Apparatus and method for irradiating air in the air circulation system of a transport vehicle.

Abstract

To provide an apparatus and method for irradiating air in an air circulation system for a carrier.SOLUTION: An apparatus includes a filter unit 120 configured so as to be joined to a recirculation air conduit 152 connected to a manifold 154 of an air circulation system 150, and a filter arranged in an inlet end part of the filter unit includes a high efficiency fine particle air (HEPA) medium on the outside thereof. The apparatus further includes a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission strands, and the ultraviolet light transmission strands have distal ends arranged as spaced apart from each other within an interface between the HEPA medium filter on the outside thereof and a carbon filter activated on the inside thereof, and proximal ends that can be connected to an ultraviolet light source so that the ultraviolet light can be transmitted into the interface area by the transmission strands. The ultraviolet light transmission strands are configured to receive the ultraviolet light substantially emitted between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating the air passing through the filters.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the irradiation treatment of air in the air circulation system of a transporter, and more particularly to air purification used in conjunction with a cooling and environmental control system installed in an aircraft.

Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art. Exemplary transporter and in-cabin air systems in aircraft are designed to provide a comfortable cabin environment. In some exemplary aircraft, the cabin of the aircraft is pressurized to enable passengers and crew to breathe normally. Air enters the passenger area from overhead supply outlets that extend along the length of the aircraft cabin and generate airflow within the cabin. The air supplied to the cabin contains a mixture of recirculated air from within the cabin and air from outside the aircraft. The air is exhausted through air returns positioned along the length of the cabin. Thereby, air is continuously supplied to and exhausted from the passenger area.

[0003] Other transporters such as trains and buses have air circulation systems that circulate air for the purpose of passenger comfort. In many transporters, there is a central air unit that can circulate both the external air introduced into the transporter and the air recirculated inside the transporter. Contaminants and airborne microparticles may be present in the air. Airborne microparticles include a complex mixture of organic and inorganic substances, including bacteria, germs, various airborne viruses, and other substances small enough to float in the air. When passengers are exposed to airborne microparticles, there is a risk of infection and transmission.

[0004] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that all of the above problems can present significant considerations for the overall operating operations of airlines or other transporter operators. Therefore, there is an ongoing need for improved cost-effective approaches for circulating air within a transporter.

[0005] This section is intended to introduce to the reader various aspects of the technology that may be relevant to various aspects of the Disclosure, and the description and / or claims of the Disclosure are made below. This section is intended to provide the reader with background technical information to facilitate a deeper understanding of the various aspects of the Disclosure. Therefore, these statements should be read in this context and not as admissions of prior art. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0006] This section provides a general overview of the disclosure and does not provide a complete or comprehensive disclosure of its entire scope or features.

[0007] In various embodiments, a device for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a transporter includes a filter unit coupled to a recirculating air conduit connected to the air circulation system. The filter is located within the inlet end of the filter unit and includes an outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter and an inner activated carbon filter medium defining the internal space. The device further includes a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands, each having a distal end spaced apart within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter, and a proximal end connectable to an ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light is transmitted by the transmittance strand into the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The ultraviolet light-transmitting strands are capable of receiving emitted ultraviolet light substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating air passing through the filter.

[0008] In another embodiment, a method for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a transporter includes coupling a filter unit to a recirculating air conduit connected to the air circulation system. The method includes arranging the distal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands spaced apart along the outer surface of an activated carbon filter, and arranging the activated carbon filter within a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter. Thereafter, the distal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands are arranged along the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes fixing the filter containing the ultraviolet light-transmitting strands to a filter unit, and connecting the proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands to an ultraviolet light source. Thereafter, ultraviolet light emitted by the light source is transmitted by the transmissive strands into the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes activating an ultraviolet light source to cause the ultraviolet light source to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 253 nm, which is transmitted by a transmission strand for irradiating air that passes through a filter and enters an air circulation system.

