall 446.

[0073] 20 is an end perspective view of a UV light source 260 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The UV light source 260 shown in FIG. 20 is merely exemplary. The UV light source 260 may be configured other than as shown and described. In this embodiment, the side walls 444 may curve to follow the curvature of the top curved wall 446.

[0074] As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for efficiently disinfecting surfaces, components, and structures within the interior cabin of a vehicle. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure provide compact, easy-to-use, and safe systems and methods for using UV light to disinfect surfaces within the interior cabin.

[0075] For purposes of describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, various spatial and directional terms may be used, such as top, bottom, lower, center, sideways, horizontal, vertical, front, etc., but it should be understood that such terms are used solely with reference to the orientations shown in the drawings, which may be flipped, rotated, or otherwise changed, such that top becomes bottom and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0076] As used herein, a structure, constraint, or element that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is particularly structurally shaped, configured, or adapted in a manner that corresponds to the task or operation. For clarity and to avoid doubt, an object that can merely be modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0077] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, not limiting. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to the teachings of various embodiments to adapt to particular situations or materials without departing from their scope. While the geometries and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of various embodiments of the present disclosure, these examples are by no means limiting, but are exemplary. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims and the detailed description herein, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as express synonyms of the terms "comprising" and "wherein," respectively. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the following claim limitations are not stated in means-plus-function form and are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. §112(f) unless such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for" followed by a recitation of function lacking further structure.

[0078] Clause 1. A galley cart for use within the interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising: the galley cart is configured to be stored within a cart compartment in a galley of the interior cabin; a galley cart including one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the interior cabin to disinfect the one or more surfaces.

[0079] Article 2. The galley cart: A base and a wheel extending downwardly from the base; an end wall extending upwardly from the base; a sidewall extending upwardly from the base; a top wall connected to the end wall and the side wall and facing the base; Equipped with 10. The galley cart of claim 1, wherein an interior chamber is defined between the base, the end walls, the side walls, and the top wall.

[0080] Clause 3. The galley cart of clause 2, wherein the one or more UV light sources are within the interior chamber.

[0081] Clause 4. A galley cart as described in clause 3, wherein one or more of the base, end walls, side walls, and top wall include one or more transparent portions that allow the UV light emitted by the one or more UV light sources to pass through.

[0082] Clause 5. A mount coupled to said one or more UV light sources; an actuator operably coupled to the mount, the actuator configured to move the one or more UV light sources between a retracted position within the internal chamber and an extended position outside the internal chamber; and 5. A galley cart as claimed in any one of clauses 2 to 4, further comprising:

[0083] Clause 6. A galley cart as described in any one of clauses 2 to 5, wherein the one or more UV light sources are fixed to one or more exterior surfaces of one or more of the base, end walls, side walls, or top wall.

[0084] Clause 7. A galley cart as described in any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the galley cart is not configured to contain consumable items.

[0085] Clause 8. A galley cart as described in any one of clauses 1 to 7, further comprising a power source configured to provide power to the one or more UV light sources.

[0086] Clause 9. A galley cart as described in clause 8, wherein the power source includes one or more batteries.

[0087] Clause 10. A galley cart as described in clause 9, wherein the one or more batteries are automatically recharged when the galley cart is stored in the cart compartment.

[0088] Clause 11. A galley cart as described in any one of clauses 1 to 10, further comprising a controller configured to control operation of the one or more UV light sources.

[0089] Clause 12. A first compartment containing said one or more UV light sources; a second compartment configured to contain a consumable; 12. A galley cart as claimed in any one of clauses 1 to 11, further comprising:

[0090] Clause 13. A galley cart as described in any one of clauses 1 to 12, further comprising a galley insert removably contained within an insert compartment, the galley insert including the one or more UV light sources.

[0091] Clause 14. A galley cart as described in any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the one or more UV light sources are configured to emit the UV light at a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0092] Clause 15. A method for disinfecting surfaces of components within the interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising: providing one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources on a galley cart configured to be stored within a cart compartment within a galley of the interior cabin; A method comprising:

[0093] Clause 16. The method of clause 15, further comprising emitting UV light from the one or more UV light sources onto the surface of the component.

[0094] Article 17. A carrier, The interior cabin and a galley within the interior cabin; a cart compartment within the galley; a galley cart configured to be stored within and removed from the cart compartment, a galley cart including one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the interior cabin to disinfect the one or more surfaces; A transporter comprising:

[0095] Article 18. The galley cart: A base and a wheel extending downwardly from the base; an end wall extending upwardly from the base; a sidewall extending upwardly from the base; a top wall connected to the end wall and the side wall and facing the base; Equipped with 18. The transporter of clause 17, wherein an interior chamber is defined between the base, the end wall, the side wall, and the top wall.

