booth

Abstract

To provide a booth that protects dispersion of viruses or bacteria.SOLUTION: A booth comprises: a frame body which is formed by frames such that an internal space including a ceiling part and at least two wall parts is formed; a covering material which covers at least one of the two wall parts to enable a person to enter the internal space; a light source unit which is capable of irradiating the internal space with first UV light; a first sensor which senses a person outside the internal space; a second sensor which senses a person inside the internal space; a control part which controls the light source unit on the basis of a detection signal from at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a booth that can be easily installed at any location for preventing infectious diseases.

Background Art

[0002] As factors contributing to the spread of infectious diseases such as influenza or novel coronavirus that have been prevalent in recent years, droplet infection, airborne infection, and contact infection are known. For the prevention of infectious diseases, it is important to take preventive measures against these factors. In particular, in medical facilities such as hospitals where patients gather, the risk of infection is high, and clusters in which infectious diseases spread within the medical facility are likely to occur due to the above-mentioned factors. Therefore, techniques for inactivating viruses by providing sterilization lamps in air conditioners or indoors in medical facilities are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in medical facilities, there is also a lot of movement of medical staff, and it is not uncommon for viruses or bacteria floating in the air to spread from room to room as the medical staff move. Therefore, as a preventive measure against infectious diseases, it is important not only to inactivate viruses or bacteria but also to prevent the spread of viruses or bacteria.

[0005] One object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a booth that prevents the spread of viruses or bacteria in view of the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A booth according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a frame structure with a frame so as to form an interior space including a ceiling and at least two walls; a covering material that covers at least one of the two walls so as to allow a person to enter the interior space; a light source unit capable of irradiating the interior space with first UV light; a first sensor for detecting a person outside the interior space; a second sensor for detecting a person inside the interior space; and a control unit that controls the light source unit based on detection signals from at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0007] At least two of the wall sections may have an opening.

[0008] The control unit may control the light source unit so that the intensity of the first UV light changes.

[0009] The first UV light may have a wavelength peak in the range of 200 nm to 400 nm. The control unit may also control the light source unit based on the detection signal from the first sensor to prevent the irradiation of the first UV light.

[0010] The first UV light may have a wavelength within the range of 200 nm to 230 nm. The control unit may also control the light source unit to irradiate the first UV light based on the detection signal from the first sensor.

[0011] The light source unit may also be capable of irradiating a second UV light, the second UV light may have a wavelength peak in the range of 200 nm to 400 nm. Furthermore, the control unit may control the light source unit based on a detection signal from the first sensor to irradiate the first UV light while preventing the irradiation of the second UV light.

[0012] Multiple light source units may be provided.

[0013] The booth may further include a light source unit drive unit capable of driving the light source unit.

[0014] The booth may also have a ventilation unit installed in the ceiling. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] A booth according to one embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a light source unit capable of irradiating with UV light, and viruses or bacteria are inactivated by irradiation with UV light in the interior space of the booth, which is isolated from the outside space. As a result, the interior space of the booth has purified air with a reduced number of viruses or bacteria compared to the outside space. Therefore, by using the booth in human movement routes and work areas, the spread of viruses or bacteria can be prevented, and the spread of infectious diseases can be prevented. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1A] This is a schematic perspective view showing the exterior of a booth related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] This is a schematic perspective view showing the exterior of a booth related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic perspective view showing a light source unit and a light source unit support for a booth according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the booth control for one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing how a booth related to One Device is used. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for a booth related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for a booth related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for a booth related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for a booth related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9]It is a flowchart showing a booth control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing a booth control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram showing a usage mode of a booth according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a schematic diagram showing a usage mode of a booth according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments are merely examples, and those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art by appropriately changing them while maintaining the gist of the invention are naturally included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, for the sake of clearer explanation, in the drawings, the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part may be schematically represented compared to the actual aspect. However, the illustrated shapes and the like are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention.

[0018] In this specification, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the terms "upper" or "above" or "lower" or "below" are used for explanation, but these terms only explain the vertical relationship of each component. For example, when a structure is installed, the installation surface side where the structure is usually installed is regarded as "lower" or "below".

[0019] In this specification, the characters such as "first", "second", or "third" attached to each component are for convenience of distinguishing each component and have no further meaning unless otherwise specified.

[0020] In this specification and the drawings, when collectively representing a plurality of identical or similar components, the same reference numerals are used, and when separately representing each of these plurality of components, they may be represented with appended capital letters of the alphabet. In addition, when separately representing a plurality of parts within one component, hyphens and natural numbers may be used.

