Door sets, door handle sets, and sterilization units

Abstract

To provide a sterilization unit that can properly sterilize the inside of a handle of a door, and a door handle with the sterilization unit.SOLUTION: There is provided a sterilization unit 10 that sterilizes a door handle 6 provided on a door 5. The sterilization unit 10 is provided in a position opposed to an inner surface 8a of a handle lever 8 of the door handle 6. The inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8 is provided with an ultraviolet irradiation portion 15 having a light source 16 that irradiates ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm. The ultraviolet irradiation portion 15 has a function of irradiating ultraviolet rays with an irradiation intensity of 0.03 mw / cm2 or more to the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8 from the light source 16.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a door set, a door handle set, and a sterilization unit. More specifically, it relates to a door equipped with a mechanism for sterilizing a door handle, a door handle set, and a sterilization unit for sterilizing such a door and door handle. [Background technology]

[0002] The doors that make up a door set are equipped with door handles that people operate to open and close them. In other words, people open and close the doors by gripping and turning the door handle or by hooking their fingers onto the door handle and pulling it.

[0003] Because many people touch these door handles, if someone touches the door handle after having their hands contaminated with viruses or bacteria, those viruses or bacteria can be transmitted through the door handle. This problem could be avoided if the door handle was disinfected or sanitized after or before someone touched it, but it is difficult for people who touch the door handle to always disinfect or sanitize it.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose technologies for automatically sterilizing door handles.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a sterilization system that sterilizes the surface of a doorknob by irradiating the outer surface of the doorknob with light from a germicidal lamp installed around the doorknob. In this sterilization system, a cover is provided to surround the doorknob, and a person can operate the doorknob by inserting their hand through an opening in this cover. The sterilization system is provided with a sensor that detects whether or not a person's hand is inside the opening, and this sensor is used to detect when a person's hand is inserted into or removed from the opening, and to control the on / off state of the germicidal lamp.

[0006] In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a door handle disinfection device provided on the wall surface where the door is provided. This door handle disinfection device includes a cover portion that moves toward the door handle to cover the handle, and an ultraviolet irradiator is provided inside this cover portion. Therefore, if ultraviolet rays are irradiated from the ultraviolet irradiator onto the surface of the door handle while the handle is covered by the cover portion, the surface of the door handle can be sterilized. Further, the door handle disinfection device of Patent Document 2 has a human presence sensor, and it is disclosed that the human presence sensor detects the approach of a person and has a function of controlling the movement of the cover portion and the irradiation of ultraviolet rays by the ultraviolet irradiator.

[0007] However, in these sterilization systems and door handle disinfection devices, although ultraviolet rays or the like can be irradiated onto the portion of the surface of the doorknob or handle that is located outward with respect to the door, ultraviolet rays or the like cannot be irradiated onto the inner side of the doorknob or handle, that is, the surface of the doorknob or handle that faces the door (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the inner surface of the doorknob or the like).

[0008] As a technique for sterilizing the inner surface of a doorknob or the like, there is the technique of Patent Document 3. Patent Document 3 discloses a technique in which an ultraviolet generator that irradiates ultraviolet rays is provided at a position facing the inner surface of a doorknob or the like in a door. With this technique, ultraviolet rays can also be irradiated onto the inner surface of the doorknob or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] However, the technology described in Patent Document 3 merely states that the inner surface of doorknobs and the like can be sterilized by irradiating them with ultraviolet light, but it does not mention at all how much ultraviolet light is actually needed to sterilize the inner surface of doorknobs and the like.

[0011] In particular, with door handles, the timing and frequency of how people operate them are not constant; sometimes they are not used for long periods, and other times they are used frequently. Therefore, simply irradiating door handles with ultraviolet light is not sufficient to properly sterilize them.

