Ultraviolet pathogen disinfection system

Abstract

The pathogen disinfection system for an indoor space includes a plurality of modular units, each having a frame and a plurality of panels. The fan module includes a fan configured to induce airflow from the indoor space into the fan module and direct the airflow toward at least one fan module air outlet. The ultraviolet (UV) disinfection module includes at least one UV light source configured to emit UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens in the airflow. Additionally, the UV disinfection module is configured to receive the airflow at a UV disinfection module air inlet and direct the airflow toward the UV disinfection module air outlet. Furthermore, the return module is configured to receive the airflow at a return module air inlet and direct the airflow toward another portion of the indoor space toward the return module air outlet.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 926,327, filed on 10 July 2020, entitled "ULTRAVIOLET PATHOGEN DISINFECTION SYSTEM," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for any purpose. [Background technology]

[0002] Pathogens such as bacteria, spores, fungi, and viruses generally pose a threat to human health. Exposure to some of these pathogens (e.g., Covid-19 SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus) can lead to serious, or in some cases fatal, illness. Therefore, avoiding exposure to some of these pathogens is of paramount importance. Exposure to pathogens generally results from direct contact with an infected person, contact with a surface contaminated with the pathogen, contact with infected airborne droplets resulting from coughing, sneezing, etc., or other forms of transmission. In public spaces, the risk of exposure is particularly high because people are generally closer to each other and may be directly (e.g., shaking hands) or indirectly (e.g., droplets from coughing) exposed to an infected person. Avoiding these forms of transmission can be facilitated by practicing social distancing during periods of risk (e.g., flu season and pandemics). Unfortunately, social distancing can be impractical in some situations where people are at risk in public spaces.

[0003] Furthermore, since contaminated surfaces may not be visible to the naked eye, and surfaces may remain contaminated for hours or even days after contact with an infected individual, another potentially high risk of exposure in public spaces may come from contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g., restaurant tables and seats, cash registers, public transport seats and handrails, card readers, door handles, etc.). While regular cleaning of hard surfaces (e.g., tables) can mitigate the risk, consistently cleaning surfaces to remove pathogens after every individual contact may not be feasible in certain settings. Moreover, thoroughly cleaning soft surfaces (e.g., fabric seats) is substantially more difficult and not a common practice. Thus, shared surfaces in public spaces (e.g., places where people may transmit or contract infectious respiratory infections) can pose a substantially high risk of exposure to individuals. However, society should not need to avoid public spaces and live under a persistent risk of infection.

[0004] In the past, people continued to go out into society even during high-risk periods (e.g., flu season). It was generally believed that while some people occasionally contracted illnesses caused by pathogens (e.g., influenza, gastroenteritis), society as a whole would not be affected. Unfortunately, that has changed in the recent aftermath of Covid-19. Because Covid-19 is thought to cause more severe symptoms and an unusually high risk of death, at least some public spaces have been closed for the safety of society. Eventually, people will be able to enter public spaces again. However, the continued risk of infection may persist, especially in public spaces. This could make people reluctant to go out into public spaces, potentially having negative impacts on society and the economy. For example, restaurants may see a significant decrease in regular customers even after reopening compared to pre-Covid-19 operations. To help society recover, systems or methods are needed to consistently and more reliably eliminate pathogens from public and private spaces. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0005] These drawings illustrate some aspects of some examples of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit or define the present disclosure.

[0006] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of one embodiment of an ultraviolet (UV) pathogen disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system for a portable communication device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] Figure 2 is a front view of the user interface of a portable communication device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] This is a front view of another user interface of the portable communication device shown in Figure 2, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] This figure shows a portable communication device having a cover incorporating a UV disinfection system, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system including a portable device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system on a fan according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system for indoor public spaces such as restaurants, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a bottom view of a table mounting assembly for housing a second UV light source, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in Figure 6. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system for disinfecting the interior of a vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the overhead housing assembly shown in Figure 8, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10]This is a perspective view of an embedded UV disinfection system placed in a retail space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of an embedded UV disinfection system placed on a counter in a retail space, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system for providing disinfection light curtains between seating arrangements in a public space, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system for ATM keypads according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system having a portable compartment for disinfecting objects, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system placed in an indoor space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] This is a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system that emits UV light upward toward the ceiling, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] This is a perspective view of the base portion of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] This is a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection fan system for indoor spaces according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] This is a cross-sectional view of a fan blade of a UV disinfection fan system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view of a UV disinfection system, comprising an upper cowling and a lower cowling, arranged in an indoor space, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] This is a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system comprising an upper cowling and a lower cowling, arranged in an indoor space, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 23]Cross-sectional view of an air treatment system with a lower cowling and an upper cowling arranged in a room according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] Cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system with an upper cowling and a lower cowling arranged in an indoor space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] Cross-sectional view of an upper cowling segment and a lower cowling segment of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] Exploded view of a segment of a UV disinfection system with an upper cowling and a lower cowling according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] Cross-sectional view of an upper cowling segment and a lower cowling segment of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] Cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system with a ceiling panel arranged in an indoor space and an upper cowling and a lower cowling according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] Cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system having a UV light source fixed to an upper cowling according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 30] Cross-sectional view of a modular UV disinfection system having a plurality of modular units arranged in a suspended ceiling of an indoor space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] Exploded perspective view of a UV disinfection module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 32A-32B] Cross-sectional views of respective fan modules having folding fans according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 33A-33E] Schematic views of respective various configurations of modular units for a modular UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] Cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system arranged in a retail space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 35] This is a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system for forming a UV disinfection curtain inside a vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The following description is provided to enable those skilled in the art to create and use embodiments of the disclosure. Various modifications to the embodiments shown will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles of this specification can be applied to other embodiments and uses without departing from the embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the embodiments are not intended to be limited to those shown, but should be given the broadest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings, and similar elements in different drawings have the same reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, but illustrate selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many useful alternatives to the examples provided herein that fall within the scope of the embodiments.

[0008] Referring next to the drawings, Figure 1 is a block diagram of an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 toward a target location 106 to at least partially inactivate pathogens deposited in the air and on surfaces at the target location 106. The target location 106 may include a target surface (e.g., a desktop or portable communication device) or the surrounding air (e.g., a location in the ambient air adjacent to the UV disinfection system). Furthermore, the UV light 104 may be configured to at least partially inactivate pathogens between the UV light source 102 and the target location 106. That is, the UV light 104 may at least partially inactivate pathogens deposited in any air and on any surface exposed to the UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102. The UV light source 102 may be configured to operate (e.g., emit UV light 104) in the presence of people without any direct exposure to people.

[0009] The UV light source 102 may include a UV light-emitting diode (LED), a UV bulb, a scanning UV laser, or any other suitable UV light source 102 for emitting UV light 104. The UV light source may be a single element or an array of multiple elements and may include optical lenses and / or mirrors for directing the output energy towards a target area or space. While active, the UV light source 102 emits UV light 104 in an average peak wavelength range of 200–280 nanometers, which may at least partially inactivate pathogens (e.g., Covid-19, SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, all known coronaviruses, etc.) at the target location 106. Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200–250 nanometers, 200–220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may have a narrowband-pass filter. For example, the UV light source 102 may include a ±5 nanometer full-width at half maximum (FWHM) band-pass filter.

[0010] Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be configured to provide a target dose of UV light 104 to the target location 106 to achieve inactivation of pathogens on the target location 106. The target dose is 1 to 120 millijoules / cm² when the target location 106 is exposed to UV light 104. 2 This range may include: or the target dose may be 1-20 millijoules / cm². 2 The range may include the following. To achieve the target dose, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 at a power of 0.1 to 150 watts at a distance 108 from the target position 106 of 5 to 300 cm. The actual dose at the target position 106 may vary at least in part based on the distance 108 between the UV light source 102 and the target position 106. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a controller 110 having a dose measurement circuit 112 configured to monitor in real time the actual dose (e.g., cumulative dose) of the UV light 104 at the target position 106, based at least in part on the intensity and / or output of the UV light 104, duration, and the distance 108 between the UV light source 102 and the target position 106. The controller may receive a cumulative dose signal indicating the actual dose. Based on the monitored actual dose, the controller 110 may be configured to change the output power of the UV light source 102. For example, the UV light source 102 may move toward the target position 106 so that the actual dose at the target position 106 increases. Based on the monitored actual dose, the controller 110 may reduce the output power or shut off the UV light source 102 to achieve the target dose at the target position 106.

[0011] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a UV sensor 114 (e.g., a distance sensor) configured to detect UV light 116 reflected from a target position 106 (e.g., a target surface). In some embodiments, the UV sensor 114 is configured to output reflected UV light 116 data (e.g., a distance input signal) to a controller 110. Using the data from the reflected UV light 116, the controller 110 may be configured to calculate the distance 108 between the target position 106 and the UV light source 102 via an algorithm. The distance 108 may be calculated in real time so that the controller 110 can monitor the actual dose in real time. The controller 110 may be configured to monitor the actual dose of UV light 104 at the target position 106 in real time via a processor 118 and a memory 120. The processor 118 may include one or more processing devices, and the memory 120 may include one or more tangible non-temporary machine-readable media. For example, such machine-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other media that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and is accessible by the processor 118 or other processor-based devices (e.g., portable communication devices). In some embodiments, the memory 120 is configured to store controller instructions that can be executed by the processor 118 to output various control system signals. For example, the processor 118 may execute a controller instruction to reduce output power or shut off the UV light source 102 (e.g., send a stop signal to the UV light source) when the cumulative dose signal indicates that a target dose has been achieved.

[0012] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a UV detector 122 positioned on a target location 106 (e.g., the target surface). The UV detector 122 is configured to indicate the exposure of the target location 106 to UV light emitted from a UV light source 102. The UV detector 122 may include a phosphorescent material layer 124 that changes color in response to exposure to UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200-280 nanometers. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to gradually change color based at least in part on the actual dose of UV light 104 supplied to the phosphorescent material layer 124. For example, when 10 percent of the target dose is supplied, the phosphorescent material layer 124 may be red. At 50 percent of the target dose (e.g., the midpoint of the target dose), the phosphorescent material layer 124 may be yellow. Furthermore, upon completion of the target dose, in some embodiments, the phosphorescent material layer 124 may be green, indicating that the target location 106 has been exposed to the target dose. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to change from green to red over time. For example, the phosphorescent material layer 124 of the UV detector 122 may change from green to red over a period of 10 to 600 seconds. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a visible light source 126 for emitting visible light 148 having wavelengths in the visible light spectrum (e.g., about 380 to 700 nanometers) and having a power consumption of 0.1 to 150 watts. Target location.

[0013] The UV disinfection system 100 may include a circuit 128 for supplying power (e.g., from a power supply 130) to activate the UV light source 102 and / or the visible light source 126. In some embodiments, the circuit 128 includes a circuit board for housing the UV light source 102 and / or the visible light source 126. For example, if the UV and visible light sources are LEDs and not other bulb types, the UV LEDs and visible light LEDs may be mounted on the circuit board. Alternatively, the circuit 128 may include an integrated circuit such that the UV light source 102 and / or the visible light source 126 are mounted on the integrated circuit. However, any suitable circuit 128 may be used to supply power to the UV light source 102 and / or the visible light source 126.

[0014] Furthermore, as described above, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a controller 110 for controlling the operation of the UV disinfection system 100. That is, the controller 110 may control the starting / stopping of the UV light source 102 and / or the visible light source 126, as well as the power output of the respective light sources 102 and 126. In addition, the controller 110 may be configured to receive input from a motion sensor to determine the dose at the target position 106. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may also be configured to receive input from other sources of the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., an infrared sensor 132, a motion sensor 134, a user interface 136, a proximity sensor 152, etc.). For example, the controller 110 may be configured to receive temperature data from an infrared sensor 132 or other temperature sensor configured to detect that the temperature is within the range of human or mammalian body temperature (e.g., 95–105 degrees Fahrenheit) or more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or actual room temperature and that the controller 110 is within the UV light irradiation zone, so that the controller 110 can determine that a person is within a deactivation zone configured to trigger the deactivation of the UV light source 102. Furthermore, the controller 110 may be configured to receive ambient temperature data, weather data, etc., from an external source, which may be used in determining whether the detected temperature is more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or actual room temperature. In another example, a motion sensor 134 may provide data indicating that a person is within an activation zone configured to trigger the activation of the UV light source 102. In some embodiments, inputs may include operational data, diagnostics, and maintenance parameters. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be configured to receive inputs based at least in part on user input via a user interface 136. The user interface 136 may include an input / output device 138 (e.g., a keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen) configured to provide user input to the controller 110.Furthermore, the user interface 136 may include a display 140 (e.g., a computer monitor or personal device screen) configured to display information related to the operation of the UV disinfection system 100, so that the user can monitor the operation of the UV disinfection system 100 via a portable communication device, tablet, desktop computer, or any other suitable electronic device.

[0015] Furthermore, the controller 110 may be configured to receive input and output data, controller commands, etc., via the communication circuit 142. The communication circuit 142 may include an antenna, a wireless transceiver circuit, and signal processing hardware and / or software (e.g., hardware or software filters, A / D converters, multiplexers, amplifiers), or a combination thereof, and may be configured to communicate via a wireless communication path via infrared (IR) wireless communication, satellite communication, broadcast radio, microwave radio, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, UHF, NFC, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may communicate with a mobile application 144 (mobile app) via the communication circuit 142. For example, the controller 110 may output data to a cloud-based mobile app 144 via the communication circuit 142. The user may access the mobile app 144 via the user interface 136 described above.

[0016] Furthermore, the controller 110 may be configured to output data in response to a predetermined event or trigger of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the controller 110 may be configured to output an audio signal to the speaker device of the UV disinfection system 100 in response to the activation of the UV light source 102. The speaker device 146 may include a local speaker device 146. However, the speaker device 146 may also include a speaker of a device that provides access to the user interface 136 (e.g., a portable communication device speaker). The audio signal may be configured to cause the speaker device 146 to output an audio cue to indicate that the UV light source 102 is active. The controller 110 may be configured to output other audio signals to the speaker device 146 in response to the operation of the UV light source 102, the deactivation of the UV light source 102, or any other appropriate event or trigger. That is, the speaker device may be configured to generate an audio output before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of the UV light in response to the activation of the UV light source. In another example, the controller 110 may be configured to output a signal to the aroma diffuser device 150 based on any suitable event or trigger (e.g., activation of the UV light source). The aroma diffuser device 150 may be configured to output a scented aroma and / or neutralizing agent in response to the activation of the UV light source 102, thereby indicating that the UV light source 102 is active. The neutralizing agent is configured to react with and neutralize undesirable by-products of UV exposure (e.g., ozone, organic, or organochlorine compounds).

[0017] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 for a portable communication device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the portable communication device (e.g., mobile device 200) includes a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 at an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers toward a target location 106 to at least partially inactivate pathogens at the target location 106. In some embodiments, the average peak wavelength range may alternatively be 200–250 nanometers, 200–220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. The UV light source 102 may be located on the rear 202 of the mobile device 200, close to a rear camera 204, camera flash 206, microphone 208, etc. However, the UV light source 102 may be located on any part of the mobile device 200. Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be configured to operate (e.g., emit UV light 104) in the presence of people without any direct exposure to people. For example, a person can hold a mobile device 200 while in operation without being directly exposed to it or exposing anyone to the emitted UV light 104.

[0018] As described above, the UV light source 102 is configured to provide a target dose of UV light 104 to the target position 106 to achieve inactivation of pathogens on the target position 106. For example, the target dose is 1 to 20 millijoules / cm² of UV light 104 at the target position 106. 2 This may include exposure to UV light. To achieve the target dose, the user can activate the UV light source 102 while holding the mobile device 200 within 6 to 18 inches from the target position 106 for a 5 to 60 second disinfection cycle. For example, the user may activate the UV light source 102 for a 10 second disinfection cycle while holding the mobile device 200 at a distance of approximately 12 inches 108 from the door handle to at least partially inactivate pathogens on the door handle.

[0019] To determine the distance 108 between the mobile device 200 and the target location 106 so that the target dose can be achieved, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a UV sensor 114 as described above in Figure 1. The UV sensor 114 may be positioned at the rear of the mobile device 200, close to the UV light source 102. At least a portion of the UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102 may be reflected in the direction from the target location 106 toward the UV sensor 114. The UV sensor 114 may be configured to detect the reflected UV light from the target location 106 and output reflected UV data to a controller 110 of the mobile device 200 (e.g., shown in Figure 1). The mobile device 200 may use the reflected UV light data to calculate the distance 108 between the target location 106 and the UV light source 102. The distance 108 may be calculated in real time. As described above, the actual dose at the target location 106 may vary, at least in part, based on the distance 108 between the UV light source 102 and the target location 106. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a dose measurement circuit 112 (e.g., shown in Figure 1) configured to monitor in real time the actual dose (e.g., cumulative dose) of the UV light 104 at the target location 106, based at least in part on the intensity and / or output of the UV light 104, the duration of exposure to the UV light 104, and the distance 108 between the UV light source 102 and the target location 106. Based on the monitored actual dose, the mobile device 200 may be configured to vary the output power of the UV light source 102 so that the UV light source 102 provides the target dose during the disinfection cycle. Instead of the UV sensor 114, the UV disinfection system 100 may include an ultrasonic emitter and return ultrasonic sensor as means of measuring the distance to the target location 106, providing a distance input to the dose measurement circuit 112. In any case, the UV sensor 114 or other suitable alternative represents the distance measuring device.

[0020] The UV pathogen disinfection system may also include a UV detector 122 configured to change color in response to exposure to UV light 104 and to provide an indication of exposure to UV light 104. The UV detector 122 may be detachably mounted on the mobile device 200 or a case of the mobile device 200 fixed to the mobile device 200. Before operation of the UV disinfection system 100, the user may remove the UV detector 122 from the mobile device 200 and / or the case and position the UV detector 122 below, behind, or otherwise in close proximity to the target position 106 (e.g., the object to be disinfected). The UV detector 122 is configured to provide an indication in response to exposure to UV light 104. That is, the UV detector 122 is configured to change color from a first color to a second color in response to exposure to UV light 104. For example, the UV detector 122 may change from red to green in response to exposure to UV light 104. The UV detector 122 may include a surface 210 having a phosphorescent and / or photochromic material configured to change color under UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers. The UV detector 122 may be configured to provide an indication (e.g., a change of color) based on exposure to UV light 104 from a UV light source 102. The UV detector 122 can provide a complete indication after exposure to a target dose. For example, the UV detector 122 may change from red to green when exposed to a target dose. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to return from a second color to a first color within 10–60 seconds after exposure to UV light 104 has ceased. For example, the UV detector 122 may return from green to red after 10 seconds.

[0021] The UV disinfection system 100 may also include a temperature sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor 132) configured to monitor the temperature near the target location 106 and output temperature data to the controller 110. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system may include a motion sensor 134 configured to monitor movement near the target location 106 and output motion data to the controller 110. Based at least in part on the temperature data and / or motion data, the controller 110 may determine whether a person is positioned in the path of UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102. In response to detecting a person in the path of UV light 104, the controller 110 may output a stop signal to deactivate the UV light source 102. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may automatically restart in response to the controller 110 determining that a person is no longer in the path of UV light 104. Alternatively, the mobile device 200 may require the UV light source 102 to be manually restarted. Furthermore, in response to detecting a person in the path of UV light 104, the controller 110 can also output a warning audio signal configured to provide the user with an audio cue indicating that the UV light source 102 has been deactivated in response to detecting a person in the path of UV light source 102.

[0022] As illustrated, the UV disinfection system 100 may further include a visible light source 126 configured to emit visible light 148. The visible light source 126 may include the camera flash 206 of the mobile device 200. However, the visible light source 126 may include a separate dedicated LED or other bulb to provide normal light. Any suitable visible light source 126 configuration can be incorporated. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a speaker device 146 configured to emit an audible sound before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of the UV light source 102, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the UV disinfection system may include a tilt sensor 212 configured to provide a tilt angle signal indicating the tilt angle of the mobile device 200.

[0023] Figure 3A shows a front view of the user interface 136 of the portable communication device 200 of Figure 2, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the mobile device 200 may include a mobile application 144 installed on the mobile device 200. The user may access the mobile application 144 via the user interface 136 of the mobile device 200 (e.g., a touchscreen, keypad, etc.). The mobile application 144 may include options such as controlling the operation of a UV light source 102 (e.g., shown in Figure 2), viewing operation data corresponding to the UV disinfection system 100, and outputting operation data. In some embodiments, the mobile application 144 is configured to display real-time operation data corresponding to the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the mobile app 144 may include a user interface 136 that displays a first display frame 300 for a selected target dose, a second display frame 302 for the operating status of the UV light source (e.g., on / off), a third display frame 304 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) for the distance 108 to the target position 106 of the mobile device 200, a fourth display frame 306, a timer including the elapsed time since the activation of the UV light source 102, a fifth display frame 308 for the actual dose estimation, a sixth display frame 310 for the estimated dynamic countdown clock for the target dose, and / or other frames for cumulative usage tracking or any other suitable metric for the UV disinfection system 100.

[0024] In one example, the user can open a mobile app 144 to display a user interface 136, which may show a user interface target dose button (e.g., target dose button 312) adjacent to a user interface UV light source activation button (e.g., UV activation button 314). The user can select the target dose button 312 to open an options window 316 for adjusting the target dose. Alternatively, the target dose may be fixed, and the mobile app 144 may be configured to automatically deactivate the UV light source 102 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) when the target dose is reached. Furthermore, the user can activate / deactivate the UV light source 102 by selecting the UV activation button 314. When the UV light source 102 is activated, the above display frames 304, 306, 308, and 310 may appear near the UV activation button 314, showing the distance 108 of the mobile device 200 from the target position 106, the actual dose, a timer including the elapsed time since the activation of the UV light source 102, an estimated dynamic countdown clock for the target dose, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the countdown clock for the target dose may be updated in real time by moving the mobile device 200 (i.e., changing the distance 108 between the mobile device 200 and the target position 106). For example, the duration of the countdown clock may be increased by moving the mobile device 200 away from the target position 106. The mobile app 144 may include any suitable user interface functions for controlling the operation of the UV light source 102, viewing operation data corresponding to the UV disinfection system 100, and / or outputting operation data.

[0025] In some embodiments, the mobile app 144 includes processor-executable instructions configured to activate various components before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of the UV light source 102, or any combination thereof. For example, the mobile app 144 may be configured to activate a speaker device 146 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) in response to the activation of the UV light source. In another example, the mobile app 144 may be configured to activate a visible light source 126 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) in response to the activation of the UV light source 102. Furthermore, the mobile app 144 may include processor-executable instructions configured to receive a tilt angle signal from the mobile device 200 and generate a deactivation signal to deactivate the UV light source 102 in response to the tilt angle exceeding the maximum tilt angle. For example, the mobile app 144 may generate a deactivation signal in response to the tilt angle exceeding -45 degrees (e.g., the maximum tilt angle) relative to the horizontal plane. That is, the operating range of the UV light source may be from -90 degrees (e.g., downward) to -45 degrees.

[0026] Figure 3B shows a front view of another user interface 318 of another embodiment of the mobile device 200 of Figure 2, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The mobile device 200 is loaded with an application (e.g., mobile app 144). In this embodiment, the user points the mobile device 200 towards a target location 106 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) and presses an icon 320. The icon 320 can be generated at least in part based on a computer executable instruction to provide an interface from which the user can provide user input. Furthermore, in response to the user pressing the icon 320, the system can calibrate based on a distance 108 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) using a rear camera 204 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) or a distance measuring device. Once calibration is performed, the UV disinfection system 100 activates a UV light source 102 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) and a visible light source 126 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) for “disinfection mode”. When the dose measurement circuit 112 detects that the target dose has been emitted to the target location, the UV disinfection system 100 automatically shuts down. If any sensor is interfered with, the UV light source 102 automatically shuts down and an error code is issued.

[0027] Figure 3C shows a mobile device 200 having a cover 322. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 322 is configured to protect the external housing 326 of the mobile device 200. The UV disinfection device 324 (e.g., a cover element) may be configured to attach to the cover 322 (e.g., by snapping it on). In some embodiments, the UV disinfection device 324 may be configured to attach directly to the external housing 326 of the mobile device 200. In fact, the UV disinfection device 324 may be an accessory for the mobile device 200. Furthermore, as in the embodiment of Figure 3B, the mobile device 200 may be loaded with an application (e.g., the mobile app 144 shown in Figure 1) configured to interact with the UV disinfection device 324. For example, the UV disinfection device 324 may include a Bluetooth transceiver for sending and / or receiving data or command signals to and from the application.

[0028] Furthermore, the UV disinfection device 324 (e.g., a cover element) incorporates the UV disinfection system 100. Thus, the UV disinfection device 324 includes a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200-280 nanometers toward a target position 106, thereby at least partially inactivating pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light 104 in the path of the emitted UV light 104 and on the surface of the target position 106. The UV disinfection device 324 may also include a visible light source 126 configured to emit visible light 148 that can provide an indication that the UV light source 102 is active.

[0029] The UV disinfection device 324 may also include a UV sensor 114 or other distance measuring system configured to determine the distance between the UV light source 102c and the target position 106. For example, the UV sensor 114 may determine the distance from the target position 106 based on sensing UV light 104 reflected from the target position 106. Based on the determined distance between the UV light source 102c and the target position 106, the UV sensor 114 or other distance measuring system can generate a distance input signal. The UV disinfection device 324 may also include a dose measurement circuit 112 or algorithm configured to receive the distance input signal and generate a cumulative dose signal indicating the cumulative dose of UV light received at the target position 106 in real time, based on at least the distance input signal and the intensity of the UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102. The application may include a processor executable instruction configured to receive the cumulative dose signal and send a stop signal to the UV light source 102 when the cumulative dose signal indicates that the target dose has been achieved. Furthermore, the UV disinfection device 324 may also include a temperature sensor (e.g., an IR sensor 132) or a motion sensor 134 configured to provide an operation stop input signal to the application when it senses a specific temperature or motion within the UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102.

[0030] In one example, the user points the UV disinfection device 324 at the target position 106 and presses the icon 320 (for example, as shown in Figure 3B). In response to the press of the icon 320, the application calibrates the UV disinfection system 100 based on the UV sensor 114 or other distance measuring system. Once calibrated, the UV disinfection system 100 activates the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126 for “disinfection mode”. The visible light source 126 may have a wavelength and color that is easily distinguishable to the user, different from the wavelength and color of the flashlight 328 of the mobile device 200. When the dose measurement circuit 112 senses that the target dose has been achieved (e.g., radiated to the target position 106), the UV disinfection system 100 may automatically shut down. If any sensor is interfered with, the UV light source 102 automatically shuts down and an error code is given. In some embodiments, the user can reset the UV disinfection device 324 in response to the shutdown.

[0031] The UV disinfection device 324 may include other components, such as a tilt sensor 212 for providing a tilt angle signal indicating the tilt angle of the mobile device 200. The application may include a processor executable instruction configured to monitor the tilt angle signal and generate a stop signal for communication to the UV light source 102 in order to stop the UV light source 102 in response to exceeding the maximum tile angle. Alternatively, the mobile device 200 may include the tilt sensor 212. Thus, the application may include a processor executable instruction configured to receive a tilt angle signal from the mobile device 200 and generate a stop signal for stopping the UV light source 102 in response to exceeding the maximum tilt angle. Furthermore, the UV disinfection device 324 may include its own power and charging system, including an internal battery 330, a USB charging / data transfer port 332, or wireless charging capabilities, so that it can be charged by an adjacent mobile device 200 or an adjacent wireless charging source, or via a hardwired connection to a standard USB charging port on the mobile device 200.