[0021] <First Embodiment> A booth 10 relating to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 6.

[0022] [1. Booth 10 Configuration] Figures 1A and 1B are schematic perspective views showing the exterior of a booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 1A is a perspective view taken from above the front 11 of the booth 10, and Figure 1B is a perspective view taken from above the rear 12 of the booth 10.

[0023] Booth 10 includes a frame 100 constructed from multiple frame materials. In other words, the frame 100 forms the skeleton of Booth 10. The multiple frame materials are connected as columns or beams to form the floor 101, ceiling 102, and multiple wall sections 103 of the frame 100. The frame 100 also has an internal space enclosed by the floor 101, ceiling 102, and multiple wall sections 103. Since the internal space of the frame 100 corresponds to the interior of Booth 10, the internal space of the frame 100 may be described as the interior of Booth 10 below.

[0024] The frame 100 shown in Figures 1A and 1B has a rectangular box shape (i.e., a rectangular shape in a cross-sectional view parallel to the floor) and is formed of four walls 103 (a first wall 103-1, a second wall 103-2, a third wall 103-3, and a fourth wall 103-4). However, the shape of the frame 100 is not limited to this. The frame 100 can have various shapes depending on the combination of frame materials, and the shape of the frame 100 can be a shape that corresponds to the installation location of the booth 10, as long as it has a structure that has a first wall 103-1 and a second wall 103-2 that function as an entrance and exit that a person can enter. For example, when the booth 10 is installed at a bend in a passageway, the frame 100 may have an L-shaped box shape (i.e., an L-shape in a cross-sectional view parallel to the floor). As the frame material of the frame 100, metal materials such as aluminum or aluminum alloy can be used.

[0025] Each of the ceiling portion 102 and the three wall portions 103 (the first wall portion 103-1, the third wall portion 103-3, and the fourth wall portion 103-4) of the frame 100 is covered by the covering material 110. On the other hand, the remaining wall portion of the frame 100 (the second wall portion 103-2) is not covered by the covering material 110. Specifically, the first wall portion 103-1 of the frame 100 that constitutes the front 11 of the booth 10 is covered by the covering material 110, but the second wall portion 103-2 of the frame 100 that constitutes the back 12 of the booth 10 is not covered by the covering material 110, and the back 12 of the booth 10 is open.

[0026] As the covering material 110, for example, a flexible resin sheet such as polyvinyl chloride can be used. Preferably, the covering material 110 is an antistatic resin sheet. For example, the covering material 110 can be configured as a transparent antistatic vinyl curtain. In this case, at the front 11 of the booth 10, the covering material 110 can be suspended from a curtain rail provided on the frame material of the frame 100. With this configuration, a person can open the suspended covering material 110 and enter the booth 10. At the front 11 of the booth 10, the suspended covering material 110 may be divided into two parts. For example, two covering materials 110 can be suspended with their ends overlapping, and by opening one of the covering materials 110, a part of the front 11 of the booth 10 can be opened, allowing a person to enter the booth 10.

[0027] Booth 10 is equipped with multiple light source units 120 capable of irradiating ultraviolet light (hereinafter referred to as "UV light") into the internal space of the frame 100. The light source units 120 are supported by light source unit support parts 130 connected to the frame material of the frame 100. The light source unit support parts 130 are located on the ceiling, third wall 103-3, and fourth wall 103-4 of the frame 100.

[0028] Here, with reference to Figure 2, the configuration of the support of the light source unit 120 by the light source unit support 130 will be described. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the light source unit 120 and the light source unit support 130 of a booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The light source unit support 130 has a U-shaped cross-section composed of three flat plates, and each of the two opposing flat plates is provided with a plurality of through holes 131 at regular intervals. The light source unit 120 is positioned between the two opposing flat plates and is locked to the light source unit support 130 by locking pieces 132 inserted through the through holes 131. The height of the light source unit 120 in the booth 10 can be adjusted by changing the position of the through holes 131 through which the locking pieces 132 are inserted. In addition, the direction of UV light irradiation from the light source unit 120 can be adjusted by changing the inclination of the light source unit 120 and locking it to the light source unit support 130. The light source unit support 130 does not have to have a U-shaped cross-section. Furthermore, multiple light source unit support sections 130 may be provided.

[0029] One or more light source units 120 can be secured to the light source unit support section 130. The number of light source units 120 can be determined by considering the size of the internal space of the frame 100 or the UV light irradiation range. The arrangement of the light source unit support section 130 can also be determined by considering the size of the internal space of the frame 100 or the UV light irradiation range.