[0012] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a sterilization unit capable of properly sterilizing the inner surface, bottom surface, and sides of a door handle, and a door handle set equipped with such a sterilization unit. Furthermore, the objective is to provide a door set equipped with a sterilization unit and door handle that have the aforementioned sterilization function. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] <Sterilization Unit> The first invention is a sterilization unit for sterilizing a door handle provided on a door, and the sterilization unit is The surface of the aforementioned door, and The door handle is provided with an ultraviolet irradiation unit positioned to irradiate the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever of the door handle with ultraviolet light, and the ultraviolet irradiation unit has a light source that irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm, and the ultraviolet irradiation unit irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with 0.03 mW / cm² 2 That's all. 0.85 mW / cm² 2 below It has the function of irradiating ultraviolet light of a certain intensity from a light source. In addition, the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever has an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the surface of the door, and the light source of the ultraviolet irradiation unit is installed such that, when the handle lever is not operated, its optical axis intersects the inclined surface and is inclined with respect to the surface of the door. It is characterized by the following: The 4 The sterilization unit of the invention is characterized in that, in the first invention, the irradiation time of the ultraviolet light is adjusted to 10 to 120 seconds. The 7 The sterilization unit of the invention is first or 4 In the invention, the ultraviolet irradiation unit is provided such that the distance from the light source to the inner surface of the handle lever is 100 mm or less. It is characterized by the following: <Door handle set> 2nd The door handle set of the invention is a door handle set provided on a door, comprising: a support portion erected on the surface of the door; a handle lever whose base end is connected to the support portion such that the tip portion can swing between an operating position and a standby position; and a sterilization unit for sterilizing the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever, wherein the sterilization unit is A sterilization unit for sterilizing the door handle provided on the surface of the door, comprising an ultraviolet irradiation unit positioned to irradiate the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever of the door handle with ultraviolet light, and having a light source that irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm, wherein the ultraviolet irradiation unit irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with 0.03 mW / cm² 2 More than 0.85mW / cm 2 The sterilization unit has the function of irradiating ultraviolet light of the following intensity from a light source, the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever has an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the surface of the door, and the sterilization unit is positioned at the connection point between the surface of the door and the support part such that the optical axis of the light source of the ultraviolet irradiation part intersects with the inclined surface when the handle lever is in the standby position. The third invention is a door handle set provided on a door, comprising: a support portion erected on the surface of the door; a handle lever whose base end is connected to the support portion such that its tip portion can swing between an operating position and a standby position; and a sterilization unit for sterilizing the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever, wherein the sterilization unit is a sterilization unit for sterilizing the door handle provided on the surface of the door, and is provided in a position where ultraviolet light can be irradiated onto the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever of the door handle, and includes an ultraviolet irradiation section having a light source that irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm, and the ultraviolet irradiation section irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with 0.03 mW / cm² 2 More than 0.85mW / cm 2 The sterilization unit has the function of irradiating ultraviolet light of the following intensity from a light source, the handle lever has a lower surface parallel to the normal direction of the surface of the door, and the sterilization unit is characterized in that the optical axis of the light source of the ultraviolet irradiation section intersects with the lower surface of the handle lever when the handle lever is in the standby position. The door handle set of the fifth invention is characterized in that, in the second invention, the irradiation time of the ultraviolet light is adjusted to 10 to 120 seconds. The door handle set of the sixth invention is characterized in that, in the third invention, the irradiation time of the ultraviolet light is adjusted to 10 to 120 seconds. The door handle set of the eighth invention is characterized in that, in the second or fifth invention, the ultraviolet irradiation section is provided such that the distance from the light source to the inner surface of the handle lever is 100 mm or less. The door handle set of the ninth invention is characterized in that, in the third or sixth invention, the ultraviolet irradiation section is provided such that the distance from the light source to the inner surface of the handle lever is 100 mm or less. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] <Sterilization Unit> 1 , 4th, 7th According to the invention, 0.03 mW / cm 2 By irradiating the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever with ultraviolet light of wavelength 200-365nm at the above irradiation intensity, viruses and other pathogens that may adhere to the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever can be sterilized, and it becomes easier to prevent the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever from being contaminated with viruses and other pathogens. Furthermore, even if there are inclined surfaces on the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or sides of the handle lever, these inclined surfaces can be effectively sterilized. <Door handle set> According to the second, fifth, and eighth inventions, 0.03 mW / cm 2 By irradiating the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever with ultraviolet light of wavelength 200-365nm at the above irradiation intensity, viruses and other pathogens that may adhere to the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever can be sterilized, and it becomes easier to prevent the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever from becoming contaminated with viruses and other pathogens. Furthermore, the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever can be effectively sterilized. According to the third, sixth, and ninth inventions, 0.03 mW / cm 2 By irradiating the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever with ultraviolet light of wavelength 200-365nm at the above irradiation intensity, viruses and other pathogens that may adhere to the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever can be sterilized, and it becomes easier to prevent the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever from becoming contaminated with viruses and other pathogens. Furthermore, the inner surface and / or bottom and / or sides of the handle lever can be effectively sterilized.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a schematic explanatory view of a door handle set provided with the sterilization unit 10 of the present embodiment. (A) is a sectional view taken along the line A-A of (B) as viewed in the arrow direction, and (B) is a view taken in the X arrow direction of (A). [Figure 2] It is a schematic block diagram of the sterilization unit 10 of the present embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a schematic sectional view of a door handle set provided with the sterilization unit 10 of the present embodiment. (A) is a state where the handle lever 8 is arranged at the standby position, and (B) is a state where the handle lever 8 is arranged at the operating position. [Figure 4] It is a schematic explanatory view of a door handle set provided with the sterilization unit 10 having different ultraviolet irradiation portions 15. (A) is a sectional view taken along the line A-A of (B) as viewed in the arrow direction, and (B) is a view taken in the X arrow direction of (A). [Figure 5] It is a schematic explanatory view of the door set 1 provided with the sterilization unit 10 of the present embodiment of the present embodiment. [Figure 6] (A) is a schematic explanatory view of a door handle set provided with the sterilization unit 10 of another embodiment, and (B) is a schematic explanatory view when sterilizing the handle lever 8 having no recess. [Figure 7] It is an explanatory view of the layout of the door handle and the ultraviolet irradiation portion used in the experiment of Example 1. (A) is a sectional view taken along the line A-A of (B), (B) is a view taken in the Y arrow direction of (A), and (C) is a sectional view taken along the line C-C of (B) as viewed in the arrow direction. [Figure 8] (A) is a photograph of the ultraviolet irradiation portion used in the experiment of Example 1, and (B) and (C) are photographs taken of the experimental situation of Example 1. [Figure 9] It is a graph of the experimental results of Example 1. [Figure 10]This diagram illustrates the layout of the door handle and ultraviolet irradiation unit used in the experiment of Example 2, where (A) is a cross-sectional view along line AA of (B), (B) is a view of (A) along arrow Y, and (C) is a cross-sectional view of (B) along line CC. [Figure 11] (A) is a photograph of the ultraviolet irradiation area used in the experiment of Example 2, and (B) and (C) are photographs of the experimental setup in Example 2. [Figure 12] This is a graph showing the experimental results for Example 2. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram of a door handle set equipped with a sterilization unit 10B of another embodiment, where (A) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of (B), and (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of (A). [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of the sterilization unit 10B, where (A) is a front view and (B) is a cross-sectional view of (A) taken along line BB. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram of a door set 1B equipped with a sterilization unit 10B of another embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a block diagram of the sterilization unit 10B of another embodiment. [Figure 17] This diagram illustrates the arrangement of the door handle and ultraviolet LED used in the experiment of Example 3, where (A) is a cross-sectional view along line AA of (B), and (B) is a cross-sectional view along line BB of (A). [Figure 18] This is a photograph showing the experimental setup for Example 3. [Figure 19] This is a graph showing the experimental results for Example 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] The sterilization unit of this embodiment is a sterilization unit installed on the door of a door set, such as an entrance connecting the interior and exterior of a residential building or commercial facility, or a wall partitioning an isolated space, and is characterized by having a structure that can sterilize the door handle.

[0017] The residential buildings and commercial facilities in which the door set having the sterilization unit of this embodiment is installed are not particularly limited. For example, in residential buildings, it is suitable for door sets that separate the outside from the inside, such as the entrances to each room in a hotel or to each dwelling unit in an apartment building. In commercial facilities, it is suitable for door sets that separate corridors from rooms, such as the entrances to offices. Furthermore, in residential buildings and commercial facilities, it is suitable for door sets installed in stairwell entrances, passageways to bicycle parking areas, changing rooms, staff rooms, etc.

[0018] The sterilization unit of this embodiment can also be used as a device to sterilize the door handles of door sets installed between rooms in apartment buildings, or the door handles of door sets installed between rooms and corridors. It can also be used as a device to sterilize the door handles of door sets installed in stairwell entrances, bicycle parking areas, changing rooms, staff rooms, etc., in residential buildings and commercial facilities.

[0019] In the following, the sterilization unit of this embodiment will be described as being installed to sterilize the door handle on the exterior side of a door set installed at the entrance of a condominium unit, specifically an outward-opening door set equipped with a push-pull type door handle. Of course, the sterilization unit of this embodiment can be used to sterilize door handles of door sets other than outward-opening door sets, as long as they are equipped with door handles that are used to open the door by hooking fingers and pulling.

[0020] <Door Set 1> In Figure 5, the symbol EW indicates the entrance side wall. The door set 1 of this embodiment is attached to this entrance side wall EW. The door set 1 comprises a door frame 2 and a door 5 attached to the door frame 2. The door 5 is provided with a door handle 6 used to open and close the door 5, and the sterilization unit 10 of this embodiment (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the sterilization unit 10) is provided to sterilize the door handle 6.

[0021] <Door handle 6> As shown in Figure 1, a door handle 6 is provided on the surface 5a of the door 5. This door handle 6 is a push-pull type door handle, and by operating the door handle 6, the latch of the door 5 is released. Specifically, by pulling the handle lever 8 of the door handle 6, the latch is lowered, and by continuing to pull the handle lever 8, the door 5 can be opened.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, this door handle 6 consists of a support part 7 and a handle lever 8.

[0023] The support part 7 is a member erected with its base end fixed to the surface 5a of the door 5, and the base end of the handle lever 8 is pivotably connected to its tip. Specifically, the base end of the handle lever 8 is pivotably connected to the tip of the support part 7 such that the tip moves closer to and further away from the surface of the door 5, with the base end of the handle lever 8 acting as a pivot point. In the standby position where the tip of the handle lever 8 is close to the surface 5a of the door 5 (see Figures 1(A) and 3(A)), the latch is fixed in a position that protrudes from the end face of the door 5, and in the operating position where the tip of the handle lever 8 is separated from the surface of the door 5 (see Figure 3(B)), the latch is free to operate. In other words, when the handle lever 8 is in the standby position, the door 5 can be connected to the door frame 2 and kept closed, and when the handle lever 8 is in the operating position and the door 5 is pulled, the connection between the door 5 and the door frame 2 is released and the door 5 can be opened.

[0024] The handle lever 8 has a recessed portion 8h on its inner surface 8a, that is, the surface facing the door surface 5a of the door 5. This recessed portion 8h is the part where a person hooks their fingers when operating the handle lever 8. To make it easier for a person to hook their fingers when operating the handle lever 8, the recessed portion 8h has an inclined surface 8b near the tip of its inner surface that is inclined with respect to the door surface 5a of the door 5. Specifically, when the handle lever 8 is in the standby position, the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h is formed so that its normal direction intersects with the first surface 7a of the support portion 7 (the surface located on the door tail side) (or intersects with the surface extended from the first surface 7a).