[0032] Furthermore, the mobile device 200 may include components such as a speaker device 146. The application may include a processor executable instruction configured to activate the speaker device 146 to emit audible sound before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of the UV light source 102, or any combination thereof.

[0033] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 including a portable handheld device 400 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Similar to the UV disinfection system 100 for the mobile device 200 in Figure 2, the portable UV disinfection system 100 may include a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 to at least partially inactivate pathogens at a target location 106 (e.g., shown in Figure 1), and a visible light source 126 configured to emit visible light indicating that the UV light source 102 is active. As shown, the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126 of the UV disinfection system 100 are fixed to the portable handheld device 400. The portable handheld device 400 includes a housing 402 having a handle portion 404 and a display portion 406. The UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126 can be fixed to a portion of the portable handheld device opposite the display unit 406, so that the user can view the display unit 406 while directing the UV light 104 and / or visible light 148 away from the user. The user can hold the portable handheld device 400 while it is in operation (for example, while directing the UV light 104) without being directly exposed or exposing anyone to the emitted UV light 104.

[0034] The portable UV disinfection system 100 may also include a tilt sensor 212 located within the housing 402 of the portable handheld device 400. The tilt sensor 212 is configured to detect the tilt orientation of the portable handheld device 400 with respect to a horizontal plane (e.g., the ground). For example, a zero-degree orientation may indicate that the portable handheld device 400 is oriented so that the UV rays 104 are directed horizontally or parallel to the ground, while a negative 90-degree angle may indicate that the UV rays 104 are directed downwards with respect to the ground. In the context of the aforementioned coordinate system, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to automatically shut down the UV light source 102 in response to detecting that the tilt orientation of the portable handheld device 400 is, for example, between -45 and +90 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. In some embodiments, a mobile application 144 may allow the user to disable the tilt orientation auto-shutdown function so that the user can operate the portable handheld device with a tilt orientation less than a predetermined angle of -45 degrees for the purposes of the above example.

[0035] Furthermore, the portable UV disinfection system 100 may include an infrared sensor 132 and / or a UV sensor 114, as described above in Figure 2. The infrared sensor 132 and / or the UV sensor 114 may be fixed to the portable handheld device 400 in close proximity to the UV light source 102. That is, the infrared sensor 132 and / or the UV sensor 114 may be fixed to a portion of the portable handheld device 400 opposite the display portion 406. The infrared sensor 132 and / or the UV sensor 114 may be configured to output data (e.g., temperature data, UV light reflection data, etc.) to a controller 110 of the portable UV disinfection system 100 located within the housing. The controller 110 may be configured to start, shut down, or adjust the power of the UV light source 102 based at least in part on the data output from the infrared sensor 132 and / or the UV sensor 114. In some embodiments, the controller 110 is configured to output data to a mobile app 144 (for example, shown in Figure 3) for display on the display portion 406 of the portable handheld device 400. The display portion 406 of the portable handheld device 400 may include a color display. The display portion 406 may also include a touchscreen display configured to receive user input. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller 110 is configured to output a signal to a speaker device 146 fixed to the housing 402 of the portable handheld device 400. The signal may be configured to cause the speaker device 146 to output a chime and / or other warning based at least in part on the status of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the speaker device 146 may output a chime, tone, song or other appropriate sound indicating the activation and / or operation of the UV light source 102.

[0036] Furthermore, the portable UV disinfection system 100 may also include a communication circuit 142 (e.g., a Bluetooth circuit, or any other suitable wireless protocol) to provide wireless functionality to the UV disinfection system 100. Wireless functionality may enable the user to track user-specific operational data via a mobile app 144. Wireless functionality may also facilitate data uploads to a cloud server and / or allow downloads for firmware updates. In some embodiments, the user can remotely access the operational data of the portable UV disinfection system 100 by accessing the mobile app 144 from an internet-enabled device such as a mobile phone, tablet, desktop computer, or any other suitable device.

[0037] The UV disinfection system 100 may include other components fixed to the housing of the portable handheld device 400. For example, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a battery 410 for supplying power to the device, a USB charging port 412 for recharging the battery and / or transferring data, a power button 414 for activating the portable handheld device, a flip cover 416 for protecting the screen when the device is not in use, an integrated hinge 418 for facilitating the movement of the flip cover 416, and / or any other suitable components.

[0038] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 on a fan 500 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiments, the fan 500 includes a ceiling fan 500. However, the fan 500 may include any rotating device configured to circulate air. As shown, the ceiling fan 500 includes a plurality of fan blades 502 fixed to a fan motor housing 504 via a corresponding fan blade holder 506. A motor is located within the fan motor housing 504 and is configured to drive the fan blades 502 to rotate relative to the fan motor housing 504, thereby driving air in a direction perpendicular to the rotation of the fan blades 502 (e.g., upward or downward) (e.g., to guide an airflow). The motor may be configured to rotate the fan in either a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. The fan motor housing 504 may be fixed to the ceiling 508 of an interior room of a residence via a down rod 510. The UV disinfection assembly 512 of the UV disinfection system 100 may be fixed to the down rod 510 of the fan 500. In particular, the UV disinfection assembly may include a housing 514 fixed to the down rod 510 via at least one fastening function 516.

[0039] The housing 514 may have a cylindrical shape with an axial bore 518 extending through a central portion 520 of the housing 514. However, the housing 514 may include any suitable shape. The diameter of the axial bore may be sized so that the downrod 510 can be inserted into the axial bore. In one example, the fastening function 516 includes a compression clamp configured to secure the housing 514 to the downrod 510 once the housing 514 is positioned around the downrod 510. During installation, the housing 514 can slide along the downrod 510 to a desired position relative to the fan motor housing 504. Once in position, the compression clamp may be actuated to lock the housing 514 in place. In some embodiments, the housing 514 may be a split housing 514 having a hinge 522 connecting a first portion 524 and a second portion 526 of the housing 514. The split housing 514 may be configured to open via a hinge 522, slide laterally 528 along the downrod 510 relative to the axis 530 of the downrod 510, and then close to clamp around the downrod 510. The split housing 514 can be installed on an existing fan 500 without the need to remove the downrod 510 from the fan motor housing 504 or the ceiling, thus facilitating installation. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a tilt sensor 212 and / or motion sensor 134 configured to prevent the operation of the UV disinfection system 100 unless the housing 514 is properly oriented relative to the fan 500. The UV disinfection system 100 may also include other components such as a sensor 544, a UV sensor 114, a speaker device 146, an aroma diffuser 150, and a tilt sensor 212.

[0040] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a plurality of UV light sources 102 configured to emit UV light 104 into a path of air driven (e.g., pulled or pushed) by the fan 500 in order to at least partially inactivate pathogens in the air close to the fan 500. In particular, the plurality of UV light sources 102 are configured to emit UV light 104 in a substantially horizontal path substantially perpendicular to the direction of the induced airflow. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of UV light sources 102 are configured to emit UV light 104 in a radially outward direction 532 from the downrod 510. Thus, the plurality of UV light sources 102 may be arranged around the radially outward surface 534 of the housing 514. However, in some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include at least a portion of the UV light sources 102 (e.g., UV LEDs or UV bulbs) arranged on other surfaces of the housing 514 (e.g., the top surface 536 or the bottom surface). While active, each of the multiple UV light sources 102 emits UV light 104 at an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers. Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200–250 nanometers, 200–220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. Furthermore, in order to inactivate airborne pathogens in close proximity to the fan 500 at a desired rate, each UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 into the respective target volume 542 corresponding to the UV light source 102 with a power of 0.1–150 watts. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a switch configured to activate the UV light sources in response to the motor starting.

[0041] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a baffle plate 538 configured to control the beam angle of UV light 104 emitted from each of a plurality of UV light sources 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the baffle plate 538 may suppress the emission of UV rays 104 vertically downward 540 toward the area below the fan 500 so that the UV disinfection system 100 can operate without any direct exposure to people gathered in the area below the fan 500. Thus, the baffle plate 538 may be positioned between the UV light sources 102 and the fan motor housing 504. Although the baffle plate 538 is configured to restrict the UV rays 104, it may be positioned and sized to minimize interference of the baffle plate with the airflow caused by the operation of the fan 500. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the baffle plate 538 is less than or equal to the diameter of the fan motor housing 504. However, the baffle plate has a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the housing 514 of the UV disinfection system 100 so that the baffle plate 538 can suppress the UV rays 104.

[0042] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a sensor 544 (e.g., a temperature or motion sensor) configured to detect the temperature or motion of a volume beneath the fan 500 and to provide an activation input signal to activate the UV light source 102 in response to sensing a specific temperature or motion in the volume beneath the fan 500. For example, the sensor 544 may be configured to provide an activation signal in response to detecting the temperature beneath the fan 500 corresponding to a person, so that the UV light source 102 is activated when a person is in the volume beneath the fan 500 (e.g., a room, space, etc.).

[0043] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include components for time-based control and monitoring of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a clock circuit, a signal generator configured to produce a time signal indicating the time the UV light source is active, a transmitter configured to transmit the time signal, and a recording device configured to receive the time signal and record the time the UV light source 102 is active. The recording device may include a software application having processor executable instructions configured to record the time the UV light source is active and to operate the fan 500 and / or the UV light source 102. In some embodiments, the recorded time may be output to a controller 110 (for example, shown in Figure 1). Furthermore, the controller 110 may be configured to output executable instructions to start the fan 500 and / or the UV light source 102 at a preset time.

[0044] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 in an indoor public space, such as a restaurant 600, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In other examples, the UV disinfection system 100 may be placed in a bar counter, a public transport vehicle such as a bus, train, or subway, a conference room table, or any other suitable indoor public space. In the illustrated embodiment, a seating arrangement 602 in a restaurant is typically used by multiple parties of people throughout the day, some of whom may be carriers of pathogens (e.g., Covid-19). Between parties, waiter assistants typically clear and wipe down the restaurant tables 604 of the seating arrangement 602. However, pathogens may still remain on the surface 606 of the restaurant tables 604 and / or other surfaces of the seating arrangement 602 (e.g., chairs, benches 608, armrests, etc.). To minimize the risk of pathogen transmission through contamination of the seating arrangement 602, the UV disinfection system 100 is configured to at least partially inactivate pathogens that may be present on these surfaces (e.g., target location 106). Specifically, in order to at least partially inactivate pathogens, the UV disinfection system 100 includes at least one UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light at an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers toward target positions 106 of the seating arrangement 602 (e.g., restaurant tables 604, benches 608, etc.). Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200–250 nanometers, 200–220 nanometers, or any other suitable range.

[0045] At least one UV light source 102 may be configured to activate when the corresponding seating arrangement 602 is unoccupied. For example, after a party leaves seating arrangement 602 and a waiter's assistant clears the restaurant table 604, the UV light source 102 may automatically activate for the disinfection cycle. In another example, a waiter's assistant may activate the disinfection cycle by activating a switch 620, either through direct action or via remote communication such as Bluetooth or any suitable wireless protocol. The UV light source 102 is configured to provide a target dose of UV light 104 to the target location 106 of seating arrangement 602 during the disinfection cycle. For example, the target dose is 1 to 100 millijoules / cm². 2 It is possible that the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to adjust various parameters of the UV light source 102 (e.g., power, duration, etc.) based on the position of the UV light source 102 in order to achieve a target dose. For example, a first UV light source 102 positioned close to the lighting fixture 610 of a seating arrangement 602 may be located at a target position 106 (e.g., between 3 and 10 feet from a restaurant table 604). Based at least partially on the distance 108 of the UV light source 102 from the target position 106, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 at a power consumption of 0.1 to 150 watts for 10 to 120 seconds in order to achieve a target dose. Providing the target dose to the target position 106 may at least partially inactivate the pathogen (e.g., Covid-19), thereby reducing the risk of pathogen transmission to subsequent regular customers entering the seating arrangement 602.

[0046] Furthermore, to provide a target dose to each of the surfaces 604 and 608 of the seating arrangement 602, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a plurality of UV light sources 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a first UV light source 612 positioned above the seating arrangement 602. Specifically, the first UV light source 102 may be positioned in close proximity to a lighting fixture 610 positioned above the restaurant table 604 and configured to emit UV light 104 downward toward the restaurant table 604 and bench 608. In addition, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a second UV light source 614 positioned below the restaurant table 604 to disinfect surfaces of the seating arrangement 602 that are not in the line of sight of the first UV light source 102. The second UV light source 614 may be fixed to the central post 616 of the restaurant table 604 so that the second UV light source 614 can radiate UV light 104 radially outward to the bottom surface 618 of the restaurant table 604 and other surfaces not exposed to UV light 104 from the first UV light source 102. In another embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 may include additional UV light sources 102 which can be placed at any suitable location adjacent to the seating arrangement 602. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include aprons, baffles, etc., for controlling the beam angle of the UV light 104 emitted from each UV light source 102.

[0047] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may also include at least one UV detector 122 positioned on target locations 106 of the seating arrangement 602 (e.g., restaurant tables 604, benches 608, etc.). The UV detector 122 may be embedded in or fixed to the target location 106 via a coating, surface material, adhesive, clamp, or other suitable fastener. As described above, the UV detector 122 is configured to provide an indication of the amount of exposure of the target location 106 to UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102. Each UV detector 122 is configured to change color in response to exposure to UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers. The UV detector 122 may include a photochromic pigment, dye, or other colorant having the property of changing color under UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to gradually change color based at least in part on the dose of UV light 104. For example, when 10 percent of the target dose is delivered, the UV detector 122 may be red. At 50 percent of the target dose (e.g., the midpoint of the target dose), the UV detector 122 may be yellow. Furthermore, upon completion of the target dose, the UV detector 122 may be green to indicate that the target position 106 has been exposed to the target dose. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to return from green to red over time. For example, the UV detector 122 may return from green to red over a period of 10 to 600 seconds. In another example, after the UV light source 102 stops operating and exposure to UV light 104 ceases, the UV detector 122 may return from green to red over a period of 2 to 10 minutes.

[0048] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a light array 622. The light array may include a frame 624 configured to house a plurality of UV light sources 102 and a plurality of visible light sources 126. As described above, each UV light source 102 is configured to emit ultraviolet light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light 104. Furthermore, each of the UV light sources 102 and visible light sources 126 is configured to produce individual rays having individual volumes between the individual light source and the corresponding target position 106 (e.g., a surface area located at a given distance from the individual light source). The UV light sources 102 and visible light sources 126 can be individually directed toward the corresponding target position 106.

[0049] Furthermore, the multiple UV light sources 102 of the light array 622 are collectively configured to generate a collective UV ray having a collective volume between the light array 622 and a collective target surface area. The collective target area may include a table 604, a seating arrangement 602, an area where people may gather, or any combination thereof. In another example, the collective target area may include a keypad, a touchscreen, or any surface placed in a public space. In addition, the multiple visible light sources 126 are configured to collectively illuminate the collective target area to indicate that the UV light sources 102 are active and the UV disinfection system 100 is in disinfection mode. The controller 110 (for example, shown in Figure 1) is configured to send a first signal to the light array 622 to activate the light array 622 (e.g., the UV light sources 102 and the visible light sources 126) and a second signal to the light array 622 to deactivate the light array 622. In some embodiments, the controller 110 includes a deactivation circuit or algorithm that deactivates the optical array 622 when the deactivation circuit or algorithm determines that the target dose of UV light 104 has been achieved in a common target surface area. The deactivation circuit or algorithm may determine that the target dose of UV light 104 has been achieved in a common target surface area based at least in part on the intensity of the UV light 104 and the distance between each UV light source and its corresponding target surface area. In some embodiments, the deactivation circuit or algorithm determines that the determined target dose is 1 to 120 millijoules / cm² at the target position 106. 2 In this case, it can be determined that the target dose of UV light 104 has been achieved.

[0050] The UV disinfection system 100 may also include a proximity sensor 152 configured to detect the presence of a human being within a given safe volume greater than the target volume and to send a motion signal to the controller 110 to deactivate the light array 622 when the presence of a human being is detected within the given safe volume. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 152 is a temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature within a predetermined range within the target volume. The predetermined range may be 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, or a temperature more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or room temperature within the target volume. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 152 is a motion sensor configured to detect when an object or person moves into the UV light path within the target volume.

[0051] Figure 7 shows a bottom view of a table mounting assembly 700 for housing the second UV light source 614 of Figure 6, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a first UV light source 612 and a second UV light source 614, as well as a corresponding visible light source 126. The light sources 102, 126 may be housed in a corresponding UV disinfection assembly (e.g., a light array 622). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a table mounting assembly 700 for housing the second UV light source 614 and the visible light source 126. The table mounting assembly 700 may be configured to be mounted on the underside of a restaurant table 604 (e.g., shown in Figure 6). Specifically, the table mounting assembly 700 may be configured to be mounted on a central post 616 of the restaurant table 604. The table mounting assembly 700 may include at least one fastening function 516 (e.g., a compression joint) configured to secure the table mounting assembly 700 to the central post 616. However, the table mounting assembly 700 may include any suitable fastening function 516 for securing the table mounting assembly 700 to the restaurant table 604.

[0052] Furthermore, the table mounting assembly 700 may be configured to accommodate additional components of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the table mounting assembly 700 may be configured to accommodate a control circuit (e.g., controller 110) of the UV disinfection system 100. The control circuit may be configured to power and / or control the operation of the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126. That is, the control circuit can start the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126 for a disinfection cycle and stop the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126. The control circuit may be configured to control the operation of the UV disinfection system 100 based on manual input from a user interface 136 (e.g., shown in Figure 1). Alternatively, the control circuit may automatically control the operation of the UV disinfection system 100.

[0053] Furthermore, the table mounting assembly 700 may be configured to house sensors for the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., an infrared sensor 132, a UV sensor 114, a motion sensor 134, a proximity sensor 152, etc.). The sensors may be configured to detect the presence of a person in the vicinity of the seating arrangement 602. For example, the sensor may be an infrared sensor 132 configured to detect temperatures within the body temperature range (e.g., 95-105 degrees Fahrenheit), or temperatures more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or room temperature, and / or motion approaching the seating arrangement 602. The control circuit may include an auto-shut function to deactivate the UV light source 102 (i.e., to switch the UV disinfection system 100 from disinfection mode to normal operation mode) if body temperature or motion is detected. Furthermore, the control circuit and UV disinfection system 100 may output an alarm code to the user via a communication circuit (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.) in connection with the deactivation of the UV light source 102. In other words, the control circuit may output an alarm code to a mobile app 144 or another suitable location so that the user can receive the alarm code remotely using a device such as a mobile phone, tablet, or desktop computer. Furthermore, if the sensor fails to detect body temperature or movement in close proximity to the seat arrangement 602, the control circuit may be configured to restart the disinfection cycle.

[0054] The UV disinfection system 100 may include other functions electronically coupled to a control circuit, which may be housed by a table mounting assembly 700. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a speaker device 146 configured to generate an audio output to provide an audio cue indicating the status of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the speaker device 146 may be configured to output a first audio cue in response to the initiation of a disinfection cycle. Furthermore, the speaker device 146 may include other audio cues to indicate that the UV light source 102 is active (i.e., a disinfection cycle is in progress), that the UV light source 102 has stopped operating due to the completion of the disinfection cycle, that it has stopped operating due to an auto-shutdown, or any other event related to the operation of the UV disinfection system 100. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a delay switch 702 electronically coupled to the control circuit. In particular, a UV disinfection system 100 using a control circuit configured to control the operation of the UV disinfection system 100 based on manual input from a user may include a delay switch 702. Using a manual input system, a restaurant waiter's assistant or another employee may manually activate the disinfection cycle after clearing the restaurant tables 604. The delay switch 702 may be configured to delay the activation of the disinfection cycle for at least 5 seconds after receiving user input to start the disinfection cycle, allowing sufficient time for the waiter's assistant to leave the seating arrangement 602 before the disinfection cycle begins. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may also include an aroma diffuser 150 configured to emit a scented aroma and / or neutralizer in response to the activation of the UV light source 102 in order to provide an indication that the UV light source 102 is active, as described above.

[0055] Figure 8 shows a UV disinfection system 100 for disinfecting the interior of a vehicle 800 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV disinfection system 100 is configured to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens exposed to the air on passenger seats 802 and / or other surfaces inside the vehicle 800. The UV disinfection system 100 includes at least one overhead housing assembly 804 having a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 at an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers. Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200–250 nanometers, 200–220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. The UV light source 102 may be fixed within the overhead housing assembly 804. Upon activation, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 in a direction toward the passenger seats 802 and / or other surfaces of the vehicle 800 through a cover 806 that is at least partially UV transparent. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a plurality of overhead housing assemblies 804. Each overhead housing assembly 804 may be configured to provide UV light 104 to the row of vehicles corresponding to the overhead housing assembly 804. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a first overhead assembly 808 configured to provide UV light 104 to a first row 810 having a driver's seat 812 and passenger seats 814. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a second overhead assembly 816 configured to provide UV light 104 to a second row 818 having rear passenger seats 820. However, any arrangement of overhead housing assemblies 804 can be incorporated into the UV disinfection system 100.

[0056] The UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to deliver a target dose of UV light 104 to each target location 106 (e.g., passenger seats 802 of a vehicle and / or other surfaces) to achieve inactivation of pathogens on the target location 106. For example, the target dose is 1 to 100 millijoules / cm² of UV light 104 at the target location 106. 2This may include exposure to UV light. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include at least one UV detector 122 positioned on the target position 106. For example, at least one UV detector 122 may be positioned on a passenger seat 802, a center console 822, a dashboard 824, and / or any other suitable surface for a UV detector 122 within the vehicle 800. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a plurality of UV detectors 122 positioned within the vehicle 800. The UV detectors 122 may include cards, mats, stickers, etc., positioned on the target position 106. In some embodiments, the target position 106 may include a photochromic material configured to change color in response to exposure to UV light 104. For example, in some embodiments, the seat may include a color-changing cloth configured to change color in response to exposure to UV light 104. Each UV detector 122 is configured to provide instructions for the exposure of its respective target position 106 to UV light 104. In particular, the UV detector 122 can change color in response to exposure to UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to gradually change color based at least in part on the actual dose of UV light 104 supplied to the UV detector 122. For example, when 10 percent of the target dose is supplied, the UV detector 122 may be red. At 50 percent of the target dose (e.g., the midpoint of the target dose), the UV detector 122 may be yellow. Furthermore, upon completion of the target dose, the UV detector 122 may be green to indicate that the target location 106 has been exposed to the target dose. In some embodiments, the UV detector 122 is configured to return from green to red over time. For example, the UV detector 122 may return from green to red over a period of 2–10 minutes.

[0057] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a visible light source 126 fixed within an overhead housing assembly 804. The visible light source 126 may be configured to output visible light 148 that matches the UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102.

[0058] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the overhead housing assembly 804 of Figure 8 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, the overhead housing assembly 804 includes a UV light source 102 configured to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens exposed to passenger seats and / or other surfaces in a vehicle. Furthermore, the overhead housing assembly 804 includes a visible light source 126 for providing a visual signal regarding the status of the UV disinfection system 100. However, the overhead housing assembly 804 may include other components configured to provide information related to the status of the UV disinfection system 100.

[0059] As illustrated, the overhead housing assembly 804 includes a user interface 136. The user interface 136 may include a display 140 configured to display information related to the operation of the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., real-time operational data). For example, the display 140 may show and display the operating status of the UV light source 102 (e.g., on / off), a timer with elapsed time since the activation of the UV light source 102, an estimated dynamic countdown clock for a target dose, an actual dose estimate, cumulative usage tracking, or any other appropriate metric for the overhead housing assembly 804 of the UV disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, the overhead housing assembly 804 may output information related to the operation of the UV disinfection system 100 to a mobile app 144 (e.g., shown in Figure 3A) via a communication circuit 142 (e.g., a Bluetooth circuit, or any other appropriate wireless protocol). Furthermore, the display 140 may include a touchscreen so that a user can control the operation of the overhead housing assembly 804 via the display 140. For example, a user can activate the UV light source 102 via the touchscreen. However, in another embodiment, the operation of the overhead housing assembly 804 may be controlled via a mobile app 144 using a mobile phone, tablet, desktop computer, or any other suitable device.

[0060] Furthermore, the overhead housing assembly 804 may include components configured to detect information related to the operation of the UV disinfection system 100, which is displayed via the display 140 and / or the mobile app 144. For example, the overhead housing assembly 804 may include the infrared sensor 132 described above. The infrared sensor 132 may be configured to detect a temperature within a body temperature range (e.g., 95–105 degrees Fahrenheit) or within 10 degrees Fahrenheit of the ambient temperature inside the vehicle, which may indicate that a person is sitting in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may stop or prevent the operation of the UV light source 102 in response to the infrared sensor 132 detecting a temperature within the body temperature range. In some embodiments, the overhead housing assembly 804 may also include a motion sensor 134 and / or a UV sensor 114 configured to provide additional data (e.g., motion data, distance data) for determining whether a person is sitting inside the vehicle 800 (e.g., shown in Figure 8). In some embodiments, the overhead housing assembly 804 may determine, at least partially, to stop or prevent the activation of the UV light source 102 based on a combination of data from the infrared sensor 132, the motion sensor 134, and / or the UV sensor 114. For example, the ambient temperature inside the vehicle 800 may be 100 degrees Fahrenheit (i.e., within the body temperature range), which would generally cause the overhead housing assembly 804 to stop or prevent the activation of the UV light source 102 based on data from the infrared sensor 132. However, based on additional data from the motion sensor and / or UV sensor 114, which are calibrated based on the installed configuration (or recalibrated by the user to account for the car seats or other aftermarket mounting fixtures on any surface inside the vehicle), the overhead housing assembly 804 may determine that no one is seated inside the vehicle 800 and maintain / enable the operation of the UV light source 102.

[0061] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 placed in a retail space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV disinfection system 100 may include a UV light source 102 located within the base of the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., a housing 1000). The UV light source is configured to emit UV light 104 within a target volume 542 to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light 104 within the target volume 542. The UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 along a path corresponding to the target volume 542. In the illustrated embodiment, the path of UV light may be substantially perpendicular to the housing 1000 with respect to a length 1010 and a width 1008 of the housing 1000. In some embodiments, the width 1008 of the housing 1000 may be narrower than the length 1010 of the housing 1000 so that the UV light source 102 may be configured to output a narrow beam of UV light 104. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may be configured to output a narrow UV beam 104 with a width of 0.5 to 12 inches. That is, the UV light 104 may have a beam width 1014 of 0.5 to 12 inches at the target position 106.

[0062] The UV disinfection system 100 may include a beam shaping mechanism 1018 (e.g., one or more reflectors located inside the housing 1000, slots located above or inside the housing 1000, etc.) configured to shape the path of emitted UV light 104 so that the UV light is limited to a selected ray width 1014 over a selected height or distance 1016 from the housing 1000. The UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 with sufficient output power to inactivate airborne pathogens passing through the narrow UV light beam 104 up to a selected distance 1016 corresponding to the respiratory zone of an adjacent individual (e.g., the distance to the target position 106 of the UV light). However, in some embodiments, the respiratory zone may extend to 5 feet, 10 feet, or any other suitable distance. Furthermore, as described above, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 in an average peak wavelength range of 200 to 280 nanometers. However, the average peak wavelength range may alternatively be 200–250 nanometers, 200–220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. Furthermore, the UV light source 102 emits 1–120 millijoules / cm² at at least a selected distance 1016 corresponding to the target position 106 and / or target volume 542. 2 It can be configured to emit UV light 104.

