Removal of pathogenic contamination from human contact points.

Abstract

The pathogen decontamination tool includes a housing including an access door configurable to be in an open or closed position, an opening for positioning the housing over or around a fomite, opening means for opening the access door in response to a trigger or trigger event, and one or more ultraviolet light sources disposed inside the housing and configured to decontaminate the fomite. The pathogen decontamination tool may include one or more sensors configured to detect a trigger event. The one or more sensors may include an obstacle sensor, a motion sensor or detector, a light sensor, an acoustic sensor, and / or a thermal or infrared sensor. The access door may include one or more access panels. The one or more ultraviolet light sources may generate UV-C radiation having a wavelength in the range of 200-280 nm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 075,040, filed on September 4, 2020. The entire contents of this provisional application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Field of the Invention The present invention belongs to the technical field of infectious disease prevention. More specifically, the present invention belongs to the technical field of infectious disease prevention by removing contamination of pathogenic microorganisms near human contact points using ultraviolet germicidal irradiation.

Background Art

[0003] Infectious diseases are often caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that are transmitted directly or indirectly from person to person. Since pathogenic bacteria reproduce in a warm environment of 95 - 100°F, the human skin temperature of 98.6°F provides an optimal carrier platform for these microorganisms to survive and proliferate. In fact, in clinical trials, some bacteria have been shown to double every 20 minutes and form millions of bacteria in just 8 hours.

[0004] Not all pathogenic bacteria cause diseases, but all infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic bacteria. The four main types of pathogenic bacteria that cause human diseases include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Studies have shown that 20% of people do not wash their hands after using the restroom, and 30% of those who wash their hands do not use soap. Overall, there are always 2 - 10 million pathogenic bacteria between a human's fingertips and elbows. Every time an individual comes into contact with an inanimate object such as a commercially available door handle, restroom stall latch, credit card payment terminal, or gas pump handle, which are mediators at human contact points, the process of pathogenic bacteria moving indirectly to the next user of the inanimate object is initiated.

[0005] Because 80% of infectious diseases are transmitted through contact with the hands, the rapid spread of pathogens through public contact points has been a major factor in several global health pandemics, including SARS and, more recently, COVID-19. These events have had a significant impact on the global economy and have led to millions of illnesses and deaths.

[0006] Current methods employed to address this problem include manual cleaning, antimicrobial agents for manufacturing and / or coating media, automated and user-initiated mechanical disinfection equipment, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI). While each of these methods is helpful, their effectiveness is relatively small in high-access areas due to problems such as rapid recontamination and long decontamination cycles.

[0007] Manual cleaning requires the use of disinfectants, sterilizers, and germicides, each type of product designed to achieve different results in order to clean and disinfect the surface of the medium. Disinfectants prevent the growth of bacteria and / or kill bacteria in 30 seconds to 5 minutes, but not viruses. Disinfectants act as disinfectants against bacteria, some viruses, and fungi, but typically achieve results in 10 minutes. Germinters are the most powerful cleaning agents and, when used properly, will kill 100% of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, typically in a sterilization time of 10 to 15 minutes, although this varies depending on the specific agent used, the environment in which it is applied, and the composition of the material being sterilized.

[0008] In addition to health risks to cleanup workers and environmental hazards, the effectiveness of cleaning agents depends on the application process and the surface of the material to which they are applied. As mentioned earlier, cleaning agents typically require being left wet for 5 to 15 minutes to achieve a 100% reduction of pathogenic microorganisms. This time requirement is often disregarded due to insufficient user training, demands for worker productivity, and the need for rapid restoration of access to the pathogenic material by users.

[0009] Furthermore, cleanup workers often use the same chemicals to clean all vegetations, regardless of whether the vegetation consists of porous or non-porous materials, because most cleaning agents are formulated for specific surface types, which reduces their sterilizing efficacy. Hospital studies have also shown that some pathogens "killed" by cleaning agents can regenerate into living microorganisms in a short time, about two hours, through a process known as photorecovery. Finally, even if vegetations are properly sterilized, they can still be re-contaminated by wind-borne bacteria or interaction with subsequent users.

[0010] Antimicrobial substances have been used as both existing mediating materials and surface coatings. More recently, copper and its alloys (brass, bronze, cupronickel, copper-nickel-zinc, etc.) have been shown to be natural antimicrobial substances with inherent properties that destroy a wide range of microorganisms. One drawback of using copper in public contact areas is that, as studies have shown, it takes 2 hours to kill 99.9% of bacteria and up to 6 hours to kill 99.9% of viruses when combined with a regular cleaning schedule.

[0011] The use of antimicrobial films and photodynamic polymer coatings is also being discussed as a possible solution. One problem associated with these solutions is the time required to make the material photosensitive. In the case of photodynamic polymers, which require only oxygen and natural light, this process takes 60 minutes to achieve a 1 log antimicrobial reduction.

[0012] Three major problems prevent antimicrobial agents and coatings from being a suitable solution for preventing the transmission of infectious diseases from vectors at human contact points. First, millions of additional microorganisms from new users can adhere to the vectors during the long time required to achieve 99.9% inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms, negating the likelihood of disinfection during periods of heavy use. Second, their efficacy varies depending on the pathogen being fought. Some are effective only against bacteria or viruses, and not both. Among those that have been shown to kill both bacteria and viruses, many are unable to kill other types of pathogenic microorganisms such as fungi, spores, and / or parasites. On the other hand, none of these substances have shown equal effectiveness against all microorganisms. Finally, the cost and implementation time required to replace and coat all publicly accessible vectors makes this option undesirable and impractical.

[0013] Mechanical sterilization options for vectors at human contact points include user-operated and automated mechanical devices that utilize chemicals in the form of bactericides, disinfectants, or sterilizers, or germicidal light-activated ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (referred to herein as UVGI), to kill pathogenic microorganisms. Chemical-based devices typically have a housing filled with a purifying product that is mounted near the vector and applied to the target surface via a user-operated lever or via an automated sensor trigger. User-operated models present problems from the outset, as pathogens can be transmitted from each user's hand to the lever, which accumulates with each use of the device.

[0014] Automated sensor-activated devices solve user interface problems, however, other significant issues remain, particularly in combating pathogenic contamination at human contact points in public places. Firstly, chemicals typically require up to 15 minutes to achieve optimal efficacy in killing pathogenic microorganisms, which is often not sufficient time to eliminate infectivity before interaction with the next user of a frequently accessed vector. Secondly, even if effective in killing pathogens on the vector, chemical residues pose new health risks because they are distributed to the hands of subsequent users. Finally, chemical residues around the distribution area pose a potential risk of slip and fall injuries.

[0015] Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) has been validated as a sterilization method in medical and surgical settings since the 1950s. Wavelengths of 200-280 nm are classified as UV-C light and have the strongest germicidal effect. Exposure to UV-C destroys the DNA of pathogens, making them unable to replicate. Until relatively recently, the primary method of generating germicidal light was to use mercury-filled tubes. These are commonly known as germicidal lamps and visually resemble standard fluorescent lamps. Generating light with a peak at 253.7 nm is effective in killing pathogenic microorganisms, but it is not optimal. This is because 265 nm has been proven to be the most effective wavelength against a wide range of bacteria and viruses.

[0016] The use of UV-C light to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms is a globally recognized solution and is widely used in medical environments, including sterilization of equipment, devices, surgical and patient rooms, and within HVAC systems. It is also commonly used for surface treatment in various industries and sectors, including air, water, and, but not limited to, water purification plants, food production and packaging, and warehouses. In recent years, small, user-operated UV-C devices, such as lamps and handheld wands, have become available in the consumer market for sterilizing surfaces such as sinks, toilets, toothbrushes, keys, and mobile phones.

[0017] However, germicidal lamps have not been proven to be a commercially viable solution for eradicating pathogens on vectors at public contact points. Disadvantages of using germicidal lamps on frequently accessed surfaces such as door handles and elevator buttons include, but are not limited to, the inability to perform rapid repetition, reduced overall lifespan with repeated on and off cycles, slow start-up time to reach peak wavelength, high heat generation, the need for additional equipment to operate them, namely ballasts, and the risk to the public if mercury leaks from a faulty or broken valve and comes into contact with human skin or eyes.

[0018] Therefore, there is a need in the field of novel pathogenic contamination removal methods and devices, and instruments that can rapidly and efficiently sterilize vectors at human contact points in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and the loss of millions of lives. [Overview of the project]

[0019] The pathogenic decontamination device includes an access door configurable to be in an open or closed position, an opening for positioning the housing over or around a pathogen, a drive assembly configured to open the access door in response to a trigger or trigger event, and a housing containing one or more ultraviolet sources located inside the housing and configured to decontaminate the pathogen. The pathogenic decontamination device may include one or more sensors configured to detect a trigger event. One or more sensors may include motion detection sensors and / or optical sensors. The access door may include one or more access panels. One or more ultraviolet sources may generate UV-C radiation having wavelengths in the range of 200–280 nm.

[0020] This disclosure relates to a method for removing pathogenic contamination and, but is not limited to, a device that is attached to a medium at a human contact point, including, but not limited to, door handles, bathroom latches, bolts, gas pump handles, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, shopping cart handles, elevator control panels, public telephones, paper towel dispensers, toilet handles and seats, forming a chamber that encloses it. The device automatically kills nearby pathogens within seconds by ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (hereinafter referred to as "UVGI") after each interaction with a user. The UVGI dose is delivered from a UV-C LED semiconductor chip (hereinafter also referred to as "UV-C") that is fixed or optimally mounted at an adjustable angle to a base plate and / or upper housing to ensure appropriate coverage and most effective placement. The chip preferably delivers its dose at an optimal wavelength of 265 nm, or via a multi-wavelength UV-C LED array, to specifically target different types of pathogens. The inner components surrounding the medium within the chamber are layered with UV-C reflective materials such as aluminum foil, PTFE, UV-reflective paint, or any similar material known to optimize reflectivity. Once the UVGI dose is administered, the medium is sealed within the enclosure to prevent recontamination from airborne pathogens. Upon detection of subsequent user presence by sensor technology, a drive and pulley system retracts the layered access panel, allowing interaction between the medium and pathogen-free contact points; upon termination, this triggers the termination of the access panel and the repeated UVGI cycle.

[0021] This disclosure also relates to a pathogenic contamination removal system including a product containing a vector, and any pathogenic contamination removal device described herein is configured to be integrated with the product containing the vector. In certain embodiments, the product containing the vector includes a door, a toilet stall, a bolt, a gas pump, a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, an automated teller machine, a shopping cart, an elevator, a public telephone, a paper towel dispenser, a computer keyboard, or a toilet.