[0025] <Sterilization Unit 10> As shown in Figure 5, a sterilization unit 10 is provided on the surface 5a of the door 5. This sterilization unit 10 includes a base member 11 fixed to the surface 5a of the door 5, an ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 provided on the base member 11, and a control unit 20.

[0026] <Base member 11> The base member 11 is installed in the space (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the installation space) enclosed by the surface 5a of the door 5, the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8 of the door handle 6, and the first surface 7a of the support part 7. The base member 11 is installed so that its bottom surface 11b contacts the surface 5a of the door 5 and its back surface 11c contacts the first surface 7a of the support part 7. A recessed portion 11h is formed on the upper part of the base member 11, recessed from its upper surface. The bottom surface of this recessed portion 11h is an inclined surface 11d that is inclined with respect to the bottom surface 11b of the base member 11. In other words, the bottom surface of the recessed portion 11h is an inclined surface 11d so that it is inclined with respect to the surface 5a of the door 5 when the sterilization unit 10 is installed in the installation space. This inclined surface 11d is formed such that the distance from the bottom surface 11b decreases as you move from the back surface 11c of the base member 11 toward the front surface 11f of the base member 11 (see Figure 1(A)).

[0027] <UV irradiation area 15> As shown in Figure 1, an ultraviolet irradiation section 15 is provided on the inclined surface 11d of the base member 11. This ultraviolet irradiation section 15 has a substrate 17 and multiple light sources 16 (two in Figure 1(B)), such as LED light sources capable of emitting ultraviolet light, provided on the surface of the substrate 17, and is installed with the back surface of the substrate 17 in contact with the inclined surface 11d. The number of light sources 16 provided on the substrate 17 is not limited; it may be one or three or more.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, multiple light sources 16 are arranged side by side on the surface of the substrate 17. Specifically, with the substrate 17 placed on the inclined surface 11d, the multiple light sources 16 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the inclination direction (left-right direction in Figure 1(B)). Each light source 16 has the function of emitting ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm. Moreover, each light source 16 emits ultraviolet light at an intensity of 0.03 mW / cm² on the inner surface of the handle lever 8, particularly on the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8. 2 Preferably, the above is 0.05 mW / cm². 2 It can be done in this way.

[0029] For example, let's assume the width W (left-right direction in Figure 1(B)) of the handle lever 8 is 120 mm and the depth D (distance from the first surface 7a of the support part 7 to the tip, see Figure 1(A)) is 60 mm. Then, let's assume the distance L (see Figure 1(A)) from the inclined surface 8b of the recessed part 8h of the handle lever 8 to the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation part 15 is 50 mm. Under these conditions, if we use an ultraviolet LED (manufactured by Nichia Corporation: model number NCSU334B) as the light source 16, and place two light sources 16 50 mm apart so as to be symmetrical with respect to the center line CA in the width direction of the handle lever 8 (i.e., place the two light sources 16 so that each is 25 mm from the center line CA), then the irradiation intensity of ultraviolet light emitted from the two light sources 16 will be 0.066 mW / cm² at any position on the inner surface of the handle lever 8 (at least almost the entire inner surface on the tip side of the inclined surface 8b). 2 This can be done.

[0030] The light source 16 is not limited to any light source that can achieve the above-mentioned ultraviolet irradiation intensity. In addition to the ultraviolet LEDs mentioned above, ultraviolet lamps (such as low-pressure mercury lamps) can also be used as the light source 16.

[0031] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the light source 16 can be one that can irradiate ultraviolet light in the UVA to UVC region, but the wavelength range of ultraviolet light irradiated by the light source 16 is not limited to the above range. However, it is desirable to use a light source 16 that can irradiate ultraviolet light including wavelengths in the UVC region (200 to 300 nm). Of course, it is also acceptable to use a light source 16 that can irradiate ultraviolet light including only wavelengths in the UVC region (200 to 300 nm).

[0032] Furthermore, if multiple light sources 16 are provided, depending on the position, there may be positions on the inner surface of the handle lever 8 where ultraviolet light from multiple light sources 16 is superimposed and irradiated, and positions where ultraviolet light is irradiated from only one light source 16. The irradiation intensity of the ultraviolet light is the total intensity of all ultraviolet light irradiated from multiple light sources 16 in positions where ultraviolet light from multiple light sources 16 is superimposed, and the intensity of ultraviolet light irradiated from only one light source 16 in positions where ultraviolet light is irradiated from only one light source 16.

[0033] <Control Unit 20> As shown in Figures 2 and 5, the sterilization unit 10 includes a control unit 20 that controls the operation of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15. This control unit 20 includes a controller 21 housed in a case 20c provided in the door 5. This controller 21 controls the operation of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 and is electrically connected to the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15. Specifically, the controller 21 has the function of controlling the on / off state and the on / off time of the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15. The controller 21 also has the function of controlling the light emission intensity by adjusting the amount of current supplied to the light source 16.

[0034] Since the sterilization unit 10 has the above configuration, even if viruses or other pathogens adhere to the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8 of the door handle 6, the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source 16 can sterilize the viruses and other pathogens. This makes it possible to suppress the spread of viruses and other pathogens through the handle lever 8 when multiple people operate the handle lever 8 of the door handle 6.

[0035] Furthermore, since the control unit 20 can control the irradiation state of ultraviolet light onto the handle lever 8 by the sterilization unit 10, sterilization of viruses and other pathogens can be effectively carried out.

[0036] The power supply that provides power to the controller 21 and the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 may be built into the case 20c or provided in another location (for example, inside the door 5 or inside the frame 2). Furthermore, commercial power may be supplied.

[0037] <Opening / closing sensor 22> The controller 21 of the control unit 20 can control the operation of the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 in various ways. For example, if the control unit 20 is equipped with a known opening / closing sensor 22, such as a magnetic sensor, that detects the opening and closing of the door 5, the operation of the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 can be controlled so that the handle lever 8 can be sterilized with ultraviolet light in a short period of time after a person operates the handle lever 8.

[0038] For example, if a magnetic sensor is used as the opening / closing sensor 22, the sensor body 22a of the magnetic sensor is built into a case 20c provided on the door 5, and a matching magnet 22b is provided on the door frame 2. The sensor body 22a of the opening / closing sensor 22 inside the case 20c is electrically connected to the controller 21 of the control unit 20. If the sensor body 22a of the opening / closing sensor 22 is provided with a function to supply signals related to the opening and closing of the door 5 to the controller 21 of the control unit 20, the controller 21 of the control unit 20 can control the turning on and off of the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 based on the opening and closing of the door 5. Specifically, when the controller 21 of the control unit 20 determines that the door 5 has changed from an open state to a closed state based on the signal from the sensor body 22a of the opening / closing sensor 22, the controller 21 can turn on the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 immediately after the door 5 is closed or after a certain period of time (for example, a few seconds) after the door 5 is closed. By providing such a function in the controller 21 and controlling the on / off state of the light source 16, the handle lever 8 can be sterilized with ultraviolet light in a short period of time after a person operates the handle lever 8.

[0039] Furthermore, if an opening / closing sensor 22 is provided to detect the opening and closing of the door 5, it is desirable that the controller 21 of the control unit 20 has a function to turn off the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 after a certain period of time has elapsed since the door 5 was closed and the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 was turned on. In this case, the time during which the light source 16 is lit after the door 5 is closed is preferably 10 to 120 seconds. If ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the inner surface of the handle lever 8 for about 120 seconds, or at least 60 seconds, the irradiation intensity of the irradiated ultraviolet light on the inner surface of the handle lever 8 will be 0.03 mW / cm². 2 Even so, the cumulative light intensity is 10 mJ / cm 2 Preferably 13 mJ / cm² 2 As a result, the inner surface of the handle lever 8 can be sufficiently sterilized. Of course, by increasing the intensity of the ultraviolet irradiation, the time the light source 16 is lit can be shortened. For example, if the irradiation intensity of the ultraviolet light irradiated to the inner surface of the handle lever 8 is set to 0.85 mW / cm² 2Therefore, even if the ultraviolet light is irradiated for only about 10 seconds, the inner surface of the handle lever 8 can be sufficiently sterilized.