[0030] As described above, the light source unit 120 can irradiate the internal space of the frame 100 with UV light. The UV light irradiated from the light source unit 120 has a wavelength peak in the range of 200 nm to 400 nm. For example, the light source unit 120 may include an ultraviolet LED (UV-LED). The light source unit 120 may also include a wavelength cut filter that cuts out wavelengths outside the above range. UV light having a wavelength peak in the above range can inactivate viruses or bacteria (hereinafter, for convenience, simply referred to as "viruses"). That is, viruses floating or attached inside the booth 10 are inactivated by the UV light irradiated from the light source unit 120. The irradiation time of the UV light is, for example, 0.1 seconds or more, preferably 180 seconds or more. With this amount of UV light irradiation, viruses can be sufficiently inactivated. Note that the UV light may be irradiated over the entire interior of the booth 10, or only to a part of the interior of the booth 10. Furthermore, the light source unit 120 may include an optical element that changes the irradiation shape of UV light.

[0031] The light source unit support section 130 is not limited to the configuration described above. The light source unit support section 130 may be equipped with a drive unit that moves the light source unit 120 in a certain direction or changes the irradiation direction of the light source unit 120. By providing a drive unit, UV light can be irradiated to any location inside the booth 10. In addition, the irradiation range of UV light is widened, so the number of light source units 120 can be reduced.

[0032] Booth 10 may include a ventilation unit 140 that exhausts air from inside Booth 10 or draws in air from outside Booth 10. The ventilation unit 140 is positioned on a ventilation unit support 150 connected to a frame material forming the ceiling portion 102 of the frame 100. The ventilation unit 140 includes, for example, a ventilation fan that forms an airflow and an air purification filter that purifies the air. When the ventilation fan exhausts air from inside Booth 10, it can exhaust not only air but also heat generated by the light source unit 120. The air purification filter includes filter fibers that can capture particulate matter or viruses contained in the air passing through the filter fibers. As the air purification filter, for example, a HEPA filter or a ULPA filter can be used. Alternatively, the air purification filter may be a germicidal air purification filter in which enzymes are immobilized on the filter fibers. In this case, viruses captured by the filter fibers are decomposed by the enzymes, that is, viruses can be inactivated. Furthermore, the air blower unit 140 may also include a light source unit similar to the light source unit 120 described above. By including a light source unit capable of emitting UV light in the air blower unit 140, UV light can be irradiated onto the air purification filter, inactivating viruses captured by the air purification filter. This reduces the amount of viruses in the air discharged to the outside of the booth 10 or inhaled into the booth 10. Therefore, when the booth 10 is installed, the air inside the booth 10 or in the vicinity of the booth 10 is purified.

[0033] Booth 10 is further equipped with a first sensor 160-1 that detects people entering or exiting from the front 11 of Booth 10, and a second sensor 160-2 that detects people who are already inside Booth 10, or people entering or exiting from the rear 12 of Booth 10. Each of the first sensor 160-1 and the second sensor 160-2 can generate a detection signal when it detects a person. The first sensor 160-1 can be installed on a frame material located above the frame 100 that constitutes the front 11 (a frame material that forms the frame 100 that forms the ceiling 102). The second sensor 160-2 can be installed on the opposite side of the frame material located above the frame 100 that constitutes the front 11 (a frame material that forms the frame 100 that forms the ceiling 102), with the frame material in between, in the way of the first sensor 160-1. However, the installation positions of the first sensor 160-1 and the second sensor 160-2 are not limited to these. The second sensor 160-2 only needs to be installed in a location where it can detect when a person enters the booth 10. For example, the second sensor 160-2 can be installed on the frame 100 that forms the ceiling 102, or on a support provided on the ceiling 102. For example, infrared sensors, image sensors, etc., can be used as the first sensor 160-1 and the second sensor 160-2, respectively.

[0034] Booth 10 further includes a control unit 170 that controls the light source unit 120. The control of booth 10 will now be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the control of booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The control unit 170 is a computer capable of performing arithmetic processing using data or information. The control unit 170 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor (MPU), or random access memory (RAM). The control unit 170 is communicated with the light source unit 120, the first sensor 160-1, and the second sensor 160-2 by wire or wireless means. Specifically, the control unit 170 can execute a program, receive detection signals from the first sensor 160-1 or the second sensor 160-2, and send control signals to the light source unit 120 to start or stop the irradiation of UV light based on the detection signals. The control unit 170 can be positioned above the ceiling portion of the frame 100 in a configuration similar to a control box, but is not limited to this.