[0022] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, the drawings, and the claims. The following figures illustrate various features and aspects of the present invention. Throughout the drawings and the detailed description, the same reference numerals may denote the same elements. The drawings may not be to scale, and the relative dimensions, ratios, and depictions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity, explanation, and convenience. **Brief Description of the Drawings**

[0023] [Figure 1A] A front elevational view of an example of a pathogen contamination removal chamber for a human contact site mediator according to various embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 1B] A right side elevational perspective view of a pathogen contamination removal chamber comprising a battery component and a drive panel partially housed therein is shown. [Figure 1C] An internal front elevational perspective view of a front face including an access panel rail and an obstacle sensor is shown. [Figure 1D] A rear elevational perspective view of a base plate attached to a pathogen contamination removal chamber is shown. [Figure 2] An exploded rear elevational view of components included within an upper housing assembly and a base plate assembly is shown. [Figure 3A] A front view of a base plate of a pathogen contamination removal chamber including a microcontroller and an attached UV-C source is shown. [Figure 3B] A front view of a base plate cover is shown. [Figure 3C] An exploded front view of the arrangement of the base plate cover on the base plate is shown. [Figure 3D] [[ID=CHINESE=34]]A front view of a base plate cover that forms a base plate assembly in combination with a base plate is shown. [Figure 4] An exploded front elevational view of an upper housing, a base plate cover, and a base plate is shown. [Figure 5] An exploded plan view of an adjustable UV-C mounting stand component is shown. [Figure 6A]This is a side view of the swivel angle range of 15° to 90° formed by the UV-C mounting stand. [Figure 6B] This is a side perspective view of a UV-C mounting stand tilted at a 30° forward angle. [Figure 6C] This is a plan view of a UV-C stand tilted at a 75° angle. [Figure 6D] This is a front perspective view of the UV-C mounting stand tilted at a 45° angle. [Figure 6E] This is an elevation view of the UV-C mounting stand tilted at a 15° angle. [Figure 6F] This is a plan view of the rotational movement caused by the UV-C mounting stand. [Figure 7] This is a close-up front view of the access panel assembly. [Figure 8A] This is a plan view of an access panel frame with embedded rails. [Figure 8B] This is a close-up side view of the nylon glide inside the panel rail. [Figure 9A] This is a side view of the drive clip. [Figure 9B] This is a plan view of the drive clip. [Figure 9C] This is an external side view of the access panel support arm. [Figure 9D] This shows an internal side view of the access panel support arm. [Figure 10A] This is a side cross-sectional view of the left-side access panel frame, panel rail, and drive rail. [Figure 10B] This is a side cross-sectional view shown in 8A, which includes the pulley and chain drive clips, support arms, and an exploded view. [Figure 10C] This is a modified side cross-sectional view shown in 8B, which shows the pulley and chain in their operating positions. [Figure 11] This shows a side cross-sectional view of the access panel, which is connected to each of those rails in the closed position and identifies the position of the panel compartment when the access panel is retracted. [Figure 12A] This shows a side cross-sectional view of the access panel group in the closed position. [Figure 12B] This shows a side cross-sectional view of the access panel group with 25% of the panels retracted. [Figure 12C] This shows a side cross-sectional view of the access panel group with 50% of the panels retracted. [Figure 12D] This shows a side cross-sectional view of the access panel group with 75% of the panels installed. [Figure 12E] This shows a side cross-sectional view of the access panels, fully retracted and waiting within the panel compartment. [Figure 13] This is a close-up view of the rear of the drive unit assembly. [Figure 14] This is a close-up view of the rear of the upper housing assembly. [Figure 15A] This shows a front view of the interior of the open pathogenic bacteria removal chamber located near the elevator control panel. [Figure 15B] This shows a front view of the interior of the open pathogenic bacteria removal chamber located near the door handle. [Figure 15C] This shows a front view of the interior of an open pathogenic contamination removal chamber located near a wall-mounted free telephone. [Figure 15D] This shows a front view of the interior of the open pathogenic bacteria removal chamber located near the final tightening bolt of the bathroom partition. [Figure 16] This is a process flow chart for a pathogen contamination removal chamber. [Figure 17A] This is a front view of a closed and sealed pathogenic contamination removal chamber. [Figure 17B] This is a front view of a pathogenic contamination removal chamber with the access panel 25% retracted. [Figure 17C] This is a front view of a pathogenic contamination removal chamber with the access panel partially retracted. [Figure 17D] This is a front view of the pathogenic contamination removal chamber with the access panel 75% enclosed. [Figure 17E] This shows a front view of the pathogenic contamination removal chamber, with the access panel fully retracted and waiting within the panel compartment, and the elevator control panel exposed. [Figure 18A] The removed snap-in door handle base plate and a front view of a commercially available door handle and lock are shown. [Figure 18B] This shows a front view of a commercially available door handle and a door handle base plate fitted adjacent to the lock. [Figure 18C] The image shows a front view of the removed door handle base plate cover and the door handle base plate fitted adjacent to a commercially available door handle and lock. [Figure 18D] The image shows a front view of the fitted door handle base plate assembly and a commercially available door handle and lock. [Figure 19A] The image shows a front exploded perspective view of the door handle base plate assembly and the upper housing assembly projected onto a commercially available door. [Figure 19B] This shows a front view of a commercially available door handle pathogenic contamination removal chamber with an access panel housed adjacent to a commercially available door. [Figure 20A] A front view of the removed snap-in gas pump base plate, equipped with a microcontroller, UV-C, and gas pump handle, is shown. [Figure 20B] The image shows a front view of a fitted gas pump base plate with a microcontroller and UV-C located adjacent to the gas pump handle. [Figure 20C] The image shows a front view of the gas pump base plate cover removed and fitted, adjacent to the gas pump handle. [Figure 20D] This shows a front view of the fitted gas pump base plate assembly and gas pump handle. [Figure 21A] This shows a front exploded perspective view of the gas pump base plate assembly and the upper housing assembly projected to a position adjacent to the gas pump handle. [Figure 21B] This shows a front view of a pathogenic contamination removal chamber with an access panel housed adjacent to the gas pump handle. [Figure 21C] This shows a front view of a gas pump service base equipped with a gas pump handle pathogen contamination removal chamber adjacent to the gas pump. [Figure 22A] This is a front view of the pathogen contamination removal chamber for the bathroom sink latch in the closed position. [Figure 22B] The diagram shows an elevational perspective view of the pathogen contamination removal chamber and brush shield of the bathroom sink latch. [Figure 22C] This is a front view of the pathogenic bacteria removal chamber for the open position of the bathroom sink latch, adjacent to the latch itself. [Figure 22D] The image shows a top perspective view of the pathogen contamination removal chamber and battery access door of the bathroom latch. [Figure 23A] The removed snap-in partition plate, microcontroller, and mounted UV-C are shown in a front view. [Figure 23B] The image shows a front view of a fitted partition latch base plate equipped with a microcontroller and UV-C, adjacent to the bathroom latch. [Figure 23C] The image shows a front view of the removed partition latch base plate cover and the fitted base plate adjacent to the bathroom latch. [Figure 23D] The image shows a front view of the snap-in type partition latch base plate assembly and the bathroom latch. [Figure 24] This is a close-up front view of the bathroom sink latch access panel assembly. [Figure 25] This is a close-up view of the rear of the drive mechanism assembly for the bathroom sink latch. [Figure 26] This is a rear view of the exploded parts included in the upper housing assembly of the bathroom sink latch. [Figure 27] This is a close-up view of the back of the upper housing assembly of the bathroom sink latch. [Figure 28] This is a front exploded view of the upper housing, base plate cover, and base plate of the bathroom sink latch. [Figure 29] This is a front view of the pathogenic bacteria removal chamber for the bathroom door latch and the bathroom door lock in the open position adjacent to the door. [Figure 30A]This is a front view of a retail point-of-sale (POS) terminal ("POS") pathogenic contamination removal chamber (hereinafter referred to as the "POS chamber") and its mounting stand. [Figure 30B] This is a front view of the open POS chamber and mounting stand. [Figure 30C] This is a rear perspective view of the POS chamber and mounting stand. [Figure 31A] This is a front view of a POS base plate equipped with a microcontroller and UV-C. [Figure 31B] This is a front view of a POS base plate cover with a UV-C cutout. [Figure 32A] This is a front exploded view of the POS base plate cover, projected onto and adjacent to the POS base plate and mounting stand. [Figure 32B] This is a front view of the POS base plate assembly and mounting stand. [Figure 33A] This is a close-up front view of the POS chamber access panel assembly. [Figure 33B] This is a rear view of the POS chamber drive unit assembly. [Figure 33C] This is a rear view of the upper housing assembly of the POS chamber. [Figure 34A] This is a front exploded view of the POS base plate assembly and the POS chamber upper housing assembly projected onto the mounting stand. [Figure 34B] This is a front view of the closed POS chamber. [Figure 35A] This is a front view of the POS chamber in the closed position. [Figure 35B] This is a front view of a POS chamber containing one access panel. [Figure 35C] This is a front view of the POS chamber containing the two access panels. [Figure 35D] This is a front view of the POS chamber containing the three access panels. [Figure 35E] This is a front view of the POS chamber, which houses four access panels. [Figure 35F] This is a front view of the POS chamber containing the five access panels. [Figure 35G] This is a front view of the POS chamber, which houses six access panels. [Figure 36] This shows a front perspective view of a POS chamber installed in a retail cash register. [Figure 37A] This shows a front view of a shopping cart-shaped cylindrical pathogenic bacteria removal chamber (also referred to herein as the "SC chamber") adjacent to the shopping cart. [Figure 37B] This is a front close-up view of the SC chamber, access sensor, and status lamp. [Figure 38A] This shows a front view of the SC chamber base plate. [Figure 38B] A planar perspective view of the SC chamber base plate and UV-C is shown. [Figure 39A] This is an elevation and side view of the SC chamber base plate cover with a UV-C cutout. [Figure 39B] This is a close-up, elevational, front-facing, exploded perspective view of the SC chamber base plate cover, projected onto the SC chamber base plate to form a single lower structural assembly. [Figure 40A] This is a front exploded view of the lower structure assembly projected adjacent to the left and right housings of the shopping cart handle and SC chamber. [Figure 40B] A side perspective view of the constructed left housing and battery access panel is shown. [Figure 41A] This is an elevation, side, and perspective exploded view of the components, including the left housing of the SC chamber. [Figure 41B] This is a close-up side view of the left housing and battery access panel. [Figure 42A] This is a side perspective exploded view of the drive hub (also referred to herein as the "hub") projected near the drive drum (also referred to herein as the "drum") in the left housing. [Figure 42B]This is a side close-up view of the left hub and drum assembly (also referred to herein as "H&D") in the closed position. [Figure 43A] This is an elevation, side, and perspective exploded view of the components, including the right housing of the SC chamber. [Figure 43B] The image shows a side perspective view of the parallel left and right housings, positioned opposite and adjacent to the closed cylinder drive panel (hereinafter also referred to as "cyl panel #1"). [Figure 44A] This is a side close-up view of the left hub and drum assembly and cylindrical rail group (collectively referred to herein as "cyl rail" or "rail") in the closed position, with projection lines showing details of the rotation of the drive hub and drum components during the reversing process. [Figure 44B] A close-up side view of the nylon glide is shown. [Figure 45A] A top perspective view of the cylindrical access panel is shown. [Figure 45B] A perspective view of the bottom of the cylindrical access panel is shown. [Figure 45C] The bottom perspective exploded view shows the boundaries of the three access panels, each equipped with a cylindrical drive clip (hereinafter also referred to as "cyl drive clip") and a cylindrical channel guide (hereinafter also referred to as "cyl channel guide"). [Figure 46A] This shows a close-up side view of the left hub and drum assembly in hub position "0" (closed). [Figure 46B] This shows a close-up side view of the left hub and drum assembly in hub position "1" (with one panel housed). [Figure 46C] This shows a close-up side view of the left hub and drum assembly in hub position "2" (where two panels are housed). [Figure 46D] This shows a close-up side view of the left hub and drum assembly in hub position "3" (where three panels are housed). [Figure 46E] This shows a close-up side view of the left hub and drum assembly in hub position "4" (access panel open). [Figure 47A] A) This shows the elevation and plan views of the SC chamber panel in the closed state (hub position "0"). [Figure 47B] This shows the elevation and plan views of the SC chamber panel with one access panel retracted (hub position "1"). [Figure 47C] This shows the elevation and plan views of the SC chamber panels with the two access panels retracted (hub position "2"). [Figure 47D] This shows the elevation and plan views of the SC chamber panels with the three access panels retracted (hub position "3"). [Figure 47E] This shows an elevation and plan view of the SC chamber panels, with all access panels retracted (hub position "4"), allowing access to the sterile shopping cart handle. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the invention. Where used herein, the term "and / or" includes all combinations of one or more related list items. Where used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include both plural and singular forms unless otherwise explicitly stated in the context.

