Sterilization Device

Abstract

In one embodiment, the device of the present invention can include a liquid exchange portion comprising a first thermal reservoir, a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir, and a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first and second thermal reservoirs via the liquid circulation channel, and a disinfectant portion comprising a light emitting diode (LED), a heat sink, a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED, whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer, and a front layer disposed over the thermal insulation layer disposed over the orifice. Also provided herein are garments comprising the disclosed devices, and methods for making and using the disclosed devices and garments.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Application No. 17 / 151,562, filed January 18, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 16 / 900,243, filed June 12, 2020, which issued January 19, 2021 as U.S. Patent No. 10,894,101, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] It is contemplated that the above-referenced applications may be applicable to the concepts and embodiments disclosed herein even if such concepts and embodiments are disclosed with different limitations and configurations and described using different examples and terminology in the referenced applications.

[0003] The present invention relates to disinfecting surfaces, and more particularly to disinfecting surfaces on hands. [Background technology]

[0004] Sanitizing hands is one of the most effective ways to avoid spreading infectious diseases. There are many methods used to sanitize hands, such as soap and water, waterless soap, or solvent-based hand sanitizers. Each of these methods has drawbacks. For example, the use of soap and water is done at a fixed fixture such as a sink or hand washing station, and the use of solvent-based hand sanitizers can be problematic because they are quickly used up and may not be available under some conditions.

[0005] A fast, effective, easily portable, and convenient device for hand disinfection is desired. This and other needs are met by various aspects of the present disclosure. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In accordance with the purposes of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention in one aspect relates to a device, garment, and method for sterilizing a surface, such as a skin surface. According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a device comprising: a liquid exchange portion including a first thermal reservoir, a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir, and a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first and second thermal reservoirs via the liquid circulation channel; and a disinfection portion including a light emitting diode (LED), a heat sink connecting the LED to the second thermal reservoir, a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED, whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer, and a front layer disposed on the thermal insulation layer disposed over the orifice.

[0007] In another aspect, the invention relates to a garment comprising a liquid exchange portion comprising a first thermal reservoir, a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir, a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first thermal reservoir and the second thermal reservoir via the liquid circulation channel, and a pocket configured to sterilize a surface. In a further aspect, the pocket can comprise a second thermal reservoir, a light emitting diode (LED), a heat sink connecting the LED to the second thermal reservoir, a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer, and a front layer disposed on the thermal insulation layer and over the orifice.

[0008] In another aspect, the invention relates to a device comprising: a thermal reservoir; a backing layer disposed on the thermal reservoir; a light emitting diode (LED); a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir; an insulating layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the insulating layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the insulating layer; and a front layer disposed on the insulating layer, the front layer including a mesh portion disposed over the orifice.

[0009] In a further aspect, the present invention also relates to garments comprising the disclosed devices. In still further aspects, the present invention also relates to methods for making and using the disclosed systems, devices, and garments. Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded plan view of a flexible germicidal light device. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pocket sterilization device; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows a garment including a pocket. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 shows a thermal reservoir attached to a backing sheet. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a top view of the deposition of LEDs and heat sinks onto a reservoir layer. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a top view of the resulting structure following placement of a thermal (insulating) layer on the thermal reservoir. [Figure 8]FIG. 1 is a top view of the resulting structure following application of the top layer. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a thermal layer. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 illustrates a switch attached to a flexible elastic component. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B illustrate the arrangement of flexible elastic components when set in a substantially parallel position. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B illustrate deflection deformation of a flexible elastic component. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 shows an example of a trouser garment. [Figure 14] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sterilization device. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is an exploded plan view of an alternative top layer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] As a preliminary matter, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present disclosure has broad utility and applications. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or more of the above-disclosed aspects of the present disclosure and may further incorporate only one or more of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiments discussed or identified as "preferred" are considered to be some of the best modes contemplated for carrying out embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments may also be discussed for further illustration, providing a full and enabling disclosure. Furthermore, numerous embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, are implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] Thus, while embodiments will be described in detail herein with reference to one or more embodiments, it will be understood that this disclosure is made merely to illustrate the present disclosure and to provide a complete and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended to, and should not be construed as, limiting the scope of patent protection conferred in any claim of a patent issued herein, which scope is defined by the claims and their equivalents. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by importing limitations found herein into the interpretation of any claim language that do not expressly appear in the claim itself.

