Slimline air disinfection module

Abstract

A slimline air disinfection module (16) providing unimpeded air flow for use within an air disinfection unit (10, 100, 200, 300) is provided. The module (16) comprises a module inlet (30) disposed in a front side of a module housing (17), a module outlet (32) disposed in an upper end of the housing (17), a UV lamp (36), an air filter 38 and fan means (34) disposed within the housing (17), and duct means (31) for ducting air from the fan means (34) towards the module outlet (32) in a direction substantially perpendicular to a central axis of the fan means (34), wherein the air filter (38) and UV lamp (36) is positioned within the duct means (31).

Description

[0001] SLIMLINE AIR DISINFECTION MODULE

[0002] The present invention relates to a slimline air disinfection module suitable particularly but not exclusively, for use within an air disinfection unit.

[0003] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0004] The accumulation of airborne pathogens such as bacteria and viruses in certain spaces, particularly indoor spaces, can pose a serious health risk because breathing in the pathogens can cause a person to develop an illness, for example, a respiratory illness.

[0005] A person usually spends a lot of time indoors i.e., in a room. Therefore, there is a particular need to be able to disinfect air in environments such as this to reduce the number of airborne pathogens in the air. This helps to reduce the possibility of developing an illness from the pathogens and to reduce the risk of airborne crosscontamination between one person to another who use the same rooms.

[0006] Air disinfection units, apparatuses or systems usually feature relatively sharp corners and edges and includes switches, adjustable feet, handles, control knobs or other parts that protrude from one or more faces. Therefore, they are not suitable to be used or fitted in environments where there is a high risk of abuse or self-harm, for example, in mental health hospitals, patient bedrooms, prisons, and immigration centres.

[0007] Typically, wall-mounted or floor standing air disinfection units are quite bulky and take up a lot of space in the room. They are designed and made using a combination of materials, such as, wood, aluminium or glass, and are easy to dismantle to aid with their maintenance and repair. They are easy targets for tampering and / or vandalism since it is not difficult to take them apart and access the components inside.

[0008] Current air disinfection units come in standard sizes. For a larger room, multiple air disinfection units may be required to effectively disinfect the air in the room. This can obstruct more of the floor and / or require finding additional suitable wall space (where attachments will not impact utilities in the wall), neither of which is ideal.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to reduce or substantially obviate the aforementioned problems. STATEMENT OF INVENTION

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a slimline air disinfection module providing unimpeded air flow for use within an air disinfection unit, the module comprising: a housing; a module inlet disposed in a front side of the housing; a module outlet disposed in an upper end of the housing; a UV lamp for disinfecting air, an air filter for removing odour and particulates from air and fan means for drawing air into the housing and forcing air out of the housing, the UV lamp, air filter and fan means being disposed within the housing, the fan means having a central axis substantially perpendicular to the front side of the housing; and duct means for ducting air from the fan means towards the module outlet in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the fan means, the air filter and UV lamp being positioned within the duct means.

[0011] The module is slimline in a way that it may have a depth of no more than 80 mm. Preferably, the module may have a depth no more than 60 mm, and more preferably, no more than 50 mm.

[0012] Advantageously, this provides a slender air disinfection module by allowing air to be drawn in through the front of the module and be released through the top of the module. The module does not take up too much space and thereby can be used and disposed within a slender or slimline air disinfection unit.

[0013] The module is suitable for use within the air disinfection unit in that it is suitable to be positioned and fixed to the inside of the air disinfection unit.

[0014] The module is suitable to be incorporated into and / or used within an air disinfection unit such as a bedhead unit (e.g. a medical bedhead unit), a wall-fixed unit (e.g. a wall- fixed decor panel unit) and a bathroom unit.

[0015] One or more modules may be provided within a single air disinfection unit. The module inlet may be a vent or aperture that allows air to enter the housing. The module inlet may be disposed in a lower section of the front side or wall of the housing.

[0016] The module outlet may be a vent or aperture that allows air to exit the housing. The module outlet may be disposed in an upper wall of the housing.

[0017] The fan means may be disposed within a lower section of the housing.

[0018] The duct means may have an overall curved extent from bottom to top. For example, a first section of the duct means may extend substantially along a lateral side of the housing and a second section of the duct means may extend from the first section in a direction towards a vertical centre of the housing.

[0019] The UV lamp and the air filter may be positioned within the first section of the duct means.

[0020] The fan means may be disposed next to the module inlet. This allows the fan means to draw air straight into the module i.e., the air is drawn into the module through the module inlet and directly through the fan means.

[0021] During operation of the fan means, air may be drawn into the fan means through a first side of the fan means. The first side may be considered a front side of the fan means.

[0022] The first side of the fan means may be positioned substantially in line with the module inlet. In other words, a central portion or axis of the module inlet may be substantially aligned with the central axis of the fan means. This means that the air enters through the fan means in a direction parallel to the central axis of the fan means.