[0040] <Regarding the installation of sterilization unit 10> Furthermore, the sterilization unit 10 may be pre-installed on the door 5 of the door set 1, but the sterilization unit 10 may also be installed on an existing door. As described above, if the sterilization unit 10 has an ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 provided on the base member 11 and the controller 21 of the control unit 20 etc. built into the case 20c, then by installing the base member 11 and the control unit 20 etc. in an appropriate position on the existing door, the existing door can be made into a door with a sterilization unit 10.

[0041] The combination of the sterilization unit 10 and the door handle 6 described above corresponds to the door handle set described in claims 8 to 11. In the above example, the base member 11 of the sterilization unit 10 is attached to the first surface 7a of the support portion 7 of the door handle 6, but the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 of the sterilization unit 10 may be built into the support portion 7 of the door handle 6. Of course, the controller 21 and opening / closing sensor 22 of the control unit 20 described above may also be built into the support portion 7. Furthermore, some of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15, the controller 21 of the control unit 20, and the opening / closing sensor 22 may be built into either the support portion 7 or the door 5.

[0042] The door set 1 equipped with the sterilization unit 10 corresponds to the door set described in claim 12. In the above example, the sterilization unit 10 and the control unit 20 are attached to the surface 5a of the door 5, but the sterilization unit 10 and the control unit 20 may be built into the door 5. In other words, all or part of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 of the sterilization unit 10, the controller 21 of the control unit 20, and the opening / closing sensor 22 may be built into the door 5. For example, if the opening / closing sensor 22 is a magnetic sensor, the sensor body 21a can be provided on the door frame 2 in a part facing the door front surface, and the corresponding magnet 22b can be provided near the door front surface of the door 5. Conversely, the sensor body 21a can be provided near the door front surface of the door 5, and the corresponding magnet 22b can be provided on the door frame 2 in a part facing the door front surface.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(A), the sterilization unit 10 may be embedded in the surface 5a of the door 5 such that the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8 and the ultraviolet irradiation portion 15 face each other when the door handle 6 is attached to the door 5. In this case, the surface of the base member 11 on which the ultraviolet irradiation portion 15 is provided may be the inclined surface 11d as described above, or it may be a surface parallel to the surface 5a of the door 5 (see Figure 6(A)).

[0044] With the sterilization unit 10 installed, the relative position between the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 and the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8 is such that the irradiation intensity of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8 is 0.03 mW / cm². 2 Preferably, the above is 0.05 mW / cm². 2 It is sufficient if the arrangement is as described above. However, in order to enhance the sterilization effect on the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8, it is desirable that the light source 16 be positioned such that its optical axis LA is perpendicular to the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8. The same applies when the sterilization unit 10 is embedded in the surface 5a of the door 5, as shown in Figure 6(A).

[0045] Furthermore, when the sterilization unit 10 is installed, the distance L from the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8 to the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 is not particularly limited. 2 Preferably, the above is 0.05 mW / cm². 2 The distance should be set to be greater than or equal to the above. However, if the distance L is set to 100 mm or less, it is possible to suppress the light emission intensity of the light source 16 itself to some extent while keeping the ultraviolet irradiation intensity on the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8 within the above range. As a result, the power supplied to the light source 16 can also be reduced, which suppresses the heat generation of the light source 16 and extends the lifespan of the light source 16. In addition, if the power source of the sterilization unit 10 is a battery, the interval between battery replacements can be extended.

[0046] Furthermore, it is desirable that the area irradiated with ultraviolet light from the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 be the entire inner surface of the handle lever 8. However, it is also acceptable to irradiate only the area on the inner surface of the handle lever 8 that is frequently touched when a person operates the handle lever 8. For example, when a person operates the handle lever 8, they usually make contact with the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8 and the part of the inner surface of the handle lever 8 that is closer to the tip than the inclined surface 8b, but they do not make contact with the part deeper than the inclined surface 8b (the part on the support portion 7 side). Therefore, on the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8, ultraviolet light is irradiated only to the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8, the part closer to the tip than the inclined surface 8b, and the surrounding area (or only to the inclined surface 8b of the recessed portion 8h of the handle lever 8, the part closer to the tip than the inclined surface 8b, and the surrounding area) with an ultraviolet irradiation intensity of 0.03 mW / cm². 2 Preferably, the above is 0.05 mW / cm². 2 The directional angle and arrangement of the light source 16 used, the installation position of the base member 11, etc., may be adjusted to achieve the above.

[0047] Furthermore, it is desirable to position the light source 16 in the ultraviolet irradiation section 15 such that ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 16 are not directly emitted to the outside. "Ultraviolet rays are not directly emitted to the outside" means that all ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 16 are irradiated onto either the inner wall of the recessed portion 11h of the base member 11 or the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8, and are not emitted into space outside the installation space until they are reflected by the inner wall of the recessed portion 11h of the base member 11 or the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8. Even if ultraviolet rays are directly emitted to the outside, the light source 16 may be positioned such that the intensity of the emitted ultraviolet rays is below a certain intensity.

[0048] <Regarding base member 11> In the case where the sterilization unit 10 is installed on the surface 5a of the door 5 (i.e., the sterilization unit 10 is not built into the door 5), the above example describes a case where the base member 11 of the sterilization unit 10 has its bottom surface 11b and back surface 11c in contact with the surface 5a of the door 5 and the first surface 7a of the support part 7, respectively. In this case, there is an advantage in that it is easier to align the relative positions of the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 and the inclined surface 8b of the recessed part 8h of the handle lever 8. However, if the relative positions of the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 and the inclined surface 8b of the recessed part 8h of the handle lever 8 can be arranged in the above relationship, the base member 11 of the sterilization unit 10 may be installed so as to be in contact with only one of the surfaces 5a of the door 5 and the first surface 7a of the support part 7. The state in which the base member 11 is in contact with the surface 5a of the door 5 and the first surface 7a of the support part 7 also includes the case in which the base member 11 is in contact with the surface 5a of the door 5 and the first surface 7a of the support part 7 via a spacer or the like.

[0049] The size of the base member 11 is not particularly limited, but it is desirable that it be sized so that the entire base member 11 is hidden by the handle lever 8 when the door 5 is viewed from its surface 5a side.

[0050] In the above example, a recessed portion 11h was provided on the upper part of the base member 11, and the bottom surface of this recessed portion 11h was made into an inclined surface 11d. However, the base member 11 may not have a recessed portion 11h on the upper part, and the upper surface of the base member 11 may simply be made into an inclined surface, with the ultraviolet irradiation section 15 provided on this inclined surface. Of course, when the base member 11 is attached to the surface 5a of the door 5, the upper surface of the base member 11 may be formed to be parallel to the surface 5a of the door 5, and the ultraviolet irradiation section 15 may be provided on this upper surface.