[0025] When used herein, the terms “comprise” and / or “comprising” indicate the presence of the described features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or sets thereof.

[0026] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meanings as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with those definitions in the context of the art and this disclosure, and it will be further understood that they will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined so herein.

[0027] The following detailed description is provided to help the reader gain a full understanding of the methods, products, and / or systems described herein. However, various variations, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, products, and / or systems described herein will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0028] It will be understood that the description of this invention discloses numerous techniques and steps. Each of these has its own individual advantages, and each can also be used in conjunction with all the other disclosed techniques, in one or more or in some cases. Therefore, for the sake of clarity, this description will refrain from unnecessarily repeating all possible combinations of the individual steps. Nevertheless, this specification should be read with the understanding that such combinations are fully included within the scope of this invention.

[0029] Novel methods and apparatus for sealing inanimate objects (hereinafter referred to as "vectors") from airborne pathogens during use in order to decontaminate them from human contact points and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, are discussed herein. Examples of vectors in this invention include, but are not limited to, door handles, bathroom latches, bolts, gas pump handles, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, shopping cart handles, elevator control panels, public telephones, paper towel dispensers, toilet handles and seats, and the like. The following description includes many specific details to provide a complete understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can be implemented without these specific details.

[0030] This disclosure should be considered illustrative of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention to any specific embodiment described by the following figures or description.

[0031] In one embodiment, a method is provided for sterilizing and sealing a vector at a human contact point. The device, including a solid outer shell, is positioned in close proximity to or attached to the vector, forming a chamber that seals the vector from airborne pathogens. The outer shell includes a notch at the front and a rear opening. The front notch is appropriately positioned in front of the contact point and sealed by one or more retractable panels, which, when retracted, allow user access to the vector. The rear of the outer shell is sealed by a base plate to which the vector is mounted, or directly by a structure. After each use, the sterilization process is completed to kill / inactivate microorganisms, and the device is subsequently kept sealed and opened only upon user detection by sensor technology to prevent airborne pathogens from adhering to the vector during use.

[0032] In one embodiment, a device (also called “apparatus” or “chamber”) is provided that is configured to decontaminate and seal a vector at a human contact point from pathogens. The apparatus includes a solid outer front casing, which is positioned to cover the vector, adjacent to or attached to the vector, and fixed in place to form a sealed chamber. The casing features an opening at the front of the vector, which is sealed by one or more retractable panels, and another opening at the rear, which is fully or partially enclosed by a base plate. The interior of the chamber is coated with a UV-C reflective material such as aluminum foil, PTFE, UV reflective paint, or any similar material known to maximize UV ​​reflectivity. The interior of the chamber also includes one or more ultraviolet-C wavelength LED semiconductor chips (hereinafter referred to as "UV-C," "UV-C source," or "chip") optimally mounted at a fixed or adjustable angle to an upper housing assembly including a base plate and / or retractable panel to ensure appropriate coverage and most effective placement around the vector, and after each interaction with the user, nearby pathogens are killed within seconds by ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (hereinafter also referred to as "UVGI"). In this embodiment, the UV-C is preferably delivered at an optimal wavelength of 265 nm. The device is kept sealed after the UVGI cycle to prevent wind-borne pathogens from contaminating the vector between users. When a user is detected by sensor technology, the access panel is retracted to provide uninterrupted access to the pathogen-free vector, and is then closed after use, and the UVGI cycle and sealing of the vector from wind-borne pathogens are performed again.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may consist of a single alternative UV-C wavelength, such as far UV-C in the range of 207–222 nm, instead of 265 nm, to target specific pathogens (one or more) that can be optimally inactivated at the alternative wavelength. In certain embodiments, the apparatus may consist of a multi-wavelength UV-C array within the chamber to target various types of pathogens that are optimally inactivated at the alternative wavelength. For example, some protein-based pathogens may be optimally killed at 220 nm rather than 265 nm, while others may be more sensitive to a wavelength of 280 nm. In certain embodiments, the apparatus chamber may consist of ozone-producing UV operating at a wavelength of 185 nm, which can be employed in conjunction with non-ozone-producing UV-C or as a standalone sterilization method. In certain embodiments, the UV light source within the chamber may be an LED, pulsed xenon, low-pressure mercury, or any other suitable light delivery format. In certain embodiments, the apparatus may consist of a single freestanding housing without a back base plate.

[0034] In certain embodiments, a pathogenic decontamination system is also provided, which includes any pathogenic decontamination device described herein, configured to be integrated into an instrument or product containing a vector. Examples of instruments or products containing a vector in the present invention include, but are not limited to, doors, toilet stalls, bolts, gas pumps, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, shopping carts, elevators, public telephones, paper towel dispensers, computer keyboards, and toilets.

[0035] The present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings, which represent preferred embodiments. Figures 1A to 17E describe embodiments of pathogenic contamination removal chambers for use in vectors at a wide range of human contact points.

[0036] Figures 1A–1D show a front view, side view, front view, and elevation and rear view, respectively, of a pathogenic contamination removal chamber (hereinafter also referred to as the “chamber” or “device”) 100 for a vector 115 at a human contact point. Figure 1A shows an external front view of the pathogenic contamination removal chamber 100, also revealing the external elements of the upper housing assembly 101 (hereinafter also referred to as the “UHA”). The chassis 102 is the outer shell of the chamber 100 and includes a central cutout to provide front access to the vector 115, as well as an open rear area (Figure 1D) to allow placement on the vector 115 and adjacent to the rear base plate assembly 118 (Figure 1D) of the chamber 100. The chassis 102 can be made of plastic, aluminum, carbon fiber, glass fiber, or any other suitable material. At the rear of the cutout, an access panel group 103, including a collection of four access panels for the apparatus 100 (hereinafter also referred to as “access panels” or “panels”), is positioned to seal the front of the access chamber 100 to prevent re-contamination by wind-borne microorganisms during ultraviolet sterilization irradiation (hereinafter referred to as “UVGI” or “UVGI cycle”) cycles and when access is not required.

[0037] Figure 1A also shows an integrated emergency handle 104 located near the bottom of the access panel 103 for raising and lowering in case of power loss or mechanical failure. An access sensor 106 is located beneath the access panel 103 to detect the presence of a user and initiate the opening of the access panel 103. Two chamber status lamps 105 are located on either side of the access sensor to visually report the system's operational status, namely power on, UVGI progress, malfunction, and battery status.

[0038] Figure 1B shows a side perspective view of the chamber 100, which includes access panel #4 (also referred to herein as the “drive panel”) of a partially retracted access panel 151 to expose the obstacle sensor 110, as also shown in Figure 1C. The right side of the chamber consists of a battery access door 107, a battery release latch 108 (also referred to herein as the “battery latch”), and a battery lock 109. In a preferred embodiment, the battery 126 may be lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (Li-NMC), lithium ions ("Li ions"), or any other sustained type that is deemed to optimize the operation of the chamber. In a particular embodiment, the device may be powered by AC connection, wireless, sunlight, or any other means that provide sufficient power to operate.

[0039] Figure 1C shows a front view of the chamber 100 with an access panel 103 that is raised (not visible) within the panel compartment 111, exposing peripheral components of the access panel assembly 139 (also known as the "AP assembly"), including the access panel frame 113 (also known herein as the "AP frame"), the incorporated panel rails 112 (also known herein as the "rails(plural)" or individually as the "rail(s)"), the support bridge 114, and the mediator 115, as indicated by the dashed rectangle. Figure 1C further reveals the location of an obstacle sensor 110 that detects the presence of a user or foreign object during the closure of the access panel 103, prompting the chamber 100 to reverse the closure procedure and retract the access panel 103 into the panel compartment 111. The rear of the chamber 100 is shown in the elevation view of Figure 1D, and includes an example of a base plate assembly 118 and the mediator 115, whose boundary is defined by the dashed rectangle.

[0040] Referring to Figure 2, the elevation rear perspective exploded view shows the main components of the chambers contained within the upper housing assembly 101 and the base plate assembly 118. Viewing diagonally from the upper right to the lower left, an illustrative rear view of the chassis 102 is shown. A drive assembly 122, including the drive motor 119, drive shaft 120 (also referred to herein as the "shaft"), pulley 121, and access panel 103, is mounted in the central front opening of the chassis 102 so as to align with the access panel 103. A u-shaped enclosure plate 123, including a UV reflective coating 124, is fixed over the drive motor 119, and the legs 123 of the enclosure plate extend to cover the sides of the drive assembly 122. UV-C 125 is mounted adjacent to the vertical arm of the enclosure plate and delivers UVGI doses directly from its position to the front and / or sides of the medium 115. In certain embodiments, the UV-C125 may be mounted at other locations within the upper housing assembly 101, including on the back of the access panel 103 facing the medium 115, to deliver the optimal UVGI dose. The battery 126 is fixed to the top of the enclosure plate 123, completing the main components of the upper housing assembly 101. A base plate cover 117, consisting of the UV-C cutout 127, followed by a base plate 116, consisting of the UV-C125 positioned adjacent to the microcontroller 128 and the medium 115, is mounted on the back of the upper housing assembly 101. The combined base plate cover 117 and base plate 116 form a base plate assembly 118, as shown in Figure 3D.

[0041] Referring now to Figures 3A-D, Figures 3A and 3B show front views of the base plate 116 and base plate cover 117, respectively, which are separated into two side sections, L and R. The right-side base plate 116-R and base plate cover 117-R each include upper and bottom interlock male tabs 129, which connect to the left-side female tab receivers 130 (collectively referred to as “interlock tabs”) of the base plate 116-L and base plate cover 117-L. This allows the base plate 116 and base plate cover 117 to be mounted adjacent to the base of the intermediary 115 as a single combined unit forming the base plate assembly 118, as shown in Figure 3D.

[0042] Returning to Figure 3A, the base plate 116 includes a microcontroller 128 that manages the power, sensors, mechanical and all programmable functions of the chamber 100. In a preferred embodiment, the base plate 116 also includes one or more UV-C LED chips 125 (hereinafter also referred to herein as "UV-C", "UV-C source", or "chip") incorporated into or fixed to an adhesive strip that is fixed to an adjustable UV-C mounting stand 131. The UV-C mounting stand 131 is then mounted adjacent to the base plate 116. The UV-C 125 fixed to the base plate allows the wavelength to be directed to the back and sides of mediators 115 that receive some or all human contact in those areas, rather than to the front, such as a door handle 155 (Figure 15B), which receives less contact to the front or surface. In an alternative embodiment, the UV-C mounting stand 131 is removed, allowing the UV-C 125 to be fixed directly to the base plate 116.