[0009] Further areas of application will become apparent from the description herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this summary are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0010] Various improved versions of the features described above exist in relation to various aspects of this disclosure. Further features may also be incorporated into these various aspects. Such improved versions and further features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features described below in relation to one or more of the exemplary embodiments may be incorporated individually or in any combination into any of the aspects of this disclosure described above. Again, the short summary presented above is intended not to limit the subject matter claimed, but only to inform the reader of specific aspects and contexts of this disclosure.

[0011] The drawings described herein are intended to illustrate selected embodiments only, and not all potential embodiments, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] The present disclosure provides examples of transport vehicles, including aircraft, that have a passenger air supply system that receives air from an air circulation system. [Figure 2] This disclosure provides an example of an air circulation system for a transporter, including one embodiment of a device for irradiating air flowing through the air circulation system. [Figure 3] This disclosure illustrates one embodiment of a device for irradiating air flowing within an air circulation system for a transporter, such as those shown in Figures 1 and 2. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an example of the apparatus used to draw ultraviolet light-transmitting strands for filters, as disclosed herein. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is an example of the apparatus according to this disclosure, in which the ultraviolet light-transmitting strand is located on a portion of the filter. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is an assembly diagram of the apparatus according to this disclosure, showing the ultraviolet light-transmitting strand to the open end in the apparatus of Figure 3. [Figure 7] This is an assembly diagram of another embodiment of a filter including an ultraviolet light-transmitting strand according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 7 illustrates an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, depicting an ultraviolet light-transmitting strand placed at the interface between the HEPA filter and the activated carbon filter. [Figure 9] This is an assembly diagram of another embodiment of a filter including an ultraviolet light-transmitting strand according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This disclosure provides an example of a method for irradiating air within an air circulation system of a transporter. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0014] Next, exemplary embodiments are described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. According to various aspects of this disclosure, embodiments of apparatus for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a transporter are described. The features, functions, and advantages described above can be implemented individually in various embodiments or in combination in yet another embodiment. Further embodiments of this disclosure can be seen with reference to the drawings and the embodiments described below.

[0015] In one embodiment, a device for irradiating air within a transporter's air circulation system includes a filter unit configured to be coupled to a recirculating air conduit connected to the air circulation system. The filter unit has an inlet end. The filter is located within the inlet end of the filter unit and includes an outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter and an inner activated carbon filter medium defining the internal space. The device further includes a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands, each having a distal end spaced apart within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter, and a proximal end connectable to an ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light is transmitted by the transmittance strand into the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The ultraviolet light-transmitting strands are configured to receive emitted ultraviolet light substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm for irradiating air passing through the filter.

[0016] Referring to Figure 1, a transport body including an aircraft 200 has a passenger air supply system that receives air from an air circulation system. The air supply system supplies air into the passenger area from an overhead supply outlet that extends along the length of the aircraft cabin and generates airflow within the cabin. The air supplied to the cabin contains a mixture of recirculated air from within the cabin and air from outside the aircraft. The air is drawn through an air return located near the floor along the length of the cabin. Thereafter, air is continuously supplied to and removed from the passenger area of ​​the cabin.

[0017] Figure 2 is an example of an air circulation system 150 in a transport vehicle such as the aircraft 200 shown in Figure 1, including one embodiment of a device for irradiating the air flowing into the air circulation system 150. The air circulation system 150 includes a recirculating air conduit 152 (in which a fan may be located) connected to a mixing manifold 154 of the air circulation system 150. The mixing manifold 154 receives an outside air supply from the outside of the aircraft 200 from the environmental control system (ECS) and also receives recirculating air via a filtered input. The mixing manifold 154 also supplies two air supply lines for supplying the circulating air to passengers in the cabin.

[0018] Figure 3 depicts one embodiment of a device 100 for irradiating air in an air circulation system 150, such as the one shown in Figure 2 for a transport vehicle, such as the aircraft 200 in Figure 1. The device 100 includes a filter unit 110 configured to be coupled to a recirculating air conduit 152 connected to a mixing manifold 154 of the air circulation system 150. The filter unit 110 has an inlet end 112. A filter 120 is located within the inlet end 112 of the filter unit 110 and includes an outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter 120A and an inner activated carbon filter 120B (not shown in Figure 3). The apparatus 100 further includes a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands, each having a distal end spaced apart within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B, and a proximal end connectable to an ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light is transmitted by the transmitting strand into the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. The apparatus 100 further includes an end plate 130, which is configured to be attached to the open end of the filter 120. The ultraviolet light-transmitting strands are configured to transmit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 253 nm for irradiating air that passes through the filter 120 and enters the air circulation system 150.