[0051] <Regarding Control Unit 20>

[0052] The control unit 20 may be equipped with a motion sensor 23 in addition to, or instead of, the opening / closing sensor 22 described above. If a motion sensor 23 is provided, it is possible to control the system so that light is not emitted from the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 when a person is near the door 5. For example, if a motion sensor 23 is installed inside the case 20c, and the motion sensor 23 detects that a person is within 2m of the door 5 (in other words, the motion sensor 23), a signal from the motion sensor 23 is transmitted to the controller 21 of the control unit 20. The controller 21 of the control unit 20 then controls the system so that light is not emitted from the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 (if it is lit, it is turned off) until the motion sensor 23 no longer detects a person. This prevents ultraviolet light from entering a person's eyes, for example, if a person happens to look between the handle lever 8 of the door handle 6 and the surface 5a of the door 5. Furthermore, even if a person keeps their hand on the handle lever 8 after closing the door 5, or if they operate the handle lever 8 to open the door 5 immediately after closing it, ultraviolet rays can be prevented from being shone on the person's hands or other body parts.

[0053] The motion sensor 23 used is not particularly limited. For example, various sensors utilizing infrared light, visible light, ultrasound, capacitance, etc., can be used as the motion sensor 23. In particular, it is desirable that the motion sensor 23 be able to detect people within a certain range, for example, within a range of ±45° in the up, down, left, and right directions centered on the position of the motion sensor 23. The motion sensor 23 may also be built into the support part 7 of the door 5 or door handle 6, or into the sterilization unit 10.

[0054] If the controller 21 of the control unit 20 has a function to turn off the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 after a certain amount of time has elapsed since the door 5 was closed, based on the signal from the sensor body of the opening / closing sensor 22, then the time the light source 16 is lit is not particularly limited. As described above, if the irradiation intensity is increased, the cumulative amount of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the handle lever 8 can be made to exceed a predetermined cumulative amount (cumulative amount of light that can inactivate viruses) even if the lit time is shortened, and if the irradiation intensity is weakened, the amount of ultraviolet light irradiated onto the handle lever 8 cannot exceed a predetermined cumulative amount (cumulative amount of light that can inactivate viruses) unless the lit time is extended. Here, increasing the irradiation intensity increases power consumption, so for long-term use, a weaker irradiation intensity is preferable. On the other hand, if sterilization is required in a relatively short time, a stronger irradiation intensity is preferable. Therefore, the control unit 20 may be given a scheduling function to change the time between the closing of the door 5 and the lighting of the light source 16, as well as the irradiation intensity, according to the time. For example, during periods when there is a long interval between opening and closing the door 5, the irradiation intensity may be reduced while the irradiation time is increased to ensure a predetermined cumulative light quantity. Conversely, during periods when there is a short interval between opening and closing the door 5, the irradiation time may be reduced while the irradiation intensity is increased to ensure a predetermined cumulative light quantity. For example, during times when people do not normally open and close the door 5, such as late at night, ultraviolet light may be irradiated from the light source 16 onto the inner surface of the handle lever 8 for a certain period of time (e.g., several minutes to several tens of minutes). This would ensure more reliable sterilization of the handle lever 8. In this case, the irradiation may be performed in one go for several minutes to several tens of minutes, or it may be performed in several or dozens of short irradiations (e.g., about 1 minute) to adjust the irradiation so that the total irradiation time is several minutes to several tens of minutes. Of course, even during periods when there is a short interval between opening and closing the door 5, if there is a relatively long interval between opening and closing the door 5, the irradiation intensity may be reduced and the irradiation time increased (e.g., several minutes).

[0055] If the control unit 20 is equipped with a scheduling function, the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 may be turned on and off regardless of whether the door 5 is opened or closed. For example, during times when the interval between opening and closing the door 5 is long, such as late at night, the light source 16 may be turned on at a predetermined time, and after irradiating with ultraviolet light for a certain period of time, the light source 16 may be turned off. In this case, since the interval between opening and closing the door 5 is long, it is desirable to ensure a predetermined cumulative light amount by reducing the irradiation intensity and increasing the irradiation time. Alternatively, the light source 16 may be turned on at regular time intervals, and after irradiating with ultraviolet light for a predetermined time, the light source 16 may be turned off so that the total amount of irradiated light becomes a predetermined cumulative light amount. For example, the light source 16 may be turned on at one-hour intervals, and after irradiating with ultraviolet light for a certain period of time, the light source 16 may be turned off to ensure a predetermined cumulative light amount. In this case as well, it is desirable to ensure a predetermined cumulative light amount by reducing the irradiation intensity and increasing the irradiation time during times when the interval between opening and closing the door 5 is long, and by reducing the irradiation time and increasing the irradiation intensity during times when the interval between opening and closing the door 5 is short. Furthermore, after the last opening and closing operation of door 5, the light source 16 may be turned on after a certain period of time has elapsed, and the light source 16 may be turned off after irradiating with ultraviolet light for a certain period of time.

[0056] Furthermore, as described above, if the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15 is turned on and off regardless of whether the door 5 is open or closed by the scheduling function, it is not necessarily required to provide the opening / closing sensor 22 or the motion sensor 23. However, if the opening / closing sensor 22 or the motion sensor 23 is provided, the control unit 20 can control the light source 16 to turn off or not turn on if the opening / closing sensor 22 detects that the door 5 has opened or if the motion sensor detects that a person is approaching the door 5. This makes it easier to prevent ultraviolet light from irradiating people's hands, etc.

[0057] In the above example, the controller 21 of the control unit 20 is described as being provided separately from the base member 11, but the controller 21 of the control unit 20 may be built into the base member 11.

[0058] <Door handle 6> In the above example, a recess 8h is described on the inner surface 8a of the handle lever 8 of the door handle 6, but the shape of the handle lever 8 is not particularly limited. For example, the inner surface of the handle lever 8 may only have an inclined surface that moves away from the surface 5a of the door 5 as it moves from its tip to its base (for example, an inclined surface like the inclined surface 8b in Figure 1(A)). Even in this case, if the optical axis LA of the light source 16 is positioned perpendicular to the inclined surface of the handle lever 8 when the handle lever 8 is in the standby position, the sterilization effect of this inclined surface can be enhanced.

[0059] Furthermore, even if the inner surface of the handle lever 8 does not have the aforementioned recesses or inclined surfaces, the sterilization unit 10 of this embodiment can sterilize the inner surface of the handle lever by irradiating its inner surface (at least the surface that a person comes into contact with) with ultraviolet light from the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15. For example, as shown in Figure 6(B), even if the inner surface of the handle lever 8 is formed as a flat surface parallel to the surface 5a of the door 5 when the handle lever 8 is in a standby position, or if the inner surface of the handle lever 8 has a portion that protrudes toward the surface 5a of the door 5, the sterilization unit 10 of this embodiment can sterilize the inner surface of the handle lever by irradiating it with ultraviolet light from the light source 16 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15.

[0060] While materials with high antibacterial and antiviral properties are preferable for the handle lever 8, the material of the handle lever 8 is not particularly limited. For example, aluminum can be used as the material for the handle lever 8.

[0061] <For door sets with lever handles> In the above example, the case in which the sterilization unit of this embodiment is installed in a door set 1 equipped with a push-pull type door handle 6 was described. The sterilization unit of this embodiment can also be installed in a door set equipped with a lever handle type door handle and used to sterilize the lever handle type door handle (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as a lever handle). Below, the case in which the sterilization unit 10B of this embodiment is installed in a door set 1B equipped with a lever handle type door handle 6B will be described.

[0062] In the following description, explanations of the structure, function, and other aspects of components and devices common to the sterilization unit 10 of this embodiment described above, and the door set 1 equipped with the push-pull type door handle 6 described above, will be omitted as appropriate.

[0063] <Door Set 1> Figure 15 shows a door set 1B installed on a wall EWB in a common area. Similar to the door set 1 described above, this door set 1B comprises a door frame 2B and a door 5B that is attached to the door frame 2B. The door 5B is equipped with a door handle 6B and the sterilization unit 10B of this embodiment (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the sterilization unit 10B).