[0013] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and / or temporal order of various process or method steps described herein are illustrative and not limiting. Thus, while various process or method steps may be shown or described as being in a certain sequence or temporal order, it should be understood that any such process or method steps are not limited to being performed in any particular sequence or order unless otherwise indicated. In fact, such process or method steps generally can be performed in a variety of different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than by the description set forth herein.

[0014] Furthermore, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to the term that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term in this specification. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any specific dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art shall control.

[0015] With respect to the applicability of 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, any claim element is intended to be read in accordance with the provisions of that Act unless the express phrase "means for" or "step for" is actually used in such claim element, and consequently, the provisions of that Act are intended to apply in interpreting such claim element.

[0016] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, "a" and "an" each generally indicate "at least one," but do not exclude a plurality unless the context dictates otherwise. When used herein to join lists of items, "or" indicates "at least one of the items," but does not exclude a plurality of items in the list. Finally, when used herein to join lists of items, "and" indicates "all of the items of the list."

[0017] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While numerous embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications can be made to the elements shown in the drawings, and the methods described herein can be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Therefore, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims. The present disclosure includes headers. It should be understood that these headers are used for reference purposes and are not to be construed as limitations on the subject matter disclosed thereunder.

[0018] The present disclosure includes many aspects and features. Additionally, while many aspects and features are relevant and described in the context of dispensing fluids, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to use solely in this context. For example, it can be appreciated that the principles and techniques disclosed herein can be applied to adaptively dispense other types of substances based on associated characteristics.

[0019] As discussed above, a portable, fast, and effective system for disinfecting hands is desirable. In this regard, the use of ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to disinfect surfaces. In practice, UV light has been found to be effective at disinfecting hands and other surfaces.

[0020] UV lights for sterilizing surfaces are often placed within large fixtures or other devices. These are found in commercial or laboratory settings for sterilizing food and beverages, hospital rooms, or medical equipment. As discussed above, it is desirable for the system to be portable and convenient, yet also disinfect hands.

[0021] The systems and devices described herein include light-emitting diode (LED) arrays that disinfect the surface of an object, such as the skin on a user's hand. The devices use LEDs that emit ultraviolet light (and in some embodiments, other light frequencies) that disinfect the surface on which the ultraviolet light shines.

[0022] Previous UV sterilization devices were typically fixtures and not portable. A user would place their hands in a compartment with UV light for a period of time. Such solutions, however, are not portable and therefore not convenient for most users. Described herein is a device that is portable and emits ultraviolet light to sterilize a user's hands while the user goes about their daily activities.

[0023] 1 shows an exploded top view of a flexible germicidal light device 100. Device 100 includes a backing 102. Backing 102 can include any number of layers of material, including, for example, woven fabrics, plastic sheet materials, synthetic and natural fiber materials. Backing 102 is attached to a thermal reservoir 104.

[0024] The thermal reservoir 104 may be deformable and may include any number of channels or cavities containing a fluid that acts to dissipate heat. The thermal reservoir 104 may be connected to the backing 102 by, for example, a stitching, adhesive, or welding process.

[0025] A thermal layer (insulating layer) 106 connects to the thermal reservoir 104. The thermal layer 106 can comprise any suitable material, such as, for example, neoprene or other similar flexible, deformable, and heat-resistant material. The thermal layer 106 can include a number of orifices or cavities 108. The cavities 108 expose the LEDs (light-emitting diodes 110). The LEDs 110 in the illustrated embodiment are shown protruding from a surface 112 of the thermal layer. In other embodiments, the thermal layer 106 can have a thickness greater than the height of the LEDs 110, such that the LEDs 110 do not protrude outward through the surface 112 of the thermal layer 106. The device 100 can include any number of LEDs 110.