[0063] The UV disinfection system 100 may include a visible light source 126 configured to emit visible light 148 indicating that the UV light source 102 is active. For example, the visible light source 126 may be configured to emit visible light indicating that the UV light source 102 is active. In some embodiments, the visible light source 126 is configured to output different colors based on the status of the embedded UV disinfection system 100. For example, the visible light source 126 may be configured to output red light indicating that the embedded UV disinfection system 100 is inactive. Furthermore, the pathogen disinfection system 100 may include other components such as the speaker device 146, the aroma diffuser 150, and / or the tilt sensor 212 described above.

[0064] As illustrated, the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126 may be embedded within the housing 1000. The housing 1000 may be at least partially UV transparent so that UV light can pass through a portion of the housing 1000. Furthermore, the length 1010 of the housing 1000 may be a length selected at least partially on the basis of a desired covering length of the UV disinfection system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 1000 is positioned above the retail store counter 1002 so that UV rays 104 from the UV light source 102 can at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens passing through the air between the customer 1004 and the employee 1006. Thus, the desired length may be the length of the counter, the length of the breathing zone, or any other suitable length for at least partially inactivating airborne pathogens passing through the air between the customer 1004 and the employee 1006. Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be configured to operate (e.g., emit UV light 104) in the presence of people without any direct exposure to people. For example, customers 1004 and employees 1006 may stand next to the retail store counter 1002 having the housing 1000 without being directly exposed to the emitted UV light 104. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the UV light source 102 and / or visible light source 126 may be embedded within one embodiment of the retail store counter 1002 having a material that is at least partially UV transparent as described above.

[0065] The pathogen disinfection system 100 may include a first motion sensor 1020 configured to detect when an object or person (e.g., a customer 1004 or an employee 1006) moves into the UV light path and to transmit a first signal in response to the detection of such movement. Furthermore, the pathogen disinfection system 100 may include a proximity sensor 1022 configured to detect when a person (e.g., a customer 1004 or an employee 1006) is present within a predetermined distance in a specific direction from the housing 1000 and to transmit a second signal in response to the detection of such presence. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 1022 may be a second motion sensor or a temperature sensor. The controller 110 of the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., shown in Figure 1) may be configured to activate the UV light source 102 after receiving the first signal and to deactivate the UV light source 102 after receiving the second signal. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be configured to activate the UV light source 102 with a time delay ranging from 0.1 to 10 seconds from the reception of the first signal.

[0066] Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the UV disinfection system 100 of Figure 11, which is located on a retail counter 1002 and is housed in a housing 1000 that is at least partially UV-transparent, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, the UV light source 102 and the visible light source 126 may be located within the housing 1000 of the UV disinfection system 100. The housing 1000 may be configured to accommodate other components of the embedded UV disinfection system 100. For example, the housing 1000 may house sensors (e.g., motion sensor 134, infrared sensor 132, etc.) configured to detect people in the vicinity of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the UV disinfection system 100 may include an infrared sensor 132 configured to detect temperatures within the body temperature range (e.g., 95–105 degrees Fahrenheit), or temperatures more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or room temperature, and / or temperatures up to a predetermined distance (e.g., 15 feet) from the UV disinfection system 100. In response to detecting a temperature within a range, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to activate the UV light source 102 and maintain operation of the UV light source 102 as long as a person is detected in the vicinity of the UV disinfection system 100. However, if the sensor does not detect a person approaching the UV disinfection system 100, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to deactivate the UV light source 102. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a shut-off delay command configured to delay the deactivation of the UV light source 102 for a shut-off delay period (e.g., 10 seconds) after the sensor has failed to detect a person approaching the embedded UV disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, the shut-off delay period may be 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or any appropriate time.

[0067] In some embodiments, the housing 1000, which is at least partially UV-transparent, may also be configured to house a speaker device 146 for outputting an audio cue. For example, the speaker device 146 may be configured to output a warning sound when body temperature and / or movement is detected in the path of UV light 104 emitted by the UV light source 102. The warning sound may be configured to prevent customers 1004 and employees 1006 (e.g., shown in Figure 10) from crossing the UV light source 102. In another example, the housing 1000 may be configured to house an aroma diffuser device 150 configured to output a scented aroma and / or neutralizer in response to the activation of the UV light source 102. The scented aroma may include a time-release hypoallergenic fragrance to provide olfactory confirmation of the active operation of the embedded UV disinfection system 100. In other words, the scent from the fragrance can indicate to the customer 1004 and the employer 1006 that the embedded UV disinfection system 100 is actively disinfecting the air quality in the vicinity of the housing 1000 so that it is at least partially hygienic.

[0068] Furthermore, the housing 1000 may be configured to house a memory 120 for the UV disinfection system 100. The memory 120 may be configured to store operational data for the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., cumulative use, elapsed time, etc.). A communication circuit 142 (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, or LAN) may be fixed within the housing 1000 to provide connectivity to a mobile application 144 (e.g., shown in Figure 3). Using the communication circuit 142, the operational data may be uploaded to the mobile application 144 so that a user can remotely access the operational data. The mobile application 144 may be configured to store the operational data so that hourly, daily, monthly, and yearly operational data can be retrieved for analysis. In some embodiments, the mobile application 144 may include dose monitoring for an employee 1006. Thus, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a dose monitoring device 1102 for the employee 1006 to wear. The dose monitoring device 1102 may track exposure to UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102 and output the exposure data to the mobile app 144.

[0069] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 for providing a disinfection light curtain 1200 between seats in a public space, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the UV disinfection system 100 may provide a disinfection light curtain 1200 between adjacent seats 1202 in an arena 1204 for hosting seated events (e.g., concerts, basketball games, churches, classrooms, auditoriums, theaters, live music venues, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system includes a mountable housing 1206 configured to be attached to a portion of the seats 1202 in the arena 1204. In particular, the mountable housing 1206 is configured to be attached to the top 1208 of the backrest 1210 of the seat 1202. The mountable housing 1206 may include fastening features 516 such as clamps, adhesives, or any other suitable fastening features 516 for securing the mountable housing 1206 to the seat. In some embodiments, the housing 1206 may be embedded within the top 1208 of the backrest 1210 of the seat 1202, and may include any suitable fastening function 516 for securing the housing 1206 that can be mounted within the backrest 1210 of the seat 1202. In another embodiment, the housing 1206 may be positioned on the empty seat surface 1222, on the armrest 1224, or on any suitable part of the seat 1202.

[0070] Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be fixed to a mountable housing 1206. In some embodiments, the mountable housing 1206 includes a non-UV light reflective material 1212 that is at least partially UV transparent. The UV light source 102 may be placed inside the material 1212. Having the material 1212 can protect the UV light source 102 from potential damage from impacts, rain, etc. Furthermore, as described above, the UV light source 102 is configured to emit UV rays 104 to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens passing through the mountable housing 1206. Specifically, the UV light source 102 may be configured to output a narrow beam of UV light 104 (e.g., a narrow beam of 1 to 3 inches) to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens passing over the mountable housing 1206. The UV light source 102 may be configured to output UV rays 104 with sufficient output power to inactivate airborne pathogens passing through the narrow UV beam 104. Furthermore, as described above, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 at an average peak wavelength of 200-280 nanometers. Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200-250 nanometers, 200-220 nanometers, or any other suitable range.

[0071] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 is configured to activate the UV light source 102 in response to the seat 1202 corresponding to the UV disinfection system 100 being occupied by a regular customer 1214. The UV light source 102 may be configured to operate in the presence of the regular customer (e.g., by emitting UV light 104) without any direct exposure to the regular customer or other people. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include sensors (e.g., an IR sensor 132, a motion sensor 134, a pressure sensor 1220, etc.) for determining whether the regular customer 1214 is occupying or near the seat 1202. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to automatically deactivate the UV light source 102 in response to the regular customer 1214 leaving the seat 1202 or its vicinity. However, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a timer configured to delay the shutdown of the UV light source 102 for a predetermined time (e.g., 8-10 seconds) after the UV disinfection system 100 detects that a regular customer 1214 has left the seat 1202 or its vicinity. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a tilt sensor configured to automatically shut off the UV light source 102 in response to the UV disinfection system 100 being tilted. For example, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to shut down the UV light source 102 in response to the seat 1202 of the backrest 1210 of the first seat 1216 being biased backward so that the UV light source 102 is directed towards the second seat 1218 located behind the first seat 1216. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include any other suitable components as described above.

[0072] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 for an ATM keypad 1300 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a UV light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 toward a target location 106. As illustrated, the target location 106 includes the ATM keypad 1300. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 toward any keypad or touchscreen operated in a public space (e.g., a grocery store), including a cash / banknote deposit area and commonly touched surfaces. As described above, the UV light source 102 is configured to emit UV light 104 toward the target location 106 at an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers to at least partially inactivate pathogens deposited in the air and on the surface at the target location 106. Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200-250 nanometers, 200-220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. The UV light source 102 may be configured to provide a target dose of UV light 104 to the target position 106 to achieve inactivation of pathogens on the target position 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the target dose is 1-50 millijoules / cm² of UV light 104 at the target position 106. 2 This may include exposure to UV light. The UV light source 102 may be configured to output UV light 104 with sufficient power to provide the target dose to the keypad in 3 to 30 seconds. However, the duration of the disinfection cycle to provide the target dose may be adjusted based on the type of material at the target location 106. For example, a target location 106 having a porous material or surface roughness may have a disinfection cycle of up to 90 seconds.

[0073] The UV disinfection system 100 may also include a visible light source 126 for providing a visual indication of the status of the UV disinfection system 100. For example, the visible light source 126 may output visible light 148 having a first color (e.g., red) to indicate that the UV disinfection system 100 is active, and a second color (e.g., green) to indicate that the target location 106 (e.g., keypad) has been disinfected and is ready for use. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a speaker device 146 for providing an audio cue indicating the status of the UV disinfection system 100. In addition, the UV disinfection system 100 may include any other suitable components described above (e.g., an air freshener 150).

[0074] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 having a portable housing 1400 having an internal compartment 1402 for disinfecting objects, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a portable housing 1400 having an internal compartment 1402. The UV disinfection system 100 may include a plurality of UV light sources 102 arranged within the internal compartment 1402. In some embodiments, the internal compartment 1402 includes a plurality of UV light sources 102 configured to provide simultaneous three-dimensional UV light 104 within the internal compartment 1402. For example, an object 1404 (e.g., a candy bar, a mobile device 200, a credit card, keys, money, etc.) may be inserted into the internal compartment 1402 for disinfection. Multiple UV light sources 102 may be positioned in the walls of the internal bottom 1406, side 1408, and top 1410 of the internal compartment 1402 so that simultaneous three-dimensional UV light 104 is emitted into the internal compartment 1402 to at least partially inactivate pathogens on the corresponding bottom, side, and top portions of the object 1404.

[0075] The UV light source 102 is configured to emit UV light 104 during the disinfection cycle to at least partially inactivate pathogens placed in the air and on the surface within the internal compartment 1402. In some embodiments, the disinfection cycle can be set via a user interface 136 (for example, shown in Figure 1). For example, using the user interface 136, a user can set the disinfection cycle to a duration of 5 seconds. In some embodiments, the user interface 136 may include an option to set the duration of the disinfection cycle to any duration within the range of 5 to 120 seconds.

[0076] Furthermore, the portable housing 1400 may include a lid 1414 that can be opened to provide access to the internal compartment 1402. The UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to prevent the activation of multiple UV light sources 102 when the lid 1414 is in the open position. The UV disinfection system 100 may include a configured sensor 1416 that detects whether the door or lid 1414 to the internal compartment 1402 is closed or open. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include any other suitable components described above.

[0077] Accordingly, the foregoing description provides a UV disinfection system configured to emit UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light. The system, method, and apparatus may include any of the various features disclosed herein, including one or more of the following descriptions.

[0078] Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection system 100 arranged in an indoor space 1502 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV disinfection system 100 includes at least one connecting element 1504 and a base portion 1506 configured to be suspended from the ceiling 508 of the indoor space 1502 via the at least one connecting element 1504. In some embodiments, the base portion 1506 may be arranged around a ceiling fan 500. Thus, the base portion 1506 may include any suitable shape (e.g., circular, hexagonal, nonagonal, heterogeneous, etc.) having a hollow central portion 1508 for arrangement around the ceiling fan 500. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 1506 includes a ring shape having a radially inward surface 1510 arranged radially outward from and around the ceiling fan 500. In particular, the radially inward surface 1510 may be arranged around the fan blades 502 of the ceiling fan 500. In addition, the radially inner surface 1510 of the base portion 1506 may be aligned at least partially perpendicular to the fan blades 502 of the ceiling fan 500. In some embodiments, the base portion 1506 may be discontinuous; that is, the base portion 1506 may include a plurality of cut segments arranged around the ceiling fan 500.

[0079] In some embodiments, the ceiling fan 500 is independent of the UV disinfection system 100. Alternatively, the UV disinfection system 100 may include the ceiling fan 500 such that the ceiling fan 500 can be configured to receive instructions from the controller 110 of the UV disinfection system 100 via wired and / or wireless communication. The instructions may be configured to control the operation (e.g., rotation) of the ceiling fan 500. While in operation, the ceiling fan 500 may be configured to direct an upward airflow 1512 toward the ceiling 508. The upward airflow may transition to flow radially outward 1514 in close proximity to the ceiling 508. Such radially outward airflow may travel over the base portion 1506 and then circulate through the rest of the interior space 1502.

[0080] The UV disinfection system 100 also includes at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source 102 fixed to the top of the base portion 1506. The UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers such that the UV light 104 can at least partially inactivate pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2). In some embodiments, the UV light 104 has an average peak wavelength of 200–230 nanometers. The UV light source 102 is configured to emit UV light 104 generally upward 1512 toward the ceiling 508 so that pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light 104 in the path of emitted light between the UV light source 102 and the ceiling 508 are at least partially inactivated. That is, the UV light source 102 may be configured to inactivate pathogens moving over and / or near the base portion 1506. For example, an airflow driven radially outward over the base portion 1506 could carry pathogens. As the airflow moves over and / or near the base portion 1506 through the emitted UV light 104, the UV light 104 emitted by the UV light source 102 fixed to the top 1516 of the base portion 1506 can at least partially inactivate pathogens carried by the airflow. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit the UV light 104 radially inward or radially outward.

[0081] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a controller 110 configured to monitor and / or control various components of the UV disinfection system 100. As described above, in order to at least partially inactivate the pathogen, it may be necessary to administer a target dose of UV light 104 to the pathogen. The actual dose applied to the pathogen is a function of power and time. Therefore, increasing the power of the UV light 104 or the duration of exposure of the pathogen to the UV light 104 may increase the actual dose so that the actual dose can achieve the target dose as the pathogen, carried by the airflow, passes through the emitted UV light 104. During operation, the controller 110 may be configured to adjust the power of the UV light source 102 and / or adjust the fan speed of the ceiling fan 500. By slowing down the fan speed, the duration of exposure of the pathogen to the UV light 104 may increase because a slower fan speed can reduce the speed of the airflow driven by the fan 500. However, the controller 110 may also be configured to maintain a minimum fan speed during operation so that the fan 500 can adequately circulate the air within the indoor space 1502. Sufficient air circulation can help reduce the occurrence of unsterilized air pockets in the indoor space 1502.

[0082] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 further includes an anti-reflective element 1518 (e.g., an upper element) mounted on the ceiling 508. The anti-reflective element 1518 may include a light-receiving surface 1520 having a UV-absorbing material (e.g., carbon black, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone, oxybenzone, octyl methoxycinnamate, etc.). In some embodiments, the UV-absorbing material may be incorporated into a coating that coats the light-receiving surface 1520. The anti-reflective element 1518 may be configured to substantially prevent at least a portion of the emitted UV light 104 from being reflected substantially downward 1522 from the ceiling 508 so that people in the indoor space 1502 are not exposed to the emitted UV light 104. That is, the light-receiving surface 1520 of the anti-reflective element 1518 can substantially absorb the emitted UV light 104 so that a substantial portion of the UV light 104 is not reflected from the light-receiving surface 1520. Therefore, the anti-reflective element 1518 may be mounted on the ceiling 508 in a position above the base portion 1506 and the UV light source 102. The light-receiving surface 1520 may be oriented downward toward the UV light source 102. The size of the anti-reflective element 1518 may be based on various factors such as the distance 1524 from the UV light source 102 to the ceiling 508 and the beam spread angle 1526 of the emitted UV light 104. In fact, the anti-reflective element 1518 may be mounted on the ceiling 508 directly above the UV light source 102 and extend radially inward at 10 to 80 degrees and radially outward at 10 to 80 degrees relative to the UV light source 102. Generally, the anti-reflective element 1518 may be sized to span a portion of the ceiling 508 exposed to the UV light 104. In some embodiments, the anti-reflective element 1518 may include an annular shape based on the portion of the ceiling 508 exposed to the UV light 104. Furthermore, the anti-reflective element 1518 may include a custom color configured to match the color of the ceiling 508 of the interior space 1502, so that the anti-reflective element 1518 does not appear to be too intrusive to the interior space 1502.

[0083] Furthermore, as described above, the UV disinfection system 100 includes at least one connecting element 1504. In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 1506 is suspended from the ceiling 508 via a plurality of connecting elements 1504 (e.g., a first connecting element 1528, a second connecting element 1530, and a third connecting element 1532). As shown, the connecting element 1504 includes a rod having a first end 1534 configured to be attached to the ceiling 508 and a second end 1536 fixed to the base portion 1506. However, the connecting element 1504 may include a chain, wire, cable, or any other suitable connecting element 1504. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 1504 is fixed to a portion of the ceiling 508 directly above the base portion 1506 so that the connecting element 1504 is oriented vertically. Alternatively, the connecting element 1504 may be fixed to a portion of the ceiling 508 located radially inward (or radially outward) from the base portion 1506, such that the connecting element 1504 is oriented at a certain angle. That is, the connecting element 1504 may extend radially inward (or radially outward) from the base portion 1506 and be fixed to the central portion 1538 of the ceiling 508. In some embodiments, the connecting element 1504 is attached to the ceiling 508 via a ceiling mount (not shown). Specifically, each first end 1534 of the connecting element 1504 may be fixed to a ceiling mount, and the ceiling mount may be fixed to the ceiling 508. The ceiling mount may be located in the central portion 1538 of the ceiling 508 above the base portion 1506. In some embodiments, the ceiling mount 508 may be positioned around the downrod 510 of the ceiling fan 500, or around the fan ceiling mount 1540, and attached to the ceiling 508.

[0084] In some embodiments, the connecting element 1504 may have an adjustable length configured to raise and lower the base portion 1506 relative to the ceiling 508. For example, the connecting element 1504 may include a telescopic rod 1542 having a first telescopic rod 1544 with a locking pin 1546 or button and a second telescopic rod 1548 having a corresponding slot 1550 along the length of the second telescopic rod 1548. Having a connecting element 1504 with an adjustable length can help align the base portion 1506 at least partially vertically with the fan blades 502 of the ceiling fan 500. For example, the fan blades 502 of the first fan 500 may be positioned one foot away from the corresponding ceiling 508, and the fan blades 502 of the second fan 500 in another interior space 1502 may be positioned two feet away from its corresponding ceiling 508. Having a connecting element 1504 with an adjustable length, it may be possible to install the UV disinfection system 100 around either the first or second fan without the need to replace or provide a custom connecting element 1504.

[0085] Figure 16 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, which emits UV light 104 upward 1512 toward a ceiling 508. As shown, the UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102 may form a UV light 104 beam directed upward 1512 (e.g., directly upward) relative to the base portion 1506. That is, the center 1600 of the UV light 104 beam may be directed axially upward. However, in some embodiments, the center 1600 of the UV light 104 may be angularly offset from the upward direction. For example, the center 1600 of the UV light 104 may be tilted 10 to 20 degrees radially inward or outward with respect to the upward direction. The UV light 104 beam may include a beam spread 1602 of about 120 degrees. In some embodiments, the UV light 104 beam may include any beam spread 1602 of 20 to 160 degrees, where in this application, beam spread 1602 refers to the angle 1604 from side to side of the UV light 104 (e.g., from a first side 1606 to a second side 1608), and beam divergence 1610 refers to the angle from the beam center 1600 to the side of the beam. Thus, for a UV light 104 beam having a beam spread 1602 of about 120 degrees, the UV light 104 beam may diverge about 60 degrees radially inward 1612 (i.e., towards the ceiling fan 500) and about 60 degrees radially outward 1614. In some embodiments, the beam spread 1602 may be 20 to 160 degrees. However, the beam spread 1602 may include any appropriate angle based on the UV light 104 beam output and airflow velocity so that the target dose is applied to pathogens carried by the airflow 1616 through the UV light 104 beam.

[0086] As described above, the anti-reflective element 1518 can be sized based at least in part on various factors such as the beam spread angle 1602 of the emitted UV light 104 and the distance 1524 of the UV light source 102 from the ceiling 508. For example, the UV light source 102 can be positioned 12 inches from the ceiling 508 and emit UV light 104 with a beam spread angle 1602 of 120 degrees. In such an example, the anti-reflective element 1518 may have a ring shape with a radial width 1618 of about 42 inches. The radial width 1618 of the anti-reflective element 1518 can be increased based on an increase in the beam spread angle 1602 of the UV light 104 or an increase in the distance 1524 of the UV light source 102 from the ceiling 508. The anti-reflective element 1518 may be modular so that the radial width 1618 of the anti-reflective element 1518 can be customized during the installation of the UV disinfection system 100.

[0087] Furthermore, as described above, the ceiling fan 500 may be configured to direct the airflow 1616 upward 1512 toward the ceiling 508, and the upward airflow may transition to flow radially outward 1514 in proximity to the ceiling 508, so that the airflow 1616 can move over the base portion 1506 and then circulate through the rest of the interior space 1502. In particular, the ceiling fan 500 may be configured to draw in air from a suction zone 1620 located below the ceiling fan 500 and drive the air upward 1512. The ceiling fan 500 may be configured to drive the airflow 1616 to achieve the minimum airflow velocity required for air circulation throughout the interior space 1502. In other words, the airflow 1616 may be configured to transition from an upward direction 1512 to a radially outward direction 1514, move beyond the base portion 1506 toward the wall 1622 of the indoor space 1502, transition downward 1522 in the wall 1622, and then flow toward the suction zone 1620 from the lower part 1624 and / or floor 1626 of the wall 1622 of the indoor space 1502. Pathogens present in the room may be carried by the airflow 1616 circulating in the indoor space 1502, at least partially inactivated, and travel through the UV light 104 emitted by the UV light source 102.

[0088] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include an airflow redirector 1628 configured to promote / maintain laminar flow of airflow 1616 transitioning from an upward 1512 to a radially outward 1514 direction, which may help promote air circulation throughout the room space 1502. In the illustrated embodiment, the airflow redirector 1628 is positioned around a connecting member (e.g., a downrod 510) of the ceiling fan 500. However, the airflow redirector 1628 may be positioned at any suitable location. In the illustrated embodiment, the airflow redirector 1628 includes a frustoconical shape. However, the airflow redirector 1628 may include any shape configured to promote laminar flow of airflow transitioning from a substantially vertical upward flow to a substantially horizontal flow.

[0089] The airflow redirector 1628 may include a variable diameter 1630 that increases in a direction toward the ceiling 508 (e.g., upward 1512). Having a variable diameter 1630 can help the airflow redirector 1628 promote laminar flow in the airflow. In some embodiments, the diameter of the airflow redirector may increase exponentially along the height of the airflow redirector 1628 to form a variable diameter 1630. Alternatively, the diameter of the airflow redirector may increase linearly along the height of the airflow redirector 1628 to form a variable diameter 1630.

[0090] Furthermore, the airflow redirector 1628 may have an annular shape such that it can be fitted around the downrod 510 of the ceiling fan 500. In such embodiments, the airflow redirector 1628 may be attached to the ceiling 508 and / or the downrod 510. Alternatively, the airflow redirector 1628 may include a solid body that can be attached to the central portion 1538 of the ceiling 508 relative to the base portion 1506. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a fan 500 (e.g., a bladeless fan) attached to the base portion 1506 instead of the ceiling 508, so that the fan 500 does not include a connecting member (e.g., a downrod 510). In embodiments with a bladeless fan, the airflow redirector 1628 may include a solid body so that a portion of the upward airflow from the fan 500 is not directed to the annular portion.

[0091] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 further includes at least one visible light source 126 fixed to the bottom surface 1632 of the base portion 1506. However, the visible light source 126 may be fixed to any part of the base portion 1506 (e.g., the radially inner surface 1510, the radially outer surface 1634, the top surface 1636). The at least one visible light source 126 may include multiple visible light sources arranged around the base portion 1506. As described above, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a bladeless fan instead of a ceiling fan 500 which may have a light fixture. The at least one visible light source 126 may be configured to provide visible light to the indoor space 1502 instead of a light fixture.

[0092] Furthermore, as described above, the primary mode of operation of the present invention may include using the fan 500 to guide an upward airflow from the suction zone 1620 (e.g., the breathing zone) for exposure to UV light 104 radiated into the disinfection zone (e.g., an area within the UV light 104 beam directed upward 1512 relative to the base portion 1506). The air guided upward hits the ceiling and flows out horizontally radially from the fan 500 for further exposure to UV light 102 in the disinfection zone. In the illustrated embodiment, the fan 500 is positioned within approximately 3 feet above the breathing zone and 1 to 2 feet below the ceiling 508. In an alternative embodiment that can be used in a room with a high ceiling, a solid circular baffle plate may be fixed to the ceiling 508 and positioned 1 to 2 feet above the fan 500. The solid circular baffle plate may have substantially the same diameter as the fan 500. Furthermore, the bottom surface of the solid circular baffle plate may include a UV-absorbing material. Alternatively, the anti-reflective element 1518 may be attached to the bottom surface of the solid circular baffle plate. Furthermore, the solid circular baffle plate may be configured to redirect the airflow 1616 to maximize air circulation within the interior space 1502, similar to the airflow hitting the ceiling in embodiments without a baffle plate.

[0093] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the base portion 1506 of a UV disinfection system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the base portion 1506 includes a one-piece base having a ring shape or other suitable shape (e.g., hexagonal, nonagonal, heterogeneous, etc.) having a hollow central portion 1508 on which a ceiling fan 500 (e.g., shown in Figure 15) is placed. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 1506 includes a plurality of segments 1700 joined together to form a ring shape. As shown, adjacent segments 1700 may be joined via a mounting plate 1702 to form the base portion 1506. The mounting plate 1702 may include respective connecting functions 1704. The connecting functions 1704 may include threaded sockets, locking devices, ring or hook elements, or any suitable connecting function 1704 for receiving the corresponding connecting element 1504. The corresponding connecting elements 1504 (including, for example, rods, chains, wires, cables, etc.) can be attached to the base portion 1506 via their respective connecting functions 1704. Alternatively, the connecting elements 1504 may be attached directly to the base portion 1506.