[0035] Returning to Figures 1A and 1B, the booth 10 may also include an operating unit 180. The operating unit 180 can set or change the operation of the light source unit 120 and the blower unit 140. For example, based on operating instructions from the operating unit 180, the irradiation time or irradiation intensity of the light source unit 120 can be set or changed. Also, if a light source unit drive unit is provided in the light source unit support unit 130, the movement speed or irradiation direction of the light source unit 120 can be set and changed. Furthermore, the operating unit 180 may include an information terminal device and a reader device for reading RFID tags or barcodes, etc., in order to record people entering and leaving the booth 10. This makes it possible to manage the entry time of people passing through the booth 10. Also, as will be described in detail later, if UV light is irradiated on people, the irradiation time of UV light to people can also be managed.

[0036] [2. Usage of Booth 10] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing how a booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is used. As shown in Figure 4, the first space 500-1 and the second space 500-2 are connected by a wall 520 with a door 510 in between. That is, a person can open the door 510 and move from the first space 500-1 to the second space 500-2, or from the second space 500-2 to the first space 500-1. The first space 500-1 and the second space 500-2 may be rooms or corridors.

[0037] In the first space 500-1, the booth 10 is installed so that its rear 12 is in contact with the wall 520. In this case, the opening of the second wall portion 103-2 of the frame 100 is closed by the wall 520, so the interior space of the booth 10 is isolated from the exterior space. Also, the rear 12 of the booth 10 covers the door 510 of the wall 520. Therefore, a person entering the booth 10 from the front 11 passes through the interior of the booth 10, opens the door 510, and exits from the rear 12 of the booth 10. Conversely, a person entering the booth 10 from the rear 12 by opening the door 510 passes through the interior of the booth 10 and exits from the front 11 of the booth 10. As described above, inside the booth 10, viruses are inactivated and the air is purified. Therefore, even if the first space 500-1 is contaminated with a virus, when the door 510 is opened, it is possible to prevent the contaminated air from the first space 500-1 from flowing directly into the second space 500-2. In addition, viruses attached to people will detach as the person passes through the booth 10, and it can be expected that the number of viruses attached to people will be reduced. Thus, by installing the booth 10 in the middle of a person's movement path, the spread of the virus can be prevented, and mainly airborne and contact transmission can be suppressed.

[0038] [3. Control method for Booth 10] In booth 10, UV light may be emitted from the light source unit 120 regardless of whether people are passing through. For example, if a person is wearing protective clothing or a shield that blocks UV light, the UV light emitted from the light source unit 120 will have little effect on the person. Rather, as a person passes through booth 10, any attached viruses are exposed to UV light, inactivating them and further preventing the spread of the virus.

[0039] On the other hand, UV light in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 400 nm includes UV light that is harmful to humans. Therefore, if a person is not wearing protective clothing or a shield that blocks UV light, it may be preferable that the irradiation of UV light from the light source unit 120 be stopped when the person passes through booth 10. Accordingly, a method for controlling booth 10 in this case will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

[0040] Figures 5 and 6 are flowcharts illustrating a control method for booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the front 11. In this case, the control method for booth 10 includes the processing from steps S100 to S140.

[0042] In step S100, the first sensor 160-1 detects a person approaching the front 11 of the booth 10 and generates a detection signal. The detection signal from the first sensor 160-1 is transmitted to the control unit 170. This allows the control unit 170 to execute the processing in steps S110 to S140.

[0043] In step S110, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 enters the UV light irradiation off state. Specifically, if the light source unit 120 is not irradiating UV light, the UV light irradiation off state is maintained, and if the light source unit 120 is irradiating UV light, the irradiation of UV light is stopped, and the UV light source unit 120 enters the UV light irradiation off state. Therefore, when a person approaches the front 11 of the booth 10, the light source unit 120 is controlled so that UV light is not irradiated onto the person.

[0044] In step S120, the control unit 170 determines whether or not it has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. If the control unit 170 has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S120: YES), step S110 is executed again. The second sensor 160-2 senses a person entering booth 10 and generates a detection signal. As long as the detection signal is being transmitted from the second sensor 160-2 to the control unit 170, it can be determined that the person sensed by the first sensor 160-1 has entered booth 10. Therefore, step S110 is executed, and the person entering booth 10 is not irradiated with UV light. On the other hand, if the control unit 170 has not received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S120: NO), step S130 is executed. When the detection signal is no longer transmitted from the second sensor 160-2, it can be determined that the person has opened the door 510 and exited from the back 12 of booth 10.