[0019] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a filter unit 110 coupled to a recirculating air conduit 152. The conduit 152 is connected to a mixing manifold 154 of an air circulation system 150. A filter 120 is located at the inlet end 112 of the filter unit 110. The filter 120 may be circular, rectangular, or triangular in shape and may have an outer surface through which air is drawn. The shape of the filter defines the internal space through which air passes through the medium of the filter 120 and enters the internal space of the filter 120. An outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter 120A may include an outer annular portion of the filter 120 that forms a pleated cartridge made using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium, and an inner activated carbon filter 120B may include an inner annular portion of the filter 120 that contains activated carbon. The filter 120 may have a cylindrical shape and may include an outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium 120A and an inner activated carbon filter medium 120B that defines the internal space of the filter 120. More specifically, in some embodiments, the outer pleated high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium 120A includes an outer annular portion of the filter 120 that forms a pleated cartridge made using the high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium, and the inner activated carbon filter medium 120B includes an inner annular portion of the filter 120 that contains activated carbon.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the apparatus 100 includes a distal end 140A spaced within an interface region 148 (see FIG. 6) between an outer HEPA media filter 120A and an inner activated carbon filter 120B, and a proximal end connectable to an ultraviolet light source such that ultraviolet light is transmitted through a transmission strand into the interface region 148 between the outer HEPA media filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. Each ultraviolet light transmission strand 140 has a plurality of ultraviolet light transmission strands 140. The ultraviolet light transmission strand 140 can be overlaid or disposed on the outer surface of the inner activated carbon filter 120B. Thereby, the distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission strands 140 are disposed in a spaced-apart manner along the outer surface of the activated carbon filter 120B, as shown in FIG. 5. Then, the transmission strand 140 overlaid on the activated carbon filter 120B is disposed within the outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) media filter 120A, as shown in FIG. 6. Thereby, the distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission strands 140 are disposed along the interface region 148 between the outer HEPA media filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. In some embodiments, the distal ends 140A of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission strands 140 are detachably disposed between the outer HEPA media filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. Thereby, they can be removed and replaced. Each proximal end of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmission strands 140 is connected to an ultraviolet light source. Thereby, the ultraviolet light emitted by the light source is transmitted by the transmission strand 140 into the interface region 148 between the outer HEPA media filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. The filter 120 including the ultraviolet light transmission strand 140 is disposed relative to the filter unit 110, and the end plate 130 is disposed relative to the open end of the filter 120.