[0043] Continuing the reference to UV-C125 in Figure 3A, a preferred embodiment aims for the UV-C LED to be precisely set to 265 nm, which is widely recognized as the optimal wavelength for ultraviolet sterilization. While it has been demonstrated that virtually all pathogens are inactivated by UV-C125 at a wavelength of 265 nm, the optimal wavelength for some protein-based pathogens is 220 nm, while others are most rapidly inactivated closer to 280 nm. Therefore, an alternative embodiment would require a multi-wavelength or multi-mode UV-C125 array positioned throughout the inside of chamber 100 and delivered in a pulsed format to specifically target certain types of pathogens.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3B, the base plate cover 117 is coated with a UV-reflective material or substance 124, such as a PTFE reflector, paint, aluminum foil, or any other material or coating that has been shown to increase UV reflectivity. The base plate cover 117 has UV-C cutouts 127, which are placed directly on the UV-C 125 of the base plate 116. In a preferred embodiment, the UV-C cutouts 127 are not covered, but in a particular embodiment, they may be covered with a translucent material suitable for sealing the UV-C 125, as required by application.

[0045] As shown in the exploded front view of Figure 3C, the base plate cover 117 is placed over the base plate 116, and as shown in Figure 3D, they together form a base plate assembly 118. The base plate 116 and base plate cover 117 can be made of plastic, metal, or any other suitable material. While this is a preferred embodiment, alternative embodiments may employ, to achieve the desired results, a one-piece base plate 116 and a cover having a hollow core portion that allows placement through the intermediary 115, a base plate 116 without a cover, a single one-piece base plate 116 and a cover, or other embodiments not described herein.

[0046] Referring here to Figure 4, an exploded front view of the upper housing assembly 101 ("UHA") projected onto the base plate cover 117 and base plate 116 is shown in more detail. The base plate 116, equipped with the UV-C 125 and microcontroller 128, is mounted adjacent to the media 115, and the base plate cover 117, equipped with the UV-C notch 127, is attached to the base plate 116, together forming the base plate assembly 118 shown in Figure 3D. The upper housing assembly 101 is then positioned to cover the media 115 and fixed to the base plate assembly 118, making the chamber 100 operational. In an alternative embodiment, the upper housing 101 and base plate assembly 118 are pre-assembled, allowing the chamber 100 to be mounted integrally with the media 115.

[0047] Figure 5 shows an exploded plan view of the UV-C mounting stand 131, including the mounting base 132, the swivel plate 134, and the UV-C mounting tray 137 (also referred to herein as the "UV-C tray," the "tray," or the "mounting tray"). As indicated by the dashed projected arrows, the swivel plate 134 is coupled to the mounting base 132, and the swivel plate screws and washers 135 are located in the threaded screw receiver 133 in the mounting base 132, passing through the center of the swivel plate, allowing the swivel plate 134 to swivel horizontally. The UV-C tray 137 is coupled to swivel plate hinges 136, which are positioned opposite each other and parallel to each other on both sides of the swivel plate 134, using mounting tray hinge screws 138, allowing the UV-C tray 137 to swivel forward and backward along the swivel axis. By fixing the UV-C mounting stand 131 to the base plate 116, the UV-C 125 can be positioned to deliver the UV-C dose in the optimal direction and angle in order to most efficiently perform its UVGI function.

[0048] Figures 6A–F illustrate the directional and angular flexibility applied by the UV-C mounting stand 131. Figure 6A shows a side view of the swivel axis angle in the range of 15°–90° in 15° increments. Figure 6B shows a front perspective view at a 30° forward angle, Figure 6C shows a plan view at a 75° inclination angle, Figure 6D shows a front perspective view at a 45° inclination angle, Figure 6E shows a front perspective view at a 15° inclination angle, and Figure 6F shows a plan view of the swivel range of the mounting stand 131.

[0049] Referring here to Figure 7, a front close-up view of the access panel assembly 139 (also referred to herein as the "AP assembly") is shown. The AP assembly 139 includes a group of access panels (also referred to herein as the "access panels") 103 adjacent to the access panel frame 113 (also referred to herein as the "AP frame"), panel rails 112, and support bridges 114 arranged in parallel and facing each other to form the left and right AP assemblies 139.

[0050] Figure 8A shows a plan view of the access panel frame 113, panel rail 112, and support bridge 114, arranged in parallel and opposite directions on the left and right. Referring to the access panel frame 113, as shown in Figure 8B, there are three integrated panel rails 112, each with a nylon glide 140 arranged side by side to improve sliding action and reduce friction while the access panel 103 is in operation. The fourth rail in this four-panel embodiment is an opening formed between the base of the access panel frame 113, which is identified as the support bridge 114, and the lower end of the third integrated panel rail.

[0051] In addition to the panel rail 112, which is recognized as a group of components, each individual panel rail in this four-panel embodiment is clearly represented in Figure 8A as rails #1 to #4. Considering the left-hand view (shown from left to right) from the top rail to the bottom rail, rail #1 of rail 143 in this four-panel configuration moves from its panel section 111 position to shield the first 25% of the opening of chamber 100. Rail #2 of rail 144 shields 25-50% of the opening of chamber 100. Rail #3 of rail 145 shields 50-75% of the opening. Rail #4 of rail 145 (also referred to herein as the “drive rail”) is an opening formed between the base of the access panel frame 113, which is recognized as the support bridge 114, and the lower end of panel rail #3 of rail 145, shielding 75-100% (bottom) of the opening of chamber 100 and completing the closure and sealing of chamber 100.

[0052] Figures 9A and 9B show plan and side views of the drive clip 141, respectively. The drive clip 141 is coupled to (or optionally molded into) the outer right and left portions of the drive panel 151, and its annular fork portion is coupled to the drive chain 147, moving the drive panel 151 in their respective directions. The flat base of the drive clip 141 moves along the protruding edge of the AP frame 113 (referred to herein as the support bridge 114), contacting the panel support arm 142 during stowage, ensuring that each panel 103 maintains synchronization and stability.

[0053] Figures 9C and 9D show an elevation side view and a side close-up view of the support arms 142 that are mounted (or optionally molded into) the outside left and right sides of each individual access panel within the AP group 103, respectively. The base of the support arms 142 moves laterally along the support bridge 114 to stabilize and maintain the synchronization of the access panels 103. During storage, the support arms 142 are pushed in by drive clips as they are moved, stacked, and put into a waiting position within the panel compartment 111.

[0054] Figures 10A–10C show side cross-sectional views of the left access panel frame 113, panel rail 112, and support bridge 114 (supported by the diagram of mounting panel 103 in Figure 11). Figure 10A reveals rail #1 of rail 143 as the upper end rail, as similarly mentioned in the plan view of Figure 8A, and serves as a side support for access panel #1 (Figure 11), which is involved in sealing the upper 25% of chamber 100 when panel 103 is fully closed. Rail #2 of rail 144 is adjacent to #2 of access panel 149 (Figure 11), sealing 25-50% of the opening of chamber 100; rail #3 of rail 145 is adjacent to #3 of access panel 150 (Figure 11), sealing 50-75%; and rail #4 of rail 146 (drive rail) is adjacent to #4 of access panel 151 (also referred to herein as the “drive panel”) (Figure 11), sealing 75-100%. Figure 10B adds more detail to 10A by adding perspective views of the support arms 142 and drive clips 141 extending from each of those panels to the support bridge 114. Furthermore, Figure 10B shows an exploded view of the pulley 121 and drive chain position 147 relative to the access panel frame 113. Figure 10C completes this figure by positioning the pulley 121 and drive chain 147 in the position of this embodiment. This diagram will be reflected on the right side of the chamber.

[0055] Figure 11 shows a close-up side section of an access panel assembly 139, which includes an AP frame 113, a support bridge 114, rails 112, and access panels 103, with the access panels 103 in the closed position and each panel connected to its own dedicated panel rail 112 (as previously shown in Figure 10A). Viewing the diagram in Figure 11 from right to left, panel #1 of panel 148 seals the upper 25% of the front of the chamber 100, followed by panel #2 of panel 149, panel #3 of panel 150, and panel #4 of panel 151 (also referred to herein as “drive panels”), which in this four-panel embodiment seal the remainder of the chamber 100 by an additional 25% each. When retracted, the panels 103 are stacked on top of each other and “retained” within the panel compartment 111, reducing the footprint of the chamber 100 outside the scope area of ​​the mediator 115, as clearly shown in Figure 12E. In this embodiment, the pulleys 121 are positioned at each end of the AP frame 113, and the drive chain 147 loops around the upper and lower ends of the support bridge 114.

[0056] To refer to the operation of AP assembly 139 in more detail, Figures 12A-E show side cross-sectional close-up views of the five-stage panel storage in the four-panel embodiment. Figure 12A shows the access panel 103 in the closed position. Panel 151's #4 (driver panel) is positioned at the bottom of the access panel 103 and, as it is stored, begins to push access panel 150's #3, as shown in Figure 12B. As panel 150's #3 continues to be stored by the drive panel 151, it captures panel 149's #2, as shown in Figure 12C. The drive panel 151, access panel 150's #3, and access panel 149's #2 continue to be stored synchronously as they connect with panel 148's #1 (as shown in Figure 12D, in which all access panels 103 are stacked on top of each other). The chain 147 shown in Figure 12D continues to house the drive panel 151 and causes the #2 of panel 149 to capture the #1 of panel 148, as shown in Figure 12E, until they are all housed within their rails 143, 144, 145, and 146 in the panel compartment 111 (the panel compartment area is defined by vertical dashed lines in Figures 12A-E).

[0057] Figure 13 shows a rear close-up view of the drive unit assembly 122, which includes a drive motor 119, a drive shaft 120, a pulley 121, a chain 147, an access panel frame 113, a rail 112, a support bridge 114, access panels #1-4 (referred to individually in this figure) of APs 148, 149, 150, and 151, a support arm 142, a drive panel 151, a drive clip 141, a channel guide 153, a guide clip 152, a panel compartment 111, and a UV reflective coating 124. When the drive motor 119 is activated, the drive shaft 120 and pulley 121 begin to move the chain 147 and the attached drive clip 141, which in turn initiates the movement of the drive panel 151. Two opposing guide clips 152 are attached to the horizontal front edge of the drive panel 151 and then, respectively, to (or incorporated into) the access panel 103, with the protruding tips of the guide clips 152 fitting into adjacent channel guides 153. During stowage, the two guide clips 152 on the drive panel 151 move vertically within the channel guide 153 of access panel 150, and begin to push it toward the #2 direction of access panel 149. The guide clips 152 on #3 of access panel 150 and then the access panels move within their respective adjacent channel guides 153, pushing adjacent panels in the appropriate direction until access panel 103 is positioned within panel compartment 111. Access panel 103 slides along the support arms 142 and support bridge 114, and is stabilized and synchronized during movement by the base of the drive clip 141 supported thereby. In alternative embodiments, the drive unit assembly 122 may consist of, but are not limited to, belts, springs, magnets, and any mechanism that allows the access panel to be raised and lowered, including a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrically linear actuator.