[0094] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a plurality of UV light sources 102 arranged around the base portion 1506. In some embodiments, the UV light sources 102 may be evenly distributed around the base portion 1506. For example, the plurality of UV light sources 102 may be angularly offset from each other by an angle 1708 of 40 degrees with respect to the central axis 1706 of the base portion 1506, such that the plurality of UV light sources 102 include nine UV light sources 102 evenly distributed around the base portion 1506. In another example, the plurality of UV light sources 102 may be angularly offset from each other by an angle 1708 such as 90 degrees, 72 degrees, or 60 degrees with respect to the central axis 1706 of the base portion 1506, such that the plurality of UV light sources 102 each include four, five, six, or any number of UV light sources 102, providing a complete ring of UV light 104 around the base portion 1506. Furthermore, the UV light sources 102 may be angularly offset from each other by any angle 1708 between 10 and 90 degrees.

[0095] Each UV light source 102 may include at least one UV lamp 1710 configured to emit UV light 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV lamp 1710 is linear. Alternatively, the UV lamp 1710 may be curved such that the lamp conforms at least partially to the radius of curvature of the base portion 1506. Having a curved UV lamp 1710 may allow the base portion 1506 to have a reduced radial width 1712, thereby reducing the weight of the base portion 1506. In addition, having a curved UV lamp 1710 may shorten the overall length of the UV lamp 1710 required to provide a complete ring of UV light 104 around the base portion 1506. In some embodiments, the UV lamp 1710 is fixed in a trough 1800 (e.g., shown in Figure 18) or recess of the base portion 1506. However, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 17, the UV lamp 1710 is fixed within a lamp fixture 1714 having a connector 1716 and a holder 1718 for receiving the UV lamp 1710. The lamp fixture 1714 includes a base 1720 configured to be mounted on top of a base portion 1506. Furthermore, the lamp fixture 1714 includes an inner side wall 1722, an outer side wall 1724, a first end cap 1726, and a second end cap 1728. In some embodiments, the connector 1716 is mounted on the inner surface 1730 of the first end cap 1726, and the holder 1718 is mounted on the inner surface 1732 of the base 1720.

[0096] Furthermore, each UV light source 102 may include at least one ballast 1734 configured to supply sufficient voltage to start the UV lamp 1710 in response to the activation of the UV disinfection system 100. The ballast 1734 may be located outside the lamp fixture 1714. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the ballast 1734 is attached to the radially outer portion 1736 of the upper surface 1636 of the base portion 1506, and the lamp fixture 1714 is attached to the radially inner portion 1738 of the upper surface 1636 of the base portion 1506. Alternatively, the ballast 1734 may be attached to the radially inner portion 1738 of the upper surface 1636, embedded in the upper surface 1636 of the base portion 1506, positioned between adjacent lamp fixtures 1714, or positioned in any other suitable location.

[0097] Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiments, the UV light source 102 may be embedded in the upper surface 1636 of the base portion 1506. In fact, the base portion 1506 includes a trough 1800 configured to receive the UV light source 102. The trough 1800 may be formed between the inner side wall 1802 and the outer side wall 1804 of the base portion 1506. In some embodiments, the trough 1800 may be formed by machining the base portion 1506. Alternatively, the trough 1800 may be formed by fixing the inner side wall 1802 and the outer side wall 1804 to the base portion 1506 by welding, fasteners, or any other suitable method. The UV light source 102 may be located at least partially within the trough 1800. Based at least partially on the arrangement of the UV lamp 1710 and the depth 1808 of the trough 1800, the inner and outer side walls 1802, 1804 may be configured to limit the beam spread angle 1526 of the UV light source 102 to 160 degrees or less. In some embodiments, the base portion 1506 includes a height 1806 of 1.5 to 3.0 inches, and the trough 1800 includes a depth 1808 of 0.35 to 0.65 inches. Furthermore, the radial width 1810 of the trough 1800 may be greater than the width of the UV lamp 1710, the ballast 1734, or any combination thereof. Thus, the radial width 1810 of the trough 1800 (e.g., the width between the inner side wall 1802 and the outer side wall 1804) may be 2.0 to 5.2 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, the trough 1800 has a variable radial width that decreases along the depth 1808 of the trough 1800. The variable radial width may include a minimum width of 1812 from 2.0 to 5.2 inches.

[0098] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a cover element 1814 attached to the upper surface 1636 of the base portion 1506. In particular, the cover element 1814 may be attached to the upper surfaces 1816, 1818 of the inner side wall 1802 and the outer side wall 1804, respectively. However, in some embodiments, the cover element 1814 may include the inner side wall 1802 and the outer side wall 1804 so that the cover element 1814 can be attached to the base portion 1506 by fixing the inner and outer side walls 1802, 1804 to the base portion 1506. The cover element 1814 may be configured to protect various components of the UV light source 102. The cover element 1814 may also reduce the visibility of the UV light source 102 in order to improve the aesthetics of the UV disinfection system 100. The cover element 1814 may include any suitable shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover element 1814 is molded so that the UV disinfection system 100 has a substantially hollow cylindrical shape with uniform inner and outer radial surfaces 1820, 1822. Alternatively, the cover element 1814 may be molded so that the UV disinfection system 100 has any suitable appearance.

[0099] In some embodiments, the cover element 1814 may be positioned above the UV light source 102. That is, the cover element 1814 may include a portion having a UV-transparent material 1824 positioned above the UV light source 102. Covering the UV light source 102 with the UV-transparent material 1824 can help protect the UV lamp 1710 from external conditions and improve the visual aesthetics of the UV disinfection system 100. In addition, the cover element 1814 having the UV-transparent material 1824 may be configured to control the beam divergence angle 1526 of the emitted UV light 104. The UV-transparent material 1824 is configured to allow at least partially the emission of UV light 104, while the other portion of the cover element 1814 can block the emission of UV light 104. Thus, the radial width 1826 of the UV-transparent material 1824 may be adjusted to correct the beam divergence angle 1526 of the emitted UV light 104. In some embodiments, the cover element 1814 may include gaps or slots instead of the UV-transmitting material 1824.

[0100] Figure 19 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection fan system 1900 in an indoor space 1502 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV disinfection fan system 1900 includes a ceiling fan 500. As shown, the ceiling fan 500 includes a motor housing 1902 and a connecting member 1904 (e.g., a down rod 510, a chain, a cable, etc.) configured to fix the motor housing 1902 to the ceiling 508. Furthermore, the ceiling fan 500 includes a plurality of fan blades 502 rotatably fixed to the fan motor housing 1902 via a corresponding fan blade holder 1906. A motor is located in the fan motor housing 1902 and is configured to drive the rotation of the fan blades 502 around the fan motor housing 1902 so that the fan blades 502 drive air upward 1512 (e.g., to guide an airflow).

[0101] Furthermore, the UV disinfection fan system 1900 includes at least one UV light source 102 fixed to the upper surface 1908 of each of the multiple fan blades 502. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection fan system 1900 includes multiple UV light sources 102 fixed to each of the multiple fan blades 502. Specifically, the UV disinfection fan system 1900 includes a first UV light source 1910 of each of the multiple UV light sources 102 fixed to the radially inner portion 1912 of the corresponding fan blade 502 adjacent to the motor housing 1902, and a second UV light source 1914 of each of the multiple UV light sources 102 fixed to the radially outer portion 1916 of the corresponding fan blade 502 adjacent to the distal end 1916 of the corresponding fan blade 502. However, any appropriate number of UV light sources 102 may be fixed to each of the multiple fan blades 502.

[0102] Each UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 having an average peak wavelength of 200–280 nanometers such that the UV light 104 can at least partially inactivate pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2). In some embodiments, the UV light 104 has an average peak wavelength of 200–240 nanometers, 215–225 nanometers, or another suitable average peak wavelength range. Furthermore, each UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 upward 1512 toward the ceiling 508 so that pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light 104 in the path of emitted light between the UV light source 102 and the ceiling 508 are at least partially inactivated. That is, the UV light source 102 may be configured to inactivate pathogens moving over and / or near the fan blades 502. For example, the airflow 1616 driven upward by the fan blades 502 may carry pathogens. As the airflow 1616 travels over and / or near the fan blades 502 through the emitted UV light 104, the emitted UV light 104 can at least partially inactivate pathogens carried by the airflow 1616.

[0103] Figure 20 shows a cross-sectional view of a fan blade 502 of a UV disinfection fan system 1900 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. At least one UV light source 102 may be at least partially embedded in the upper surface 1908 of the corresponding fan blade 502, thereby limiting the resistance on the fan blade 502 that caused the at least one UV light source 102, so that the fan blade 502 can continue to rotate as intended and without putting excessive stress on the motor. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection fan system 1900 includes first and second UV light sources 1910, 1914, respectively, embedded in corresponding slots 2000, 2002 formed in the upper surface 1908 of the corresponding fan blade 502. As shown, the tops 2004, 2006 of the first and second UV light sources 1910, 1914 extend from the corresponding slots 2000, 2002. Alternatively, the first and second UV light sources 1910 and 1914 may be completely embedded within the corresponding slots 2000 and 2002.

[0104] At least one UV light source 102 may include at least one small form factor lamp UV lamp 1710 configured to emit UV light 104. The UV lamp 1710 may have a thickness of less than 3.5 mm 2008. The UV lamp 1710 may include any suitable lamp. For example, the UV lamp 1710 may include an Eden Park Lighting flat panel microcavity UV lamp 1710 ("Eden Lamp"). The Eden Lamp may have a form factor of 50 mm (e.g., length) x 50 mm and a thickness of 3 mm 2008. Furthermore, the Eden Lamp may be configured to output UV light 104 having a wavelength of about 222 nanometers. In other examples, other suitable lamps or combinations of suitable lamps may be mounted on the fan blade 502.

[0105] In some embodiments, the UV disinfection fan system 1900 may include a magnetic induction power system 2010 configured to power at least one UV light source 102. The magnetic induction power system 2010 may include a primary coil 2012 and a secondary coil (e.g., a receiving coil 2014). In the illustrated embodiment, the primary coil 2012 may be fixed to a fixed portion 2018 of the fan motor housing 504. Although the primary coil 2012 is shown as a single coil, the primary coil 2012 may include multiple coils. The primary coil 2012 may be mounted on the outer portion 2020 of the fan motor housing 504. Alternatively, the primary coil 2012 may be located inside the fan motor housing 504, or at least partially embedded in the side wall 2022 of the fan motor housing 504. Furthermore, the primary coil 2012 is configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field in response to receiving current from a first power source 2024 of the magnetic induction power system 2010. The first power supply 2024 can receive power from the same power supply configured to power the fan motor.

[0106] Furthermore, the receiving coil 2014 may be fixed to the fan blade holder 1906. However, the receiving coil 2014 may be fixed to the radially inward portion 1916 of the fan blade 502 or to any other suitable portion of the fan blade 502. In some embodiments, the receiving coil 2014 is aligned perpendicularly to the primary coil 2012. The receiving coil 2014 is configured to periodically pass through a fluctuating magnetic field as the fan blade 502 rotates relative to the fixed portion 2018 of the fan motor housing 504. The fluctuating magnetic field is configured to induce a current in the receiving coil 2014 as it passes through the fluctuating magnetic field. The second power supply 2026 is configured to receive the current induced in the receiving coil 2014 and output a desired current to at least one UV light source 102 to power at least one UV light source 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the second power supply 2026 may supply current in parallel to the first UV light source 1910 and the second UV light source 1914. Alternatively, the second power supply 2026 may be configured to output power in series to the first UV light source 1910 and the second UV light source 1914.

[0107] Furthermore, the second power supply 2026 may include a capacitor 2028. In some embodiments, the second power supply may further include a battery 2030 for storing current from the receiving coil 2014. The UV light source 102 may be configured to operate independently of the fan 500. Although the rotation of the fan blades 502 is not required to generate a magnetic field (i.e., the magnetic field is generated by supplying current from the first power supply 2024 to the primary coil 2012), the fan blades 502 having the receiving coil 2014 may stop in a position where the receiving coil 2014 is outside the magnetic field generated by the primary coil 2012. Thus, the battery 2030 may be configured to power the UV light source 102 until the receiving coil 2014 is repositioned into the magnetic field. Furthermore, the power consumption of the UV light source 102 may be greater than the power generated by the magnetic induction power system 2010. Thus, the battery 2030 may be configured to provide auxiliary power for the operation of at least one UV light source 102. The magnetic induction power system 2010 may be configured to recharge the battery 2030 while the fan 500 is not operating. Alternatively, the magnetic induction power system 2010 may be configured to recharge the battery 2030 while the fan 500 is operating and the UV light source 102 is inactive. For example, the fan 500 may operate while the UV light source 102 is inactive to provide an upward or downward airflow into the room space 1502. When the fan is rotating, the magnetic induction power system 2010 may recharge the battery 2030.

[0108] Figure 21 shows a perspective view of an air treatment system 2100 comprising a housing having upper and lower cowlings 2106 arranged in an indoor space, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the air treatment system 2100 comprises a UV disinfection system 100. However, in some embodiments, the air treatment system 2100 may, in addition or alternative, comprise a heating system, a cooling system, an ionization system, a filtration system, a humidity control system, an ozone control system, or any combination thereof. These systems may treat the air passing through the air treatment system 2100, which is then circulated throughout the room 2102 to efficiently treat the air within the room 2102. Furthermore, the air treatment system 2100 may be configured to accommodate auxiliary devices. For example, the air treatment system 2100 may house a wireless internet router, a fire detection device, a fire sprinkler head, a carbon dioxide detector, or other similar devices. The placement of the indoor air treatment system 2100 (for example, adjacent to the central area 2104 of the ceiling 508) may be ideal for such auxiliary devices.

[0109] As described above, the UV disinfection system 100 includes at least one connecting element 1504 and a base portion (for example, shown in Figure 15) configured to be suspended from the ceiling 508 of the room 2102 via the at least one connecting element 1504. Furthermore, the base portion may be positioned around the fan 500 and / or the downrod 510 of the fan 500. The base portion may include any suitable shape (e.g., circular, hexagonal, nonagonal, non-uniform, etc.) having a hollow central portion for positioning around the fan 500. In some embodiments, the base portion may be discontinuous; that is, the base portion 1506 may include multiple base segments positioned around the fan 500. Adjacent base segments may be joined via mounting plates to form a continuous support around the fan having either an annular or suitable shape. Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 also includes at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source 102 fixed to the top of the base portion 1506 (shown in Figure 15). As described above, the UV light source may be configured to emit UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200-280 nanometers so that the UV light can at least partially inactivate pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2).

[0110] The air handling system 2100 further comprises a lower cowling 2106 (e.g., a lower element). In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 may be fixed to the bottom surface of the base portion 1506. However, the lower cowling 2106 may be fixed to any portion of the base portion 1506. The lower cowling 2106 may be fixed to the base portion 1506 via at least one fastening function (e.g., bolts, screws, welds, adhesives, magnets, etc.). In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 includes an annular shape. The radial width 2108 of the lower cowling 2106 may be greater than the radial width of the base portion 1506 so that the lower cowling 2106 completely encloses the bottom surface of the base portion 1506. Furthermore, the lower cowling 2106 may include a plurality of lower cowling segments 2110 configured to form a ring-shaped lower cowling 2106. As described above, the base portion 1506 may also include a plurality of segments 1700 (shown in Figure 17). Each lower cowling 2106 segment may be configured to attach to the corresponding segment of the base portion 1506. For example, the base portion 1506 may include nine segments configured to form a ring-shaped base. In this example, the lower cowling 2106 may also include nine lower cowling segments 2110 configured to attach to the corresponding segments 1700 of the base portion 1506. However, in some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 may include more or fewer segments 2110 than the base portion 1506. Furthermore, the lower cowling 2106 may include any suitable shape (e.g., circular, hexagonal, nonagonal, heterogeneous, etc.) having a hollow central portion 2112 for positioning around the fan 500 and attaching to the base portion 1506.

[0111] The air handling system 2100 further comprises an upper cowling 2114 (e.g., an upper element) positioned vertically on the base portion 1506. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper cowling 2114 is configured to be fixed directly to the ceiling 508. However, in some embodiments, the upper cowling 2114 is fixed to the base portion 1506 which is fixed to the ceiling 508. Furthermore, the radial width of the upper cowling 2114 may be greater than the radial width of the base portion 1506. The upper cowling 2114 may be positioned relative to the base portion 1506 such that the upper cowling 2114 extends both radially inward 2116 and radially outward 2118 compared to the base portion 1506. Furthermore, the upper cowling 2114 may also include a plurality of segments which can be configured to form a ring-shaped upper cowling 2114. However, the upper cowling 2114 may include any suitable shape (e.g., circular, hexagonal, nonagonal, non-uniform, etc.) having a hollow central portion for positioning around the fan 500.

[0112] Figure 22 shows a cross-sectional view of an air treatment system comprising a lower cowling and an upper cowling arranged in a chamber, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiments, the air treatment system 2100 includes a ring-shaped lower cowling 2106 and a ring-shaped upper cowling 2114. In some embodiments, the radial width 2108 of the ring-shaped lower cowling 2106 may be greater than the radial width 2200 of the ring-shaped upper cowling 2114. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the inner diameter 2202 of the ring-shaped upper cowling 2114 extends radially inward 2116 above the fan blades 502 and toward the downrod 510 of the fan 500, allowing a portion of the airflow 1616 driven by the fan blades 502 to be redirected. In such embodiments, the radial width 2114 of the ring-shaped upper cowling 2114 may be greater than the radial width 2108 of the ring-shaped lower cowling 2106. Furthermore, the outer diameter 2204 of the ring-shaped lower cowling 2106 may extend radially outward 2118 relative to the fan 500 by a larger amount than the outer diameter 2206 of the ring-shaped upper cowling 2114. The extension of the ring-shaped lower cowling 2106 radially outward 2118 compared to the ring-shaped upper cowling 2114 may reduce the amount of UV light emitted via the UV light source 102 that moves downward from the air treatment system 2100 into the room 2102.

[0113] In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 may be aligned perpendicularly with the fan blades 502 of the fan 500. Thus, the ring-shaped lower cowling 2106 may be offset horizontally from the fan blades 502. That is, the lower cowling 2106 may be positioned radially outward 2118 from the fan blades 502. In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 may be offset horizontally from the fan blades 502 by a distance 2208 of 0.5 to 4.0 inches. Minimizing the distance 2208 between the lower cowling and the fan blades 502 may increase airflow efficiency and / or suppress the movement of UV light passing through the fan 500. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the inner wall 2210 of the lower cowling 2106 may have a non-vertical orientation (e.g., angled or inclined) such that a first portion 2212 of the inner wall 2210 is radially offset from a second portion 2214 of the inner wall 2210 relative to the fan 500. For example, the first portion 2212 of the inner wall (e.g., the lower portion) may be positioned radially inward 2116 from the second portion 2214 of the inner wall (e.g., the upper portion) relative to the fan 500. In some embodiments, the fan blades 502 (e.g., the distal ends of the fan blades) may be aligned perpendicularly with the second portion 2214 of the inner wall and positioned radially inward 2116 from the second portion 2214 of the inner wall. Furthermore, the fan blades 502 may be positioned perpendicularly above the first portion 2212 of the inner wall and positioned radially outward 2118 from the first portion 2212 of the inner wall relative to the fan 500. Such arrangement of the fan blades 502 relative to the lower cowling 2106 may also increase airflow efficiency and / or suppress the movement of UV light passing through the fan 500.

[0114] Figure 23 shows a cross-sectional view of an air treatment system comprising a lower cowling and an upper cowling positioned in a room, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, the air treatment system 2100 may include a base portion 1506 (e.g., a base) positioned around a fan 500 and / or a downrod 510 of the fan 500. Furthermore, the air treatment system 2100 also includes at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source 102 fixed to the top 1516 of the base portion 1506. As described above, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers, such that the UV light can at least partially inactivate pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2).

[0115] The air handling system 2100 further comprises a lower cowling 2106. In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 may be fixed to the base portion 1506. The lower cowling 2106 may be fixed to the base portion 1506 via at least one fastening function (e.g., bolts, screws, welding, adhesive, magnets, etc.). In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 includes an annular shape. Furthermore, the air handling system 2100 further comprises an upper cowling 2114 positioned vertically on the base portion 1506 and / or the lower cowling 2106. In some embodiments, the upper cowling 2114 is configured to be fixed directly to the ceiling 508. However, in some embodiments, the upper cowling 2114 is fixed to the ceiling via the base portion 1506.

[0116] Figure 24 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system with upper and lower cowlings arranged in a room, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, the lower cowling 2106 is fixed to the bottom surface 2300 of the base portion 1506, and the upper cowling 2114 is positioned vertically on top of the base portion 1506. At least one stabilizing rod 2302 may be configured to fix the upper cowling 2114 to the base portion 1506. In particular, to fix the upper cowling 2114 to the base portion 1506, the first end 2304 of at least one stabilizing rod 2302 may be connected to the base portion 1506, and the second end 2306 of at least one stabilizing rod 2302 may be connected to the upper cowling 2114. The stabilizing rod 2302 may include a circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the stabilizing rod 2302 may include a cross-section having an aerodynamic profile to minimize turbulence to the airflow 1616 passing through the air treatment system 2100. The gap between the upper cowling 2114 and the lower cowling 2106 is configured to form a fluid passage 2308, which receives airflow 1616 from the fan 500 through the intake opening 2310 and directs the airflow 1616 through the chamber 2312 of the fluid passage 2308 to the exhaust opening 2314. The airflow 1616 from the fan 500 can enter the air processing system 2100 through the intake opening 2310, travel through the chamber 2312, and exit the air processing system 2100 through the exhaust opening 2314 at a speed sufficient to generate air circulation within the chamber 2102. As shown, the airflow 1616 can exit the exhaust opening 2314, circulate over a portion of the chamber 2102, and flow back to the fan 500.

[0117] As described above, the base portion 1506 may be positioned around the fan 500. The fan 500 may have a diameter 2316 of 4 to 6 feet. However, the fan 500 may include any suitable diameter for generating the desired airflow 1616. In some embodiments, the fan 500 is configured to provide an upward flow of at least 0.7 to 2.0 feet per second. Generating such an upward flow, in combination with the UV disinfection system, can provide an influence cone 2318 that covers at least 80% of the volume of the room 2102, measured from the floor 1626 to a height 2320 of 5.5 feet. The influence cone 2318 may be the volume of the room 2102 that is effectively disinfected via the UV disinfection system 100. The portion of the room 2102 outside the influence cone 2318 can eventually be disinfected over time as the air in those portions naturally mixes with the air circulating through the influence cone 2318. Furthermore, the fan 500 may be configured to automatically modulate (e.g., increase and decrease) its speed to disturb the vortices within the halo structure 2402 or the room 2102, which may further increase the percentage of the room covered by the cone of influence 2318. In some embodiments, the fan may be configured to continuously modulate its fan speed during operation. Alternatively, the fan may be configured to intermittently modulate its fan speed during operation. Modulating the fan speed may include oscillating the fan speed between an upper and lower fan speed limit. Furthermore, modulating the fan speed may include oscillating the fan speed between the upper and lower fan speed limit at a predetermined frequency and / or for a predetermined period of time. However, the fan 500 may be configured to modulate its fan speed based on any suitable setting configured to disturb the vortices within the halo structure 2402 or the room 2318.

[0118] To assist in achieving the desired airflow 1616, the UV disinfection system 100 may include the airflow redirector 1628 described above. In fact, the airflow redirector 1628 may include a variable diameter that increases in the direction toward the ceiling 508, which may include any shape configured to facilitate laminar flow of the airflow transitioning from a substantially vertical upward flow to a substantially horizontal flow. The airflow redirector 1628 may be fixed to the downrod 510 of the fan 500. In some embodiments, the downrod 510 may be configured to support the weight of the airflow redirector 1628. Alternatively, the airflow redirector 1628 may be additionally fixed to the ceiling 508 so that the ceiling 508 can support at least a portion of the weight of the airflow redirector 1628. Furthermore, the airflow redirector 1628 may include an annular, integral structure such that the airflow redirector 1628 has a central bore for receiving the downrod 510 of the fan 500 and / or a portion of the fan 500 motor housing. During installation, the downrod 510 may be inserted into the central bore and then connected to the ceiling 508. However, in some embodiments, the airflow redirector 1628 may include first and second parts configured to interlock around the downrod 510, which is desirable for retrofitting around a pre-installed fan 500, as it allows the airflow 1616 to be installed without disconnecting the downrod 510 from the ceiling 508.

[0119] Figure 25 shows cross-sectional views of the upper and lower cowling segments of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, the gap between the upper cowling 2114 and the lower cowling 2106 forms a fluid passage 2308 configured to receive airflow 1616 from the fan through the intake opening 2310 and guide the airflow 1616 through the chamber 2312 of the fluid passage 2308 to the exhaust opening 2314. In fact, the fluid passage 2308 is configured to guide the airflow 1616 induced by the fan 500 through the halo structure 2402 of the air treatment system 2100. In some embodiments, the fluid passage 2308 may be configured to guide airflow 1616 of preferably 1800–2200 cubic feet / minute (CFM) through the halo structure 2402 (e.g., from the intake opening 2310, through the chamber 2312, and out through the exhaust opening 2314). However, the fluid passage may be configured to guide an airflow of any appropriate rate through the halo structure 2402.

[0120] The fluid passage 2308 includes an intake opening 2310, a chamber 2312, and an exhaust opening 2314. The intake opening 2310 is formed between the upper cowling 2114 and the lower cowling 2106 on the radially inward 2404 of the halo structure 2402 of the air processing system 2100. The intake opening 2310 is in fluid communication with the chamber 2312. As described above, the airflow 1616 from the fan 500 is configured to enter the chamber 2312 through the intake opening 2310. Furthermore, the exhaust opening 2314 is located at the end of the chamber 2312 opposite to the intake opening 2310. In some embodiments, the exhaust opening 2314 is formed between the upper cowling 2114 and the lower cowling 2106 on the radially outward 2406 of the halo structure 2402. The exhaust opening 2314 is in fluid communication with the chamber 2312. Furthermore, the chamber 2312 is formed between the upper cowling 2114 and the lower cowling 2106. In fact, the chamber 2312 may include the internal upper cowling surface 2408 of the upper cowling 2114, the intake opening 2310, the internal lower cowling surface 2410 of the lower cowling 2106, and a volume or space within the exhaust opening 2314 that form the boundary of the chamber 2312. As described above, the fan 500 may be configured to guide an airflow 1616 of 1800–2200 CFM through the fluid passage 2308. The chamber 2312 may include a volume configured to provide a residence time of 0.7–1.3 seconds for the airflow 1616 passing through the chamber 2312 at 1800–2200 CFM. In some embodiments, the target residence time of the airflow 1616 may be 0.9–1.1 seconds. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the chamber 2312 may contain a volume of 28.0 to 36.0 cubic feet.

[0121] The shapes of the lower cowling 2106 and the upper cowling 2114, respectively, can define the volume and shape of the fluid passages 2308 (e.g., intake opening 2310, chamber 2312, and exhaust opening 2314) through the halo structure 2402. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower cowling 2106 includes an intermediate section 2412. The intermediate section 2412 may be oriented substantially horizontally with respect to the chamber 2102. The intermediate section 2412 may be configured to be fixed to the base section 1506. The intermediate section 2412 may include an outer surface 2414 (e.g., the bottom surface of the lower cowling 2106) which can be aligned at least partially vertically with the bottom surfaces of each of the fan blades of the fan 500. Furthermore, the lower cowling 2106 also includes an inner lip 2416 located radially inward 2116 from the intermediate section 2412 and extending vertically upward 2420 from the intermediate section 2412. Furthermore, the lower cowling 2106 includes an outer lip 2418 positioned radially outward 2118 from the middle section 2412 and extending vertically upward 2420 from the middle section 2412. In some embodiments, the inner lip 2416 extends vertically upward 2420 from the middle section 2412 by an amount 2430 that is at least twice as much as the outer lip 2418 extends vertically upward 2420 from the middle section 2412. The amount 2430 by which the outer lip 2418 extends vertically upward 2420 from the middle section 2412 may be at least 3.0 inches. In some embodiments, the amount 2430 by which the inner lip 2416 of the lower cowling 2106 extends vertically upward 2420 is 7.0 to 9.0 inches. Alternatively, the outer lip 2418 may extend upward by an amount greater than the amount the inner lip extends vertically upward from the intermediate portion 2412, further reducing the amount of UV light escaping into the room 2102 through the exhaust opening 2314 while maintaining an appropriate rate of airflow 1616 through the fluid passage 2308.