[0096] Clause 19. The vehicle of Clause 18, wherein the one or more UV light sources are within the interior chamber.

[0097] Clause 20. The transporter of clause 19, wherein one or more of the base, the end walls, the side walls, and the top wall include one or more transparent portions that allow the UV light emitted by the one or more UV light sources to pass therethrough.

[0098] The description herein uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the present disclosure, including the best mode, and to enable any person skilled in the art to practice various embodiments of the present disclosure, including making and using any device or system and practicing any methods incorporated therein. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other embodiments that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that have only insignificant differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A galley cart for use within an interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising: The galley cart is configured to be stored in a cart compartment in a galley of the interior cabin, and the galley cart is A base and a wheel extending downwardly from the base; an end wall extending upwardly from the base; a sidewall extending upwardly from the base; a top wall connected to the end wall and the side wall and facing the base; an interior chamber defined between the base, the end wall, the side wall, and the top wall, and one or more of the base, the end wall, the side wall, and the top wall include one or more transparent portions; The galley cart further comprises: one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the interior cabin to disinfect the one or more surfaces; wherein the one or more UV light sources are present within the interior chamber, and the one or more transparent portions allow the UV light emitted by the one or more UV light sources to pass through.

2. a mount coupled to the one or more UV light sources; an actuator operably coupled to the mount, the actuator configured to move the one or more UV light sources between a retracted position within the interior chamber and an extended position outside the interior chamber; and The galley cart of claim 1 further comprising:

3. The galley cart of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more UV light sources are fixed to one or more exterior surfaces of one or more of the base, the end walls, the side walls, or the top wall.

4. 4. A galley cart according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the galley cart is not configured to contain consumables.

5. The galley cart of claim 1 , further comprising a power supply configured to provide power to the one or more UV light sources.

6. The galley cart of claim 5 , wherein the power source includes one or more batteries.

7. 7. The galley cart of claim 6, wherein the one or more batteries are automatically recharged when the galley cart is stored in the cart compartment.

8. The galley cart of claim 1 , further comprising a controller configured to control operation of the one or more UV light sources.

9. a first compartment containing the one or more UV light sources; a second compartment configured to contain a consumable item; The galley cart according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising:

10. 10. The galley cart of claim 1, further comprising a galley insert removably contained within an insert compartment, the galley insert including the one or more UV light sources.

11. 11. A galley cart according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the one or more UV light sources are configured to emit the UV light at a wavelength of 222 nm.

12. 1. A method for disinfecting surfaces of components within an interior cabin of a vehicle, comprising: providing one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources on a galley cart configured to be stored within a cart compartment within a galley of the interior cabin; and emitting UV light onto the surface of the component from the one or more UV light sources within an interior chamber of the galley cart, including emitting the UV light through one or more transparent portions of the galley cart.

13. A transporter comprising: The interior cabin and a galley within the interior cabin; a cart compartment within the galley; a galley cart configured to be stored within and removed from the cart compartment, the galley cart comprising: A base and a wheel extending downwardly from the base; an end wall extending upwardly from the base; a sidewall extending upwardly from the base; a top wall connected to the end wall and the side wall and facing the base; an interior chamber defined between the base, the end wall, the side wall, and the top wall, and one or more of the base, the end wall, the side wall, and the top wall include one or more transparent portions; The galley cart, one or more ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to emit UV light onto one or more surfaces of one or more components within the interior cabin to disinfect the one or more surfaces; wherein the one or more UV light sources are present within the interior chamber and the one or more transparent portions allow the UV light emitted by the one or more UV light sources to pass through. A transporter comprising:

14. A galley cart as described in claim 1, wherein the base includes one or more transparent portions.

15. A galley cart as described in claim 1, wherein one or both of the end walls include one or more transparent portions.

16. A galley cart as described in claim 1, wherein one or both of the side walls include one or more transparent portions.

17. A galley cart as described in claim 1, wherein the upper wall includes one or more transparent portions.

18. A galley cart as described in claim 1, wherein each of the base, end walls, side walls, and top wall includes one or more transparent portions.

19. The transporter of claim 13, wherein one or both of the side walls includes one or more transparent portions.

20. The transporter of claim 13, wherein one or both of the end walls include one or more transparent portions.

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