[0058] Figure 14 shows a rear close-up view of the interior of the upper housing assembly 101. The components shown in this figure include the chassis 102, battery 126, panel compartment 111, UV-C 125, UV-C mounting stand 131, support arm 142, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, drive clip 141, emergency handle 104, obstacle sensor 110, access panel 103, and UV reflective surface 124 (not visible).

[0059] Figures 15A–D show front perspective views of a pathogen decontamination chamber 100 with a retractable access panel 103, illustrating examples of the positioning of different media 115 within the chamber. Figure 15A shows a pathogen decontamination chamber 100 adjacent to an elevator control panel 154. Figure 15B shows a chamber 100 adjacent to an internal vertical bar-type door handle 155, such as those used in theaters and public halls. Figure 15C shows a chamber 100 adjacent to a wall-mounted toll-free telephone 156, such as those found in airports and hotels. Figure 15D shows a chamber 100 adjacent to a bathroom bolt handle 157.

[0060] Figure 16 shows a flow diagram 158 illustrating one type of operation of a pathogenic contamination removal chamber 100 for use with a vector 115 at a human contact point. In standby mode, the access sensor 106 monitors for the presence of a user, the definition of which varies depending on the application. In certain embodiments, a user may be defined as any person within a certain distance of the chamber 100, i.e., 6 feet; in certain other embodiments, a user may be defined as anyone who has placed their hand within a certain range of the sensor 106, i.e., 6 inches; and in yet another embodiment, a user may be defined as anyone within the range of the chamber 100 having a mobile application, key fob, or similar method or device defined as a user recognized by the chamber 100. When a user is detected, the access panel 103 retracts and remains open for a programmed period, or until the sensor 106 no longer detects any obstructions, or a combination of both. If the closure criteria are met, the access panel 103 begins to close and stops closing only in the case of an obstruction or a newly defined user, in which case the access panel 103 begins to retract again. Once the device 100 is sealed, the UVGI cycle begins. If a user is detected while the cycle is in progress, the cycle is stopped and the access panel 103 is opened. Once the UVGI cycle is complete, the access panel 103 remains closed to prevent recontamination by airborne pathogens, and the device 100 remains in standby mode until the presence of a user is detected.

[0061] Figures 17A-E show front perspective views of the pathogenic contamination removal chamber 100, illustrating five stages of panel storage, with the elevator control panel 154 used as an example of the medium 115. Figure 17A shows the closed and sealed chamber 100, Figure 17B shows the chamber 100 with panel #4 (drive panel) 151 stored, Figure 17C shows the chamber 100 50% open, Figure 17D shows the chamber 100 75% open, and Figure 17E shows the open chamber 100 with a sterilized, pathogen-free elevator control panel 154 exposed.

[0062] Referring to an alternative embodiment, Figures 18A–20B show a pathogenic contamination removal chamber 200 (also referred to herein as the “DHL chamber”) with a commercially available door handle and lock. This embodiment is identical to Figure 1A (pathogenic contamination removal chamber) of the present invention, except for the configuration of the base plate 116 and base plate cover 117. Accordingly, the figures of the present invention are limited to their modifications and the embodiments obtained.

[0063] As shown in the front of Figures 18A–D, the door handle and lock base plate assembly 203 (also referred to herein as the “DHL base plate assembly”) in this embodiment has a shape-fit cutout to conform to the contour of the intermediary 115, in this case a commercially available door handle and lock 204. Figure 18A shows the left and right sides, 201_L, 201_R, of the door handle and lock base plate (also referred to herein as the “DHL base plate”), which consists of two parts including a microcontroller 128, a UV-C 125, and a UV-C mounting stand 131, and is constructed to be fitted adjacent to the base of the handle and lock 203 using male 129 and female 130 interlock tabs. The resulting integrated DHL base plate 201 is shown in Figure 18B. Figure 18C shows the removed left and right sides, 202-L, 202-R, of the snap-in door handle and lock base plate cover (also referred to herein as the “DHL base plate cover”), which includes a UV-reflective coating 124 and a UV-C cutout 127 created to fit into the DHL base plate 201, and Figure 18D shows the resulting DHL base plate assembly 203, in which the UV-reflective coating 124 is snapped in adjacent to the door handle and lock 204.

[0064] Figure 19A shows an exploded front view of the upper housing assembly 101 projected adjacent to the DHL base plate assembly 203, as well as a distal front perspective view of a commercially available door 205, handle, and lock 204 fitted adjacent to it, with the DHL base plate assembly 203 inserted from Figure 18D. Figure 19B shows a front perspective view of the DHL pathogenic contamination removal chamber 200 mounted on a commercially available door 205 with the access panel 103 open, exposing the adjacent door handle and lock 204.

[0065] Referring here to another embodiment, Figures 20A-21C show a gas pump handle pathogenic contamination removal chamber (also referred to herein as the "GP chamber"). This embodiment is identical to the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 1A (pathogenic contamination removal chamber), except for the configuration of the base plate 116 and the base plate cover 117. Therefore, this figure is limited to describing its modifications and the resulting embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] As shown in the front views of Figures 20A-D, the gas pump base plate assembly 303 (also referred to herein as the "GP base plate assembly") in this embodiment has a shape-fitting cutout that conforms to the contour of the mediator 115, in this case the gas pump handle 304 (also referred to herein as the "GP handle" or "gas pump"). Figure 20A shows the left and right sides, 301-L and 301-R, of the gas pump base plate (also referred to herein as the "GP base plate"), which consists of two parts including a microcontroller 128, UV-C 125, and UV-C mounting stand 131, and is constructed to be fitted adjacent to the base of the gas pump handle 304 and the retractable hosewell 305 using male 129 and female 130 interlocking tabs. The resulting integrated GP base plate 301 is shown adjacent to the GP handle 304 and the retractable hosewell 305 in Figure 20B. Figure 20C shows the removed left and right snap-in gas pump base plate covers 302-L, 302-R (also referred to herein as “GP base plate covers”), which include a UV-reflective coating 124 and UV-C cutouts 127, created to be fitted onto the GP base plate 301, and Figure 20D shows the resulting GP base plate assembly 303 with the UV-reflective coating 124 fitted adjacent to the GP handle 304 and the retractable hose well 305.

[0067] Figure 21A shows a distal front perspective view of the gas pump handle 304 and retractable hose well 305, including an exploded front view of the upper housing assembly 101 projected adjacent to the gas pump handle 304, as well as an adjacent fitted GP base plate assembly 303 with a UV reflective coating 124, which is inserted from Figure 20D. Figure 21B shows a front perspective view of the GP pathogenic contamination removal chamber 300 with panel 103 open, exposing the adjacent gas pump handle 304 and retractable hose well 305. Figure 21C shows an example of the gas pump handle pathogenic contamination removal chamber 300 in the closed position, adjacent to the gas pump handle 304 within a gas station service base 306.

[0068] Referring now to another embodiment of the present invention, Figures 22A–D show a front closed view, a side perspective view, a front open view, and a top perspective view of a single-panel pathogenic contamination removal chamber in an embodiment of the bathroom latch pathogenic contamination removal chamber 400 (also referred to herein as the “RS chamber”). As shown in Figure 22A, the front of the RS chamber includes a bathroom drive panel 412 (access panel) (also referred to herein as the “RS drive panel”), an emergency handle 104, an access sensor 106, and four system status lamps 105 to the right of the access sensor 106, with a partition latch 406 protruding from the side.

[0069] As shown in Figure 22B, the elevation perspective view shows the latch inlet 404 on the side of the RS chamber 400, in addition to an exploded view of the brush shield 405 projected onto a position adjacent to the latch inlet 404. The brush shield 405 consists of multiple layers of dense but flexible fibers, constituting the latch inlet 404, sealing the latch inlet 404, and at the same time having degrees of freedom to allow the partition latch 406 (also referred to herein as the "latch") to move outward. The inward-facing fibers of the brush shield 405 are layered with a UV reflective coating 124 to enhance UV reflectivity, while the outward-facing layers are dense enough to prevent light from escaping from the inside of the RS chamber 400. In certain other embodiments, the brush shield 405 may be constructed of any material or substance that allows the latch 406 to move laterally while simultaneously keeping the latch inlet 404 sealed. In certain other embodiments, the RS chamber 400 may not include the brush shield 405.

[0070] Figure 22C shows a front view of the RS chamber 400, in which the drive panel 412 is housed in the panel compartment 111, allowing user access to the latch 406, and reveals an obstacle sensor 110 located just below the bottom of the RS chamber 400. An elevation top perspective view of the RS chamber 400 is seen in Figure 22D, showing the battery access door 107, the battery release latch 108 (also referred to herein as the "battery latch"), and the battery lock 109 (also referred to herein as the "safety lock").

[0071] As shown in the front views of Figures 23A-D, the bathroom latch base plate assembly 403 (also referred to herein as the “RS base plate assembly”) has a shape-fit cutout, in this case a bathroom latch 406 (also referred to herein as the “partition latch”), to conform to the contour of the intermediary 115. Figure 23A shows the left and right sides of the two-part bathroom door lock base plate 401 (also referred to herein as the “RS base plate”), which consists of a microcontroller 128, a UV-C 125, and a UV-C mounting stand 131, which are made to be fitted adjacent to the base of the partition latch 406 using male 129 and female 130 interlock tabs. The resulting integrated RS base plate 401 is shown in Figure 23B. Figure 23C shows the left and right sides of the bathroom latch base plate cover 402 (also referred to herein as the “RS base plate cover”), which consists of two parts including a UV-C cutout 127 and a UV reflective coating 124 projected onto the RS base plate 401 and adjacent to the partition latch 406, and Figure 23D shows the resulting RS base plate assembly 403 having the UV reflective coating 124, fitted onto the partition latch 406.

[0072] Referring here to Figure 24, a front close-up view of the bathroom latch access panel assembly 413 (also referred to herein as the “RS access panel assembly”) is shown. In contrast to the previous multi-panel embodiments which similarly include rails for the second panel, the RS access panel assembly 413 includes an access panel frame 113, a support bridge 114, and an RS drive panel 412. Functionality remains the same as in the previous embodiments. The access sensor 106, status lamp 105, obstacle sensor 110, and emergency handle 104 are also shown.

[0073] Figure 25 shows a rear close-up view of the bathroom latch drive assembly 410 (also referred to herein as the “RS drive assembly”), which includes a drive motor 119, drive shaft 120, pulley 121, drive chain 147, access panel frame 113, support bridge 114, drive clip 141, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, obstacle sensor 110, RS drive panel 412, and emergency handle 104. Its functionality is the same as that of 1A of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 26 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the bathroom partition chassis 409 (also referred to herein as the “RS chassis”), which includes a UV reflective coating 124; the RS drive unit assembly 410, which includes a UV reflective coating 124; the enclosure plate 123, UV-C 125, which includes a UV reflective coating; and the bathroom latch upper housing assembly 408 (also referred to herein as the “RS UHA”), which includes a battery 126, which includes a UV reflective coating 124. The functionality remains consistent with Figure 1A of the present invention, however, the physical structure differs because it is a single-panel embodiment with no additional panels, panel rails, and associated support components.

[0075] Figure 27 shows a rear view of the RS UHA408 with visible components including the RS chassis 409, enclosure plate 123, battery 126, UV-C 125, UV reflective coating 124, RS drive panel 412, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, obstacle sensor 110, and emergency handle 104.

[0076] Figure 28 shows a front exploded view of the RS base plate 401, RS base plate cover 402, and RS UHA 408 projected to a position adjacent to the bathroom latch 406.