[0045] In step S130, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to start irradiating UV light. This turns on the UV light irradiation of the light source unit 120. The control unit 170 can also be controlled to start irradiating UV light after a predetermined time has elapsed since it stopped receiving a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. By irradiating UV light from the light source unit 120, viruses remaining inside the booth 10 can be inactivated and the air inside the booth 10 can be purified.

[0046] In step S140, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 turns off UV light irradiation. When step S140 is executed, the processing of the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the front 11 is completed.

[0047] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the back 12, in which case the method for controlling booth 10 includes the processing of steps S200 to S240.

[0048] In step S200, the second sensor 160-2 opens the door 510 and, upon detecting a person attempting to enter the booth 10 through the door 510, generates a detection signal. The detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 is transmitted to the control unit 170. This allows the control unit to execute the processes in steps S210 to S240.

[0049] In step S210, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop UV irradiation. As a result, the light source unit 120 enters the UV light irradiation off state. Specifically, if the light source unit 120 is not emitting UV light, the UV light irradiation off state is maintained, and if the light source unit 120 is emitting UV light, the UV light irradiation is stopped, and the light source unit 120 enters the UV light irradiation off state. Therefore, when a person enters the booth 10 from the back 12, the light source unit 120 is controlled so that the person is not irradiated with UV light.

[0050] In step S220, the control unit 170 determines whether or not it has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. If the control unit 170 has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S220: YES), step S210 is executed again. Since the second sensor 160-2 detects people entering booth 10, it is determined that the person has not left booth 10 as long as the second sensor 160-2 is transmitting a detection signal. Therefore, step S210 is executed, and UV light is not shone on the person who has entered booth 10. On the other hand, if the control unit 170 has not received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S220: NO), step S230 is executed. When the second sensor 160-2 stops transmitting a detection signal, it can be determined that the person has left the front 11 of booth 10.

[0051] In step S230, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to start irradiating UV light. This turns on the UV light irradiation of the light source unit 120. The control unit 170 can also be controlled to start irradiating UV light after a predetermined time has elapsed since it stopped receiving a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. By irradiating UV light from the light source unit 120, viruses remaining inside the booth 10 can be inactivated and the air inside the booth 10 can be purified.

[0052] In step S240, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 turns off UV irradiation. When step S240 is executed, the processing of the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the back 12 is completed.

[0053] In the control method described above, the process ends when step S140 or step S240 is executed, in which the light source unit 120 is turned off for UV light irradiation. However, the light source unit 120 may then be controlled to periodically alternate between the UV light irradiation off state and the UV light irradiation on state. This allows for continuous air purification inside the booth 10.

[0054] As described above, the booth 10 according to this embodiment is installed adjacent to the wall 520 so as to cover the door 510, thereby isolating the internal space of the booth 10 from the external space. Furthermore, the booth 10 is equipped with a UV-emitting light source unit 120, which can purify the air inside the booth 10. Therefore, even if the door is opened, it is possible to suppress the direct inflow of contaminated air from one space 500 into the other space 500. Thus, by using the booth 10 during people's movement or work, it is possible to prevent the spread of viruses and the spread of infectious diseases.

[0055] <Example 1> UV light has been confirmed to be safe for humans when its wavelength is within the range of 200 nm to 230 nm. Therefore, even if a person enters booth 10, the impact of UV light irradiation with a wavelength in the range of 200 nm to 230 nm on the person is small. Rather, as a person passes through booth 10, any attached viruses are irradiated with UV light, inactivating the attached viruses and further preventing the spread of viruses. Therefore, in this case, UV light may be irradiated from the light source unit 120 in booth 10 regardless of whether a person passes through or not. On the other hand, in this case, a control method other than the control method of booth 10 described above can also be used. With reference to Figures 7 and 8, a control method of booth 10 according to one modification will be described.

[0056] Figures 7 and 8 are flowcharts illustrating a control method for booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Note that in the following, descriptions of configurations similar to those described above may be omitted.

[0057] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the front 11. In this case, the control method for booth 10 includes the processing of steps S100A to S120A and step S140A. Steps S100A and S140A are the same as steps S100 and S140, respectively, so their explanation is omitted.

[0058] In step S110A, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to start irradiating UV light. This causes the light source unit 120 to enter the UV light irradiation ON state. Specifically, if the light source unit 120 is not irradiating UV light, UV light irradiation is started and the UV light source unit 120 enters the UV light irradiation ON state. If the light source unit 120 is irradiating UV light, the UV light irradiation ON state is maintained. Therefore, when a person approaches the front 11 of the booth 10, the light source unit 120 is controlled so that UV light is irradiated onto the person.