[0064] <Door handle 6B> As shown in Figures 13 and 15, a door handle 6B is provided on the surface 5f of the door 5B. This door handle 6B is a typical lever-type door handle, and operating the door handle 6B activates the latch of the door 5B. Specifically, pushing the handle lever 8B of the door handle 6B downwards retracts the latch, and pulling the handle lever 8B while keeping it pushed down allows the door 5B to be opened. Note that the state in which no downward force is applied to the handle lever 8B of the door handle 6B corresponds to the standby position (see Figures 13(B) and 15).

[0065] As shown in Figure 13, this door handle 6B consists of a support part 7B and a handle lever 8B.

[0066] The support portion 7B is an axial member erected on the surface 5f of the door 5B, with its base end rotatably attached to the door 5B. In other words, the support portion 7B is attached to the door 5B so that it can rotate around its axis.

[0067] A handle lever 8B is provided on the side of the support portion 7B. Specifically, the handle lever 8B is a member whose base end is connected to the side of the support portion 7B. The handle lever 8B is formed in such a shape that its length in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the support portion 7B (the left-right direction in Figure 13(A), sometimes referred to as the axial direction of the handle lever 8B) is longer than its length in the axial direction of the support portion 7B (the vertical direction in Figure 13(A), sometimes referred to as the width direction of the handle lever 8B). Furthermore, when the door handle 6B is attached to the door 5B, the handle lever 8B is formed such that the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B is approximately parallel to the normal direction of the surface 5f of the door 5B, and the axial end face 8g of the handle lever 8B that intersects with the lower surface 8f faces the surface 5f of the door 5B (for example, the end face 8g is parallel to the surface 5f of the door 5B) (see Figure 13(B)).

[0068] The phrase "the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B is approximately parallel to the normal direction of the surface 5f of the door 5B" is not limited to cases where the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B is a flat surface parallel to the normal direction of the surface 5f of the door 5B, but also includes cases where it is a surface that is slightly inclined with respect to the normal direction of the surface 5f of the door 5B, for example, an inclined surface with an inclination of ±90° or less. Furthermore, "the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B is approximately parallel to the normal direction of the surface 5f of the door 5B" also includes cases where the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B is a curved surface. For example, in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the handle lever 8B (see Figure 13(B)), this includes cases where the lower surface 8f is a curved surface that is convex downwards or concave upwards, or cases where the lower surface 8f is a curved surface that is convex downwards or concave upwards in the axial direction of the handle lever 8B.

[0069] Furthermore, the phrase "the end face 8g of the handle lever 8B is parallel to the surface 5f of the door 5B" is not limited to cases where the end face 8g of the handle lever 8B is a flat surface parallel to the surface 5f of the door 5B. Cases where the end face 8g of the handle lever 8B is slightly inclined vertically with respect to the surface 5f of the door 5B, for example, an inclined surface with an inclination of ±90° or less, are also included in "the end face 8g of the handle lever 8B is parallel to the surface 5f of the door 5B". Additionally, cases where the handle lever 8B is slightly inclined in the width direction, for example, a surface with an inclination of ±90° or less, that is, cases where the width of the handle lever 8B narrows from the base to the tip or widens from the base to the tip, are also included in "the end face 8g of the handle lever 8B is parallel to the surface 5f of the door 5B". Moreover, the "end face 8g of the handle lever 8B" does not necessarily have to be a flat surface; it may be a curved surface that is convex toward the surface 5f of the door 5B.

[0070] <Sterilization Unit 10> As shown in Figure 13, the sterilization unit 10B includes a base member 11B fixed to the surface 5f of the door 5B, an ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B provided on the base member 11B, and a control unit 20B (see Figures 15 and 16).

[0071] <Base member 11> As shown in Figures 13 and 15, an opening 5h is provided on the surface 5f of the door 5B below the door handle 6B, and a base member 11B is provided in this opening 5h. Specifically, when the door handle 6B is attached to the surface 5f of the door 5B, the opening 5h is provided so as to be located below the support portion 7B of the door handle 6B and below the tip side of the handle lever 8B and below the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B in the standby position, and a base member 11B is provided in this opening 5h.

[0072] <UV irradiation area 15> As shown in Figures 13 and 14, an ultraviolet irradiation section 15B is provided on the front surface 11f of the base member 11B. The ultraviolet irradiation section 15B has a substrate 17B and multiple light sources 16B (one in Figure 14(B)), such as LED light sources capable of emitting ultraviolet light, provided on the surface of the substrate 17B, and is installed with the back surface of the substrate 17B in contact with the front surface 11f of the base member 11B. The light sources 16B have the function of emitting ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm. Furthermore, the irradiation intensity of the ultraviolet light irradiated on the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B is 0.03 mW / cm². 2 Preferably, the above is 0.05 mW / cm². 2 It can be done in this way.

[0073] For example, let's assume that the handle lever 8B has a width W (left-right direction in Figure 13(B)) of 23 mm and a length LG (distance from the connection point with the support part 7B to the tip, see Figure 13(A)) of 88 mm. Then, let's assume that the distance L2 (see Figure 13(B)) from the cross-sectional center C of the handle lever 8B to the light source 16B of the ultraviolet irradiation part 15B is 57 mm. Under these conditions, by using an ultraviolet LED (manufactured by Nichia Corporation: model number NCSU334B) as the light source 16B, the irradiation intensity of the ultraviolet light emitted will be 0.05 mW / cm² at any position on the bottom surface 8f or end surface 8g of the handle lever 8B. 2 This can be done.

[0074] <Control Unit 20B> As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B of the sterilization unit 10B is electrically connected to a control unit 20B that supplies power to the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B and controls its operation. This control unit 20B includes a controller 21B which is installed inside the door 5B when housed in the case 20c. The controller 21B has substantially the same function as the controller 21, and controls the light intensity of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B by adjusting the on / off state, on / off time, and the amount of current supplied to the light source 16B. The power supply that provides power to the controller 21B and the light source 16B of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B may be built into the case 20d or may be provided in another location (for example, inside the door 5B or inside the frame 2B). Furthermore, commercial power may be supplied.

[0075] With the above configuration, if a lever-type door handle is used as the door handle 6B, even if viruses or other pathogens adhere to the handle lever 8B, the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source 16B can sterilize them. This makes it possible to suppress the spread of viruses and other pathogens through the handle lever 8B, which can occur when multiple people operate the handle lever 8B of the door handle 6B.

[0076] Furthermore, if the control unit 20B is equipped with an opening / closing sensor 22B and a motion sensor 23B, similar to the control unit 20 (see Figures 15 and 16), it can control the timing and intensity of ultraviolet light irradiation from the light source 16B, similar to the control unit 20. The motion sensor 23B may be installed in the case 20d, similar to the control unit 20, but as shown in Figure 15, the motion sensor 23B may also be installed in the base member 11B. Similarly, the sensor body 22e and magnet 22f of the opening / closing sensor 22B may be installed in a different location on the door 5B or door frame 2B from where the case 20d is installed (for example, on the top of the door 5B or the top frame of the door frame 2B, as shown in Figure 15).

[0077] <Regarding base member 11B> On the surface 11f of the base member 11B, the portion to which the substrate 17B of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B is attached may be parallel to the surface 5f of the door 5B, or it may be an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the surface 5f of the door 5B. Specifically, it may be an inclined surface that faces the door handle 6B (i.e., an inclined surface that faces slightly upward). With this configuration, ultraviolet light can be effectively irradiated onto the lower surface 8f of the handle lever 8B of the door handle 6B. Note that even if the surface 11f of the base member 11B is not an inclined surface, the same effect can be obtained by setting the light source 16B of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B so that its optical axis faces the door handle 6B. However, if the surface 11f of the base member 11B is an inclined surface, it is preferable that, when the door handle 6B has an inclined surface, the light source 16B of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B is aligned with the inclined surface of the door handle 6B (i.e., the optical axis of the light source 16B and the inclined surface of the door handle 6B are perpendicular to each other), thereby allowing stronger ultraviolet light to be irradiated onto the inclined surface of the door handle 6B.