[0021] The distal ends 140A of the multiple UV light-transmitting strands 140 may each have varying lengths. This allows the distal ends 140A to be positioned at different locations within the interface region 148 between the outer HEPA medium filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. The distal ends 140A of the multiple UV light-transmitting strands 140 may be positioned at different locations within the interface region 148 between the outer HEPA medium filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. This allows the UV light to be scattered throughout the interface region 148. In some embodiments, the outer HEPA filter 120A is made from woven glass fibers. The transmitted UV light emitted in the interface region 148 is reflected and scattered by the woven glass fibers, dispersing the UV light and illuminating the interface region 148 between the outer HEPA medium filter 120A and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. In some embodiments, the proximal ends of multiple ultraviolet light-transmitting strands 140 may be coupled into a single strand positioned relative to an ultraviolet light source and connected to a connector near the end plate 130. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter. Thereafter, the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or weaken microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, fungi, mold, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the filter. In some embodiments, the multiple ultraviolet light-transmitting strands 140 include optical fibers suitable for optical fiber transmission of ultraviolet light. One such optical fiber is Molex® Silica Optical Fiber, sold by Laser Components. In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 further includes, as an ultraviolet light source, ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned relative to the proximal ends of the multiple ultraviolet light-transmitting strands 140, which include optical fibers. The ultraviolet LEDs emit ultraviolet light into the proximal ends of the ultraviolet light-transmitting strands 140.The ultraviolet light-transmitting strand 140 transmits ultraviolet light to the interface region 148, irradiating the air that enters the air circulation system 150 after passing through the outer HEPA medium filter 120A, the interface region 148, and the inner activated carbon filter 120B. One example may be the ultraviolet LED part number VPS134, sold by Boston Scientific. In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light source is configured to emit a distribution of ultraviolet radiation frequencies substantially in the range between 222 nm and 265 nm. This range is sufficient to result in minimal ozone generation. While ultraviolet light sources with wavelengths below 240 nm may generate ozone, ultraviolet light sources with radiation frequencies in the range of approximately 240 nm to 265 nm may potentially destroy or reduce ozone levels. Emissions in the range of ultraviolet radiation frequencies up to 265 nm potentially reduce or limit the amount of ozone generated by UV radiation emitted at lower frequencies. This results in a frequency distribution in the range between 222 nm and 265 nm, which leads to the generation of a minimum amount of ozone within the filter 120. The filter 120, which includes the ultraviolet light-transmitting strand 140, is positioned relative to the filter unit 110, and the end plate 130 is positioned relative to the open end of the filter 120. In some embodiments, the end plate 130 shown in Figure 6 is configured to be attached to the end of the filter 120 by attachment via rivets, adhesives, or bonds.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a filter (e.g., filter 120) including an ultraviolet light transmissive strand 140 is shown. The filter may be included within an apparatus 100 for irradiating air within an air circulation system (e.g., air circulation system 150). The filter includes a filter unit 110 (or filter housing), a plurality of ultraviolet light transmissive strands 140, a HEPA filter 120A, and an activated carbon filter 120B. As shown in FIG. 8, the distal end 140A of the ultraviolet light transmissive strand 140 is disposed within an interface region 148 between the HEPA filter 120A and the activated carbon filter 120B. Thereby, the plurality of ultraviolet light transmissive strands 140 are disposed between the HEPA filter 120A and the activated carbon filter 120B. The proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light transmissive strands 140 pass through a sealed connection within the filter unit 110. An ultraviolet light source may be disposed (or connected) relative to the plurality of ultraviolet light transmissive strands 140. Thereby, the ultraviolet light emitted by the light source is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light transmissive strands 140.

[0023] Furthermore, the apparatus 100 may be configured to include a controller (not shown) that monitors airflow sensors, mass flow sensors, or air particulate sensors located in the cabin of an aircraft (e.g., aircraft 200 shown in Figure 1) to determine whether a certain amount of irradiated airflow recirculated through the cabin of the aircraft represents a minimum level for removing suspended particulate matter and contaminants, and then cuts off the power supply to ultraviolet light sources located (or connected) to a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands 140. Similarly, the controller may monitor sensors to determine whether the measured values ​​indicate the presence of ozone or contaminating particulate matter in the cabin air exceeding an acceptable threshold, and then deactivate the ultraviolet light emitters to cut off ultraviolet light irradiation. Furthermore, the controller may monitor sensors to determine whether a certain amount of irradiated airflow being recirculated through the aircraft cabin is at an insufficient level for removing suspended particulate matter and contaminants, and then initiate power supply to an ultraviolet light emitting ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm to irradiate the air flowing through the filter 120 into the air circulation system 150.

[0024] In another embodiment, a method for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a transporter includes coupling a filter unit to a recirculating air conduit connected to a manifold of the air circulation system. The filter unit has an inlet end. The method includes arranging the distal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands spaced apart along the outer surface of an activated carbon filter, and arranging the activated carbon filter within a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter. Thereafter, the distal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands are arranged along the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes fixing the filter containing the ultraviolet light-transmitting strands to the filter unit, and connecting the proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands to an ultraviolet light source. Thereafter, ultraviolet light emitted by the light source is transmitted by the transmissive strands into the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. The method further includes activating an ultraviolet light source to cause the ultraviolet light source to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted by a transmission strand for irradiating air that passes through a filter and enters an air circulation system.