[0059] In step S120A, the control unit 170 determines whether or not it has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. If the control unit 170 has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S120A: YES), step S110A is executed again. Since the second sensor 160-2 detects people entering booth 10, as long as a detection signal is being transmitted from the second sensor 160-2, it is determined that the person detected by the first sensor 160-1 has entered booth 10. Therefore, step S110A is executed, and UV light is irradiated onto the person entering booth 10. By irradiating UV light from the light source unit 120, the air inside booth 10 can be purified and viruses attached to people can be inactivated. On the other hand, if the control unit 170 has not received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S120A: NO), step S140A is executed. If the detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 stops being transmitted, it can be determined that a person has opened the door 510 and exited from the back of the booth 10 12.

[0060] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the back 12. In this case, the control method for booth 10 includes the processing of steps S200A to S220A and step S240A. Steps S200A and S240A are the same as steps S200 and S240, respectively, so their explanation is omitted.

[0061] In step S210A, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to start irradiating UV light. This causes the light source unit 120 to enter the UV irradiation ON state. Specifically, if the light source unit 120 is not irradiating UV light, UV light irradiation is started and the UV light source unit 120 enters the UV light irradiation ON state. If the light source unit 120 is irradiating UV light, the UV light irradiation ON state is maintained. Therefore, when a person enters the booth 10 from the back 12, the light source unit 120 is controlled so that UV light is irradiated onto the person.

[0062] In step S220A, the control unit 170 determines whether or not it has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. If the control unit 170 has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S220A: YES), step S210A is executed again. Since the second sensor 160-2 detects people entering booth 10, it is determined that no one has left booth 10 while a detection signal is being transmitted from the second sensor 160-2. Therefore, step S210A is executed, and UV light is irradiated onto the person entering booth 10. By irradiating with UV light from the light source unit 120, the air inside booth 10 can be purified and viruses attached to the person can be inactivated. On the other hand, if the control unit 170 has not received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S220A: NO), step S240A is executed. If the detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 stops being transmitted, it can be determined that a person has left the front 11 of the booth 10.

[0063] In the control method described above, the process ends when step S140A or step S240A is executed, in which the light source unit 120 is turned off for UV light irradiation. However, the light source unit 120 may then be controlled to periodically alternate between the UV light irradiation off state and the UV light irradiation on state. This allows for continuous air purification inside the booth 10.

[0064] Furthermore, in the control method described above, the control unit 170 controls the light source unit 120 to be in a UV light irradiation off state or a UV light irradiation off state. However, the control unit 170 can also control the light source unit 120 to change the intensity of the UV light. For example, the intensity of the UV light may be increased when no one is inside the booth 10, and decreased when a person is inside the booth 10. By adjusting the intensity of the UV light in this way, safety when UV light is shone on a person can be enhanced.

[0065] As explained above, in the control method for booth 10 according to one modified example, UV light can be irradiated onto people passing through booth 10, thereby inactivating viruses attached to people. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the spread of viruses or bacteria during people's movement and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

[0066] <Modification 2> The light source unit 120 may include multiple UV-LEDs with different wavelengths. For example, the light source unit 120 can irradiate a first UV light having a wavelength in the range of 200 nm to 230 nm and a second UV light having a wavelength peak in the range of 200 nm to 400 nm. In this case, a control method different from the control method of booth 10 described above can be used. With reference to Figures 9 and 10, a control method of booth 10 according to one modified example will be described.

[0067] Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts illustrating a control method for booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Note that in the following, descriptions of configurations similar to those described above may be omitted.

[0068] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the front 11. In this case, the control method for booth 10 includes the processing of steps S100B to S140B. Step S100B is the same as step S100, so its explanation is omitted.

[0069] In step S110B, the control unit 170 transmits a control signal to the light source unit 120 to start irradiating with the first UV light. This causes the light source unit 120 to enter a UV light irradiation ON state, irradiating only the first UV light. Therefore, when a person approaches the front 11 of the booth 10, the light source unit 120 is controlled so that only the first UV light is irradiated onto the person.

[0070] In step S120B, the control unit 170 determines whether or not it has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. If the control unit 170 has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S120B: YES), step S110B is executed again. Since the second sensor 160-2 detects people entering booth 10, as long as a detection signal is being transmitted from the second sensor 160-2, it is determined that the person detected by the first sensor 160-1 has entered booth 10. Therefore, step S110B is executed, and the person entering booth 10 is irradiated with the first UV light. Irradiation with the first UV light from the light source unit 120 can purify the air inside booth 10 and inactivate viruses attached to people. On the other hand, if the control unit 170 has not received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S120B: NO), step S130B is executed. If the detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 stops being transmitted, it can be determined that a person has opened the door 510 and exited from the back of the booth 10 12.