[0023] During operation of the fan means, air may be forced out of the fan means through a second side of the fan means in a direction which is at a substantially perpendicular angle to the first side of the fan means. This means that air is forced out through a side of the fan means at an angle to the incoming air i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the fan means.

[0024] The second side may be a side on a circumference of the fan means.

[0025] The second side of the fan means may be disposed at an upper end of the fan means.

[0026] The fan means may direct the air towards an upper section of the module. The fan means may direct the air towards the module outlet. The air may flow from the fan means towards the module outlet in a single direction.

[0027] The fan means may be a centrifugal fan.

[0028] The duct means may be provided above the fan means, i.e., in the upper section of the module.

[0029] The UV lamp may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the vertical extent of the housing. In other words, the UV lamp may lie horizontally across the module.

[0030] The UV lamp may be disposed next to the module outlet. This allows cleaned air to be directly released out of the air disinfection module.

[0031] The UV lamp may be spaced away from the module outlet by a predetermined distance. This reduces the risk of UV light escaping out of the module from the module outlet.

[0032] The position of the fan means and the position of the UV lamp allow air to be drawn in through the bottom of the module and allow cleaned air to be released through the top of the module.

[0033] The air filter may be disposed between the UV lamp and the fan means. This allows particulates and odour to be removed from the air that has entered the module before being disinfected by the UV lamp.

[0034] The air filter may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the vertical extent of the housing. In other words, the air filter may horizontally lie across the module.

[0035] In some embodiments, the air filter may be disposed next to the module inlet or module outlet.

[0036] The UV lamp may be an Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) tube. The UV lamp may be a photo catalytic oxidation (PCO) tube or cell.

[0037] The air filter may be impregnated with ODOGard (RTM) treatment. This allows airborne smell or odour to be eliminated from the air.

[0038] The air filter may be a high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter, a carbon filter, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) filter, or a combination of such filters. The air filter allows particulates such as dust or pollen to be removed from the air. Connection means may be provided for allowing the module to be secured to or within the air disinfection unit.

[0039] The connection means may be in the form of one or more flanges extending away from housing of the module.

[0040] The one or more flanges may be arranged on the exterior of the module housing. The flanges may be spaced around an external periphery of the housing. The flanges may be substantially coplanar.

[0041] The one or more flanges may be provided to a rear wall of the housing. This allows the module to be secured to a rear wall or member of the air disinfection unit.

[0042] One or more apertures may be provided in the one or more flanges. This allows fixing means such as bolts, screws or rivets to extend though the one or more flanges for connecting the module to the air disinfection unit.

[0043] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a slimline modular air disinfection unit suitable for fixing onto a wall, the unit comprising: one or more rear support members and a front cover panel connectable together to form one or more secure enclosures; one or more enclosure inlets disposed in a front side of the unit and one or more enclosure outlets disposed in an upper side of the unit, the or each enclosure inlet allowing air to enter the one or more enclosures and the or each enclosure outlet allowing air to exit the one or more enclosures; one or more air disinfection modules according to the first aspect of the invention, the or each module being disposed within the one or more enclosures; and an air path for connecting the or each enclosure inlet to a corresponding module inlet of the one or more modules and the or each enclosure outlet to a corresponding module outlet of the one or more modules, wherein the air is drawn into the one or more enclosures through the one or more enclosure inlets, through the module inlet and module outlet of the one or more modules, and out of the one or more enclosures through the one or more enclosure outlets. Advantageously, this provides an air disinfection unit suitable for cleaning air, particularly in indoor environments, without taking up a lot of space. The unit is a modular structure so different sizes of the unit can be provided depending on the size of a room, the desired length and width of the unit by a user, or the number of air disinfection modules required in the unit. This ensures that air can be properly and effectively disinfected within the room.

[0044] The unit is suitable for fixing onto a wall.ie In use, the unit may in some embodiments be fixed to the wall. However, in other embodiments the unit may not be fixed to a wall.

[0045] The unit may be independently selected from a bedhead unit (e.g. a medical bedhead unit), a wall-fixed decor panel unit or a bathroom unit.

[0046] The unit may be provided in areas such as corridors, waiting rooms or ward areas for example, in schools or hospitals.

[0047] Air can be drawn into the secure enclosure through the front of the unit and be released back into the room through the top of the unit. This allows cleaned or disinfected air to be blown out of the unit without causing substantial disturbance to the user. This also further enables the unit to have a slim design.

[0048] Furthermore, surfaces within a room can be disinfected to some extent by the cleaned air. The disinfection of air reduces the number of pathogens and particulates in the air and on the surfaces, thereby minimising mould or bacterial growth (for example) developing on the surfaces and reducing the risk of people developing illnesses from inhaling the air.