[0026] The LED 110 in the illustrated embodiment may output ultraviolet light or any other light incidental to outputting ultraviolet light. Other embodiments may output light of other wavelengths that have disinfecting or other therapeutic properties.

[0027] A top layer 114 may be disposed on the thermal layer 112. The top layer 114 may be formed from any suitable sheet material, such as a plastic fabric, or any other type of suitable synthetic or natural material. The top sheet 114 may include a number of orifices that are covered with a screen material 116. The orifices generally correspond to the locations of the light emitting diodes 110. The screen material 116 may partially obscure the diodes to prevent a user from touching the warm LEDs 110 while still allowing light to pass through the screen 116.

[0028] Each of the layers 102, 104, 106, and 114 may be connected together using any suitable method or methods, including, for example, stitching, adhesives, or welding processes.

[0029] 2 illustrates a circuit 200 that may include a light emitting diode 110, a wire 202, and a battery 204 to form the circuit 200. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the circuit 200 may be an "ideal circuit." Alternative embodiments may include a controller and associated circuitry 206 and switches.

[0030] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a pocket-type sterilization device 300. The embodiment shown may employ a first array 302 that is similar to array 110 of device 100 shown in Figure 1, and array 304 is also similar to array 110. Arrays 302 and 304 may be arranged to define a pocket having an interior cavity 306. A backing layer 308 may be attached to device 300 for attaching device 300 to a garment or other suitable object.

[0031] The interior pocket 306 can be lined with a top sheet 114 (of FIG. 1). An LED 110 can shine through a screen material 112 (of FIG. 1) to illuminate the interior of the pocket and direct ultraviolet light opposite the user's hand.

[0032] 4 shows a garment 400 including a pocketable device 300. The pocketable device 300 can be attached to the garment 400 using any desired attachment component, such as a hook and loop fastener, stitching, adhesive, snaps, buttons, or other suitable fasteners.

[0033] 5-8 illustrate a method of manufacturing device 100. FIG. 5 shows thermal reservoir 104 attached to backing sheet 102. Thermal reservoir 104 in the illustrated embodiment may comprise a number of flexible tubes 500 that may be filled with a fluid, such as water, oil, or other fluid. In various embodiments, flexible tubes 500 may comprise cooling channels that may serve to dissipate heat from LEDs 110.

[0034] 6 shows a top view of the deposition of the LEDs 110 and heat sink 600 on the reservoir layer 104. The LEDs 110 are connected to the thermal reservoir 104 by the heat sink 600. The heat sink 600 serves to conduct heat from the LEDs 110 to the thermal reservoir. The heat sink 600 may be formed from any suitable material that conducts heat and is substantially flexible, such as, for example, metallic materials such as copper, aluminum, and silver. The heat sink 600 may be arranged in any suitable shape, such as a circle or a spiral shape.

[0035] 7 shows a top view of the resulting structure following placement of a thermal (insulating) layer 106 over the thermal reservoir 104. A portion of the LED 110 is exposed by an orifice 108 in the thermal layer 106.

[0036] 8 shows a top view of the resulting structure following application of the top layer 114. The top layer 114 includes a screen 116 that prevents the user from touching the warm LEDs 110 while allowing light to pass through the screen 116 and be emitted into the pocket onto a target surface, such as the user's hand.

[0037] 9 shows a top view of an alternative embodiment of a thermal layer 900. The thermal layer 900 includes an orifice having a raised rim 902.

[0038] 10-12 show perspective views of the operation of an example switch device 1000 that can be used to operate the pocket device 300 shown in FIG. 3 when placed on opposite sides of a pocket. The switch device 1000 can be placed proximate to a pocket opening such that a switch state changes when an object, such as a hand, enters the pocket.