[0122] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper cowling 2114 includes an inner portion 2422 oriented substantially parallel to the base portion 1506 and the intermediate portion 2412 of the lower cowling 2106. The upper cowling 2114 further includes an outer portion 2424 extending vertically downward 2426 from the inner portion 2422 toward the base portion 1506. The angle 2428 between the inner portion 2422 and the outer portion 2424 may be between 80° and 100°. Furthermore, the outer portion 2424 may extend downward 2426 by an amount 2434 (e.g., distance or height) of 7.0 to 9.0 inches. The distal end 2436 of the outer portion 2424 of the upper cowling 2114 may be aligned vertically with the distal end 2438 of the outer lip 2418 of the lower cowling 2106. Furthermore, the distal end 2436 of the outer portion 2424 of the upper cowling 2114 may be positioned radially inward 2116 by an amount of 3.0 to 8.0 inches 2440 relative to the distal end 2438 of the outer lip 2418 of the lower cowling 2106. Additionally, an exhaust opening 2314 may be defined between the distal end 2436 of the outer portion 2424 of the upper cowling 2114 and the distal end 2438 of the outer lip 2418 of the lower cowling 2106. An intake opening 2310 may be defined between the distal end 2442 of the inner lip 2416 of the lower cowling 2106 and the distal end 2444 of the inner portion 2422 of the upper cowling 2114. Furthermore, the inner portion 2422 may extend radially inward by an amount 2446 configured such that the distal end 2444 of the inner portion 2422 of the upper cowling 2114 is positioned radially inward 2116 from the inner lip 2416 relative to the fan 500.

[0123] Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be fixed within a chamber 2312 defined by a lower cowling 2106 and an upper cowling 2114, and configured to emit UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens in the airflow 1616 passing through the chamber 2312. To enhance the effectiveness of UV light disinfection, the chamber 2312 may be configured to reflect UV light within the chamber 2312. However, the chamber 2312 may also be configured to minimize the amount of UV light escaping from the chamber 2312 through the intake opening 2310 and exhaust opening 2314.

[0124] Figure 26 shows an exploded view of a segment of a UV disinfection system comprising an upper cowling and a lower cowling according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Surfaces located within the chamber 2312 (e.g., the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and the internal lower cowling surface 2410) may include UV reflective material 2500 configured to enhance UV light reflection within the chamber 2312. For example, the internal surfaces 2408, 2410 may include aluminum material configured to reflect UV light emitted through the UV light source 102. Aluminum material can generally reflect at least 70% of UV light. Reflecting UV light can enhance the effectiveness of the UV pathogen disinfection system 100 in inactivating airborne pathogens in the airflow 1616.

[0125] In some embodiments, the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and / or the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may include a UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating. Reflecting UV light within the chamber 2312 may enhance the effectiveness of the UV pathogen disinfection system 100, but the reflected UV light may escape from the chamber 2312 through the intake opening 2310 and exhaust opening 2314 and flow into the room 2102, which may be undesirable. The UV-absorbing material 2502 can reduce the amount of UV light that may escape from the chamber 2312. In some embodiments, the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and / or the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may include a UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating configured to absorb at least 90% of the UV light. Alternatively, the UV-absorbing material 2502 or coating may be configured to absorb at least 95% of the UV light. For example, the internal surfaces 2408 and 2410 may be coated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide acrylic paint to absorb UV light and reduce the reflection of UV light within the light chamber 2312. The zinc oxide acrylic paint can absorb about 95% of UV light. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the internal surfaces 2408 and 2410 may include other materials, such as Vantablack material, to further absorb UV light, either as an addition or alternative. The Vantablack material can absorb more than 99% of UV light. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outer surfaces of the lower cowling 2106 and upper cowling 2114 may include UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating. Furthermore, the UV-absorbing material 2502 or coating may be UV-resistant to reduce wear or degradation of the surfaces of the lower cowling 2106 and upper cowling 2114.

[0126] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and / or the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may be provided with UV-absorbing material 2502 configured to at least partially prevent the reflection of UV light in a particular direction (i.e., to prevent UV light from escaping through the intake opening 2310 and the exhaust opening 2314). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fan 500 (e.g., the fan motor housing 504 and / or the fan blades 502) may include UV-absorbing material 2502 to absorb at least a portion of the UV light that might escape through the intake opening 2310.

[0127] In some embodiments, the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may generally include a UV reflective material 2500. However, portions of the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and / or the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may include a UV absorbing material 2502. Portions of the internal surfaces 2408, 2410 having the absorbing material may be arranged to maximize the bounce rate from UV light while minimizing the escape of UV light from the light chamber 2312. In some embodiments, designing the chamber 2312 may include the step of performing a ray tracing analysis, adjusting the materials and / or coatings, and adjusting the arrangement of such coatings and / or materials based at least in part on the ray tracing analysis. Such analysis can maximize the bounce rate of UV light while minimizing the escape of UV light from the light chamber 2312. In some embodiments, the chamber 2312 may be configured such that the maximum amount of UV that escapes where people are inside the room 2102 is 0.17 microwatts per square centimeter.

[0128] In some embodiments, the internal upper cowling surface 2408 may include a UV-reflective material 2500 (e.g., aluminum) and the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may include a UV-absorbing material 2502 (e.g., zinc oxide acrylic paint) so that UV light can be reflected (e.g., bounced) at least once within the UV light chamber 2312. The UV light source 102 may be positioned within the chamber 2312 so as to emit UV light approximately vertically upward 2420 toward the internal upper cowling surface 2408. Since the internal upper cowling surface 2408 includes the UV-reflective material 2500, UV light can be reflected at least partially toward the internal lower cowling surface 2410. The UV-absorbing material 2502 or coating for the internal lower cowling surface 2410 can reduce further reflection of UV light, minimizing the amount of UV light reflected from the chamber 2312 through the intake opening 2310 and exhaust opening 2314.

[0129] Figure 27 shows cross-sectional views of the upper and lower cowling segments of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As described above, in some embodiments, the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may generally include a UV reflective material 2500. However, portions of the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and / or the internal lower cowling surface 2410 may include a UV absorbing material 2502. In the illustrated embodiment, a first UV absorbing portion 2504 having the UV absorbing material 2502 may be located on the internal upper cowling surface 2408 adjacent to the intake opening 2310 of the fluid passage 2308. Furthermore, a second UV absorbing portion 2506 having the UV absorbing material 2502 may be located on the internal upper cowling surface 2408 adjacent to the exhaust opening 2314 of the fluid passage 2308. A third UV-absorbing portion 2508 having UV-absorbing material 2502 may be located on the inner lower cowling surface 2410 adjacent to the intake opening 2310 of the fluid passage 2308. Furthermore, a fourth UV-absorbing portion 2510 having UV-absorbing material 2502 may be located on the inner lower cowling surface 2410 adjacent to the exhaust opening 2314 of the fluid passage 2308. The UV disinfection system may include any number of UV-absorbing portions.

[0130] In some embodiments, the arrangement of the UV-absorbing portions may be based at least partially on the ray tracing analysis described above. The UV-absorbing portions on the internal surfaces 2408, 2410 may be arranged to increase the UV light reflection rate while reducing the amount of UV light escaping from the chamber 2312. For example, the UV light source 102 may emit a first UV ray 2512, a second UV ray 2514, and a third UV ray 2516. The first UV ray 2512 may generally travel upward 2420 and radially inward 2116 toward the first UV-absorbing portion 2504 located on the internal upper cowling surface 2408. Since the first UV-absorbing portion 2504 includes a UV-absorbing material 2502, the first UV-absorbing portion 2504 absorbs UV light from the first UV rays 2512, thereby preventing the UV rays from being reflected from the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and moving out through the intake opening 2310.

[0131] Furthermore, the second UV rays 2514 can generally travel upward 2420 and radially outward 2118 toward the central region 2518 of the internal upper cowling surface 2048 of the inner portion 2422 of the upper cowling 2114 having the UV reflective material 2500. The second UV rays 2514 can be reflected toward the fourth UV absorbing portion 2510 from the internal upper cowling surface 2048. Since the fourth UV absorbing portion 2510 contains the UV absorbing material 2502, the fourth UV absorbing portion 2510 can absorb UV light from the second UV rays 2514, thereby preventing the second UV rays 2514 from being reflected from the internal lower cowling surface 2410 and exiting the fluid passage 2308 through the exhaust opening 2314.

[0132] Furthermore, the third UV rays 2516 can generally travel upward 2420 and radially outward 2118 toward the concave region 2520 of the inner upper cowling surface 2048 of the outer portion 2424 of the upper cowling 2114 having the UV reflective material 2500. The third UV rays 2516 can be reflected from the concave region 2520 of the inner upper cowling surface 2084 toward the inner lower cowling surface 2410 of the inner lip 2416 of the lower cowling 2106 having the UV reflective material 2500. Then, the third UV rays 2516 can be reflected from the inner lower cowling surface 2410 of the inner lip 2416 toward the inner lower cowling surface 2410 of the middle portion 2412 of the lower cowling 2106 having the UV reflective material 2500. Subsequently, the third UV ray 2516 may be reflected from the internal lower cowling surface 2410 of the intermediate portion 2412 toward the second UV absorbing portion 2506 located on the internal upper cowling surface 2408, close to the exhaust opening 2314 of the fluid passage 2308. Since the second UV absorbing portion 2506 contains UV absorbing material 2502, the second UV absorbing portion 2506 may absorb UV light from the third UV ray 2516, thereby preventing the third UV ray 2516 from being reflected toward the intake opening 2310 from the internal upper cowling surface 2408. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may include alternative and / or additional UV absorbing portions to increase the UV light reflection rate while reducing the escape of UV light from the chamber 2312.

[0133] Figure 28 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system, comprising a ceiling panel and upper and lower cowlings, arranged in a room, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The ceiling panel 2600 is configured to provide a ceiling structure for installation in a room 2102 having a high ceiling 508. The ceiling panel 2600 may be suspended from the ceiling 508 via a plurality of ceiling panel cables 2602 configured to fix the ceiling panel 2600 to the ceiling 508. In some embodiments, the upper cowling 2114 is configured to be directly attached to the ceiling 508. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper cowling 2114 is too low relative to the ceiling 508 to be directly attached to the ceiling 508. Therefore, the ceiling panel 2600 may provide a mounting point for the upper cowling 2114.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, the ceiling panel 2600 is fixed to the upper cowling 2114. The ceiling panel 2600 may extend over the upper surface 2604 of the upper cowling 2114 such that the bottom surface 2606 of the ceiling panel 2600 can contact the upper surface 2604 of the upper cowling 2114. The ceiling panel 2600 may be fixed to the upper cowling 2114 via at least one fastening device (e.g., bolts, screws, adhesive, magnets, welding, etc.) configured to hold the upper surface 2604 of the upper cowling 2114 against the bottom surface 2606 of the ceiling panel 2600. Alternatively, the upper cowling 2114 and the ceiling panel 2600 are a single unit (e.g., a single component).

[0135] The ceiling plate 2600 is configured to extend at least radially inward 2116 from the distal end 2444 of the upper cowling 2114 to the edge 2608 of the airflow redirector 1628. In fact, the ceiling plate 2600 may be configured to prevent the airflow 1616 from moving vertically upward 2420 above the upper cowling 2114 in the space between the upper cowling 2114 and the airflow redirector 1628. Thus, the ceiling plate 2600 may extend at least from the upper cowling 2114 to the airflow redirector 1628. In some embodiments, the ceiling plate 2600 has an inner diameter 2610 of 0.5 to 4.0 feet and an outer diameter 2612 of 5.0 to 8.0 feet.

[0136] In some embodiments, the ceiling panel 2600 may be fixed to both the upper cowling 2114 and the airflow redirector 1628. Furthermore, the ceiling panel 2600 may be configured to support the weight of both the upper cowling 2114 and the airflow redirector 1628. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the upper cowling 2114, the ceiling panel 2600, and / or the airflow redirector 1628 may be a single integrated structure (e.g., a single component). In such embodiments, the ceiling panel 2600 may be fixed to the down rod 510 via the air redirector. Furthermore, the ceiling panel 2600 may be fixed directly to the base portion 1506 via at least one stabilizing rod 2302. Alternatively, the ceiling panel 2600 may be fixed indirectly to the base portion 1506 via at least one connecting element 1504. That is, the ceiling panel 2600 may be fixed to at least one connecting element 1504.

[0137] Figure 29 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, in which a UV light source is fixed to an upper cowling. In the illustrated embodiments, since the illustrated UV disinfection system does not include a base portion 1506, the lower cowling 2106 is fixed to the ceiling 508 via at least one connecting element 1504. Furthermore, the upper cowling 2114 may be fixed to the ceiling 508 via at least one connecting element 1504. As an addition or alternative, the upper cowling 2114 may be fixed directly to the ceiling 508 via fastening functions. Furthermore, the lower cowling 2106 may be fixed to the upper cowling 2114 via the stabilizing rod 2302 described in Figures 23 and 26.

[0138] In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 and / or the upper cowling 2114 may include any suitable shape to block at least a portion of the UV light emitted from the UV light source 102 from moving into the chamber 2102 and to form a fluid passage 2308 for guiding the airflow 1616. In some embodiments, the lower cowling 2106 includes an annular ring shape having an inner diameter 2700 and an outer diameter 2702. The upper cowling 2114 may include a disc shape having a diameter 2704 that is larger than the inner diameter 2700 of the lower cowling 2106 and smaller than the outer diameter 2702 of the lower cowling 2106. However, in some embodiments, the diameter 2704 of the upper cowling 2114 may be larger than the outer diameter 2702 of the lower cowling 2106. In the illustrated embodiment, the intake opening 2310 is formed between the radial inner surfaces 2706 of the lower cowling 2106 (for example, the central bore of the annular ring shape of the lower cowling 2106). Furthermore, the exhaust opening 2314 may be formed between the radial outer edge 2708 of the upper cowling 2114 and the radial outer edge 2710 of the lower cowling 2106.

[0139] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system may include a fan 500 configured to guide an airflow 1616 through a fluid passage 2308 formed between an upper cowling 2114 and a lower cowling 2106. In the illustrated embodiment, the fan 500 may include a bladeless fan 500 configured to guide the airflow 1616 radially outward 2118. Furthermore, the fan 500 may be located within the chamber 2312 of the fluid passage 2308. Thus, the fan 500 may be configured to draw in air through an intake opening 2310 and push the air radially outward 2118 and / or vertically upward 2420 into the chamber 2312, thereby causing the air to flow out through the fluid passage 2308 and out through an exhaust opening 2314.

[0140] As described above, the UV disinfection system 100 may include at least one UV light source 102 for at least partially inactive airborne pathogens in the airflow 1616 moving through the fluid passage 2308. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a first UV light source 2712 and a second UV light source 2714. As shown, the UV light source 102 may be mounted on the internal upper cowling surface 2408. However, the UV light source 102 may be mounted on any surface within the chamber 2312 (e.g., the internal upper cowling surface 2408 and / or the internal lower cowling surface 2410). By mounting the UV light source 102 on the upper cowling 2114, the UV light can be directed downward 2426 toward the lower cowling 2106. However, the UV light may be directed towards the halo structure in any suitable direction (e.g., upward 2420, downward 226, radially inward 2116, radially outward 2118, etc.) based at least partially on the position of the UV light source 102 relative to the chamber 2312. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV light may be directed downward 2426 toward the lower cowling 2106. Thus, the lower cowling 2106 may contain a UV reflective material 2500 (e.g., aluminum) to reflect at least a portion of the UV light, which can improve the efficiency of the UV disinfection system 100. Alternatively, at least a portion of the lower cowling 2106 may contain a UV absorbing material 2502 (shown in Figure 27). For example, a portion of the lower cowling 2106 located on the opposite side (e.g., below) of the UV light source 102 includes UV reflective material 2500, the radially inner portion 2716 of the lower cowling 2106 includes UV absorbing material 2502, and the radially outer portion 2718 of the lower cowling 2106 may also include UV absorbing material 2502. In this example, the UV reflective material 2500 located on the opposite side of the UV light source 102 can reflect UV light toward the upper cowling 2114 to improve the efficiency of the UV disinfection system, and the radially inner and radially outer portions 2716, 2718 of the lower cowling 2106 can absorb at least a portion of the UV light to prevent at least a portion of the UV light from leaving the chamber 2312 and moving into the room 2102.Generally, the UV disinfection system 100 is configured to provide at least one reflection of UV light within the chamber 2312 while maintaining the bleed of UV light into the room 2102 below a desired threshold.

[0141] Figure 30 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system 100 having a plurality of modular units 3000 arranged above a suspended ceiling 3002 of an indoor space 1502, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The plurality of modular units 3000 may include various types of modular units 3000 (e.g., a fan module 3004, a UV disinfection module 3006, an extender module 3300, and / or a return module 3008) that can be arranged in a configuration suitable for disinfecting the air in the indoor space 1502 below the suspended ceiling 3002. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of modular units 3000 include a fan module 3004, a first UV disinfection module 3010, a second UV disinfection module 3012, a first return module 3014, and a second return module 3016.

[0142] Each modular unit 3000 may be individually mounted between the suspended ceiling 3002 and the ceiling 508 such that the bottom 3020 of each modular unit 3000 is positioned close to the corresponding ceiling tile 3018 of the suspended ceiling 3002. Multiple modular units 3000 may be similar in size to the corresponding ceiling tile 3018 (for example, the bottom 3020 of each modular unit 3000 may have substantially the same width and / or length as the corresponding ceiling tile 3018). In some embodiments, the ceiling tiles 3018 may be removed so that the bottom 3020 of the corresponding modular unit 3000 is mounted in place of the ceiling tiles 3018. By removing the ceiling tiles 3018, the modular units 3000 can be fluidly connected to the interior space 1502. However, in some embodiments, the ceiling tiles 3018 may remain in place with the modular units 3000 positioned on top of the ceiling tiles 3018. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the modular unit 3000 may include a recessed bottom 3022 configured to accommodate ceiling tiles 3018. Generally, the UV disinfection module 3006 does not require fluid communication with the interior space 1502, and therefore may include a recessed bottom 3022 portion 3020.

[0143] Furthermore, the fan module 3004 is configured to draw in an airflow 1616 from the interior space 1502 (e.g., fluidly connected to the interior space 1502) into the UV disinfection system 100 and direct the airflow 1616 to at least one adjacent modular unit 3000. In the illustrated embodiment, the first UV disinfection module 3010 and the second UV disinfection module 3012 are positioned adjacent to the fan module 3004. As illustrated, the fan module 3004 receives or draws in the airflow 1616 via the fan module air inlet 3024 and drives a portion of the airflow 1616 toward each of the first UV disinfection module 3010 and the second UV disinfection module 3012. The fan module air inlet 3024 may be formed by removing a panel (shown in Figure 31) from the bottom 3020 of the fan module 3004. Each modular unit 3000 may include a frame (shown in Figure 31) having panels (shown in Figure 31) fixed to the top, bottom, and / or sides of the frame of the modular unit 3000. In some embodiments, the panels are removable and reattachable to the frame. In other embodiments, the panels may be fixed to the frame. The fan module 3004 may have its first side panel 3108 and second side panel 3110 further removed to open fan module air outlets 3026 to the first UV disinfection module 3010 and the second UV disinfection module 3012, respectively. In some embodiments, only a portion of the panel may be removed, rearranged, or otherwise adjusted to form the fan module air outlet 3026.

[0144] The fan module 3004 includes a fan 500 configured to guide an airflow 1616 from the interior space 1502 into the fan module 3004 via a fan module air inlet 3024. The fan 500 may include any type of axial or centrifugal fan. In some embodiments, the fan 500 may be placed in series with the fan module air inlet 3024 such that the size of the fan 500 depends on the size of the fan module air inlet 3024. For example, the length and width 3028 of the fan module air inlet 3024 may be 2 feet x 2 feet. Thus, the diameter 3030 of the fan 500 is less than 2 feet so as to fit in series with the fan module air inlet 3024. The diameter 3030 of the fan 500 may be sized to be 90-99% of the smaller of the length, width 3028, or diameter of the fan module air inlet 3024. In some embodiments, the fan 500 may be positioned below the fan module air inlet 3024 so that the fan 500 is at least partially positioned within the indoor space 1502. Therefore, the size of the fan 500 may not be constrained by the size of the fan module air inlet 3024. In some embodiments, the fan 500 may be larger than the fan module air inlet 3024 to generate a larger volume of airflow 1616 into the UV disinfection system 100. Generally, the diameter 3030 of the fan 500 may be between 1.5 and 6.0 feet. However, the fan 500 may include any suitable diameter for generating the desired airflow 1616 through the UV disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, the fan 500 is configured to provide an upward flow of at least 0.7 to 2.0 feet per second. Generating such an upward flow, in combination with the UV disinfection system 100, can provide a conical influence sphere 2318 covering at least 80% of the volume of the indoor space 1502, measured from the floor 1626 to a height of 5.5 feet. The conical influence zone 2318 may be the volume of the indoor space 1502 that is directly taken in via the UV disinfection system 100 that takes in air from within its volume.A portion of the indoor space 1502 outside the conical influence zone 2318 can eventually be disinfected over time because the air from these portions enters the conical influence zone 2318.

[0145] To assist in achieving the desired airflow 1616, the fan module 3004 may include a fan module airflow redirector 3032 having a frustoconical shape. However, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may include any shape configured to promote laminar flow. For example, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may include a variable diameter that increases in the direction toward the ceiling 508, which may form at least one arcuate surface 3034 that can promote laminar flow of the airflow transitioning from a substantially vertical upward flow to a substantially horizontal flow. In some embodiments, the diameter of the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may increase exponentially along the height of the fan module airflow redirector 3032 to form a variable diameter. Alternatively, the diameter of the fan module airflow 1616 redirector may increase linearly along the height of the fan module airflow redirector 3032 to form a variable diameter. Promoting laminar flow can help improve air circulation throughout the indoor space 1502, which can enhance the effectiveness of the UV disinfection system 100.

[0146] Furthermore, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may be fixed within the fan module 3004. In some embodiments, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may be fixed to the upper panel 3114 and / or other inner portion of the fan module 3004. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 is fixed to the fan module down rod 3036. In some embodiments, the fan module down rod 3036 supports the weight of the fan module airflow redirector 3032. Alternatively, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may be additionally fixed to the ceiling 508 so that the ceiling 508 can support at least a portion of the weight of the fan module airflow redirector 3032. Furthermore, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may include an annular, integral structure such that the fan module airflow redirector 3032 has a central bore for receiving the fan module down rod 3036 and / or a portion of the fan motor housing. During installation, the fan module down rod 3036 may be inserted into the central bore and then connected to the ceiling 508. However, in some embodiments, the fan module airflow redirector 3032 may include a first portion and a second portion configured to connect around the fan module down rod 3036.

[0147] As described above, the fan may be fixed to the fan module down rod (or shaft) 3036. In the illustrated embodiment, the fan module down rod 3036 extends downward from the upper panel 3040 of the fan module 3004. That is, the fan module down rod 3036 may be fixed to the upper panel 3040 of the fan module 3004. The upper panel 3040 may be configured to support the weight of the fan module down rod 3036, as well as the fan and the fan module airflow redirector 3032. However, in some embodiments, the fan module down rod 3036 may be fixed directly to the ceiling 508 so that the ceiling 508 supports the weight of the fan module down rod 3036, as well as the fan and the fan module airflow redirector 3032. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fan module down rod 3036 may be fixed to the electronic panels 3038, 3038 of the fan module 3004. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fan module downrod 3036 may be fixed to a combination of the electronic panel 3038, the upper panel 3040, and / or the ceiling 508. For example, the fan module downrod 3036 may be fixed to the ceiling 508 so that the ceiling 508 supports the vertical load from the weight of the fan module downrod 3036, as well as the fan 500 and the fan module airflow redirector 3032, and the upper panel 3040 and / or the electronic panel 3038 may be configured to radially support the fan module downrod 3036, as well as the fan 500 and the fan module airflow redirector 3032 (e.g., to suppress radial movement of the fan module downrod 3036, to dampen vibrations of the fan module downrod 3036 caused by the rotation of the fan 500, etc.).

[0148] The electronic panel 3038 of the fan module 3004 can isolate the electronics chamber 3042 from the airflow chamber 3044. The airflow chamber 3044 is formed between the electronic panel 3038, the fan module air inlet 3024, and the side of the fan module 3004. The electronics chamber 3042 is formed between the electronic panel 3038, the upper panel 3040, and the side of the fan module 3004. Isolating the electronics chamber 3042 from the airflow chamber 3044 can improve the airflow 1616 within the airflow chamber 3044. If the electronics chamber 3042 is not isolated, the components 3046 placed within the electronics chamber 3042 may obstruct the laminar airflow 1616 passing through the airflow chamber 3044, potentially generating turbulence. While some turbulence in the airflow 1616 may be desirable for mixing purposes, generating additional turbulence within the airflow 1616 may be undesirable in some situations.

[0149] The components 3046 located within the electronics chamber 3042 may include components 3046 for controlling and / or operating the fan (e.g., a controller, connecting wires, capacitors, axles, main windings, rotor, stator, and auxiliary windings). However, some of these components 3046 may instead be located within the fan motor housing 504 of the fan 500. Furthermore, the components 3046 located within the electronics chamber 3042 may also include sensors and associated circuits for motion or occupancy detection within the chamber space 1502, gas detection or gas concentration measurement of the airflow 1616 through the air disinfection system, fan motion detection, airflow detection, and / or airflow measurement. In addition, the electronics chamber 3042 may be configured to house power regulating circuits (e.g., a power supply) for the disinfection system.

[0150] Furthermore, as described above, the UV disinfection system 100 includes UV disinfection modules 3006 (e.g., a first UV disinfection module 3010 and a second UV disinfection module 3012). Each UV disinfection module 3006 is configured to take in an airflow 1616 through its respective UV disinfection module air inlet 3048 (e.g., a first UV disinfection module air inlet 3050 and a second UV disinfection module air inlet 3052) and direct the airflow 1616 through the UV airflow chamber 3054 of the UV disinfection module 3006 toward its respective UV disinfection air module outlet 3056 (e.g., a first UV disinfection module air outlet 3058 and a second UV disinfection module air outlet 3060). The UV disinfection module air inlets 3048 can be formed by removing their respective front panels 3104 (shown in Figure 31) from the corresponding UV disinfection module 3006. Similarly, the UV disinfection air module outlet 3056 may be formed by removing the respective panel back panel 3106 (shown in Figure 31) from the corresponding UV disinfection module 3006. However, in some embodiments, only a portion of the panel may be removed, rearranged, or otherwise modified to form the UV disinfection module air inlet 3048 and the UV disinfection air module outlet 3056.