[0078] <Regarding UV irradiation area 15B> The number of light sources 16B provided in the ultraviolet irradiation section 15B is not limited; there may be one or two or more. When multiple light sources 16B are provided, they may be arranged so that they are aligned vertically when the base member 11B is attached to the opening 5h, or they may be arranged so that they are aligned horizontally or along the axis of the handle lever 8B of the door handle 6B positioned in the standby position when the base member 11B is attached to the opening 5h.

[0079] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiation section 15B may be installed on the base member 11B such that the light source 16B is exposed, or the ultraviolet irradiation section 15B may be covered by a cover member 13B having a window portion 13W formed of a material that transmits ultraviolet light.

[0080] Furthermore, the combination of the sterilization unit 10B and the door handle 6B, which is a lever handle type door handle, corresponds to the door handle set described in claims 8 to 11.

[0081] Furthermore, the door set 1B on which the sterilization unit 10B is provided corresponds to the door set described in claim 12. In the above example (see Figures 13 to 15), the case in which the sterilization unit 10B and the control unit 20B are built into the door 5B was described, but the sterilization unit 10B and the control unit 20B may also be attached to the surface 5f of the door 5B. In other words, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 15B of the sterilization unit 10B, the controller 21B of the control unit 20B, and part of the opening / closing sensor 22B are built into the door 5B, but other components and equipment may be attached to the surface 5f of the door 5B, etc. [Examples]

[0082] We confirmed that the handle lever can be sterilized when using the sterilization unit of the present invention. <Examples 1 and 2>

[0083] In the experiment, 250 μL / cm³ of human coronavirus (HCoV-OC43) was applied to the inner surface of a handle lever (GOAL: model number PYGOM364, material: aluminum). 2 The mixture was applied in this manner, and ultraviolet light was irradiated from a UV LED (Nichia Corporation: model number NCSU334B) at a forward current of 0.35A to confirm the effects of irradiation intensity and irradiation time on the inactivation of the human coronavirus.

[0084] In the experiment, we examined the effects on the inactivation of human coronavirus when ultraviolet light was irradiated from two ultraviolet LEDs (Example 1) (see Figures 7 and 8) and when ultraviolet light was irradiated from one ultraviolet LED (Example 2) (see Figures 10 and 11).

[0085] In Example 1, the two ultraviolet LEDs were positioned 50 mm apart so as to be symmetrical with respect to the center line CL in the width direction of the handle lever (see Figures 7(B) and (C)). The positional relationship between the ultraviolet LEDs and the handle lever is as shown in Figure 7(A).

[0086] In Example 2, one ultraviolet LED was positioned on the center line CL in the width direction of the handle lever (see Figures 10(B) and (C)). The positional relationship between the ultraviolet LED and the handle lever is as shown in Figure 10(A).

[0087] The ultraviolet irradiation intensity on the inner surface of the handle lever was measured using a photodiode sensor (Ophir, model number PD-300UV). In Example 1, measurements were taken at the locations shown in Figure 7(C) (5 locations A to E), and in Example 2, measurements were taken at the locations shown in Figure 10(C) (3 locations F to H). The same handle lever was used in Examples 1 and 2. The handle lever used had a width W of 120 mm and a recess width W1 of 112 mm. In Example 1, measurement position C was placed on the center line CL, and measurement positions A, B, E, and D were set at 25 mm intervals from measurement position C (see Figure 7(C)). In Example 2, measurement position G was placed on the center line CL, and measurement positions F and H were set at 50 mm intervals from measurement position G (see Figure 10(C)).

[0088] Human coronavirus inactivation is performed by irradiating human coronavirus with ultraviolet light from an ultraviolet LED, then infecting VeroE6 / TMPRSS-2 cells with the human coronavirus, and then determining the viral titer TCID. 50 The viral titer (hereinafter simply referred to as / mL) was measured (see Figures 9 and 12). Note that the change in viral titer due to irradiation (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the change in viral titer) is the average value of 5 experiments (n=5) in Example 1 and the average value of 3 experiments (n=3) in Example 2.

[0089] First, in both Examples 1 and 2, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation on the inner surface of the handle lever was strong in the center of the handle lever in the width direction and weaker at the ends in the width direction. In Example 1, the position where the ultraviolet irradiation intensity is maximum is position B in Figure 7(C), and the intensity is 0.85 mW / cm². 2 Therefore, the position where the ultraviolet irradiation intensity is minimum is position E in Figure 7(C), and its intensity is 0.45 mW / cm².2 That was the case. In Example 2, the position where the ultraviolet irradiation intensity is maximum is position G in Figure 10(C), and the intensity is 0.82 mW / cm². 2 Therefore, the position where the ultraviolet irradiation intensity is minimum is position H in Figure 10(C), and its intensity is 0.085 mW / cm². 2 That was the case.

[0090] Then, as shown in Figure 9(A), in Example 1, at position B with maximum intensity, the change in viral titer was 10 in about 10 seconds. -2 It was below that, and the change in viral titer was 10 in about 20 seconds. -3 Below 10 -4 This indicates that the human coronavirus can be inactivated by ultraviolet light. Furthermore, even at the lowest intensity position E, the change in viral titer was 10 in about 20 seconds. -2 It becomes to a certain extent, and in about 30 seconds, the change in viral titer is 10 -3 The level of UV radiation was reduced to a certain extent, and it was confirmed that even weak UV radiation can inactivate human coronaviruses if irradiated for a certain period of time.

[0091] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12(A), in Example 2, at position G with maximum intensity, the change in viral titer was 10 in approximately 10 seconds. -2 It was below that, and the change in viral titer was 10 in about 20 seconds. -3 The levels were below [value missing], confirming that human coronavirus can be inactivated by ultraviolet light. Furthermore, even at the lowest intensity position H, the change in viral titer was 10 in about 60 seconds. -2 It has been confirmed that even weak ultraviolet light can inactivate human coronaviruses if irradiated for a certain period of time. <Example 3>

[0092] In the experiment, 30 μL / cm³ of suspensions of human coronavirus (HCoV-OC43 strain), influenza A virus (H1N1 subtype PR8 strain), and Escherichia coli (ATCC25922 strain) were applied to the underside and inner end surface of a handle lever (Miwa Lock Co., Ltd.: model number LA-22, material: aluminum). 2The mixture was applied in this manner, and ultraviolet light was irradiated from a UV LED (Nichia Corporation: model number NCSU334B) at a forward current of 0.35A to confirm the effects of irradiation intensity and irradiation time on the inactivation of the human coronavirus.

[0093] In the experiment, we examined the effect of irradiating the human coronavirus with ultraviolet light from a single ultraviolet LED on its inactivation (see Figure 18).

[0094] In Example 3, the positional relationship between the ultraviolet LED and the handle lever was as shown in Figure 17. Specifically, the distance DS from the central axis CL of the handle lever to the center of the ultraviolet LED was 53.4 mm, and the height H from the center C of the handle lever to the center of the ultraviolet LED was 25 mm. Furthermore, the ultraviolet LED was positioned so that when viewed from below, the midpoint of the axial direction of the handle lever in the horizontal direction coincided with the center of the ultraviolet LED. In this case, when viewed from below, on the plane HA passing through the midpoint of the central axis CL of the handle lever and the center of the ultraviolet LED, the distance L2 from the ultraviolet LED to the center C of the handle lever is 57 mm, and the distance L3 from the ultraviolet LED to the inner end surface of the handle lever is 47 mm.