[0039] FIG. 10 shows a reed switch 1002 attached to a flexible and resilient component, such as metal portion 1004. A magnet 1008 is attached to a second flexible and resilient component, such as metal portion 1006. FIG. 11 shows the arrangement of flexible metal portions 1004 and 1006 when set in a substantially parallel position, with magnet 1008 in close proximity to reed switch 1002. FIG. 12 shows the bending deformation of flexible component metal pieces 1004 and 1006. The deformation allows a user's hand to fit in their pocket between bent flexible components 1004 and 1006 while also separating reed switch 1002 from magnet 1008. In the exemplary embodiment shown, when reed switch 1002 is separated from magnet 1008, such as when a user's hand deforms flexible component 1006, LED 110 (of FIG. 1) illuminates the interior of the pocket, such as the inner cavity of pocket 306, and the contents of the pocket, including the user's hand.

[0040] 13 shows an embodiment of a pants 1300 garment. The pants 1300 include features for storing and retaining the pocketable device 300, such as, for example, a hook and loop fastener, snaps, buttons, or any other suitable attachment arrangement.

[0041] 14 illustrates an embodiment of a device 1400. In some embodiments, the device 1400 can include a liquid exchange portion 1402. In some embodiments, the liquid exchange portion 1402 can be configured to connect to a strap portion 1410. In some embodiments, the liquid exchange portion 1402 can include a first thermal reservoir 1404. In some embodiments, the thermal reservoir 1404 can include multiple flexible tubes and / or reservoirs that can be filled with a fluid, such as, for example, water, oil, or other fluid. In further embodiments, the liquid exchange portion 1402 can include a liquid circulation channel 1406. In some embodiments, the liquid circulation channel 1406 can be configured to connect the first thermal reservoir 1404 to the second thermal reservoir 104. In further embodiments, the liquid circulation channel 1406 can include at least one inlet channel 1422 and at least one outlet channel 1424. In some embodiments, the liquid circulation channel 1406 can be contained within the strap portion 1410. In other embodiments, the liquid circulation channel 1406 can be disposed on a surface of the strap portion 1410.

[0042] In further embodiments, the liquid exchange portion 1402 can include a liquid pumping device 1408. In some embodiments, the liquid pumping device 1408 can be configured to circulate liquid between the first thermal reservoir 1404 and the second thermal reservoir 104 via the liquid circulation channel 1406. In still further embodiments, the liquid exchange portion 1402 can include a power source 1412, such as a power source or battery or the like. In some embodiments, the power source 1412 can provide power to components of the device 1400 and the device 100, etc., and / or to the liquid pumping device 1408.

[0043] In further embodiments, device 1400 can include a strap portion 1410. Strap portion 1410 can be used to secure device 1400 on a user. In some embodiments, strap portion 1410 can include fastening means 1414. In further embodiments, fastening means can include any desired fastening mechanism, such as, for example, a cord or strap lock, a zipper, a button, a snap, a clip, a hook, a fastener, and combinations thereof.

[0044] In further embodiments, device 1400 can include a casing or inner housing 1418 configured to contain or house the various components of the device. In some embodiments, inner casing 1418 can be connected to strap portion 1410. In other embodiments, casing 1418 can be tubular in shape and have two opposing openings to allow entry therein, such as by inserting a hand into the openings.

[0045] In further embodiments, device 1400 can include a sterilizing portion 1420. In some embodiments, sterilizing portion 1420 can include at least one sterilizing device disclosed herein, such as device 100 or 300, or a device having a substantially similar configuration. In other embodiments, sterilizing portion 1420 can include multiple such devices. In further embodiments, sterilizing portion 1420 can be connected to or otherwise contained within casing 1418. In further embodiments, sterilizing portion 1420 can be arranged to form a pocket, such that the interior of the formed pocket is illuminated by the device and configured to direct ultraviolet light to a location, such as the opposite side of a user's hand, when placed therein.

[0046] 15 illustrates an alternative top layer 1500. In some embodiments, the alternative top layer 1500 can be disposed on the thermal layer 112. In further embodiments, the alternative top layer 1500 can be made from a flexible material. In further embodiments, the alternative top layer 1500 can be made from a transparent and / or translucent material. In further embodiments, the alternative top layer 1500 can be made from a material that allows UV-C light to pass through the top layer 1500.

[0047] The embodiments described above include methods and devices for disinfecting a user's hands that can be worn as a fabric. Such devices can provide a pocket for receiving the user's hands and irradiating them with germicidal light.