[0077] Figure 29 shows a front perspective view of a bathroom partition door 411, a partition latch 406, and a partition latch receiver 407, which have an adjacent RS chamber 400 with an RS drive panel 412 that opens to allow access to the partition latch 406.

[0078] Referring now to additional embodiments of the present invention, Figures 30A–36 show a retail register self-contained retail point-of-sale (POS) terminal pathogenic contamination removal chamber 500 (also referred to herein as the "POS chamber") for use in a retail register 508 or the like.

[0079] Figures 30A–C show a front closed view, a front open view, and a rear perspective view of the POS chamber adjacent to the POS mounting stand, respectively. The stand can be permanently fixed to a fixed object such as a table or counter with fasteners or adhesive, or, depending on the application and environment, it can be moved without being fixed if necessary. In this embodiment, the front of the POS chamber includes the chassis 502, access sensor 106, status lamp 105, obstacle sensor 110, POS stand 506, and a group of six access panels (also referred to herein as “access panels”) 524, minimizing the vertical footprint of the device as shown in Figures 30A–B. The rear perspective view in Figure 30C shows a direct AC electrical output connection 509 for the POS chamber. Alternative embodiments may include a battery power supply 126 for environments where an AC connection is not available. The POS chamber can be constructed of plastic, metal, or any other suitable material.

[0080] Referring here to Figures 31A and 31B, Figure 31A shows a front view of the POS base plate 503, including the base plate 503, microcontroller 128, integrated POS mounting plate surface 507, UV-C 125, and UV-C mounting stand 131. The depth of the POS base plate 503 allows for the installation of a POS terminal 510 (Figure 35G), and its upward-sloping lower end, to which the UV-C 125 and UV-C mounting stand 131 are attached, allows light to be projected onto the surface of the POS terminal 510 (Figure 35G). In an alternative embodiment, the UV-C 125 can be placed directly on the surface of the base plate 503 without using the UV-C mounting stand 131. In another embodiment, the UV-C 125 can be placed on the back of the access panel 524. Figure 31B shows a front view of the POS base plate cover 504, including the UV-C cutout 127, the UV reflective surface 124, and the POS stand mounting plate 508.

[0081] Figure 32A shows a front exploded view of the POS base plate cover 504, which includes a UV-C cutout 127 and a microcontroller 128, a UV-C 125, and an integrated POS mounting plate surface 507, projected onto the POS base plate 503 and an adjacent mounting stand plate 508. As shown in Figure 32B, the combination of the POS base plate 503 and the POS base plate cover 504 forms the POS base plate assembly 505. As shown in Figure 32B, the POS mounting stand plate 508 is attached to the POS stand 506. In an alternative embodiment, the POS base plate assembly 505 may function as a standalone assembly without the use of the POS stand 506 or external mounting fixtures.

[0082] Figure 33A shows a front view of a POS access panel assembly 515 (also referred to as a "POS AP assembly") which includes parallel, opposing access panel frames 113 (also referred to herein as "AP frames"), POS panel rails 512 (also referred to herein as "POS rails"), and a support bridge 114, forming the left and right sides of the POS AP assembly 515 and constituting a group of POS access panels 514 (also referred to herein as "POS access panels" or "access panels"), which includes all access panels, including individually defined POS drive panels 513. The POS AP assembly 515 includes relatively equivalent parts and shares the same functional operation as described in the access panel assembly 139 shown in Figures 1A and 7 of the present invention, apart from the number of access panels 514 (6 to 4) and the number of rails 515 for supporting the access panels 514 (5 to 3).

[0083] Figure 33B shows a rear close-up view of the POS drive unit assembly 516, which includes a drive motor 119, drive shaft 120, pulley 121, chain 147, access panel frame 113, POS rail 512, support bridge 114, POS access panel 514, support arm 142, POS drive panel 513, drive clip 141, channel guide 153, guide clip 152, panel compartment 111, emergency handle 104, and UV reflective coating 124.

[0084] Further referring to the POS drive unit assembly 516 shown in Figure 33B, when the drive motor 119 is activated, the drive shaft 120 and pulley 121 begin to move the chain 147 and the attached drive clip 141, which then begin to move the POS drive panel 513. Two opposing guide clips 152 are attached to the horizontal front edge of the POS drive panel 513, and then each is attached (or incorporated into) the POS access panel 514, with the protruding tips of the guide clips 152 fitting into the adjacent channel guides 153. In storage, the two guide clips 152 on the drive panel 513 move vertically within the channel guides 153 of the adjacent POS access panel 514, beginning to push it toward the next adjacent POS access panel 514. The guide clips 152 on each POS access panel 514 move within their adjacent channel guides 153, pushing the adjacent access panel 514 in the appropriate direction until the POS access panel 514 is positioned within the panel compartment 111. The POS access panel 514 slides along the support arm 142 and support bridge 114, and is stabilized and synchronized during movement by the base of the drive clip 141 supported thereby. The POS drive assembly 516 shown in Figure 33B includes relatively equivalent parts and shares the same functional operation as the detailed description of the present invention in Figures 1A and 13, apart from the number of access panels 514, rails 512, and their support parts.

[0085] Figure 33C shows a rear close-up view of a POS upper housing assembly 501 (also referred to herein as the “POS UHA”) including an adjacent POS terminal 510, indicated by a rectangular dashed line. The components shown in this figure include a POS chassis 502, an optional battery 126, a panel compartment 111, a UV-C 125, a UV-C mounting stand 131, a support arm 142, a channel guide 153, a guide clip 152, a drive clip 141, an emergency handle 104, an obstacle sensor 110, a POS access panel 514 (including the drive panel 513), and a UV reflective surface 124 (not visible). The POS UHA 501 shown in Figure 33C includes relatively equivalent components and shares the same functional operation as described in detail in Figures 1A and 14 of the present invention, apart from the number of access panels 514, rails 512, and their support components.

[0086] Figure 34A shows a front exploded view of the POS UHA501 projected onto and adjacent to the POS base plate assembly 505, and the resulting front perspective view of the POS chamber 500 is shown in Figure 34B.

[0087] Figures 35A–G show front views of the seven access panel positions of the POS chamber 500, starting with the closed and sealed POS terminal in Figure 35A and ending with the fully available POS terminal 510 in Figure 35G.

[0088] Figure 36 shows a front perspective view example of a POS chamber 500 adjacent to a retail cash register 511.

[0089] Referring here to additional embodiments of the present invention, Figures 37A–47E show a cylindrical pathogen eradication chamber 600. In a preferred embodiment, the cylindrical chamber 600 is used to decontaminate pathogens from elongated and horizontally displaced media 115, i.e., push-type door handles (e.g., panic bars, crash bars, horizontal push bars), shopping cart handles, etc. In an alternative embodiment, the cylindrical pathogen decontamination chamber 600 may be oriented vertically or diagonally over the media 115 to serve better than a linear chamber.

[0090] Referring here to the present invention shown in Figures 37A to 47E, a cylindrical pathogenic contamination removal chamber for a shopping cart handle 600 (also referred to herein as the “SC chamber”) is shown. Figure 37A provides an example of a front view of the SC chamber 600 adjacent to a shopping cart 609. Figure 37B shows a front view of the SC chamber 600 removed from a shopping cart 609, with front-facing components including a group of cylindrical access panels 604 (also referred herein as the “cyl panel” or “access panel”), a left housing 605, a right housing 606, an access sensor 106, a status lamp 105, and a substructure assembly 603.

[0091] Figures 38A and 38B show a front view and an elevation front perspective view, respectively, of the cylindrical base plate 601 (also referred to herein as the “cyl base plate”) of the SC chamber 600. As shown in Figure 38B, the cyl base plate 601 includes a UVC125 positioned immediately behind the inclined upper rear for direct delivery of UVGI in the direction of the shopping cart handle 610 (Figure 40A). In a preferred embodiment, the UV-C125 is incorporated into or fixed to UV adhesive strips 611, which are pre-wired to supply power to the UV-C125. Alternative embodiments include the UVC125 being incorporated directly into the surface during the manufacturing process by, but not limited to, direct bonding to the surface, mounting to the cyl base plate 601 with a UV-C mounting stand 131, or by any other preferred method. In another embodiment, the UV-C125 may be fixed directly to one or more cyl panels 604.

[0092] Figure 39A shows a top perspective view of a cylindrical base plate cover 602 (also referred to herein as the “cyl base plate cover”) which includes a UV reflective surface 124 made of UV reflective paint, TPFE, aluminum foil, or any other substance / material proven to optimize ultraviolet reflectivity. The cyl base plate cover 602 also includes a UV-C cutout 612 which covers UV-C 125 from the cyl base plate 601, allowing light to be delivered to the shopping cart handle 610 (Figure 40A) while simultaneously preventing unauthorized modification by the user.

[0093] Figure 39B shows an elevation front exploded perspective view of the cyl base plate cover 602, which is projected onto and installed on the cyl base plate 601 to form the substructure assembly 603 of the SC chamber 600. The cyl base plate 601 and the cyl base plate cover 602 can be manufactured from metal, plastic, or any other suitable material.

[0094] The shopping cart handle 610 is flanked on both sides by parallel boxes identified as the left housing 605 and the right housing 606, as shown in the exploded front view of Figure 40A. The left housing 605 (also referred herein as the “drive housing”) contains the functional outputs, electrical and motor components of the SC chamber 600, including the access sensor 106 and the status lamp 105. The right housing 606 (also referred herein as the “drive housing”) serves as a receptacle for the right-side cylinder access panel 604 (Figure 44B). Referring further to Figure 40A, the exploded view shows a substructure assembly 603 located centered between the left housing 605 and the right housing 606, adjacent to them, and further projected onto its position on the chamber 600 below the shopping cart handle 610.

[0095] Figure 40B shows a side view of the left housing 605, including the battery access door 107, battery latch 108, and safety lock 109. Both the left housing 605 and the right housing 606 can be constructed from metal, plastic, or any other suitable material that can provide the necessary strength, rigidity, and durability to optimize the operation of the chamber 600.

[0096] Figure 41A shows a side perspective exploded view of the components of the left housing 605, including the left housing chassis 607, microcontroller 128, battery 126, cylindrical drive motor 613 (also referred herein as the “cyl motor” or “motor”), drive shaft 615, motor support 614, drive hub 616 (also referred herein as the “hub”), driven drum 617 (also referred herein as the “drum”), and end cap 618. The hub 616, as shown in Figure 41A, is directly coupled to the cyl motor 613 and drive shaft 615, and rotates clockwise to house the cyl access panel 604 in the stacked array, enabling access to the shopping cart handle 610, and rotates counterclockwise to close and seal the chamber 600. The drum 617, in contrast, functions as a stationary component and therefore does not rotate.

[0097] The open elliptical central portion of the end cap 618 is positioned around the end of the drum 617, and after being secured in place, it is attached to the left chassis 607 to seal the left housing 605. An assembly diagram of the left housing 605 in hub position "0" (closed) 635 is shown in Figure 41B.

[0098] Figure 42A shows a front close-up exploded view of the left hub 616 projected onto its position within the central portion of the left drum 617. The two integrated parts form the left hub and drum assembly 621 (also referred to herein as the “left H&D assembly”), as shown in Figure 42B. The cyl rail 630 supporting the cyl panel 604 is also shown in Figure 42B. Additional details regarding the boundary between the hub 616, drum 617, and cyl access panel 604 are provided in Figures 44A–48E.