[0071] In step S130B, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of the first UV light and start the irradiation of the second UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 enters a UV light irradiation ON state, irradiating only the second UV light. The control unit 170 can also be controlled to stop the irradiation of the first UV light and start the irradiation of the second UV light after a predetermined time has elapsed since it stopped receiving a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. By irradiating with the second UV light from the light source unit 120, viruses remaining inside the booth 10 can be inactivated and the air inside the booth 10 can be purified.

[0072] In step S140B, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of the second UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 turns off UV light irradiation. When step S140B is executed, the processing of the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the front 11 is completed.

[0073] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the back 12. In this case, the control method for booth 10 includes the processing of steps S200B to S240B. Step S200B is the same as step S200, so its explanation is omitted.

[0074] In step S210B, the control unit 170 transmits a control signal to the light source unit 120 to start irradiating with the first UV light. This causes the light source unit 120 to enter a UV light irradiation ON state, irradiating only the first UV light. Therefore, when a person enters the booth 10 from the back 12, the light source unit 120 is controlled so that only the first UV light is irradiated onto the person.

[0075] In step S220B, the control unit 170 determines whether or not it has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. If the control unit 170 has received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S220B: YES), step S210B is executed again. Since the second sensor 160-2 detects people entering booth 10, it is determined that no one has left booth 10 while a detection signal is being transmitted from the second sensor 160-2. Therefore, step S210B is executed, and the first UV light is irradiated onto the person who has entered booth 10. By irradiating the person with the first UV light from the light source unit 120, the air inside booth 10 can be purified, and viruses attached to the person can be inactivated. On the other hand, if the control unit 170 has not received a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 (step S220B: NO), step S230B is executed. If the detection signal from the second sensor 160-2 stops being transmitted, it can be determined that a person has left the front 11 of the booth 10.

[0076] In step S230B, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of the first UV light and start the irradiation of the second UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 enters a UV light irradiation ON state, irradiating only the second UV light. The control unit 170 can also be controlled to stop the irradiation of the first UV light and start the irradiation of the second UV light after a predetermined time has elapsed since it stopped receiving a detection signal from the second sensor 160-2. By irradiating with the second UV light from the light source unit 120, viruses remaining inside the booth 10 can be inactivated and the air inside the booth 10 can be purified.

[0077] In step S240B, the control unit 170 sends a control signal to the light source unit 120 to stop the irradiation of the second UV light. As a result, the light source unit 120 turns off UV light irradiation. When step S240B is executed, the processing of the control method for booth 10 when a person enters booth 10 from the front 11 is completed.

[0078] In the control method described above, the process ends when step S140B or step S240B is executed and the light source unit 120 is turned off to UV light irradiation. However, the light source unit 120 may then be controlled to periodically alternate between the UV light irradiation off state and the UV light irradiation on state, where either the first UV light or the second UV light is irradiated. This allows the air inside the booth 10 to be purified on a steady basis. In addition, in steps S130 and S230, the irradiation of the second UV light may be started without stopping the irradiation of the first UV light.

[0079] As explained above, in the control method for booth 10 according to one modified example, UV light can be irradiated onto people passing through booth 10, thereby inactivating viruses attached to people. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the spread of viruses during people's movement and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

[0080] <Second Embodiment> Referring to Figure 11, another usage mode of booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that in the following, the description of configurations similar to those described above may be omitted.

[0081] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing how a booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is used. As shown in Figure 11, a first booth 10-1 is installed in a first space 500-1, and a second booth 10-2 is installed in a second space 500-2. Specifically, the first booth 10-1 is installed so that its back surface 12 is in contact with the wall 520, and the back surface 12 of the first booth 10-1 covers the door 510 of the wall 520 on the side facing the first space 500-1. Similarly, the second booth 10-2 is installed so that its back surface 12 is in contact with the wall 520, and the back surface 12 of the second booth 10-2 covers the door 510 of the wall 520 on the side facing the second space 500-2. In other words, the first booth 10-1 and the second booth 10-2 are installed so that their back surfaces 12 face each other with the door 510 in between. A person on the side of the first space 500-1 enters the first booth 10-1 from the front 11 of the first booth 10-1, opens door 510 to enter the second booth 10-2, and exits from the front 11 of the second booth 10-2. Similarly, a person on the side of the second space 500-2 enters the second booth 10-2 from the front 11 of the second booth 10-2, opens door 510 to enter the first booth 10-1, and exits from the front 11 of the first booth 10-1.