[0048] The present invention includes at least the following embodiments: Embodiment 1: A device comprising: a thermal reservoir, a light emitting diode (LED), a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir, and an insulating layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the insulating layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the insulating layer. Embodiment 2: The device of Embodiment 1, further comprising a backing layer disposed over the thermal reservoir. Embodiment 3: The device of Embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising a front layer disposed on the insulating layer. Embodiment 4: The device of Embodiment 2, wherein the backing layer comprises a woven fabric. Embodiment 5: The device of Embodiments 2, 3, or 4, wherein the front layer includes a mesh portion disposed over the orifice.

[0049] Aspect 6: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the LED is operative to emit germicidal light when shone onto a surface. Aspect 7: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the thermal reservoir includes a liquid disposed within the channel. Aspect 8: The device of any preceding aspect, further comprising a fastener layer disposed on the backing layer. Aspect 9: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the thermal insulation layer is deformable. Aspect 10: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the thermal reservoir is deformable. Aspect 11: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the thermal reservoir layer and the thermal insulation layer are connected by stitching. Aspect 12: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the switch is actuated by a switch, the switch comprising a first flexible portion, a second flexible portion, and a switch disposed on the first metal portion, the switch operative to change state when the first metal portion is separated from the second metal portion. Aspect 13: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the device is arranged to form a pocket. Embodiment 14: The device of embodiment 13, wherein the LED is disposed on a first portion of the pocket and the second LED is disposed on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket.

[0050] Aspect 15: A garment comprising a pocket, the pocket comprising: a thermal reservoir, a light emitting diode (LED), a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir, and an insulating layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the insulating layer including an orifice disposed over the LED whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the insulating layer. Aspect 16: The device or garment of Aspect 15, further comprising a backing layer disposed on the thermal reservoir. Aspect 17: The device or garment of Aspect 15, further comprising a front layer disposed on the insulating layer. Aspect 18: The device or garment of Aspect 15, wherein the LED is disposed on a first portion of the pocket and the second LED is disposed on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket. Aspect 19: The device or garment of any preceding aspect, wherein the thermal reservoir is deformable.

[0051] Aspect 20: A device comprising: a thermal reservoir; a backing layer disposed on the thermal reservoir; a light-emitting diode (LED); a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir; an insulating layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the insulating layer including an orifice disposed over the LED, whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the insulating layer; and a front layer disposed on the insulating layer, the front layer including a mesh portion disposed over the orifice.

[0052] Aspect 21: A device comprising: a liquid exchange portion comprising a first thermal reservoir, a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir, and a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first thermal reservoir and the second thermal reservoir via the liquid circulation channel; and a sterilization portion configured to sterilize a surface, the sterilization portion comprising: a light emitting diode (LED), a heat sink connecting the LED to the second thermal reservoir, a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer, and a front layer disposed on the thermal insulation layer and over the orifice. Aspect 22: The device of any preceding aspect, further comprising a backing layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the backing layer comprising a fabric. Aspect 23: The device of any preceding aspect, further comprising a strap portion including a fastening means, the strap configured to fasten the device to an object or a user. Aspect 24: The device of Aspect 23, wherein the fluid exchange portion is configured to connect to the strap portion. Aspect 25: The device of Aspect 23 or 24, further comprising a casing configured to connect to the strap portion. Aspect 26: The device of Aspect 25, wherein the casing is configured to contain the sterilizing portion.

[0053] Aspect 27: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the LED is operative to emit light effective for sterilization when irradiated onto a surface. Aspect 28: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the second thermal reservoir includes a liquid disposed in a channel. Aspect 29: The device of any preceding aspect, further comprising a fastener layer disposed on the backing layer. Aspect 30: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the second thermal reservoir and the thermal insulating layer are connected by stitching. Aspect 31: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the switch is activated or actuated by a switch, the switch comprising a first flexible portion, a second flexible portion, and a switch disposed on the first metal portion, the switch operative to change state when the first metal portion is separated from the second metal portion. Aspect 32: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the sterilizing portion is arranged to form a pocket. Aspect 33: The device of any preceding aspect, wherein the LED is disposed on a first portion of the pocket and the second LED is disposed on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket. Embodiment 34: The device of any preceding embodiment, wherein the liquid circulation channel comprises an inlet channel and an outlet channel.