[0025] As shown in Figure 10, an embodiment of a method for irradiating air in an air circulation system of a transporter is provided. The method includes, in step 300, coupling a filter unit to a recirculating air conduit connected to a manifold of the air circulation system. The filter unit has an inlet end. The method includes, in step 302, arranging the distal ends of a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands spaced apart along the outer surface of an activated carbon filter. The method further includes, in step 304, arranging the activated carbon filter within a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter. Thereafter, the distal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands are arranged along the interface region between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter. In step 306, the method includes fixing the filter containing the ultraviolet light-transmitting strands to the filter unit. End plates are positioned relative to the open end of the filter. The method may optionally include step 308 providing an ultraviolet light source emitting ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm, and a predetermined power level such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or weaken viruses, bacteria, and other airborne microorganisms. The method further includes in step 310 connecting the proximal ends of each of a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands to the ultraviolet light source. This causes the activation of the light source to result in ultraviolet light emitted by the light source being transmitted by the transmitting strands into the interface area between the outer HEPA medium filter and the inner activated carbon filter to irradiate air flowing through the filter into the air circulation system. The method further includes in step 312 activating the ultraviolet light source to cause the ultraviolet light source to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted by the transmitting strands to irradiate air entering the air circulation system through the filter. The method may optionally include step 314 of activating an ultraviolet light source to emit ultraviolet radiation at a predetermined power level for a predetermined time.This ensures that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the air circulation system and the aircraft cabin before further flight of the aircraft.