[0082] An air supply unit 530 is installed on the ceiling of the first space 500-1. Cleaned air is drawn into the first space 500-1 from the air supply unit 530, and the first space 500-1 is under positive pressure. On the other hand, an exhaust unit 540 is installed on the ceiling of the second space 500-2. Air is discharged from the exhaust unit 540 into the second space 500-2, and the second space 500-2 is under negative pressure. Here, the second space 500-2 is a space with virus-contaminated air, such as an isolation room for infected patients in a medical facility. Generally, air flows from the first space 500-1, which is under positive pressure, to the second space 500-2, which is under negative pressure. However, even in such a case, if the first booth 10-1 and the second booth 10-2 are not installed, when the door 510 is opened, there is a possibility that contaminated air from the second space 500-2 will flow into the first space 500-1 as people move around. On the other hand, as in this embodiment, if the first booth 10-1 and the second booth 10-2 are installed, even when the door 510 is opened, there is air purified by the first booth 10-1 and the second booth 10-2, so it is possible to suppress the direct flow of contaminated air from the second space 500-2 into the first space 500-1 as people move around.

[0083] As described above, according to the usage configuration of the booth 10 in this embodiment, two booths 10 are installed on either side of a door 510 provided in a wall 520 separating two spaces 500. The air inside each of the two booths 10 is purified by UV light irradiation, and both sides of the door 510 have purified air. Therefore, even when the door 510 is opened, it is possible to suppress the direct inflow of contaminated air from one space 500 into the other space 500. Thus, by using the booth 10 during people's movement or work, it is possible to prevent the spread of viruses and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

[0084] <Third Embodiment> Referring to Figure 12, another usage mode of booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that in the following, descriptions of configurations similar to those described above may be omitted.

[0085] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing how a booth 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is used. As shown in Figure 12, the booth 10 is installed so that its rear surface 12 is in contact with the wall 520 of the space 500. Note that the wall 520 does not have a door. In this case, the opening of the second wall portion 103-2 of the frame 100 is closed by the wall 520, so the interior space of the booth 10 is isolated from the exterior space.

[0086] Furthermore, a covering material 110 may be provided on the second wall portion 103-2 of the frame 100 of the booth 10. In this case, the booth 10 can be installed at any location within the space 500 without being in contact with the wall 520.

[0087] As described above, according to the usage of the booth 10 in this embodiment, an internal space of the booth 10 is formed within the space 500, isolated from the external space. The air inside the booth 10 is purified by irradiation with UV light, and a person who enters the booth 10 can work in the purified internal space of the booth 10. Therefore, by using the booth 10 for people's movement and work, it is possible to prevent the spread of viruses and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

[0088] The embodiments of the present invention can be implemented by combining configurations as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other. Furthermore, any additions, deletions, or design modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments, or additions, omissions, or changes in processes, are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as they retain the essence of the present invention.

[0089] Any effects or benefits other than those brought about by the embodiments described above, if they are clear from the description herein or easily predictable to a person skilled in the art, are naturally considered to be brought about by the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 10: Booth, 11: Front, 12: Rear, 100: Frame, 101: Floor, 102: Ceiling, 103: Wall, 110: Covering material, 120: Light source unit, 130: Light source unit support, 131: Through hole, 132: Locking piece, 140: Blower unit, 150: Blower unit support, 160-1: First sensor, 160-2: Second sensor, 170: Control unit, 180: Operation unit, 500: Space, 510: Door, 520: Wall, 530: Air supply unit, 540: Exhaust unit

Claims

1. A frame structure with a frame so as to form an interior space including a ceiling and at least two walls, A covering material that covers one of the at least two wall sections so that a person can enter the interior space, A light source unit capable of irradiating the internal space with a first UV light and a second UV light different from the first UV light, A first sensor that detects the person outside the internal space, A second sensor that detects the person in the internal space, The system includes a control unit that controls the operation of the light source unit based on a detection signal generated when the person is detected from at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor, The first UV light has a wavelength in the range of 200 nm to 230 nm. The second UV light has a wavelength peak in the range of 200 nm to 400 nm. The control unit controls the light source unit to irradiate with the first UV light and not irradiate with the second UV light, based on the detection signal from the first sensor or the second sensor, in a booth.

2. The booth according to claim 1, wherein the other of the at least two wall sections is open.

3. The booth according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the control unit controls the light source unit so that the intensity of the first UV light changes.

4. The booth according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a plurality of the light source units are provided.

5. The booth according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a drive unit capable of moving the light source unit in a certain direction or changing the irradiation direction of the light source unit.

6. Furthermore, the booth according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a ventilation unit is installed in the ceiling.

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