[0099] More specifically, with further reference to Figure 37A of the present invention, a side perspective exploded view of the right housing 606, including the right chassis 608, free spinning hub 619, drive shaft 615, free spinning hub support 620, right H&D assembly 622, and end cap 618, is shown in Figure 43A. The right housing 606 is the “driven housing” as previously stated; it is subordinate to the left housing 605 in that it does not have power or control functions within the SC chamber 600. The right chassis 608 is further distinguished from the left chassis 607 by having less internal area so that the microcontroller 128 and battery 126 are not present in the chassis 608, as previously shown in Figure 40A. Alternative embodiments, but not limited to them, may include motorized H&D assemblies in both the left and right housings 621, 622, powered by one or more cylinder drive motors 613 and one or more batteries 126.

[0100] Furthermore, referring to Figure 43A, the right housing 606 includes a coupled drive shaft 615 which is actuated via the movement of a free-spinning hub 619 and a component in the opposite left housing 605. The drum 617 is fixed in a stationary position when the end cap 618 is inserted into the chassis 608 and the right housing assembly 606 is closed, by overlapping the free-spinning hub 619 in the right chassis 608.

[0101] Figure 43B shows a side perspective view of the left chassis 607 (shown with the side removed) and the left H&D assembly 621 (other internal components removed for visibility) connected to cylinder panel 631 #1 (also referred to herein as the “drive panel”) which is connected to the right housing 606 in the closed position.

[0102] Figure 44A shows a side close-up view of the left H&D assembly 621 in hub position "0" 635 (closed). The left hub 616 rotates clockwise when viewed from the right (inside) side of the left chassis 608 to house the cyl access panels 604 stacked on top of each other, as indicated by the directional arrows in the left H&D assembly 621 in Figure 44A. In hub position "zero" 635 (closed position), #1 of the cyl panel 631 (the drive panel as shown in Figure 47A) is fixed to #1 of the cyl rail 626 (also referred to herein as the "drive rail") in the 8-10 o'clock slot on the hub 616, as shown in Figure 44A. Each of the integrated rails in the drum 617 includes an integrated nylon glide 140, as shown in Figure 44B, which facilitates degrees of freedom of motion and prevents friction during the movement of the cyl panel 604. Alternative embodiments include, but are not limited to, a cyl rail 630 that includes ball bearings or similar mountings, surface coatings, materials, or any other suitable solutions for the cyl panel 604 that promote degrees of freedom of motion and reduce friction. In another embodiment, the cyl panel 604 may be constructed from any material that promotes degrees of freedom of motion and reduces friction between the cyl rails 630 without the use of additional components.

[0103] Figures 45A–B show plan and bottom perspective views of the cylindrical access panel 604 using cyl panel 631 #1 in Figures 45A–45B and the left figure of Figure 45C, respectively. The bottom view of Figure 45B shows the cylindrical drive clip 623 (also referred to herein as the “cyl drive clip” or “drive clip”) and a UV reflective coating 124 such as aluminum foil, UV reflective paint, TPFE, or any other substance / material that optimizes the reflectivity of UV-C light within the SC chamber 600. As with all mediator-facing components in the various embodiments of the present invention, all internal areas within the access panel 604 of the substructure assembly 603 and the SC chamber 600 are coated with the UV reflective material / material 124. Figure 45C shows a bottom exploded view of three access panels 604, an example of their boundaries with projection arrows indicating the arrangement of each access panel 604 in the array. Describing Figure 45C in more detail from left to right, the left panel is an example of cylinder panel 631, #1 (drive panel), showing a panel with cylinder drive clips 623 but without channel guides 624. The cylinder drive clips 623, shown at the top and bottom of the figure, are oriented vertically and, as illustrated by the arrows, allow them to be fitted into the recessed barrels of the channel guides 624 of the adjacent cylinder panel 633, #3 (center panel). The channel guides 624 have rigid ends at each end, which, by the cylinder drive clips 623 attached to the adjacent panel, push or pull the panel depending on the direction of panel movement. Cyl panel 633, #3 (center panel), consists of channel guides 624 and cylinder drive clips 623. The cylinder drive clips 623 from the center panel are fitted into parallel and opposing ridges of the channel guides 624 in the right-hand panel of Figure 45C, referred to as cylinder panel 634, #4 (exit panel).The right panel is characterized as an exit panel, as is evident from the fact that it consists of a channel guide 624 which allows it to be pushed and pulled during storage and closing by the operation of the cyl drive clip 623 of the preceding panel, but as the last panel in the array, it moves itself but does not move any of the other panels 604, and therefore does not consist of its own drive clip 623.

[0104] Figures 46A–E and 47A–E further detail the operation of the cylinder access panel 604 (previously shown in Figure 37B) and their boundaries with the H&D assembly 621 (Figure 47A). Figures 46A–E show a side close-up view of the left H&D assembly 621 illustrating the five-stage panel storage, while Figures 47A–E show a top perspective view of the corresponding cylinder panel 604 (Figure 47A) as it is stored throughout the entire five-stage storage process in an embodiment of the four-panel SC chamber 600.

[0105] Referring to Figure 46A, the slots for the hub 616 and drum 617 are located at hub position "0" 635 (closed) within the left housing 605 (shown in Figure 41B), which is reflected in the opposite right housing 606 (shown in Figure 43B). Identifying the cyl rail 630 by number, #1 of cyl rail 626 is the drive rail to which #1 of cyl panel 631, shown in Figure 47A, is fixed in position on the drive hub 616, identified by the dashed line at the 8-10 o'clock position. #1 of cyl rail 626 includes a fixed width slot to which #1 of cyl panel 631 (the drive panel shown in Figure 47A) is connected and which rotates synchronously with the hub 616. As the clockwise rotation continues, the fixed drum 617 includes #2 of the cylinder rail 627, #3 of the cylinder rail 628, and #4 of the cylinder rail 629, as can be seen in Figure 46A of the closed panel position for each rail shown by the dashed line. Each of the three rails on the drum 617 in this embodiment includes an integrated rail having a nylon glide 149 (Figure 44B) that continues throughout the entire rotational region and ends in the cylinder panel section 625 shown in Figure 46E. A corresponding diagram of the SC chamber 600 in this position with the cylinder panel attached is shown in Figure 47A.

[0106] Figure 46B shows hub position #1 636, in which case hub 616 and cylinder rail 626 #1 are rotated clockwise to a position below cylinder rail 627 #2, as indicated by the alignment of the dashed lines. The corresponding position of cylinder panel 604 in SC chamber 600 at this position is shown in Figure 47B.

[0107] Figure 46C shows hub position 637 #2, in which case hub 616 and cylinder rail 626 #1 rotate to a position below cylinder rail 628 #3, accompanied by cylinder rail 627 #2, forming three stacked panels as shown by the dashed alignment in Figure 46C. The corresponding position of cylinder panel 604 in the SC chamber 600 at this position is shown in Figure 47C.

[0108] Figure 46D shows hub position 638 #3, in which case hub 616 and cylinder rail 626 #1 rotate to a position below cylinder rail 629 #4, moving the panels in cylinder rails 627 #2 and 628 #3 together, thereby forming four stacked panels. The corresponding position of cylinder panel 604 in the SC chamber 600 at this position is shown in Figure 47D, showing cylinder panel 604 with 75% open. Hub position 639 #4 is the final stage of the panel housing process, as shown in Figure 46E. At this stage, hub 616 and cylinder rail #1 (drive rail) of cylinder rail 626 rotate to their innermost positions within cylinder panel compartment 625, bringing together cylinder panel 604 (Figure 47E) with cylinder rails #2 of 627, #3 of 628, and #4 of 629 attached, thereby aligning the cylinder rail group 630 on top of each other. The corresponding positions of cylinder panel 604 within the SC chamber 600 at this position are shown in Figure 47E, indicating that the cylinder access panel 604 is 100% housed and stacked on top of each other within cylinder panel compartment 625, as shown in Figure 47E.

[0109] Referring to Figures 47A-E in more detail, these show top perspective views of the five-stage panel housing of the SC chamber 600. Figure 47A shows the SC chamber 600 fully closed and sealed, revealing the individual cylinder panels 604. Viewing Figure 47A from left to right, cylinder panel #1 631 acts as the drive panel, which is connected to the hub 616 as shown in Figure 46A; continuing from left to right, cylinder panel #2 632, cylinder panel #3 633, and cylinder panel #4 634 are connected in that order, and these are mounted on their own dedicated rails on the drum 617 as shown in Figure 46A.

[0110] Figure 47B shows the cyl panel 632 tucked under #2, which is cyl panel 631, and should expose 25% of the shopping cart handle 610 (not shown). The #1 drive of panel 631 is now positioned under #2 of cyl 623, and the subsequent rotation of #1 of cyl panel 631 pushes #2 of cyl panel 632 under #3 of cyl panel 633, exposing 50% of the shopping cart handle 610 as shown in Figure 47C. The #1 of cyl panel 631 continues to rotate, pushing #2 of cyl panel 632 and #3 of cyl panel 633, stacking under #4 of cyl panel 634, exposing 75% of the shopping cart handle 610 as shown in Figure 47D. In the final stage of storage, cylinder panel #1 of 631 pushes cylinder panel #2 of 632, cylinder panel #3 of 633, and cylinder panel #4 of 634 into the cylindrical panel compartment 625 so that all four panels are stacked on top of each other, as shown in Figure 47E. The process led by cylinder panel #1 is repeated to close the panels and seal the SC chamber 600 (as shown in Figure 37A).

[0111] As used herein, the term “enclosure” is typically as described above and generally includes, or may include, a chamber or a chassis having one or more sides. Enclosures can be of various geometric shapes and generally completely enclose an intermediary, except for doors or access panels and openings for housing the intermediary when it is attached to something else, such as a door handle connected to a door or a gas pump handle connected to a gas pump. In some embodiments, the enclosure may be a three-dimensional rectangular shape with six sides. In some embodiments, the enclosure may be, but is not limited to, a cube, a right prism, a sphere, a cone, and / or a cylindrical shape. The enclosure may be airtight and / or watertight when the door or access panel is closed.

[0112] In some embodiments, the sensors used herein may include obstacle sensors, motion sensors or detectors, light sensors, acoustic sensors, and / or thermal or infrared sensors. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the sensors can detect the presence of a user and subsequently automatically initiate the opening of a door or access panel of the housing or chamber. Such a system allows the user to access the mediating object without touching the door or access panel.

[0113] A trigger or trigger event is an event or trigger that opens an access door, and is typically detected by a sensor. That is, a user approaching the mediating object may activate a sensor that opens the door or access panel of the housing, enabling access to the mediating object. Thus, a trigger event may be an event detected by a sensor as described above. For example, in a bathroom environment, a motion sensor or light sensor can be used to detect a trigger event and the presence of a user (similar to routine tasks performed in bathroom stalls to flush the toilet or turn fixture faucets on or off). In the case of a door handle, the trigger event may be a user approaching the door or access panel, detected by a motion sensor or light sensor. Nevertheless, this disclosure is not limited to the use of sensors, and triggers may also be generated by mechanical means, such as a foot pedal.