[0026] The exemplary embodiments fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are described in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific details are not necessarily required, and that the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, which should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0027] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments as defined below. Article 1. A device (100) for irradiating air in the air circulation system (150) of a transporter, A filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112) is configured to be connected to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to the air circulation system (150), A filter (120) disposed within the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110), comprising an outer high-efficiency fine particulate air (HEPA) medium filter (120A) and an inner activated carbon filter (120B) that defines the internal space of the filter (120), A plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) each having a distal end (140A) spaced apart within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and a proximal end connectable to an ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) into the interface region (148) between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and An end plate (130) is positioned to cover the open end of the filter (120), and the end plate (130) has openings through which the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) extend, The ultraviolet light-transmitting strand (140) is configured to receive ultraviolet light emitted substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, pass through the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and transmit the ultraviolet light into the air entering the air circulation system (150), in the apparatus (100). Article 2. The apparatus (100) described in Clause 1, wherein the ultraviolet light is configured to emit a distribution of ultraviolet radiation frequencies substantially in the range between 222 nm and 265 nm, and the range is sufficient to result in the generation of a minimum amount of ozone. Article 3. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) are positioned at different locations within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B) so that the ultraviolet light is scattered throughout the interface, and the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) are coupled into a single strand connected to a connector near the end plate (130). Article 4. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 3, wherein the ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or weaken microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, fungi, molds, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the internal space of the filter (120). Article 5. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 1, wherein each of the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) has a different length, such that the distal ends (140A) are positioned at different locations within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B). Article 6. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) are equipped with optical fibers suitable for optical fiber transmission of ultraviolet light. Article 7. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 6, further comprising ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned toward the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) having optical fibers, wherein the ultraviolet light-emitting diodes emit ultraviolet light into the proximal ends of the optical fibers that transmit ultraviolet light to irradiate the air that enters the air circulation system (150) through the outer HEPA medium filter (120A), the interface region (148), and the inner activated carbon filter (120B). Article 8. The end plate (130) is configured to be attached to the open end of the filter (120) by rivets, adhesives, or joints, as described in the apparatus (100) of Clause 1. Article 9. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 3, wherein the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) comprises an outer annular portion of the filter (120) that forms a pleated cartridge made using a HEPA medium. Article 10. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 6, wherein the inner activated carbon filter (120B) comprises an inner annular portion of the filter (120) containing activated carbon. Article 11. The apparatus (100) according to Clause 10, wherein the filter unit (110) is configured to be coupled to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the transport body, and the filter unit (110) filters the recirculating air supplied to the manifold (154). Article 12. The apparatus (100) described in Clause 11, wherein the manifold (154) is a mixing manifold of the air circulation system (150) mounted on an aircraft (200). Article 13. A method for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a transporter, The step (300) of connecting a filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112) to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150), Step (302) of arranging the distal ends (140A) of a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) at intervals along the outer surface of the activated carbon filter (120B) inside the filter (120), Step 304: Position the inner activated carbon filter (120B) within the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) of the filter (120) such that the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) are positioned along the interface region (148) between the outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B). Step (306) of fixing the filter (120), which includes the ultraviolet light transmitting strand (140), to the filter unit (110), wherein the end plate (130) is positioned relative to the open end of the filter (120), Step 310: Connecting the proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) to the ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet light source is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) into the interface region (148) between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and A method comprising the step (312) of activating the ultraviolet light source to cause the ultraviolet light source to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) in order to irradiate air that has passed through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150). Article 14. The method according to Clause 13, wherein the step of locating the distal end (140A) includes locating the distal end (140A) at different locations within the interface region (148) between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B) such that the ultraviolet light is scattered throughout the interface region (148), and the method further includes the step of locating the proximal end of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140), which includes integrating the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) into a single bundled strand such that the ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light into the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140). Article 15. The method according to Clause 14, wherein the step of activating the ultraviolet light source includes operating an ultraviolet light-emitting diode that emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm at a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation irradiating the air passing through the filter (120) is sufficient to kill and / or weaken microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, fungi, molds, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the filter (120). Article 16. The method according to Clause 14, further comprising coupling a filter housing to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200) in order to enable the supply of irradiated recirculating air to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the aircraft (200). Article 17. The method according to Clause 15, further comprising the step of powering the ultraviolet light to supply the ultraviolet light with a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter for a predetermined period of time, such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the manifold (154) and is recirculated throughout the entire cabin of the transport before further operation of the transport. Article 18. The method according to Clause 17, further comprising the steps of monitoring sensors placed inside the transport to determine whether a certain amount of irradiated airflow, which is recirculated through the cabin of the transport, represents a minimum level for removing suspended particulate matter and contaminants, and then cutting off the power supply to the ultraviolet light. Article 19. The method according to Clause 18, further comprising monitoring sensors located within the cabin of the transporter to determine whether a measurement of the flow of irradiated air recirculated through the cabin of the transporter indicates an inadequate level for removing suspended particulate matter and contaminants, and then powering an ultraviolet light emitting ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm to irradiate the air flowing through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150).

[0028] The terms used herein are intended to describe, and not limit, specific exemplary embodiments. In this specification, the singular forms “a, an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms (unless the context clearly indicates otherwise). The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the existence of the described features, integers, steps, actions, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The methods, steps, processes, and actions described herein are not necessarily required to be performed in the specific order described or illustrated (where the order of execution is not specified). Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0029] The descriptions of the embodiments described above are presented for illustrative and explanatory purposes only. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are, in general, not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where possible and usable within a selected embodiment, even if not specifically illustrated or described. The same may also be modified in many ways. Such modifications are not considered deviations from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A device (100) for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a transport body, which is an aircraft (200), A filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112) is configured to be connected to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to the air circulation system (150), A filter (120) disposed within the inlet end (112) of the filter unit (110), comprising an outer high-efficiency fine particulate air (HEPA) medium filter (120A) and an inner activated carbon filter (120B) that defines the internal space of the filter (120), A plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) each having a distal end (140A) spaced apart within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and a proximal end connectable to an ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) into the interface region (148) between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and An end plate (130) is positioned to cover the open end of the filter (120), and the end plate (130) has openings through which the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) extend, The ultraviolet light-transmitting strand (140) is configured to receive ultraviolet light emitted substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm and to transmit the ultraviolet light into the air that enters the air circulation system (150) through the interface region (148) between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B). Each of the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) has a different length such that the distal ends (140A) are positioned at different locations within the interface between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B). The filter unit (110) is configured to be connected to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the transport body, the filter unit (110) filters the recirculating air supplied to the manifold (154), and the manifold (154) is a mixing manifold of the air circulation system (150) mounted on the transport body, the apparatus (100).