[0151] To take in the airflow 1616 from the fan module 3004, the UV disinfection module 3006 may be positioned on the suspended ceiling 3002 such that each UV disinfection module air inlet 3048 is positioned close to the fan module air outlet 3026 of the fan module 3004. In fact, the UV disinfection module air inlets 3048 may be aligned with the fan module air outlets 3026. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection module 3006 may be fixed to the fan module 3004 to form seals around the first fan module air outlet 3062 and the first UV disinfection module air inlet 3050, and around the second fan module air outlet 3064 and the second UV disinfection module air inlet 3052, respectively, to prevent the airflow 1616 from leaking out of the UV disinfection module 3006 of the disinfection system as the airflow 1616 moves from the fan module 3004 to the UV disinfection module 3006 via the fan module air outlet 3026.

[0152] The UV disinfection module 3006 may include a flow-enhancing structure 3066 configured to adjust the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection module 3006. The flow-enhancing structure 3066 may be configured to make the airflow 1616 more laminar or more turbulent, based on the mixing requirements of the airflow 1616. For example, the flow-enhancing structure may include a baffle or louver placed within each UV airflow chamber 3054 of the UV disinfection module 3006. The baffle or louver may promote turbulent airflow 1616 passing through the UV airflow chamber 3054. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection module 3006 includes a curved structure 3068 positioned adjacent to each bottom 3020 of the UV disinfection module 3006. The curved structure 3068 may promote laminar flow passing through each UV airflow chamber 3054. In some embodiments, the curved structure 3068 may, as an addition or alternative, be positioned adjacent to each upper UV panel 3070 of the UV disinfection module 3006. Furthermore, the curved structure 3068 may have any appropriate curve to adjust the airflow 1616 through the UV disinfection module 3006.

[0153] Furthermore, each UV disinfection module 3006 includes at least one configured ultraviolet (UV) light source 102 that emits UV light 104 to inactivate pathogens in the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection module 3006. The UV disinfection module 3006 may include a base portion for supporting the UV light source 102. The UV light source 102 may be configured to provide an appropriate amount of UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens. The UV light source 102 may include a UV light-emitting diode (LED), a UV bulb, or any other suitable UV light source 102 for emitting UV light 104. The UV light source 102 may be a single element or an array of multiple elements. While active, the UV light source 102 emits UV light 104 in the average peak wavelength range of 200–280 nanometers, which may at least partially inactivate pathogens (e.g., Covid-19, SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, all known coronaviruses, etc.) passing through the UV airflow chamber 3054. Alternatively, the average peak wavelength range may be 200-250 nanometers, 200-220 nanometers, or any other suitable range. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may have a narrow-band-pass filter. For example, the UV light source 102 may include a ±5 nanometer full-width at half maximum (FWHM) band-pass filter.

[0154] Furthermore, similar to the fan module 3004, the UV disinfection module 3006 may include a UV electronic panel 3038 to isolate each UV electronic chamber 3042 from the corresponding UV airflow chamber 3054. The UV electronic chamber 3042 is formed between the UV electronic panel 3038, the upper UV panel 3070, and the side UV panel of the UV disinfection module 3006. Similar to the electronic chamber 3042, isolating the UV electronic chamber 3042 from the UV airflow chamber 3054 can improve the airflow 1616 through the UV airflow chamber 3054. That is, if the UV electronic chamber 3042 is not isolated, components 3046 located within the UV electronic chamber 3042 may obstruct the airflow 1616 through the UV airflow chamber 3054. Components 3046 located within the electronic chamber 3042 may include components 3046 for controlling and / or operating the UV light source 102 (e.g., controller, connecting wires, capacitors, optical ballast, power supply). However, some of these components 3046 may instead be placed within the illuminator of the UV light source 102. Furthermore, the components 3046 placed within the UV electronics chamber 3042 may also include sensors and associated circuits for motion or occupancy detection within the indoor space 1502, gas detection or gas concentration measurement of air flowing through the air disinfection system, UV light detection, airflow detection 1616, and / or airflow measurement 1616.

[0155] The disinfection system may also include return modules 3008 (e.g., a first return module 3014 and a second return module 3016). Each return module 3008 is configured to take in an airflow 1616 from the corresponding UV disinfection module 3006 through its respective return module air inlet 3072 (e.g., a first return module air inlet 3074 and a second return module air inlet 3076) and direct the airflow 1616 through the filter airflow chamber 3090 of the return module 3008 toward its respective return module air outlet 3080 (e.g., a first return module air outlet 3082 and a second return module air outlet 3084). The return module air outlet 3080 is configured to direct the airflow 1616 out of the disinfection system through the return module 3008 and into the room space 1502. The return module air outlet 3080 may be formed by removing its respective bottom panels 3112s from the corresponding return module 3008. Furthermore, the return module air inlet 3072 may be formed by removing the respective front panel 3104 from the corresponding return module 3008. In some embodiments, only a portion of the panel may be removed, rearranged, or otherwise modified to form the return module air inlet 3072 and the return module air outlet 3080.

[0156] To take in the airflow 1616 from the corresponding UV disinfection module 3006, the return module 3008 may be positioned within the suspended ceiling 3002 such that the return module air inlet 3072 is positioned close to the corresponding UV disinfection module air outlet 3080 of the UV disinfection module 3006. In fact, the return module air inlet 3072 may be aligned with the corresponding UV disinfection module air outlet 3056. In some embodiments, the return module 3008 may be fixed to the corresponding UV disinfection module 3006 to form seals around the first UV disinfection module air outlet 3058 and the first return module air inlet 3074, and around the second UV disinfection module air outlet 3060 and the second return module air inlet 3076, respectively, to prevent the airflow 1616 from leaking out of the UV disinfection module 3006 of the UV disinfection system 100 as the airflow 1616 moves from the UV disinfection module 3006 to the corresponding return module 3008 via the UV disinfection module air outlet 3056.

[0157] The return module 3008 may include a filter assembly 3086 configured to house a filter 3088. The filter assembly 3086 may be configured to filter particles in the airflow 1616 passing through the return module 3008. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assembly 3086 is positioned close to the corresponding return module air outlet 3080. However, the filter assembly 3086 may be positioned along any portion of the filtered airflow chamber 3090 of the return module 3008. Each filter assembly 3086 may span the cross-section of its corresponding return module 3008. For example, the filter assembly 3086 may be positioned coincidentally with its corresponding return module air outlet 3080 and may span the length and width of the return module air outlet 3080 so that the filter assembly 3086 can filter any air passing through the return module air outlet 3080.

[0158] Furthermore, the return module 3008 may also include a flow direction reversal structure 3092. The airflow 1616 entering the return module 3008 from the corresponding UV disinfection module 3006 may have a substantially lateral flow relative to the interior space 1502. However, the return module air outlet 3080 is located at the bottom 3020 of the return module 3008 so that the airflow 1616 must transition from a lateral flow to a vertical flow. The flow direction reversal structure 3092 may be configured to facilitate laminar flow of the airflow transitioning from a substantially lateral flow to a substantially vertical flow. The flow direction reversal structure 3092 may be fixed to the electronic panel 3038 and / or the rear panels 3106, 3094 and have a curved surface 3096 that transitions from the filter electronic panel 3038 to the rear filter panel 3094. Furthermore, the flow direction reversal structure 3092 may span the width of the electronic panel 3038 and / or the rear panels 3106, 3094.

[0159] The return module 3008 may also include a plurality of adjacent guide channels 3098 defined by a plurality of guide channel walls 3099 located within the filter airflow chamber 3090. Each wall of a guide channel 3098 may have at least one arched guide surface 3097 configured to guide the airflow 1616 from the return module air inlet 3072 to the return module air outlet 3080. Thus, the guide channels 3098 can further promote laminar flow of the airflow 1616 passing through the return module 3008. In some embodiments, the arched guide surface 3097 includes a curve similar to that of the corresponding flow direction reversal structure 3092. Each guide channel wall 3099 may span the width or length of the return module 3008. Furthermore, each guide channel wall 3099 may be offset from adjacent guide channel walls 3099 based on a desired height of the guide channel 3098. The return module 3008 may include any appropriate number of guide channel walls 3099 to facilitate laminar flow through the return module 3008.

[0160] Furthermore, similar to the fan module 3004 and the UV disinfection module 3006, the return module 3008 may include a respective electronic panel 3038 to isolate each electronic equipment chamber 3042 from the corresponding filter airflow chamber 3090. The electronic equipment chamber 3042 is formed between the electronic panel 3038, the upper panel 3114, and the side of the return module 3008. Similar to the electronic equipment chamber 3042 described above, isolating the filter electronic equipment chamber 3042 from the filter airflow chamber 3090 can improve the airflow 1616 through the filter airflow chamber 3090. That is, if the filter electronic equipment chamber 3042 is not isolated, components 3046 located within the filter electronic equipment chamber 3042 may obstruct the airflow 1616 through the filter airflow chamber 3090. Components 3046 located within the electronic chamber 3042 may include sensors and associated circuits for motion or occupancy detection within the indoor space 1502, gas detection or gas concentration measurement of air flowing through the air disinfection system, UV light detection, airflow detection 1616, and / or airflow measurement 1616.

[0161] For example, the sensor and associated circuitry may be configured to determine the velocity of the airflow 1616 exiting the return module 3008. The airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection system 100 can exit each return module 3008 at at least the minimum airflow 1616 velocity required for air circulation throughout the entire indoor space 1502. Pathogens present in the room can be carried to the disinfection system by the airflow 1616 circulating through the indoor space 1502 so that the pathogens can be inactivated by the UV disinfection module 3006. The sensor and associated circuitry may determine the velocity of the airflow 1616 exiting the return module 3008 and output a low-velocity signal in response to detecting an airflow 1616 velocity below the minimum airflow velocity required for air circulation throughout the entire indoor space 1502. The controller of the UV disinfection system 100 receives the low-velocity signal and outputs an instruction to the fan 500 to increase its rotational speed, thereby increasing the velocity of the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection system 100 to a velocity equal to or greater than the minimum airflow velocity.

[0162] Furthermore, the sensors and associated circuits may include a first pathogen sensor located within the fan module 3004 and a second pathogen sensor located within the return module 3008. The first and second pathogen disinfection sensors may be configured to measure the pathogen level of the airflow 1616. The first sensor may measure the pathogen level of the airflow 1616 before it is exposed to the UV disinfection module 3006 (e.g., untreated airflow 1616), and the second sensor may measure the pathogen level of the airflow 1616 after it has been exposed to the UV disinfection module 3006 (e.g., treated airflow 1616). The first and second pathogen sensors may output the measured values ​​to a controller of the disinfection system. The controller may be configured to store data corresponding to the measured values. Using the measured values ​​received from the first and second pathogen sensors, the disinfection system may determine the level of effectiveness of the UV disinfection module 3006. Based on the determined level of effectiveness, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured to adjust its operating parameters (e.g., adjust the intensity of emitted UV light, adjust the fan speed, output a maintenance request, etc.).

[0163] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a UV-absorbing material 2502 and a UV-reflective material 2500. The UV-absorbing material 2502 may be placed within the UV disinfection system 100 to reduce the amount of emitted UV light 104 that escapes from the disinfection system and travels into the indoor space 1502 via the fan module air inlet 3024 and the return module air outlet 3080. In some embodiments, the internal surfaces of the fan module 3004, the return module 3008, and the extender module 3300 (shown in Figure 33) may include the UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating. Furthermore, other parts of the UV disinfection system 100 (e.g., guide channel walls 3099, baffles, louvers, etc.) may include the UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating. The UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating may be configured to absorb at least 70% of the UV light. Alternatively, the UV-absorbing material 2502 or a coating may be configured to absorb at least 90% of the UV light. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the UV-absorbing material 2502 or coating may be configured to absorb at least 95% of UV light. For example, the internal surfaces of the modular unit 3000 may be coated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide acrylic paint to absorb UV light and reduce the reflection of UV light 104 within the fan airflow chamber 3044, the filter airflow chamber 3090, and the extender airflow chamber of the extender module 3300. The zinc oxide acrylic paint can absorb about 95% of UV light. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the internal surfaces of the modular unit 3000 may include other materials, such as Vantablack material, to further absorb UV light 104, either as an addition or alternative. The Vantablack material can absorb more than 99% of UV light 104. Furthermore, the UV-absorbing material 2502 or coating may also be UV-resistant to reduce wear or degradation of the internal surfaces of the modular unit 3000.

[0164] The UV reflective material 2500 may be configured to reflect UV light 104 within the UV disinfection system 100 in order to enhance the effectiveness of the UV disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, the internal surface of the UV disinfection system 100 may include the UV reflective material 2500 configured to promote UV light reflection within the UV disinfection system 100. The UV reflective material 2500 may be configured to reflect at least 60% of the UV light. For example, the internal surface of the UV disinfection module 3006 may include an aluminum material configured to reflect UV light 104 emitted through the UV light source 102. Aluminum materials can generally reflect at least 50% of the UV light. However, the UV reflective material 2500 may be configured to reflect any appropriate percentage of the UV light 104 (e.g., 60%, 70%, etc.). Reflecting a substantial portion of the UV light 104 can enhance the effectiveness of the UV disinfection system 100 in inactivating airborne pathogens in the airflow 1616.

[0165] In some embodiments, the internal surfaces of the fan module 3004, the return module 3008, and the extender module 3300 may include UV-reflective material 2500, and a portion of the UV disinfection module 3006 may include UV-absorbing material 2502. Designing the UV disinfection system 100 may include the steps of performing ray tracing analysis, adjusting the materials and / or coatings (e.g., UV-absorbing material 2502 and UV-reflective material 2500), and adjusting the arrangement of such coatings and / or materials based at least in part on the ray tracing analysis. Such analysis can maximize the bounce rate of UV light 104 while minimizing the escape of UV light 104 from the UV disinfection system 100 into the room space 1502. In some embodiments, the UV disinfection system 100 may be configured such that the maximum amount of escaped UV light 104 in the area where people are in the room is 0.17 microwatts per square centimeter.

[0166] Figure 31 shows a perspective view of a UV disinfection module 3006 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV disinfection module 3006 includes a frame 3100 configured to support a plurality of panels 3102 (e.g., a front panel 3104, a rear panel 3106, a first side panel 3108, a second side panel 3110, a bottom panel 3112, a top panel 3114, and an electronic panel 3038). Although only the UV disinfection module 3006 is shown, each of the modular units 3000 (e.g., fan module 3004, UV disinfection module 3006, extender module 3300 (shown in Figures 33A-E and 33E), and return module 3008) may include a frame 3100 having at least one corresponding panel 3102. Furthermore, each of the modular units 3000 may include a mounting function 3116 for securing the modular unit 3000 to the ceiling 508 (shown in Figure 30) and an attachment function 3118 for securing adjacent modular units 3000 to each other.

[0167] Panel 3102 may be configured to be removablely attached to frame 3100 via at least one fastener (e.g., bolt, screw, press-fit interface, track / slot interface). For example, front panel 3104 may include a plurality of panel bolt holes, and the front of frame 3100 may include a plurality of corresponding frame bolt holes 3120. Front panel 3104 may be secured to frame 3100 via a plurality of bolts extending into the plurality of panel bolt holes and the corresponding frame bolt holes 3120. By removing the plurality of bolts, front panel 3104 can be removed from frame 3100. Panel 3102 may be removed from frame 3100 at least partially based on the type of modular unit 3000 and the orientation of the modular unit 3000 in the disinfection system. For example, the UV disinfection module 3006 may have its front panel 3104 and rear panel 3106 removed to form the UV disinfection module 3006 air inlet and UV disinfection module 3006 air outlet, while the return module 3008 may instead have its front panel 3104 and bottom panel 3112 removed to form the return module air inlet 3072 and return module air outlet 3080. However, in some embodiments, the modular unit 3000 may be modified to accommodate specific interior spaces 1502s. For example, the return module 3008 may instead have its rear panel 3106 removed to form the return module air outlet 3080 for a specific interior space 1502 that requires a horizontal return module air outlet 3080 to the interior space 1502. In fact, the modular unit 3000 can be modified in the field by removing, moving, and / or modifying panels 3102.

[0168] As described above, the modular unit 3000 may further include attachment functions configured to fasten adjacent modular units 3000 together. In some embodiments, the attachment function 3118 includes a plurality of bolts configured to extend through each of the respective frame bolt holes 3120 of each adjacent modular unit 3000. Since the panel 3102 can be removed from adjacent portions of the modular unit 3000, the frame bolt holes 3120 may not be occupied by the plurality of bolts configured to fasten the panel 3102 to each frame 3100. Therefore, alternative bolts may extend through adjacent bolt holes of each frame 3100 to fasten the frames 3100 together. In some embodiments, the attachment function 3118 may include alternative or additional mechanisms (e.g., a latching mechanism) for fastening adjacent modular units 3000 together.

[0169] Furthermore, the UV disinfection module 3006 includes at least one configured ultraviolet (UV) light source 102 that emits UV light 104 to inactivate pathogens in the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection module 3006. As described above, the UV disinfection module 3006 may include a base portion for supporting the UV light source 102. The base portion may comprise any suitable part of the UV disinfection module for supporting the UV light source 102 (e.g., a frame 3100, at least one panel 3102, a flow-enhancing structure 3066, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the UV light source 102 comprises a UV lamp 1710 that is supported by the frame 3100 and extends across the UV airflow chamber 3054 from a first side panel 3108 to a second side panel 3110. The UV lamp 1710 can be fixed to the first side panel 3108 and the second side panel 3110 via a lamp fixture 1714 having a first holder / connector (not shown) attached to the first side panel 3108 and a second holder / connector 3122 attached to the second side panel 3110. The first and second holders / connectors 3122 may be connected to a ballast configured to provide sufficient voltage to start the UV lamp 1710. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may include an additional component 3046 for fixing and / or powering the UV lamp 1710.

[0170] Furthermore, as described above, the UV disinfection module 3006 may include a flow enhancement structure 3066 configured to adjust the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection module 3006. The flow enhancement structure 3066 may be configured to make the flow more laminar or more turbulent based on the mixing requirements of the airflow 1616. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection module 3006 includes a curved structure 3068 positioned adjacent to the bottom panel 3112. The curved structure 3068 may facilitate laminar flow through the UV airflow chamber 3054. In some embodiments, the curved structure 3068 may be positioned adjacent to the electronic panel 3038 of the UV disinfection module 3006, either as an addition or alternative. Furthermore, the curved structure 3068 may have any suitable curve for adjusting the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection module 3006.

[0171] Figures 32A and 32B show cross-sectional views of fan modules 3004 having a folding fan 3200 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. With respect to Figure 32A, the fan module 3004 includes the folding fan 3200 in a folded position 3202. Before installation, the folding fan 3200 can be positioned in the folded position 3202 so that the folding fan 3200 fits within the fan module 3004. Having the folding fan 3200 within the fan module 3004 may be beneficial for transport. Furthermore, the folding fan 3200 may include at least one articulated blade 3204 having a proximal blade portion 3206 and a distal blade portion 3208, respectively, connected by a flexible joint 3210 (e.g., a hinge). In the folded position 3202, the proximal blade portion 3206 may extend radially outward 3214 from the folding fan motor housing 3212, and the distal blade portion 3208 may rotate relative to the proximal blade portion 3206 such that the distal blade portion 3208 extends upward 3216. The folding fan 3200 may include a locking mechanism 3218 for holding the folding fan 3200 in the folded position 3202 so that the distal blade portion 3208 maintains its rotation relative to the proximal blade portion 3206.

[0172] The fan module 3004 may further include a retractable downrod 3220 fixed to at least the upper panel 3040 of the fan module 3004. The retractable downrod 3220 includes a base portion 3222 and a retractable portion 3224. The base portion 3222 and the retractable portion 3224 may be cylindrical, rectangular prism-shaped, or have any other suitable shape. For example, the base portion 3222 and the retractable portion 3224 may be cylindrical in shape, with the inner diameter of the base portion 3222 being larger than the outer diameter of the retractable portion 3224. Thus, the retractable portion 3224 may be configured to slide along the interior of the base portion 3222. Furthermore, as shown, a folding fan 3200 may be fixed to the end of the retractable downrod 3220. Specifically, the folding fan motor housing 3212 of the folding fan 3200 may be fixed to the end 3226 of the retractable portion 3224 of the retractable downrod 3220. In the folded position 3202, the telescopic portion 3224 of the telescopic downrod 3220 can slide into the base portion 3222 so that the folding fan 3200 retracts into the fan module 3004.

[0173] With respect to Figure 32B, the fan module 3004 includes a folding fan 3200 in the deployed position 3228. To transition from the folded position 3202 to the deployed position 3228, the telescopic portion 3224 of the telescopic downrod 3220 can be extended relative to the base portion 3222 to move at least the folding fan motor housing 3212 and the proximal blade portion 3206 of the folding fan 3200 to a position outside the fan module 3004. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 3218 can be released so that the distal blade portion 3208 can rotate downward relative to the proximal blade portion 3206 in order to align the distal blade portion 3208 with the proximal blade portion 3206. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 3218 may be re-engaged to lock the distal blade portion 3208 relative to the proximal blade portion 3206 so that the distal blade portion 3208 remains aligned with the proximal blade portion 3206 during the operation (e.g., rotation) of at least one articulated blade 3204.

[0174] Furthermore, the articulated blades 3204 in the deployed position 3228 may have a fan blade length 3230 greater than 50% of the length and / or width 3232 of the fan module air inlet 3024, such that the diameter 3234 of the folding fan 3200 may be greater than the length and / or width 3232 of the fan module air inlet 3024. As described above, the fan module 3004 is configured to draw in an airflow 1616 from the indoor space 1502 into the UV disinfection system 100 and drive the airflow 1616 toward at least one adjacent modular unit 3000. The folding fan 3200 is configured to guide the airflow 1616 from the indoor space 1502 into the fan module 3004 via the fan module air inlet 3024. As illustrated, the folding fan 3200 (e.g., a folding fan motor housing 3212 and at least one movable blade 3204) may be positioned below the fan module air inlet 3024 so that the folding fan 3200 is at least partially positioned within the interior space 1502. Thus, the size of the folding fan 3200 is not constrained by the size of the fan module air inlet 3024. In fact, the folding fan 3200 may be larger than the fan module air inlet 3024 to generate a larger volume of airflow 1616 into the UV disinfection system 100. Generally, the folding fan 3200 may have a diameter 3234 of 2.0 to 6.0 feet. However, the folding fan 3200 may include any suitable diameter 3234 to generate the desired airflow 1616 through the UV disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, the folding fan 3200 is configured to provide an upward flow of at least 0.7 to 2.0 feet per second.

[0175] Figures 33A to 33E show schematic diagrams of various configurations of the modular unit 3000 for the UV disinfection system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The configuration of the UV disinfection system 100 may be modified, at least in part, based on the dimensions of the room space corresponding to the UV disinfection system 100, in order to enhance the effectiveness of the UV disinfection system 100. With respect to Figure 33A, the disinfection system includes a fan module 3004(F) located in the center of the configuration. The configuration includes four branches 3302 extending outward from the fan module 3004. Each branch 3302 includes an extender module 3300(E) attached to the fan module 3004, a UV disinfection module 3006(U) attached to the extender module 3300, and a return module 3008(L) attached to the UV disinfection module 3006. Therefore, the airflow through the UV disinfection system 100 moves into the fan module 3004 and is then divided so that a portion of the airflow 1616 is directed to each of the four branches 3302. Each branch 3302 is configured to receive the corresponding portion of the airflow that moves from the fan module 3004 through the extender module 3300, the UV disinfection module 3006, and the return module 3008, and then exits the UV disinfection system 100 via the return module 3008.

[0176] The extender module 3300 may be configured to form an extended air chamber for the disinfection system. In some embodiments, the effective area of ​​disinfection (e.g., inactivation of pathogens in the indoor space 1502) can be increased by increasing the length or width of the disinfection system. In some embodiments, the extender module 3300 may be configured to extend the length of the corresponding branch 3302 of the UV disinfection system 100. As described above with respect to the UV disinfection module 3006, the extender module 3300 may also include a flow-enhancing structure (shown in Figure 30) to promote laminar flow and improve the airflow through the UV disinfection system 100, as well as the air circulation through the indoor space (shown in Figure 30).

[0177] With respect to Figure 33B, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a fan module 3004(F) located in the center of the configuration. The configuration includes four branches 3302 extending outward from the fan module 3004. Each branch 3302 includes a UV disinfection module 3006(U) attached to the fan module 3004, an extender module 3300(E) attached to the UV disinfection module 3006, and a return module 3008(L) attached to the extender module 3300. Thus, the airflow through the UV disinfection system 100 moves into the fan module 3004 and is then divided so that a portion of the airflow is directed to each of the four branches 3302. Each branch 3302 is configured to receive the corresponding portion of the airflow that moves from the fan module 3004 through the UV disinfection module 3006, the extender module 3300, and the return module 3008, and then exits the disinfection system via the return module 3008.

[0178] With respect to Figure 33C, the UV disinfection system includes a fan module 3004(F) located in the center of the configuration. The configuration includes four branches 3302 extending outward from the fan module 3004. In particular, this configuration includes two linear branches 3304 and two deflection branches 3306. Each of the two linear branches 3304 includes an extender module 3300(E) attached to the fan module 3004, a UV disinfection module 3006(U) attached to the extender module 3300, and a return module 3008(L) attached to the UV disinfection module 3006. Each of the two deviation branches 3306 includes a first extender module 3300(E) attached to the fan module 3004, a UV disinfection module 3006(U) attached to the first extender module 3300, a second extender module 3300(E) attached to the UV disinfection module 3006, and a return module 3008(L) attached to the second extender module 3300. Furthermore, the two deviation branches 3306 include a first turn 3308 and a second turn 3310. Turns (e.g., the first turn 3308, the second turn 3310, etc.) can be formed in branch 3302 by removing adjacent panels (shown in Figure 31) from each modular unit 3000. In the illustrated embodiment, the first turn 3308 is formed by a UV disinfection module 3006 with its front panel 3104 and adjacent first side panel 3108 removed, so that the airflow 1616 is redirected at a 90-degree angle within the UV airflow chamber 3054. Furthermore, the second turn 3310 is formed by a second extender module 3300 with its front panel 3104 and adjacent second side panel 3110 removed, so that the airflow 1616 is redirected at a 90-degree angle within the extended airflow chamber 3044. The disinfection system may include turns based on the dimensions of the interior space 1502 or to avoid obstacles (e.g., ventilation, wiring, etc.) between the suspended ceiling 3002 and the ceiling 508 (shown in Figure 30).

[0179] With respect to Figure 33D, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a fan module 3004(F) located in the center of the configuration. The configuration includes four branches 3302 extending radially outward from the fan module 3004. Each branch 3302 includes a UV disinfection module 3006(U) attached to the fan module 3004 and a return module 3008(L) attached to the UV disinfection module 3006. Thus, the airflow 1616 passing through the UV disinfection system 100 moves into the fan module 3004 via the fan module air inlet 3024 (shown in Figure 30) and is then divided so that a portion of the airflow 1616 is directed towards each of the four branches 3302. Each branch 3302 is configured to receive the corresponding portion of the airflow 1616 that has moved from the fan module 3004 through the UV disinfection module 3006 and the return module 3008 and then exits the disinfection system via the return module air outlet 3080 (shown in Figure 30) of the return module 3008. In smaller indoor spaces 1502, the UV disinfection system 100 may not require the extender module 3300 to achieve the desired air circulation within the indoor space 1502.