[0054]

[0030] Aspect 35: A garment comprising: a liquid exchange portion comprising a first thermal reservoir, a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir, and a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first thermal reservoir and the second thermal reservoir via the liquid circulation channel; and a pocket configured to sterilize a surface, the pocket comprising: a second thermal reservoir, a light emitting diode (LED) that, when irradiated on the surface, is operative to emit light effective to sterilize the surface, the LED, a heat sink connecting the LED to the second thermal reservoir, a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED whereby light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer, and a front layer disposed on the thermal insulation layer disposed over the orifice.

[0031] Aspect 36: The garment of any preceding aspect, further comprising a backing layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir. Aspect 37: The garment of any preceding aspect, comprising a garment body, wherein the pocket is connected to a first portion of the garment body and the liquid exchange portion is connected to a second portion of the garment body. Aspect 38: The garment of any preceding aspect, wherein the LED is disposed on a first portion of the pocket and the second LED is disposed on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket. Aspect 39: The garment of any preceding aspect, wherein the second thermal reservoir and the insulating layer are deformable. Claim 40: The garment of any preceding aspect, wherein the liquid circulation channel comprises an inlet channel and an outlet channel.

[0055] Although aspects of the invention may be described and claimed in particular statutory classifications, such as systems statutory classifications, this is merely for convenience, and those skilled in the art will understand that each aspect of the invention may be described and claimed in any statutory classification. Unless expressly stated otherwise, it is in no way intended that any method or aspect described herein be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Thus, if a method claim does not specifically recite in the claim or description that the steps are limited to a particular order, it is never expressly intended that order be inferred at any point. This holds true for any possible non-expressive basis for interpretation, including matters of logic regarding the placement or operational flow of steps, plain meaning derived from grammatical structure or punctuation, or the number or type of aspects described herein.

[0056] The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples 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 contain equivalent structural elements that have insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A device, a thermal reservoir; and a light-emitting diode (LED); a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir; a thermal insulation layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer; a front layer disposed on the insulating layer, the front layer including a mesh portion disposed over the orifice; A device comprising:

2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a backing layer disposed on the thermal reservoir.

3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the backing layer comprises a woven fabric.

4. 4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the LEDs are operative to emit germicidal light when shone on a surface.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the thermal reservoir comprises a liquid disposed in a channel.

6. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a fastener layer disposed on the backing layer.

7. 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the thermal insulation layer is deformable.

8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the thermal reservoir is deformable.

9. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the thermal reservoir and the insulating layer are connected by stitching.

10. The device comprises: a first flexible portion; a second flexible portion; and a switch disposed on the first flexible portion, the switch operative to change state when the first flexible portion is separated from the second flexible portion; 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is operated by a switch comprising:

11. 4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, arranged to form a pocket.

12. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the LED is disposed on a first portion of the pocket and a second LED is disposed on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket.

13. A garment comprising: a thermal reservoir; and a light-emitting diode (LED); a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir; a thermal insulation layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer; a front layer disposed on the insulating layer, the front layer including a mesh portion disposed over the orifice; a pocket having A garment comprising:

14. The garment of claim 13 further comprising a backing layer disposed over the thermal reservoir.

15. 14. The garment of claim 13, wherein the LED is located on a first portion of the pocket and a second LED is located on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket.

16. The garment of claim 13 wherein the thermal reservoir is deformable.

17. 17. A garment according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the LEDs are operative to emit germicidal light when shone on a surface.

18. 17. A garment according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the thermal reservoir comprises a liquid disposed within a channel.

19. 17. The garment of any one of claims 13 to 16, further comprising a fastener layer disposed on the backing layer.

20. 17. A garment according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the insulating layer is deformable.

21. 17. A garment according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the thermal reservoir is deformable.

22. 17. A garment according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the thermal reservoir and the insulating layer are connected by stitching.