[0114] An access door is typically a door or panel built into or integrated with a housing that can be opened to allow access to the inside of the housing. The door can be opened by any conventional means, such as a swing-open, slide-open, accordion-style access door, or panel-open. The size of the door or panel will inevitably vary depending on the size of the medium and the access required to use the medium. For example, in the case of a door handle, the opening must be large enough to accommodate the door handle and allow the user's hand to enter to open the door. In the case of a retail point-of-sale terminal, the opening must be large enough for the user to use the retail point-of-sale terminal. Thus, in some embodiments, the size of the door or access panel will be at least large enough to accommodate the user's hand.

[0115] The open position of a door is any position that is not completely closed. The closed position of a door usually means that the door is completely closed, sealing or protecting the intermediary from the external environment. In some embodiments, the door may be airtight, watertight, and may include transparent or see-through materials, such as plastic polycarbonate, glass, or any other see-through material. In other embodiments, the door or access panel may include metal, plastic, or composite material and may be light-blocking.

[0116] The enclosure surrounding the medium typically means that the enclosure or chamber completely encloses the medium. In some embodiments, the enclosure surrounds the medium and provides an airtight or semi-airtight enclosure in which airflow cannot easily pass from the outside to the inside of the enclosure.

[0117] The UV light source is described above and can be any UV light source capable of operating in the UV-C range. A UV light source can typically produce sufficient UV light intensity or ability to kill pathogens, bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. The UV light output is 2,000–8,000 μW·s / cm². 2This may be within the range of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. See Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Ultraviolet_germicidal_irradiation), last revised February 20, 2021. This document is incorporated herein by reference.

[0118] As described above, the UV light source may preferably be an LED array capable of providing UV light in one or more frequency ranges optimized for killing pathogens, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. For example, the UV array may generate light at 265 nm, 220 nm, and / or 280 nm. In other embodiments, the UV array may generate light at 220 nm, 225 nm, 230 nm, 235 nm, 240 nm, 245 nm, 250 nm, 255 nm, 260 nm, 265 nm, 270 nm, 275 nm, and / or 280 nm.

[0119] As used herein, decontamination generally means the destruction or neutralization of bacteria or viruses. In some embodiments, a 99% reduction of bacteria or viruses is achieved in 5 seconds or less. In some embodiments, a 99% reduction of bacteria or viruses is achieved in 3 seconds or less. In some embodiments, a 99% reduction of bacteria or viruses is achieved in 1 second. In some embodiments, a 99.9% reduction of bacteria or viruses is achieved in 5 seconds or less. In some embodiments, a 99.9% reduction of bacteria or viruses is achieved in 3 seconds or less. In some embodiments, a 99.9% reduction of bacteria or viruses is achieved in 1 second. In some embodiments, the virus is SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-1 or a variant including an α or δ variant. In some embodiments, a 99.9% reduction of SARS-CoV or a variant including SARS-CoV-1 or an α or δ variant is achieved in 1 second.

[0120] The decontamination may be any relevant pathogen, bacterium, or virus, but preferably a pathogen such as a virus, bacterium, protozoan, prion, viroid, or fungus that can cause disease in mammals, including humans. In one preferred embodiment, the pathogen may be SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-1 or variants including α or δ variants. See, for example, Pathogen, Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Pathogen), last edited 8 July 2021. This document is incorporated herein by reference.

[0121] Mounting stands are typically used to mount UV light sources inside housings or chambers. Mounting stands may be movable, allowing for the direction of UV light doses in different directions or angles within the housing. Mounting or connecting UV light sources to mounting stands can be done by any conventional means, including mechanical couplings, screws, rivets, etc., or by using adhesives.

[0122] The microprocessors used herein may typically include any computer processor in which data processing logic and control are contained in a single integrated circuit or a small number of integrated circuits. A microprocessor is typically a clock-driven, register-based, multipurpose digital integrated circuit that accepts binary data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in memory, and then provides the result as output. The microprocessors intended herein can control sensors, drive systems for opening doors or access panels, UV light sources, and even power supplies, including battery output.

[0123] While this disclosure includes certain embodiments, it will become clear after understanding that various modifications in form and detail can be made in these embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0124] Examples Example 1 - COVID-19 Experiment SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19. To date, the current COVID-19 pandemic has caused more than 4.55 million deaths worldwide, with over 645,000 of those deaths occurring in the United States. Crystal IS (Green Island, NY) is an ISO9001:2015 certified company that manufactures Klaran UVC LEDs and systems. IS, in collaboration with the National Institute of Emerging Infectious Diseases (NEIDL) at Boston University, initiated research to understand how SARS-CoV-2 responds to ultraviolet light (260nm-270nm) across the entire emission range of Klaran UVC LEDs and to different doses. Experiments were conducted using an array of Klaran WD series UVC LEDs at a distance of 7 cm from the test surface.

[0125] A Klaran UVC LED array was used to irradiate a dry plastic surface containing SARS-CoV-2 at a distance of 7 cm. The result was 1.25 mW / cm². 2 This shows the log reduction achieved by exposure of the virus to UVC intensity at different times: 6.25 mJ / cm². 2 The UVC dose resulted in a 99.9% reduction in the virus (Table 1 below). [Table 1]

[0126] 5 mJ / cm² from LEDs with different peak wavelengths, which are at both ends of the Klaran LED wavelength standard (260 nm and 270 nm). 2The tests were repeated using the specified dose. The results showed similar effectiveness across the entire wavelength range tested (Table 2 below). A comparison of these results with those published by Miyazaki University (which used UVC LED radiation at 280 nm) clearly shows a significant decrease in effectiveness at wavelengths above 270 nm (see Inagaki et al. (2020) Rapid inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 with deep-UV LED irradiation, Emerging Microbes & Infections, 9(1):1744-1747). [Table 2]

[0127] conclusion SARS-CoV-2 is a relatively weak virus and can be inactivated by low doses of UVC light. SARS-CoV-2 can be effectively inactivated within a few seconds by exposure to low doses of UVC light within the basic sterilization range. Furthermore, the UVC wavelength is crucial. Results published by Miyazaki University (using UVC LED radiation at 280 nm) indicate a significant decrease in effectiveness at wavelengths above 270 nm. Klaran UVC LEDs emit UVC light in the 260 nm to 270 nm wavelength range, which is the wavelength range that can achieve complete viral inactivation within a few seconds.

[0128] Example 2 - MicroLumix Product Analysis and COVID-19 According to embodiments of the present invention against SARS-CoV-2, the effectiveness of pathogen decontamination devices was simulated using Crystal IS. In the case of a door handle, the minimum average intensity on the entire surface, including the rear surface of the handle, was >6.25 mW / cm². 2 According to the results of Example 1, this allows for a 99.9% reduction in SARS-CoV-2 in one second.

Claims

1. A portable decontamination device adapted to decontaminate at least one vector area of ​​an object fixedly attached to a support structure, A housing that defines the internal enclosure, The housing includes a rear housing portion and a front housing portion located on the opposite side of the rear housing portion. The rear housing portion includes a rear opening located therein, and the rear opening is configured or designed to provide access to the internal housing. The housing is configured or designed to be attachable to the support structure in a first configuration that allows the entirety of at least one mediating region to be exposed to the internal housing, The housing is further configured or designed to be attachable to the support structure in accordance with the first configuration and in a manner that does not require movement or direct contact with the object, A housing in which the front housing portion includes a front opening configured or designed to provide access to the internal housing; A movable access door is movably mounted to the housing and prevents access to the internal housing through the front opening, The access door can be configured in a closed position to prevent access to the internal housing, and the access door can be further configured in an open position to allow access to the internal housing. The access door comprises a plurality of stackable access panels, including a first access panel and a second access panel, wherein the second access panel is movable within the first stacked configuration such that the second access panel is stacked behind or in front of the first access panel. The first access panel includes at least one first edge and a first body, wherein the at least one first edge is different from the first body, and the first body includes a first curved body, A movable access door wherein the second access panel includes at least one second edge and a second body, the at least one second edge being different from the second body, and the second body including a second curved body; A drive mechanism for opening or closing the access door in response to at least one trigger event; One or more ultraviolet light sources disposed within the internal housing and configured to decontaminate at least one mediating area; One or more sensors configured to detect the at least one trigger event; and The one or more sensors, the drive mechanism, and / or a controller configured to control the one or more ultraviolet light sources, Pathogen-removing equipment, including.

2. The first and second access panels are configured in the first stacked configuration while the access door is in the open position. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second access panels are configured in a non-planar stepped configuration while the access door is configured in the closed position.

3. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second access panels are movable within the first stacked configuration such that the second access panel is stacked behind or in front of the first access panel.

4. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the second curved main body portion is movable within a second stacked configuration such that the second curved main body portion is stacked behind or in front of the first curved main body portion.

5. The first access panel includes a first cylindrical panel portion, The second access panel includes a second cylindrical panel portion, The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the second cylindrical panel portion is movable within the second stacked configuration such that the second cylindrical panel portion is stacked behind or in front of the first cylindrical panel portion in a non-extendable configuration.

6. The pathogenic contamination removal device according to claim 1, wherein the housing is configured or designed to surround the at least one mediating area while the housing is attached to the support structure according to the first configuration and while the access door is configured in the closed position.

7. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the rear housing portion includes mounting means for fixing and attaching the housing to the support structure in such a manner that the entirety of the at least one mediating area is exposed to the internal housing through the rear opening.

8. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the rear opening is configured or designed to allow the at least one mediating area to pass through.

9. The object is a fixed object that is fixedly attached to the support structure. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the housing is configured or designed to be fixedly attached to the support structure in such a way that the entirety of the at least one mediating area is exposed to the internal housing through the rear opening.

10. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one portable power supply for supplying power to at least one electronic component of the portable pathogenic bacteria removal device.

11. The aforementioned controller, For confirming that the access door is configured in the closed position, and In response to confirming that the access door is configured in the closed position, to initiate decontamination of the at least one mediating area, A pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, which is configured or designed to execute multiple commands.

12. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors include an obstacle sensor, a motion sensor or detector, a light sensor, an acoustic sensor, and / or a thermal or infrared sensor.

13. The pathogenic decontamination device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured or designed to execute a plurality of commands for carrying out decontamination of the at least one vector area in a manner that inactivates at least 99% of the pathogenic community in the at least one vector area.

14. The pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein one or more ultraviolet sources are configured or designed to generate UV-C radiation having wavelengths in the range of 200 to 280 nm.

15. The pathogen contamination removal device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more ultraviolet sources include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and the LEDs include one or more semiconductor chips and / or one or more LED arrays.

16. The pathogenic bacteria contamination removal device according to claim 1, wherein one or more inner surfaces of the internal housing are coated with a UV reflective coating.

17. A pathogenic bacteria removal device according to claim 1, wherein the object corresponds to a fixed object selected from the group consisting of a door handle, a fixed object including a latch for a toilet stall, a fixed object including a tightening bolt, a fixed object including a gas pump handle, a fixed object including a retail point-of-sale (POS) terminal, an automated teller machine, a fixed object including a shopping cart handle, a fixed object including an elevator control panel, a fixed object including a telephone, a fixed object including a paper towel dispensing lever, a fixed object including a toilet handle, and a fixed object including a keyboard or keypad.

18. The pathogenic bacteria decontamination device according to claim 1, further configured to stop decontamination by the ultraviolet light source and activate the drive mechanism to open the access door if one or more sensors detect the following trigger event while the at least one mediating area is being decontaminated.

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