[0180] With respect to Figure 33E, the UV disinfection system 100 includes a plurality of fan modules 3004(F) located in the center of the configuration. In some embodiments, additional fan modules 3004 may be incorporated to increase the amount of airflow 1616 moving through the disinfection system (e.g., cubic feet per minute). The configuration includes a plurality of fan modules 3004 and four branches 3302 extending radially outward from the fan modules 3004. Each branch 3302 includes a first pair of extender modules 3300(E) attached to the corresponding fan module 3004, a pair of UV disinfection modules 3006(U) attached to the corresponding extender modules 3300 of the first pair of extender modules 3300, a second pair of extender modules 3300(E) attached to the corresponding UV disinfection modules 3006 of the pair of disinfection modules, and a pair of return modules 3008(L) attached to the corresponding extender modules 3300 of the second pair of extender modules 3300. Therefore, the airflow 1616 passing through the disinfection system moves into a plurality of fan modules 3004 via the fan module air inlets 3024s, and is then divided so that a portion of the airflow 1616 is directed to each of the four branches 3302. Each branch 3302 is configured to receive the corresponding portion of the airflow 1616 that has traveled from the plurality of fan modules 3004 through a first pair of extender modules 3300, a pair of UV disinfection modules 3006, a second pair of extender modules 3300, and a pair of return modules 3008, and then exits the disinfection system via the return modules 3008.

[0181] Figure 34 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system 100 placed in a retail space according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The UV disinfection system 100 may include a sliding UV curtain 3400 configured to provide a partial disinfection zone 3402 above a retail counter 1002. The sliding UV curtain 3400 includes a UV curtain base 3404 configured to sit on the retail counter 1002 and a pair of support towers 3406 extending vertically upward from the UV curtain base 3404. Each support tower 3406 may include a track surface 3408 extending from the lower end 3410 to the upper end 3412 of each support tower 3406. Furthermore, the sliding UV curtain 3400 may also include an upper platform 3414 extending between the upper ends 3412 of each support tower 3406.

[0182] Furthermore, the sliding UV curtain 3400 includes a sliding housing 3416 attached to each track surface 3408 of the support tower 3406. The sliding housing 3416 may be configured to slide vertically up and down along each track surface 3408 of the support tower 3406 between the lower end 3410 and the upper end 3412 of the support tower 3406. Furthermore, the sliding housing 3416 houses an ultraviolet (UV) light source 102 configured to emit UV light 104 vertically upward in the direction toward the upper platform 3414 from the sliding housing 3416, thereby at least partially inactivating airborne pathogens exposed to the UV light 104 emitted between the sliding housing 3416 and the upper platform 3414. As described above, the emitted UV light 104 may have an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0183] In some embodiments, the upper platform 3414 may have slots configured to receive UV light 104 emitted from the UV light source 102 and reduce the amount of UV light reflected into the retail space. The slots may be defined by parabolic or "U" shaped surfaces. To further reduce the amount of reflected UV light 104, the upper platform 3414 may include UV-absorbing material 2502 and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 70% of the emitted UV light 104. In some embodiments, UV-absorbing material 2502 and / or coating configured to absorb at least 90% of the emitted UV light 104. Furthermore, a pair of support towers 3406 may also include UV-absorbing material 2502 and / or coating to reduce the amount of UV light 104 reflected into the retail space.

[0184] Furthermore, the sliding housing 3416 and support tower 3406 may include any suitable mechanism for providing a sliding interface between the first end 3418 and the second end 3420 of the sliding housing 3416 and the first track 3422 and the second track surface 3424 of the corresponding support tower 3406 (e.g., the first support tower 3426 and the second support tower 3428). For example, the first end 3418 and the second end 3420 of the sliding housing 3416 may have bearings, wheels, or other suitable features configured to facilitate the sliding of the sliding housing 3416 along the respectable first track 3422 and the second track surface 3424. The sliding housing 3416 may include a locking mechanism 3430 configured to hold the sliding housing 3416 in a desired position. The locking mechanism 3430 may be disengaged and reengaged to adjust the height of the sliding housing 3416 relative to the UV curtain base 3404. In some embodiments, the length of the sliding housing 3416 may be configured to provide a loose interface fit between the first end 3418 and the second end 3420 and the respective first track 3422 and second track surface 3424, so that the sliding housing 3416 can slide along the first track 3422 and second track surface 3424 while remaining in contact with the first track 3422 and second track surface 3424.

[0185] As described above, the sliding housing 3416 may be configured to house the UV light source 102. The power supply 3432 may be configured to supply power to the UV light source 102. In some embodiments, the power supply 3432 may be located inside the sliding housing 3416. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the power supply 3432 is located inside the UV curtain base 3404 and includes wiring 3434 to the sliding housing 3416. Furthermore, as described above, the UV light source 102 is configured to emit UV rays 104 to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV light source 102 is configured to emit collimated UV light 104 toward the upper platform 3414. That is, the UV light source 102 is configured to emit collimated UV light 104 substantially vertically. Thus, the UV light source 102 may be located on the top 3436 of the sliding housing 3416. Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit collimated UV light 104 along the width of the sliding housing 3416. Generally, the sliding UV curtain 3400 is configured to provide a partially disinfected zone 3402 above the sliding housing 3416 and a UV-free zone 3438 below the sliding housing 3416. In fact, the sliding UV curtain 3400 may be placed above a retail counter 1002 between a customer and an employee in a retail space. The sliding housing 3416 may be positioned so that the partially disinfected zone 3402 is provided in the respiratory space between the customer and the employee so that airborne pathogens passing between the customer and the employee can be at least partially inactivated as they pass through the partially disinfected zone 3402. However, the sliding housing 3416 may be positioned so that there is a UV-free zone 3438 of sufficient size for customers and employees to reach down to exchange money, cards, coupons, etc.

[0186] Figure 35 shows a cross-sectional view of a UV disinfection system 100 having a UV disinfection curtain 3500 inside the interior 3502 of a vehicle 800, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the UV light source 102 is configured to emit UV light 104 (e.g., UV rays) collimated toward a UV receiver 3504. The emitted UV light 104 forms a UV light curtain 3500 between the UV light source 102 and the UV receiver 3504. Furthermore, the UV light source 102 may be configured to emit UV light 104 along the width of the interior 3502 of the vehicle 800, such that the UV light curtain 3500 extends across the width of the interior 3502 of the vehicle 800. The UV light source 102 may be located on the ceiling 3506 of the vehicle 800, with the corresponding UV receiver 3504 located on the floor 3508 of the vehicle 800. However, the UV light source 102 and the UV receiver 3504 can be arranged in any suitable configuration. For example, the UV light source 102 may be positioned on the floor 3508 and the UV receiver 3504 may be positioned on the ceiling 3506. Alternatively, the UV light source 102 may be positioned on the ceiling 3506 and the UV receiver 3504 may extend across the width of the vehicle 800 at any suitable height (e.g., the height of the central console 3510, the shoulder height of the front passenger seats 3512, etc.). The UV receiver 3504 may be fixed to each side of the vehicle 800 in front of the rear passenger door 3514 and behind the front passenger seats 3512. In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may be fixed to the frame 3100 of the vehicle 800 and the UV receiver 3504 may be fixed to the ceiling 3506 of the vehicle 800.

[0187] Furthermore, the UV receiver 3504 may include a structure 3516 having a recess 3518 (e.g., a slot, bore, or channel) configured to receive the emitted UV light 104. The recess 3518 may be further configured to minimize the reflected UV light 104. In some embodiments, the recess 3518 may have a UV-absorbing material 2502 and / or coating configured to absorb at least 90% of the emitted UV light. Furthermore, the recess 3518 of the UV receiver 3504 may be molded to reduce the amount of reflected UV light 104 escaping from the recess 3518.

[0188] In some embodiments, the UV light source 102 may be housed within a UV light housing 3528 having a light shield 3520 positioned around the lamp or bulb of the UV light source 102 to prevent passengers of the vehicle 800 from directly looking at the UV light source 102. The light shield 3520 may extend outward from the UV light source 102 toward the UV receiver 3504. The light shield 3520 may extend 1 to 5 inches outward from the UV light source 102 to block the diverging UV light 104 from being radiated toward parts of the vehicle 800 other than the UV receiver 3504 (e.g., the rear 3522 of the vehicle 800, the front 3524 of the vehicle 800, etc.). Furthermore, the light shield 3520 may block the line of sight from the rear passenger seats 3526 and / or the front passenger seats 3512 toward the lamp or bulb of the UV light source 102 to prevent passengers of the vehicle 800 from directly looking at the UV light 104.

[0189] Furthermore, the UV disinfection system 100 may include a detection system 3530 configured to output a warning under predetermined conditions and / or automatically shut down the UV disinfection system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV disinfection system 100 includes at least a pair of infrared sensors 3532 configured to detect objects penetrating the UV light curtain 3500. However, in some embodiments, the detection system 3530 may include an array of infrared sensors and / or other sensors configured to detect objects in the path of the UV light curtain 3500. In the illustrated embodiment, the first infrared sensor 3534 of the at least pair of infrared sensors 3532 may be positioned close to the UV light source 102, and the second infrared sensor 3536 of the at least pair of infrared sensors 3532 may be positioned close to the UV receiver 3504. The pair of infrared sensors 3532 may form infrared rays 3538 positioned within and / or near the UV light curtain 3500. A pair of infrared sensors 3532 may be configured to output a violation signal to the controller 3540 of the detection system 3530 in response to detecting that an object (e.g., a seat, hand, foot, etc.) has passed through the infrared light rays 3538. In response to receiving the violation signal, the controller 3540 may be configured to output a warning signal to the visible light source 126 and / or speaker device 146 to provide a visible light warning (e.g., flashing red light) or an audible alarm indicating that the UV light curtain 3500 may be violated. Furthermore, since an object may have breached the UV light curtain 3500, the controller 3540 may be configured to output a shutdown signal to deactivate the UV light source 102 in response to detecting that an object has breached the UV light curtain 3500.

[0190] Furthermore, in response to detecting that an object has not penetrated the infrared rays 3538 and / or the UV light curtain 3500, the detection system 3530 may be configured to turn off the visible light warning and / or audible alarm and restart the UV light source 102. However, the detection system 3530 may include a delay configured to prevent the restart of the UV light source 102 for a predetermined period of time from the last detection of an object penetrating the UV light curtain 3500. For example, the detection system 3530 may include a 10-second delay so that the controller 3540 does not restart the UV light source 102 for at least 10 seconds when an object has penetrated and been removed from the UV light curtain 3500.

[0191] As illustrated, the UV disinfection system 100 may further include a second UV light source 3542. The second UV light source 3542 may include a plurality of UV light units 3544 (e.g., UV lamps 1710, UV LEDs, etc.) fixed to the ceiling 3506 of the vehicle 800. In particular, the plurality of UV light units 3544 may be mounted on the ceiling 3506 of the vehicle 800 above the rear 3522 of the vehicle 800. The plurality of UV light units 3544 may be configured to emit UV light 104 to at least partially inactivate pathogens in both a target volume of air and a target surface located in the rear 3522 of the vehicle 800. The second UV light source 3542 may be configured to activate to disinfect the rear 3522 of the vehicle 800 after a passenger has left the vehicle 800 and before another passenger enters the rear 3522 of the vehicle 800.

[0192] The detection system 3530 can be configured to detect whether at least one passenger is in the rear portion 3522 of the vehicle 800. The detection system 3530 may be configured to output an activation signal to the second UV light source 3542 in response to detecting that a passenger has left the rear portion 3522 of the vehicle 800. Further, the detection system 3530 may be configured to output a deactivation signal in response to a passenger entering the rear portion 3522 of the vehicle 800 such that the second UV light source 3542 does not emit UV light 104 when the passenger is in the rear portion 3522 of the vehicle 800.

[0193] Thus, the present invention may provide a UV disinfection device and method that may include any of the various features disclosed herein, including one or more of the following descriptions.

[0194] Description 1A: A pathogen disinfection device is an ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light toward a target position to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light on the path of the emitted light and the surface of the target position, the UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 - 280 nanometers, a distance sensor configured to determine the distance between the UV light source and the target position, and a dose measurement circuit configured to monitor in real time the dose of UV light at the target position based at least in part on the intensity of the UV light and the distance between the UV light source and the target position.

[0195] Description 2A: The pathogen disinfection system according to Description 1A, wherein the UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 - 280 nanometers is configured to at least partially inactivate the Covid-19 SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

[0196] Description 3A: The pathogen disinfection system according to Description 1A, wherein the UV light source is configured to emit UV light to provide a target dose of 1 - 120 millijoules / cm 2 at the target position, and the target position is 5 - 300 cm from the UV light source.

[0197] Item 4A: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1A, further comprising a visible light source configured to emit visible light, wherein the visible light source is activated when the UV light source is activated to indicate that the UV light source is active and the device is in disinfection mode.

[0198] A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 4A, wherein the UV light source is configured to emit UV light toward the target location with a power consumption of 0.1 to 150 watts, and the visible light source is configured to emit visible light toward the target location with a power consumption of 0.1 to 150 watts.

[0199] Item 6A: A pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1A, comprising a UV sensor configured to receive UV light reflected from a target position in order to determine the distance between the UV light source and the target position.

[0200] Item 7A A pathogen disinfection system may comprise a UV light source configured to emit UV light toward a target location to at least partially inactivate pathogens on the target location, wherein the UV light has an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers; a visible light source configured to emit visible light; and a circuit configured to supply power to the UV light source and the visible light source, which activates both the UV light source and the visible light source in disinfection mode.

[0201] A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 7A, wherein the UV light source is configured to emit UV light with a power consumption of 0.1 to 150 watts toward the target position, and the visible light source is configured to emit visible light with a power consumption of 0.1 to 150 watts.

[0202] A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 7A, wherein the UV light source and the visible light source are fixed to the luminaire, and the luminaire is disposable facing the target position.

[0203] Item 10A: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 7A, wherein the visible light source is configured to emit visible light at wavelengths of 380 to 700 nanometers.

[0204] The pathogen disinfection system described in item 7A further comprises a motion sensor configured to detect movement within a safe area adjacent to the path of UV light and to output a shutdown or activation signal.

[0205] The pathogen disinfection system as described in item 7A, wherein the circuit described in item 12A includes a delay switch configured to delay the activation of the disinfection mode for at least 5 seconds after receiving user input to activate the disinfection mode.

[0206] Item 13A: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 7A, wherein the target location includes one or more of the following groups: tables, seating arrangements, and areas where people may gather.

[0207] The pathogen disinfection system described in item 7A, wherein the UV light source is fixed inside the vehicle and configured to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light along the path of the emitted light and on the surface of a target location inside the vehicle.

[0208] Item 15A: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 7A, wherein UV light includes a beam width of 0.5 to 12 inches at the target location.

[0209] Item 16A A pathogen disinfection system may comprise a UV light source configured to emit UV light toward a target location to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the path of the emitted light and on the surface of the target location, wherein the UV light has an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers; a temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature at the target location, configured to output a stop signal in response to detecting a temperature within a predetermined temperature range at the target location; and a circuit configured to shut down the UV light source in response to receiving a stop signal from the temperature sensor.

[0210] Item 17A: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 16A, wherein the specified temperature range includes temperatures of 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, or temperatures that are more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or room temperature.

[0211] The pathogen disinfection system according to item 16A, further comprising item 18A a UV detector, wherein the UV detector includes a first surface selected from a material that at least partially contains a photochromic pigment, dye, or other colorant having the property of changing color under UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0212] Item 19A: Further equipped with a UV detector, the UV detector emits UV light at a rate of 1 to 120 millijoules / cm². 2 A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 16A, configured to provide an indication in response to exposure to a target dose for at least 10 seconds, the indication comprising a change in the surface of a UV detector from a first color to a second color and / or a third color.

[0213] Pathogen disinfection system as described in item 19A, wherein the UV detector is configured to return from the third color to the second color, or from the second color to the first color, at least 10 seconds after exposure to UV light has ceased.

[0214] Description 1B A pathogen disinfection system may include a base having a selected length; a pathogen disinfection device comprising at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source positioned on the base and configured to emit UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200-280 nanometers in a target volume in a path substantially perpendicular to the base over substantially the length of the base, thereby at least partially inactivating pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the path of the emitted light in the target volume; a beam shaping mechanism such as one or more reflectors positioned on the base or a slot positioned on or within the base, configured to shape the path of the emitted UV light such that the UV light path is limited to a selected width over at least a selected height or distance from the base; a first motion sensor configured to detect when an object or person moves into the UV light path and to send a first signal in response to the detection of such movement; a proximity sensor configured to detect when a person is present within a predetermined distance in a particular direction from the base and to send a second signal in response to the detection of such presence; and a controller which activates the UV light source after receiving the first signal and deactivates the UV light source after receiving the second signal.

[0215] Item 2B: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1B, wherein the base is attached to a part of a chair such as the backrest, seat, or armrest, or otherwise positioned.

[0216] Item 3B A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1B, wherein the base is mounted on a counter or other flat top surface, or otherwise installed.

[0217] Item 4B: The UV light source emits 1 to 120 millijoules / cm² over a distance corresponding to at least a selected height or distance from the base. 2 A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 1B, configured to emit UV light.

[0218] Item 5B A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1B, further comprising a visible light source configured to emit visible light, wherein the visible light source is activated when the UV light source is activated to indicate that the UV light source is active and the device is in disinfection mode.

[0219] Item 6B: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1B, wherein the proximity sensor is a second motion sensor or temperature sensor.

[0220] Item 7B: The pathogen disinfection system described in Item 1B, further including a data port configured to transmit data to and receive commands from the controller.

[0221] Item 8B The pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 7B, comprising a controller having a processor and an application having processor-executable instructions configured to send signals to operate a UV light source, a proximity sensor, and a motion sensor, and to receive data from there.

[0222] Item 9B: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 8B, including operational data, diagnostics, and maintenance parameters.

[0223] Item 10B A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1B, comprising a non-UV light reflecting and at least partially UV transparent material configured to allow transmission of UV light emitted from a UV light source.

[0224] Pathogen disinfection system as described in item 1B, further comprising a speaker device configured to generate an audio output before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of a UV light source, or a combination thereof, in response to the activation of the UV light source.

[0225] The pathogen disinfection system described in item 1B further includes an aroma diffuser configured to emit a scented aroma and / or a neutralizing agent in response to the activation of a UV light source.

[0226] The pathogen disinfection system according to item 1B, further comprising a tilt sensor configured to provide a tilt angle signal indicating the tilt angle of the pathogen disinfection device, wherein the controller is configured to receive the tilt angle signal in response to exceeding the maximum tilt angle and to deactivate the UV light source.

[0227] Description 1C A pathogen disinfection fan system may comprise a fan having blades or other power devices for directing airflow in a particular direction; a motor coupled to the fan configured to rotate the fan blades or power devices for directing airflow in a particular direction; a ceiling mount; a connecting member connecting the ceiling mount to the fan and motor; and a pathogen disinfection device attached to the connecting member, comprising at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers in a target volume in a substantially horizontal path substantially perpendicular to the direction of the directed airflow, thereby at least partially inactivating pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the path of emitted light in the target volume.

[0228] Item 2C: A pathogen disinfection fan system as described in Item 1C, wherein the motor is configured to rotate the fan in either a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0229] A pathogen disinfection fan system as described in item 2C, having a switch configured to activate a UV light source, and a motor configured to rotate in a first or second rotational direction.

[0230] Item 4C: A pathogen disinfection fan system as described in Item 1C, wherein the motor is configured to cause the fan to produce a first downward airflow or a second upward airflow.

[0231] A pathogen disinfection fan system as described in item 4C, having a switch configured to activate a UV light source, and a motor configured to cause the fan to produce a first downward airflow or a second upward airflow.

[0232] Item 6C The pathogen disinfection fan system as described in Item 1C, further comprising a temperature or motion sensor configured to detect the temperature or motion of a volume beneath the fan and to provide an activation input signal for activating a UV light source in response to sensing a specific temperature or motion of the volume beneath the fan.

[0233] The pathogen disinfection fan system described in item 1C further includes a clock circuit and a signal generator configured to produce a time signal indicating the time the UV light source is active, a transmitter configured to transmit the time signal, and a recording device configured to receive the time signal and record the time the UV light source is active.

[0234] Item 8C: A pathogen disinfection fan system as described in Item 1C, comprising a recording device with a software application including processor executable instructions configured to record the time the UV light source is active.

[0235] The pathogen disinfection system described in item 1C further comprises a speaker device configured to generate an audio output before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of the UV light source, or in some combination thereof, in response to the activation of the UV light source (item 9C).

[0236] The pathogen disinfection system described in 1C further includes an aroma diffuser configured to emit a scented aroma and / or a neutralizing agent in response to the activation of a UV light source.

[0237] Item 11C The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1C, further comprising a tilt sensor configured to detect the tilt orientation of the pathogen disinfection device, wherein the UV light source is configured to shut down in response to exceeding a maximum tilt angle.

[0238] The pathogen disinfection system described in item 1C further comprises a speaker device configured to generate an audio output before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of a UV light source, or a combination thereof, in response to the activation of the UV light source.

[0239] Item 13C: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1C, further comprising a housing or buffing for further directing the induced airflow.

[0240] Item 14C The pathogen disinfection system described in Item 1C further comprises a user interface configured to a UV light source in response to user input.

[0241] A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 1C, wherein the UV light source emits light rays that spread from 0 to 180 degrees.

[0242] Description 1D: A mobile communication device may include a pathogen disinfection device comprising an ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers toward a target location to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the path of the emitted light and on the surface of the target location, and an application comprising processor executable instructions configured to generate signals for controlling the pathogen disinfection device.

[0243] Description 2D: A pathogen disinfection device further comprising a visible light source configured to emit visible light, and a mobile communication device as described in Description 1D, wherein the application includes a processor executable instruction configured to generate a signal for communication to the visible light source in order to operate the visible light source so as to activate the visible light source when the UV light source is active.

[0244] The mobile communication device described in Description 1D further comprises a temperature or motion sensor configured to provide an application with a stop input signal when it senses a specific temperature or motion in the light rays emitted from a UV light source, and includes a processor executable instruction configured to generate a signal for communicating to the UV light source in order to stop the UV light source in response to the application receiving a stop input signal from the temperature or motion sensor.

[0245] The mobile communication device described in item 1D further comprises a distance sensor configured to determine the distance between a UV light source and a target position and to generate a distance input signal.

[0246] A mobile communication device as described in item 4D, comprising a UV sensor that determines the distance from a target surface based on the detection of UV light reflected from the target position in order to generate a distance input signal, as described in item 5D.

[0247] Description 6D: A pathogen disinfection device further comprises a dosimetry circuit or algorithm configured to receive a distance input signal and generate a cumulative dose signal indicating the cumulative dose of UV light received at a target location in real time, based at least on the distance input signal and the intensity of UV light emitted by a UV light source, as described in Description 4D.

[0248] The mobile communication device described in item 6D further comprises a processor executable instruction configured to receive a cumulative dose signal and send a stop signal to a UV light source when the cumulative dose signal indicates that the target dose has been achieved.

[0249] Description 8D: The mobile communication device described in Description 1D, further comprising a processor executable instruction configured to activate the speaker mechanism to emit an audible sound before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of a UV light source, or any combination thereof.

[0250] The mobile communication device described in item 1D, further comprising the application described in item 9D for operating a UV light source in response to user input.

[0251] The mobile communication device described in item 9D further comprises computer executable instructions for generating a visual interface that enables the user to provide user input, as described in item 10D.

[0252] Description 11D: The mobile communication device includes a tilt sensor to a tilt sensor configured to provide a tilt angle signal indicating the tilt angle of the mobile communication device, and the application includes a processor executable instruction configured to receive the tilt angle signal from the mobile communication device and generate a stop signal to stop a UV light source in response to exceeding a maximum tilt angle.

[0253] Description 1E An accessory for a mobile communication device, wherein the mobile communication device has an external housing and a processor, and the accessory may comprise a pathogen disinfection device that can be attached to the external housing of the mobile communication device, the pathogen disinfection device comprising an ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers toward a target location, thereby at least partially inactivating pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the path of the emitted light and on the surface of the target location; and an application for downloading to the mobile communication device, comprising processor executable instructions configured to generate signals for controlling the pathogen disinfection device, including operating the UV light source.

[0254] Description 2E: The pathogen disinfection device further comprises a visible light source configured to emit visible light, and the application includes a processor executable instruction configured to generate a signal for communication to the visible light source in order to operate the visible light source so as to activate the visible light source when the UV light source is active, as described in Description 1E.

[0255] Description 3E: An accessory for a mobile communication device as described in Description 1E, further comprising a temperature or motion sensor configured to provide an application with a stop input signal when the pathogen disinfection device senses a specific temperature or motion in the light beam emitted from a UV light source, and including a processor executable instruction configured to generate a signal for communicating to the UV light source to stop the UV light source in response to the application receiving a stop input signal from the temperature or motion sensor.

[0256] Description 4E: An accessory for the mobile communication device described in Description 1E, further comprising a distance sensor configured to determine the distance between a UV light source and a target position and to generate a distance input signal.

[0257] An accessory for the mobile communication device described in item 4E, comprising a UV sensor that determines the distance from a target surface based on the detection of UV light reflected from the target position in order to generate a distance input signal, as described in item 5E.

[0258] Item 6E An accessory for a mobile communication device as described in Item 4E, further comprising a dose measurement circuit or algorithm configured to receive a distance input signal and generate a cumulative dose signal indicating the cumulative dose of UV light received at a target location in real time, based at least on the distance input signal and the intensity of UV light emitted by a UV light source.

[0259] An accessory for the mobile communication device described in item 6E, further comprising a processor executable instruction configured to receive a cumulative dose signal and send a stop signal to a UV light source when the cumulative dose signal indicates that the target dose has been achieved.

[0260] Description 8E: An accessory for the mobile communication device described in Description 1E, further comprising a processor executable instruction configured to activate the speaker mechanism to emit an audible sound before, during, or after the activation or deactivation of a UV light source, or any combination thereof.

[0261] Description 9E: An accessory for the mobile communication device described in Description 1E, further including computer executable instructions for operating a UV light source in response to user input.

[0262] An accessory for the mobile communication device described in item 1E, further comprising computer executable instructions for generating a visual interface that enables the user to provide user input, as described in item 10E.

[0263] Description 11E: An accessory for a mobile communication device as described in Description 1E, further comprising a tilt sensor that provides a tilt angle signal indicating the tilt angle of a mobile communication device, wherein the application includes a processor executable instruction configured to monitor the tilt angle signal and generate a stop signal for communication to a UV light source in order to stop the UV light source in response to exceeding a maximum tile angle.

[0264] Item 12E: Accessories for mobile communication devices as described in Item 1E, where the target location includes a keypad, touchscreen, or any surface located in a public space.

[0265] Description 1F A pathogen disinfection system comprising an optical array, a proximity sensor, and a controller configured to send and receive signals to the optical array and the proximity sensor, wherein the optical array comprises a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light sources and a plurality of visible light sources, each of the UV light sources and visible light sources configured to generate individual rays having individual volumes between an emitter and individual target surface areas located at a given distance from the individual light source, and each UV light emitter configured to emit ultraviolet light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the UV light emitted in the path between each UV light source and its target surface area, and the array A pathogen disinfection system comprising: multiple UV light sources collectively configured to produce a shared ray having a shared volume between the array and a shared target surface area; multiple visible light emitters configured to collectively illuminate a shared target area to indicate that the UV light emitters are active and the system is in disinfection mode; a controller configured to send a first signal to the light array to activate it and a second signal to deactivate it; and proximity sensors configured to detect the presence of a human being within a given safe volume greater than the target volume and to send a movement signal to the controller to deactivate the light array when the presence of a human being is detected.