23. The garment comprises: a first flexible portion; a second flexible portion; and a switch disposed on the first flexible portion, the switch operative to change state when the first flexible portion is separated from the second flexible portion; 17. A garment according to any one of claims 13 to 16, activated by a switch comprising:

24. a thermal reservoir; and a backing layer disposed on the thermal reservoir; a light-emitting diode (LED); a heat sink connecting the LED to the thermal reservoir; a thermal insulation layer disposed on the thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer; a front layer disposed on the insulating layer, the front layer including a mesh portion disposed over the orifice; A device comprising:

25. 25. The device of claim 24, wherein the LED is operative to emit germicidal light when illuminated on a surface.

26. 26. The device of claim 24 or 25, wherein the insulating layer is deformable, or the thermal reservoir is deformable, or a combination thereof.

27. A device, A fluid exchange part, a first thermal reservoir; a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir; and a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first thermal reservoir and the second thermal reservoir via the liquid circulation channel; a liquid exchange portion comprising: a disinfecting portion configured to disinfect a surface, Light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a heat sink connecting the LED to the second thermal reservoir; a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer; and a front layer disposed on the insulating layer and over the orifice; a sterilizing portion; A device comprising:

28. 30. The device of claim 27, further comprising a backing layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the backing layer comprising a woven fabric.

29. 29. The device of claim 28, further comprising a strap portion including fastening means, said strap portion configured to secure said device to an object or a user.

30. 30. The device of claim 29, wherein the fluid exchange portion is configured to connect to the strap portion.

31. 31. The device of claim 30, further comprising a casing configured to connect to the strap portion.

32. 32. The device of claim 31, wherein the casing is configured to contain the sterile portion.

33. 33. A device according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the LED is operative to emit light effective for disinfection when illuminated on a surface.

34. 33. The device of any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the second thermal reservoir comprises a liquid disposed in a channel.

35. 33. The device of any one of claims 27 to 32, further comprising a fastener layer disposed on the backing layer.

36. 33. The device of any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the second thermal reservoir and the insulating layer are connected by stitching.

37. The device comprises: a first flexible portion; a second flexible portion; and a switch disposed on the first flexible portion, the switch operative to change state when the first flexible portion is separated from the second flexible portion; 33. A device according to any one of claims 27 to 32, activated or actuated by a switch comprising:

38. 33. A device according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the sterile portion is arranged to form a pocket.

39. 39. The device of claim 38, wherein the LED is disposed on a first portion of the pocket and a second LED is disposed on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket.

40. 33. A device according to any one of claims 27 to 32, wherein the liquid circulation channel comprises an inlet channel and an outlet channel.

41. A garment comprising: A fluid exchange part, a first thermal reservoir; a liquid circulation channel configured to connect the first thermal reservoir to a second thermal reservoir; a liquid pumping device configured to circulate liquid between the first thermal reservoir and the second thermal reservoir via the liquid circulation channel; a liquid exchange portion comprising: A pocket configured to sterilize a surface, comprising: the second thermal reservoir; a light emitting diode (LED), which when illuminated on a surface, serves to emit light effective to sterilize the surface; a heat sink connecting the LED to the second thermal reservoir; a thermal insulation layer disposed on the second thermal reservoir, the thermal insulation layer including an orifice disposed over the LED such that light from the LED passes through the orifice in the thermal insulation layer; and a front layer disposed on the insulating layer disposed over the orifice; Equipped with pockets and A garment comprising:

42. 42. The garment of claim 41, further comprising a backing layer disposed over the second thermal reservoir.

43. 43. The garment of claim 42, wherein the garment comprises a garment body, the pocket being connected to a first portion of the garment body, and the fluid exchange portion being connected to a second portion of the garment body.

44. 44. The garment of any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein the LED is located on a first portion of the pocket and a second LED is located on a second portion of the pocket opposite the first portion of the pocket.

45. 45. The garment of claim 44, wherein the second thermal reservoir and the insulating layer are deformable.

46. 45. The garment of claim 44, wherein the liquid circulation channels comprise an inlet channel and an outlet channel.

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