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet light is configured to emit a distribution of ultraviolet radiation frequencies substantially in the range between 222 nm and 265 nm, and the range is sufficient to produce a minimum amount of ozone.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) are coupled into a single strand connected to a connector near the end plate (130).

4. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm with a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is sufficient to kill and / or weaken microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, fungi, molds, and other contaminants in the air flowing through the internal space of the filter (120).

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) include optical fibers suitable for optical fiber transmission of ultraviolet light.

6. The apparatus (100) according to claim 5, further comprising ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned toward the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) including optical fibers, wherein the ultraviolet light-emitting diodes emit ultraviolet light into the proximal ends of the optical fibers that transmit ultraviolet light to irradiate the air that enters the air circulation system (150) after passing through the outer HEPA medium filter (120A), the interface region (148), and the inner activated carbon filter (120B).

7. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) includes an outer annular portion of the filter (120) that forms a pleated cartridge made using a HEPA medium.

8. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the inner activated carbon filter (120B) includes an inner annular portion of the filter (120) containing activated carbon.

9. A method for irradiating air in an air circulation system (150) of a transport body which is an aircraft (200), The step (300) of connecting a filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112) to a recirculating air conduit (152) connected to a manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) of the transport body, Step (302) of arranging the distal ends (140A) of a plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) at intervals along the outer surface of the activated carbon filter (120B) inside the filter (120), wherein each of the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) has a different length and is positioned at a different location. Step 304: Position the inner activated carbon filter (120B) within the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) such that the distal ends (140A) of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) are positioned along the interface region (148) between the outer high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B). Step (306) of fixing the filter (120), which includes the ultraviolet light transmitting strand (140), to the filter unit (110), wherein the end plate (130) is positioned relative to the open end of the filter (120), Step 310: Connecting the proximal end of each of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) to the ultraviolet light source so that ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet light source is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) into the interface region (148) between the outer HEPA medium filter (120A) and the inner activated carbon filter (120B), and The step (312) includes activating the ultraviolet light source to cause it to emit ultraviolet radiation substantially between 222 nm and 265 nm, which is transmitted by the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) in order to irradiate the air that passes through the filter (120) and enters the air circulation system (150), A method wherein the step (300) of connecting a filter unit (110) having an inlet end (112) to a recirculating air conduit (152) is for enabling the supply of irradiated recirculating air to the manifold (154) of the air circulation system (150) for the transporter.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of arranging the proximal ends of the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140), which includes bonding the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140) into a single bundled strand, such that the ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light into the plurality of ultraviolet light-transmitting strands (140).

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the step of activating the ultraviolet light source includes operating an ultraviolet light-emitting diode that emits ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm at a power flux or irradiation of at least 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter, such that the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation irradiating the air passing through the filter (120) is sufficient to kill and / or weaken microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, fungi, molds and other contaminants in the air flowing through the filter (120).

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising the step of powering the ultraviolet light source to power an ultraviolet light for a predetermined period of time such that a sufficient amount of irradiated recirculated air flows through the manifold (154) and is recirculated throughout the cabin of the transport before further operation of the transport.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, further comprising: monitoring sensors located inside the cabin of the transporter to determine whether a measurement of the flow of irradiated air recirculated through the cabin of the transporter indicates an inadequate level for removing suspended particulate matter and contaminants; then powering an ultraviolet light source emitting ultraviolet radiation between 222 nm and 265 nm to irradiate the air flowing through the filter (120) into the air circulation system (150); monitoring sensors located inside the transporter to determine whether the amount of irradiated air recirculated through the cabin of the transporter indicates a minimum level for removing suspended particulate matter and contaminants; and then cutting off the power supply to the ultraviolet light source.

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