[0095] The ultraviolet irradiation intensity on the underside and inner end surface of the handle lever was measured using a photodiode sensor (Ophir, model PD-300UV). As shown in Figure 17(A), measurements were taken at three locations on the underside of the handle lever (P1-P3) and three locations on the inner end surface of the handle lever (P4-P6). P2 and P5 are points located on the surface HA when the handle lever is viewed from below, P1 and P3 are 35 mm away from P2 in the direction of the handle lever's central axis CL, and P4 and P6 are 35 mm away from P5 in the direction of the handle lever's central axis CL.

[0096] The handle lever used has the shape shown in Figure 17, with a width W of 23 mm and a length LG of 88 mm.

[0097] Human coronavirus inactivation was performed by irradiating human coronavirus with ultraviolet light from an ultraviolet LED, then infecting VeroE6 / TMPRSS-2 cells with the human coronavirus, and measuring the viral titer PFU / mL (hereinafter simply referred to as viral titer). In Example 3, the change in viral titer due to irradiation (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the change in viral titer) was confirmed at two locations: P3 (far distance) and P5 (near distance). P3 is the average value of 5 experiments (n=5), and P5 is the average value of 6 experiments (n=6).

[0098] First, the ultraviolet irradiation intensity in P1 to P6 is 0.071 mW / cm² for P1. 2 P2 was 0.086 mW / cm². 2 P3 was 0.066 mW / cm². 2 P4 was 0.115 mW / cm². 2 P5 was 0.183 mW / cm². 2 P6 was 0.102 mW / cm². 2 That was the case.

[0099] Then, as shown in Figure 19(B), at position P5 (close range), the change in the titer of influenza A virus and E. coli virus was 10 seconds. -2 It fell below that, and in about 30 seconds, the change in the viral titer of human coronavirus was also 10 -3 The titer changes for all viruses, including human coronavirus, influenza A virus, and E. coli, were below 10. -3 It is below that.

[0100] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19(A), even at the P3 location (long distance), the titer changes of all viruses, including human coronavirus, influenza A virus, and E. coli, were 10 in approximately 30 seconds. -2 It's below average.

[0101] The results from Examples 1-3 confirmed that human coronavirus can be inactivated by ultraviolet light, and that sterilization of the handle lever is possible when using the sterilization unit of the present invention.

[0102] Furthermore, it was confirmed that even low-intensity ultraviolet light can inactivate human coronaviruses if irradiated for a certain period of time.

[0103] Furthermore, when the results of Examples 1 and 2 were confirmed by the integrated light intensity, as shown in Figures 9(B) and 12(B), the integrated light intensity in both cases was approximately 10 mJ / cm². 2 If the above is true, the change in viral titer will be 10 -2 It is below that, and the cumulative light intensity is approximately 13 mJ / cm². 2 If the above is true, the change in viral titer will be 10 -3 It can be confirmed that the level is below a certain threshold. In other words, it has been confirmed that even if the amount of ultraviolet light is somewhat weak, if the cumulative light amount exceeds a certain level, human coronavirus can be inactivated. [Industrial applicability]

[0104] The sterilization unit of the present invention is suitable for use as a device to sterilize door handles on door sets used in entrances of residential buildings such as condominiums and hotel rooms, as well as for sterilizing door handles on emergency doors and back doors. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1 Door Set 2-seat frame 5 doors 5a surface 6 Door handles 7 Support part 7a Front page 8 Handle levers 8a Inner surface 8h recessed area 8b Slope 10 Sterilization Units 11 Base member 11a Front 11b Bottom 11c back 11d Slope 11h Recessed area 15. UV irradiation area 16 light source 17 circuit boards 20 Control Unit 20c case 21 Controller 22 Open / Close Sensor 22a Sensor body 22b Magnet 23 motion sensors 1B Door Set 2B Door frame 5B Door 5f surface 5h opening 6B Door handle 7B Support part 8B Handle Lever 8g end face 8f bottom 10B Sterilization Unit 11B Base member 11f front 13B Cover component 13W Window section 15B Ultraviolet irradiation section 16B Light source 17B circuit board 20B Control Unit 20d case 22e sensor body 22f magnet 21B Controller 22B Open / Close Sensor 23B Human Motion Sensor EW Entrance side wall EWB Entrance side wall

Claims

1. A sterilization unit for sterilizing door handles installed on doors, The sterilization unit is The door surface is provided in a position where ultraviolet light can be irradiated onto the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever of the door handle, and the ultraviolet irradiation section is provided with a light source that irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm. The ultraviolet irradiation area is, On the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever, 0.03 mW / cm² ２ It has the function of irradiating ultraviolet light with an irradiation intensity of 0.85 mW / cm² or less from a light source. The inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever has an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the surface of the door. The light source of the ultraviolet irradiation unit is When the handle lever is not operated, its optical axis intersects the inclined surface and is installed so as to be inclined with respect to the surface of the door. A sterilization unit characterized by the following features.

2. A door handle set provided on a door, A support portion erected on the surface of the aforementioned door, A handle lever whose base end is connected to the support portion, such that the tip portion can swing between an operating position and a standby position, It comprises a sterilization unit for sterilizing the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or sides of the handle lever, The sterilization unit is A sterilization unit for sterilizing the door handle provided on the surface of the door, The door handle is provided with an ultraviolet irradiation unit located in a position that allows ultraviolet light to be irradiated onto the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever, and the ultraviolet irradiation unit has a light source that irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm. The ultraviolet irradiation area is, The handle lever has a function to irradiate the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light with an irradiation intensity of 0.03 mW / cm² or more and 0.85 mW / cm² or less from a light source. The inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever has an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the surface of the door. The sterilization unit is The optical axis of the light source of the ultraviolet irradiation unit is positioned at the connection point between the door surface and the support unit such that it intersects with the inclined surface when the handle lever is in the standby position. A door handle set characterized by the following features.

3. A door handle set provided on a door, A support portion erected on the surface of the aforementioned door, A handle lever whose base end is connected to the support portion, such that the tip portion can swing between an operating position and a standby position, It comprises a sterilization unit for sterilizing the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or sides of the handle lever, The sterilization unit is A sterilization unit for sterilizing the door handle provided on the surface of the door, The door handle is provided with an ultraviolet irradiation unit located in a position that allows ultraviolet light to be irradiated onto the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever, and the ultraviolet irradiation unit has a light source that irradiates the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 365 nm. The ultraviolet irradiation area is, The handle lever has a function to irradiate the inner surface and / or bottom surface and / or side surface of the handle lever with ultraviolet light with an irradiation intensity of 0.03 mW / cm² or more and 0.85 mW / cm² or less from a light source. The aforementioned handle lever is, It has a lower surface parallel to the normal direction of the surface of the door, The sterilization unit is The optical axis of the light source of the ultraviolet irradiation unit is positioned so as to intersect with the lower surface of the handle lever when the handle lever is in the standby position. A door handle set characterized by the following features.

4. The irradiation time of the ultraviolet light is adjusted to 10 to 120 seconds. The sterilization unit according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

5. The irradiation time of the ultraviolet light is adjusted to 10 to 120 seconds. The door handle set according to feature 2.

6. The irradiation time of the ultraviolet light is adjusted to 10 to 120 seconds. The door handle set according to claim 3.

7. The ultraviolet irradiation section is The distance from the light source to the inner surface of the handle lever is set to 100 mm or less. A sterilization unit according to claim 1 or 4, characterized by the features described herein.

8. The ultraviolet irradiation section is The distance from the light source to the inner surface of the handle lever is set to 100 mm or less. The door handle set according to claim 2 or 5, characterized in that it is a door handle set according to claim 2 or 5.

9. The ultraviolet irradiation section is The distance from the light source to the inner surface of the handle lever is set to 100 mm or less. The door handle set according to claim 3 or 6, characterized by the features described above.

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