[0266] The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1F, wherein at least one light emitter of the described item 2F array can be individually configured to be directed towards its target surface area.

[0267] The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1F, including a stop circuit or algorithm, wherein when the stop circuit or algorithm determines that the target dose of UV light has been achieved on a common target surface area, the array is stopped.

[0268] The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 3F, wherein the stop circuit or algorithm determines that the target dose of UV light has been achieved on a common target surface area based at least in part on the intensity of the UV light and the distance between each UV light emitter and its individual target surface area.

[0269] Item 5F The UV light is configured to provide a target dose of 1 to 120 millijoules / cm 2 to the target position to at least partially inactivate the Covid-19 SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1F.

[0270] The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1F, further comprising a speaker device configured to generate an audio output when at least the UV light emitter is active and the system is in the disinfection mode.

[0271] The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1F, further comprising a user interface configured such that the controller operates the array in response to user input.

[0272] The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1F, wherein the common target surface includes one or more of a group including a table, a seating arrangement, and an area where people can gather together.

[0273] Item 9F: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1F, in which the common target surface includes a keypad, touchscreen, or any surface located in a public space.

[0274] Item 10F: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1F, wherein the proximity sensor is a temperature sensor configured to monitor a predetermined range of temperatures within a target volume.

[0275] Item 11F: A proximity sensor in a pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1F, where the specified range is 95-105 degrees Fahrenheit, or more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the ambient temperature or room temperature within the target volume.

[0276] Item 12F: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1F, wherein the proximity sensor is a motion sensor configured to detect when an object or person moves into a UV light path within a target volume.

[0277] The pathogen disinfection system according to item 1F, further comprising a UV detector, wherein the UV detector includes a first surface selected from a material having at least partially a photochromic pigment, dye, or other colorant having the property of changing color under UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0278] The description 14F further includes a UV detector, which emits UV light at a rate of 1-120 millijoules / cm². 2 A pathogen disinfection system as described in item 12F, configured to provide an indication in response to exposure to a target dose for at least 10 seconds, wherein the indication includes the surface of a UV detector changing from a first color to a second color and / or a third color.

[0279] Pathogen disinfection system as described in item 13F, wherein the UV detector is configured to return from the third color to the second color, or from the second color to the first color, at least 10 seconds after exposure to UV light has ceased.

[0280] Item 16F: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1F, comprising a controller, a processor, and an application having processor-executable instructions.

[0281] Description 1G A pathogen disinfection system may comprise a base configured to be suspended from a ceiling via at least one connecting element, wherein the radially inner surface of the base is disposable radially outward from a fan configured to direct an upward airflow toward the ceiling, and at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source fixed to the top of the base, configured to emit UV light substantially upward toward the ceiling to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the light path emitted between the UV light source and the ceiling, wherein the UV light has an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0282] Description 2G: The system as described in Description 1G, wherein the base includes an annular shape, and at least one UV light source includes multiple UV light sources arranged around the base.

[0283] Description 3G: The system described in Description 2G, in which multiple UV light sources are angularly offset from each other by 10 to 90 degrees with respect to the central axis of the base.

[0284] Description 4G: The system described in Description 1G, wherein the emitted UV light forms a UV ray directed axially upward, and this ray extends upward between 10 and 80 degrees radially inward and between 10 and 80 degrees radially outward from the UV light source.

[0285] Description 5G: The system as described in Description 1G, further comprising an anti-reflective element mounted on the ceiling, wherein the anti-reflective element includes a UV-absorbing material configured to reduce or prevent UV light from reflecting off the ceiling.

[0286] Item 6G The system according to Item 1G, wherein the anti-reflection element is attached to the ceiling directly above the UV light source and extends 10 to 80 degrees radially inward and 10 to 80 degrees radially outward with respect to the UV light source.

[0287] Item 7G The system according to Item 1G, further comprising a cover element disposed above the UV light source and fixed to the base, the cover element including a UV-transmissive material configured to allow UV light to pass through the cover element.

[0288] Item 8G The system according to Item 1G, further comprising a disposable air flow redirector around the connection member of the fan, the air flow redirector having an annular shape with a variable diameter that increases in the direction toward the ceiling, the air flow redirector being configured to promote laminar flow in the air flow that transitions from a substantially vertically upward flow to a substantially horizontal flow.

[0289] Item 9G The system according to Item 8G, wherein the diameter of the air flow director increases exponentially along the height of the air flow redirector.

[0290] Item 10G The system according to Item 8G, wherein the air flow redirector includes a frustum of a cone shape.

[0291] Item 11G The system according to Item 1G, wherein the UV light source is embedded in the upper surface of the base.

[0292] Item 12G The system according to Item 1G, wherein the base includes a trough formed between an inner side wall and an outer side wall of the base, the UV light source is disposed in the trough, and the inner side wall and the outer side wall are configured to limit the beam divergence angle of the UV light source to 160 degrees or less.

[0293] Description 13G The system according to Description 1G, comprising at least one UV light source, at least one UV lamp configured to emit UV light, and at least one lamp fixture having a connector and a holder for receiving the UV lamp, further comprising a base portion, an inner side wall, an outer side wall, a first end cap, and a second end cap, wherein the connector is attached to the first end cap and the holder is attached to the base portion, and at least one ballast configured to provide a voltage sufficient to start the UV lamp in response to the activation of a pathogen disinfection system, and the ballast being located outside the lamp fixture.

[0294] The system described in item 13G, wherein the radial width between the radial inner and outer surfaces of the base is greater than the combined width of the lamp fixture and ballast.

[0295] The system described in item 13G, wherein the ballast is mounted on the radially outer portion of the upper surface of the base, and the lamp fixture is mounted on the radially inner portion of the upper surface of the base.

[0296] The system described in item 1G further comprises a fan, the fan including fan blades or other power devices configured to direct airflow upward toward the ceiling, the fan being mounted on the ceiling and configured to direct airflow upward toward the ceiling.

[0297] The system as described in item 16G, wherein the radially inner surface of the base of item 17G is aligned at least partially perpendicular to the fan blades of the fan.

[0298] The system described in item 16G, which includes a bladeless fan, is subject to item 18G.

[0299] Description 19G: The system according to Description 1G, wherein at least one connecting element comprises at least one rod, chain, wire, cable, or any combination thereof, and has a first end configured to be mounted to a ceiling and a second end fixed to a base.

[0300] Description 20G: The system as described in Description 1G, wherein at least one connecting element has an adjustable length configured to raise and lower the base relative to the ceiling.

[0301] The system described in item 1G further comprises a visible light source fixed to the bottom surface of the base described in item 21G.

[0302] The system described in item 1G, wherein item 22G has a base comprising multiple segments, and adjacent segments are joined via mounting plates.

[0303] The system according to item 22G, further comprising a plurality of ring elements fixed to a mounting plate, wherein a connecting element is fixed to an annular beam in the plurality of ring elements.

[0304] Description 24G A pathogen disinfection fan system may comprise a motor housing, a connecting member configured to fix the motor housing to a ceiling, a plurality of fan blades rotatably fixed to the motor housing and configured to direct airflow upward, a fan motor located within the motor housing and configured to drive the rotation of the plurality of fan blades around the motor housing, and at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source fixed to the top of each of the plurality of fan blades, wherein the UV light source is configured to emit UV light upward toward the ceiling, thereby at least partially inactivating pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light in the light path between the UV light source and the ceiling, and the UV light has an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0305] Description 25G: The system described in Description 24G, wherein at least one UV light source is embedded within the upper surface of a corresponding fan blade among a plurality of fan blades.

[0306] Description 26G The system as described in Description 24G, further comprising a magnetic induction power system configured to supply power to at least one UV light source.

[0307] The system described in item 24G, with an average peak wavelength of 215-225 nanometers.

[0308] Description 28G: The system described in Description 24G, comprising at least one UV light source and multiple UV light sources fixed to each fan blade of multiple fan blades.

[0309] The system as described in item 28G, wherein the first UV light source of each of the multiple UV light sources is fixed to the radially inner portion of the corresponding fan blade adjacent to the motor housing, and the second UV light source of each of the multiple UV light sources is fixed to the radially outer portion of the corresponding fan blade adjacent to the distal end of the corresponding fan blade.

[0310] Description 1H The air treatment system may comprise: a lower cowling configured to be suspended from a ceiling, the lower cowling being disposable radially outward from a fan configured to define an internal lower cowling surface and direct airflow upward toward the ceiling, radially outward, or in any combination thereof; an upper cowling positioned vertically above the lower cowling and configured to define an internal upper cowling surface, the upper cowling having a gap between the internal upper cowling surface and the internal lower cowling surface that forms a fluid passage comprising an intake opening, an exhaust opening, and a chamber, the fluid passage being configured to receive airflow from the fan through the intake opening and direct airflow through the chamber to exit through the exhaust opening; and at least one air treatment device fixed within the chamber and configured to treat air passing through the chamber.

[0311] The system according to claim 1H, wherein the air treatment device comprises a pathogen disinfection system, a heating system, a cooling system, an ionization system, a filtration system, a humidity control system, an ozone control system, or any combination thereof.

[0312] Claim 3H: The system according to claim 2H, wherein the air treatment device comprises a plurality of UV light sources located inside a chamber at spaced intervals around a fan.

[0313] The system according to claim 1H, further comprising a base configured to be suspended from a ceiling via at least one connecting element, wherein a first side of the base is disposable radially outward from the fan, and the base comprises a plurality of base segments, adjacent base segments joined via mounting plates to form a continuous support around the fan.

[0314] The system according to claim 4H, wherein the base supports multiple UV light sources located inside the chamber at spaced intervals around the fan.

[0315] The system according to claim 3H, wherein the lower cowling comprises a plurality of lower segments, each lower segment being configured to be attached to the bottom surface of a corresponding base segment among a plurality of base segments, and the plurality of lower segments being configured to form a selected shape around a fan.

[0316] The system according to claim 1H, further comprising at least one stabilizing rod configured to secure the upper cowling to a base, wherein the at least one stabilizing rod comprises a first end connected to the base and a second end connected to the upper cowling.

[0317] The system according to claim 1H, wherein the lower cowling comprises a central portion, an inner lip located radially inward from the central portion and extending upward from the central portion, and an outer lip located radially outward from the central portion and extending upward from the central portion.

[0318] The system according to claim 6H, wherein the inner lip extends upward from the center by an amount at least twice as much as the outer lip extends vertically upward from the center, and the amount by which the outer lip extends vertically upward from the center is at least 3.0 inches.

[0319] The system according to claim 6H, wherein the tip of the outer lip of the lower cowling is aligned perpendicularly with the end of the outer portion of the upper cowling, and the outer portion extends perpendicularly downward in the direction toward the base from the inner portion of the upper cowling.

[0320] Description 9H The system according to claim 1H, wherein the upper cowling comprises an inner portion oriented substantially parallel to the base and an outer portion extending downward from the inner portion toward the lower cowling, the angle between the inner portion and the outer portion being 80° to 100°.

[0321] The system according to claim 9H, wherein the height of the inner portion of the upper cowling is 7.0 to 9.0 inches, and the height of the inner lip of the lower cowling is 7.0 to 9.0 inches.

[0322] The system according to claim 9H, wherein the end of the outer portion of the upper cowling is positioned radially inward by an amount of 3.0 to 8.0 inches relative to the tip of the outer lip of the lower cowling.

[0323] Description 12H A pathogen disinfection system may comprise a base configured to be suspended from the ceiling via at least one connecting element, wherein the radially inward side of the base is disposable from the radially outward side of the base and a fan configured to direct airflow upward toward the ceiling; a lower cowling fixed to the bottom surface of the base; an upper cowling positioned vertically above the base, wherein the gap between the upper cowling and the lower cowling is configured to form a fluid passage comprising an intake opening, an exhaust opening, and a chamber, wherein the fluid passage is configured to receive airflow from the fan via the intake opening and direct the airflow through the chamber to exit through the exhaust opening; and a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light sources fixed in a chamber spaced apart around the fan, wherein the UV light sources are configured to emit UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light, and the UV light has an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0324] Claim 13H The system according to claim 12H, comprising at least one UV light source, at least one of a plurality of UV light sources comprising an ozone-free bulb having a power input of at least 35 watts, and at least one lamp fixture having a connector and a holder for receiving the UV lamp, further comprising a base portion mounted inside a chamber, and at least one ballast configured to provide sufficient voltage to start the UV lamp in response to the activation of a pathogen disinfection system, and at least one ballast disposed outside the lamp fixture.

[0325] The system according to claim 12H, wherein a 14H UV light source is mounted on the base, the lower cowling, and / or the upper cowling.

[0326] The system according to claim 12H, wherein the inner upper cowling surface of the upper cowling and / or the inner lower cowling surface of the lower cowling are made of an aluminum material configured to reflect at least 70% of the UV light in the chamber.

[0327] The system according to claim 12H, wherein the inner upper cowling surface of the upper cowling and / or the inner lower cowling surface of the lower cowling comprises an absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 90% of UV light.

[0328] The system according to claim 12H, wherein the inner upper cowling surface of the upper cowling comprises an aluminum material configured to reflect at least 70% of the UV light in the chamber, and at least a portion of the inner lower cowling surface of the lower cowling comprises an absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 90% of the UV light.

[0329] The system according to claim 12H, wherein the chamber comprises a volume of 30 to 40 cubic feet, and the fan is configured to provide an airflow of 2,000 cubic feet per minute through the chamber.

[0330] The system according to claim 12H, wherein the bottom surface of the lower cowling is aligned at least partially perpendicular to the bottom surface of each of the fan blades of the fan.

[0331] The system according to claim 12H, wherein at least 60% of the UV light emitted from the UV light source is configured to be reflected at least once from a surface located within the chamber of the fluid passage.

[0332] The system according to claim 12H, further comprising a disposable airflow redirector around a fan connector, wherein the airflow redirector has an annular shape having a variable diameter increasing toward the ceiling, and the airflow redirector is configured to facilitate laminar flow in the airflow transitioning from substantially vertical upward flow to substantially horizontal flow, the diameter of the airflow redirector increasing exponentially along the height of the airflow redirector, and the airflow redirector defines a frustoconical surface.

[0333] Description 22H The pathogen disinfection system may comprise a fan configured to direct an upward airflow toward the ceiling, a lower cowling fixed to the bottom surface of a base having an internal lower cowling surface, an upper cowling positioned vertically above the lower cowling having an internal upper cowling surface, the gap between the internal upper cowling surface and the internal lower cowling surface forming a fluid passage comprising an intake opening, an exhaust opening, and a chamber, the fluid passage being configured to receive airflow from the fan through the intake opening and guide the airflow through the chamber to exit the exhaust opening, and at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source fixed within the chamber, the UV light source being configured to emit UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted UV light, the UV light having an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0334] The system according to claim 21H, further comprising an airflow redirector and a ceiling plate, wherein the fan comprises fan blades and is suspended from the ceiling by a downrod, the airflow redirector is fixed around the downrod and above the fan, the airflow redirector is configured to redirect an upward airflow flowing toward the ceiling to flow in a horizontal direction substantially parallel to the ceiling, the ceiling plate is fixed to the upper cowling, the ceiling plate extends inward from the upper cowling toward the airflow redirector, and the ceiling plate is configured to prevent airflow from moving above the upper cowling in the space between the upper cowling and the airflow redirector.

[0335] Claim 24H: The system according to claim 23H, wherein the ceiling plate is fixed to the airflow redirector.

[0336] The system according to claim 22H, wherein the fan is configured to automatically modulate between a lower fan speed and a higher fan speed.

[0337] Description 1I A pathogen disinfection system for indoor spaces comprises a plurality of modular units for installation under the ceiling of an indoor space, each modular unit comprising a frame and at least one panel, and the plurality of modular units may comprise a fan module having a fan configured to guide airflow from the indoor space into the fan module via a fan module air inlet and drive the airflow toward at least one fan module air outlet; an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection module having at least one UV light source configured to emit UV light to at least partially inactivate pathogens in the air exposed to the emitted UV light, wherein the UV light has a peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers, and the UV disinfection module is configured to receive airflow via a UV disinfection module air inlet and guide the airflow toward a UV disinfection module air outlet; and a return module configured to receive airflow at a return module air inlet and guide the airflow toward a return module air outlet into the indoor space.

[0338] Description 2I: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Description 1I, wherein each of a plurality of modular units is installed between a suspended ceiling and a ceiling, the interior space is located below the suspended ceiling, at least one ceiling tile of the suspended ceiling is removed to fluidize a fan module air inlet to the interior space, and at least one ceiling tile is removed to fluidize a return module air outlet to the interior space.

[0339] Pathogen disinfection system as described in item 1I, wherein the UV disinfection module has a recessed bottom configured to accommodate at least one ceiling tile of a suspended ceiling.

[0340] Pathogen disinfection system as described in item 1I, wherein the internal surface of the UV disinfection module is made of a material configured to reflect at least 50% of the UV light inside the UV disinfection module.

[0341] Item 5I: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1I, comprising an absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 50% of UV light on at least a portion of the internal surfaces of the fan module and the return module.

[0342] The pathogen disinfection system described in item 1I, wherein the UV disinfection module is fixed to the fan module so as to fluidly connect the UV disinfection module air inlet to the fan module air outlet, and the return module is fixed to the UV disinfection module so as to fluidly connect the return module air inlet to the UV disinfection module air outlet.

[0343] Item 7I The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1I, further comprising a first extender module configured to be fixed between a fan module and a UV disinfection module, with the air inlet of the first extender module fluidly connected to the air outlet of the fan module and the air outlet of the first extender module fluidly connected to the air inlet of the UV disinfection module, or fixed between a UV disinfection module and a return module, with the air inlet of the first extender module fluidly connected to the air outlet of the UV disinfection module and the air outlet of the first extender module fluidly connected to the air inlet of the return module.

[0344] Item 8I The pathogen disinfection system according to Item 7I, further comprising a second extender module module, which is fixed between a UV disinfection module and a return module and configured to fluidly connect the second extender module air inlet to the UV disinfection module air outlet and the second extender module air outlet to the return module air inlet, or fixed between a fan module and a UV disinfection module and configured to fluidly connect the second extender module air inlet to the fan module air outlet and the second extender module air outlet to the UV disinfection module air inlet.

[0345] Item 9I: A pathogen disinfection system according to Item 8I, wherein the internal surface of the extender module and / or the second internal surface of the second extender module comprises an absorbing material and / or a coating material configured to absorb at least 70% of UV light.

[0346] The pathogen disinfection system according to item 1I, further comprising a disposable airflow redirector within the fan module, wherein the airflow redirector comprises at least one arc-shaped surface for facilitating laminar flow in the airflow, transitioning from substantially vertical upward flow to substantially horizontal flow.

[0347] Item 11I: A pathogen disinfection system according to Item 1I, wherein a fan module air inlet is formed by removing the bottom panel of a plurality of panels, and at least one fan module air outlet is formed by removing the side panel of a plurality of panels.

[0348] Item 12I: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1I, wherein the return module air inlet is formed by removing the front panel of a plurality of panels, and the return module air outlet is formed by removing the bottom panel of a plurality of panels.

[0349] Description 13I: The pathogen disinfection system according to Description 1I, wherein the return module further comprises a plurality of adjacent guide channels, each having at least one arc-shaped surface configured to guide airflow from the return module air inlet to the return module air outlet.

[0350] Item 14I The pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1I further comprises a filter assembly configured to house a filter.

[0351] Item 15I: A pathogen disinfection system as described in Item 1I, wherein the fan module provides a fan span greater than the minimum lateral dimension of the fan module.

[0352] Item 16I A pathogen disinfection system for a retail space may comprise a base positioned on a counter in the retail space, a pair of support towers extending upward from the base, each support tower having a track surface extending from the bottom to the top of the respective support tower, an upper platform extending between the tops of the pair of support towers, and a sliding housing attached to each track surface of the support towers, the sliding housing being configured to slide vertically up and down along each track surface of the support towers between the bottom and top of the respective support towers, the sliding housing containing an ultraviolet (UV) light source configured to emit UV light vertically upward in the direction toward the upper platform, thereby at least partially inactivating airborne pathogens exposed to the UV light emitted between the sliding housing and the upper platform, the UV light having a peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

[0353] Item 17I: A pathogen disinfection system according to Item 16I, wherein the top portion comprises a slot configured to receive UV light emitted from a UV light source, and the top portion slot comprises a UV-absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 70% of the emitted UV light.

[0354] Description 18I: A pathogen disinfection system according to Description 16I, comprising a pair of support towers comprising a UV-absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 70% of the emitted UV light.

[0355] Item 19I A pathogen disinfection system for the interior of a vehicle may comprise: an ultraviolet (UV) light source located inside the vehicle, wherein the UV light source is configured to emit UV rays to at least partially inactivate airborne pathogens exposed to the emitted UV rays, and the UV rays have a peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers; a UV light receiver located inside the vehicle and having a recess configured to receive the emitted UV rays, wherein the inner surface of the recess includes a UV absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 70% of the emitted UV rays, and the emitted UV rays form a disinfection light curtain between the UV light source and the UV light receiver; and a detection system having at least one sensor configured to detect an object penetrating the UV light curtain, wherein the detection system is configured to output a shutdown signal to start or stop the UV light source in response to the detection of an object penetrating the UV light curtain.

[0356] Pathogen disinfection system as described in item 19I, wherein the UV light source is located on the ceiling inside the vehicle and the UV light receiver is located on the floor inside the vehicle.

[0357] In the above description of various embodiments of the concept of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms used herein are intended solely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the concept of the present invention. Unless otherwise specifically defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to whom the concept of the present invention belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and related art, and it should be further understood that they shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0358] When an element is referred to as “connected,” “combined,” “responding,” or a variation thereof to another element, it can be directly connected to, combined with, or respond to another component, or there may be an intervening element. In contrast, when an element is referred to as “directly connected,” “directly combined,” “directly responding,” or a variation thereof to another element, there is no intervening element. Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout. Furthermore, as used herein, “combined,” “connected,” “responding,” or a variation thereof may include being wirelessly combined, connected, or responding. Where used herein, unless otherwise stated, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” also include the plural forms. For brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or configurations may not be described in detail. The term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related enumerated items.

[0359] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements / operations, but it should be understood that these elements / operations should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one element / operation from another. Thus, a first element / operation in some embodiments may be called a second element / operation in other embodiments without departing from the teaching of the concept of the present invention. Throughout this specification, the same reference number or the same reference identifier refers to the same or similar elements.

[0360] As used herein, the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “comprises,” “including,” “includes,” “have,” “has,” “having,” or variations thereof are open-ended and include one or more described features, integers, elements, steps, components, or functions, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, elements, steps, components, functions or groups thereof.

[0361] While several embodiments of the inventive concept are disclosed in the above specification, it is understood that many modifications and other embodiments of the inventive concept come to mind that have a teaching interest presented in the above description and the associated drawings, and that these also relate to the inventive concept. Therefore, it is understood that the inventive concept is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and that many modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included in the appended claims. It is further assumed that features from one embodiment may be combined with or used in conjunction with features from different embodiments described herein. Furthermore, while certain terms are used herein and in the subsequent claims, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and are not intended to limit the described inventive concept and the subsequent claims. The entire disclosure of each patent and patent publication referenced herein is incorporated herein by reference as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated herein by reference. Various features and / or potential advantages of the concept of the present invention are described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A pathogen disinfection system for indoor spaces, wherein the pathogen disinfection system is A base configured to be suspended from the ceiling at a position radially outward around a fan configured to guide airflow upward toward the ceiling, An ultraviolet light source supported by the aforementioned base, wherein the ultraviolet light source is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers, thereby at least partially inactivating pathogens in an induced airflow exposed to the emitted ultraviolet light, Equipped with, The base further comprises an upper cowling and a lower cowling to prevent at least a portion of the ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet light source from entering the chamber space, the upper cowling and the lower cowling further define a fluid passage having an intake opening, an exhaust opening and a chamber, the fluid passage being configured to receive at least a portion of an airflow induced from a distance through the intake opening and to guide the airflow through the chamber to exit the upper cowling and the lower cowling through the exhaust opening, the exhaust opening being located radially outward from the fan blades, The lower cowling is configured to define the inner lower cowling surface and to be positioned radially outward around the fan. The upper cowling is positioned vertically above the lower cowling and is configured to define the inner surface of the upper cowling. The gap between the inner upper cowling surface and the inner lower cowling surface forms the fluid passage. A pathogen disinfection system in which the ultraviolet light source is fixed inside the chamber.

2. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, wherein the base has an annular shape, and the ultraviolet light source comprises a plurality of ultraviolet light sources arranged around the base.

3. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, wherein the base comprises a plurality of base segments, adjacent segments of the plurality of base segments are joined via mounting plates to form a continuous support around the fan, and the base supports the ultraviolet light source.

4. The aforementioned lower cowling, The central part, An inner lip located radially inward from the central portion and extending upward from the central portion, An outer lip located radially outward from the central portion and extending upward from the central portion, A pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, comprising:

5. The aforementioned upper cowling, An inner portion oriented parallel to the central part of the lower cowling, An outer portion extending downward from the inner portion toward the lower cowling, Equipped with, The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 4, wherein the angle between the inner portion and the outer portion is between 80° and 100°, and the end of the outer portion of the upper cowling is positioned radially inward relative to the tip of the outer lip of the lower cowling.

6. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, wherein the inner upper cowling surface of the upper cowling and / or the inner lower cowling surface of the lower cowling are made of an aluminum material configured to reflect at least 70% of the ultraviolet light in the chamber.

7. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, wherein the inner upper cowling surface of the upper cowling and / or the inner lower cowling surface of the lower cowling are provided with an absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 90% of ultraviolet light.

8. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, wherein the inner upper cowling surface of the upper cowling is made of an aluminum material configured to reflect at least 70% of the ultraviolet light in the chamber, and at least a portion of the inner lower cowling surface of the lower cowling is made of an absorbing material and / or coating material configured to absorb at least 90% of the ultraviolet light.

9. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 2, wherein at least 60% of the ultraviolet light emitted from the plurality of ultraviolet light sources is configured to be reflected at least once from a surface located within the chamber of the fluid passage.

10. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of ultraviolet light sources are configured to emit ultraviolet light to at least partially inactivate pathogens exposed to the emitted ultraviolet light, and the ultraviolet light has an average peak wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers.

11. The aforementioned plurality of ultraviolet light sources, A UV lamp comprising a light bulb having a power input of at least 35 watts, and at least one UV lamp among the plurality of UV light sources, A lamp holder having a connector and a holder for receiving the ultraviolet lamp, At least one ballast configured to provide sufficient voltage to start the ultraviolet lamp in response to the activation of the pathogen disinfection system, A pathogen disinfection system according to claim 2, comprising:

12. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 2, wherein the chamber comprises at least one internal surface or internal surface coating configured to reflect and / or absorb ultraviolet light.

13. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 1, wherein the base is completely enclosed away from the intake and exhaust openings and forms a continuous ring around the outermost periphery of the fan.

14. The pathogen disinfection system according to claim 13, wherein the base is circular in shape.

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