[0049] The enclosure is secure in a way that it prevents air from entering or exiting the unit other than through the enclosure inlet and enclosure outlet. In addition, the enclosure is secure in a way that prevents the user from easily prying open the enclosure and accessing the air disinfection module.

[0050] The front of the unit is the part of the unit visible to the user, in use.

[0051] The front cover panel may include a front member, an upper member, a lower member, a first side member and a second side member. This forms a space where the one or more modules can be provided in the unit. The one or more enclosure inlets may be provided in the front member of the front cover panel. The one or more enclosure inlets may be provided in a lower end or section of the front member.

[0052] The one or more enclosure inlets may be formed by one or more perforations or one or more first elongate apertures. The one or more perforations or the one or more first elongate apertures may be sized appropriately to prevent a user’s hands or fingers from being inserted through the unit, thereby reducing the risk of the user causing harm using the unit.

[0053] When the one or more enclosure inlets are in the form of the one or more first elongate apertures, a body or set of bodies may be disposed at or next to one, some or all of the enclosure inlets.

[0054] The body or set of bodies may be disposed between the front cover panel and the one or more rear support members. The body or set of bodies may be disposed between the one, some or all of the enclosure inlets and a corresponding module inlet of the one or more modules.

[0055] The body or set of bodies may be positioned to be fixed and to abut a rear face of the front member of the front cover panel.

[0056] The body or set of bodies may be made from metal. Preferably, the body or set of bodies may be made from sheet metal.

[0057] The body or set of bodies may be a plate or a set of plates.

[0058] One or more secondary inlets may be disposed in the or each body. The or each secondary inlet may have the form of a second elongate aperture which is aligned with a corresponding one of the first elongate apertures.

[0059] The or each second elongate aperture may have a width and / or length smaller than its corresponding first elongate aperture.

[0060] A finger guide or set of finger guides may be disposed adjacent to one, some or all of the second elongate apertures for aiding wiping of a corresponding one of the second elongate apertures.

[0061] Advantageously, this helps to prevent the user from inserting their hands, fingers or objects into the unit. This also helps with cleaning the unit since the one or more first elongate apertures and / or the one or more second elongate apertures can be easily wiped clean, for example, using a cloth and the user’s finger.

[0062] In some embodiments, the finger guide or the set of finger guides may integrally form part of the body or set of bodies.

[0063] The or each finger guide may be formed as a recessed region in the body or set of bodies. The or each recessed region may be recessed towards a rear of the unit.

[0064] The finger guide or set of finger guides may be pressed on the body or set of bodies, for example, pressed on the sheet metal. This allows the finger guide or set of finger guides to be formed on a standard material, i.e., a standard plate, regardless of the material of the front cover panel. This reduces machining or forming of the front cover panel.

[0065] The or each finger guide may have a concave shape.

[0066] The finger guide or set of finger guides may surround one, some or all of the second elongate apertures.

[0067] The one or more enclosure outlets may be provided in the upper member of the front cover panel.

[0068] The one or more enclosure outlets may be formed by one or more perforations or one or more third elongate apertures. The one or more perforations or the one or more third elongate apertures may be sized to prevent a user’s hands or fingers from being inserted through the unit.

[0069] In some embodiments, the one or more first elongate apertures and / or the one or more third elongate apertures may have a width of around 12-20 mm, or any value (particularly an integer value) in that range.

[0070] In some embodiments, the one or more perforations forming the one or more enclosure inlets and / or the one or more enclosure outlets may each have a diameter or width of 2-8 mm, or any value (particularly an integer value) in that range.

[0071] The plurality of perforations may have a centre distance of 3-10 mm, or any value (particularly an integer value). The centre distance means the distance between a centre of a perforation and a centre of another perforation. In some embodiments, the upper member, lower member, first side member and second side member of the front cover panel may be planar members.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first side member and / or second side member may have tapered ends. The upper member and / or lower member may extend at an angle from a horizontal axis of the unit. The first and / or second side members may extend parallel to a vertical axis of the unit. Some or all of these features can allow the ends of the upper member, lower member, first side member and second side member to connect to each other.

[0073] In some embodiments, at least the upper member and lower member of the front cover panel may be formed with a curved surface. The upper member and lower member may have an arcuate shape. This provides the upper and lower members with a shape that prevents objects from being hooked onto the unit thereby acting as an anti-ligature feature to the unit.

[0074] Corner members may be provided to connect the first and second side members to the upper and lower members.

[0075] The corner members may be curved, for example, the corner members may have an arcuate shape or a quadrant shaped profile. The curved nature of the corner members serves to prevent items from being suspended from the unit.

[0076] In some embodiments, a front cover channel may be formed in the upper and lower members for receiving upper and lower ends or edges of the front member. This allows the front member to be securely anchored to the upper and lower members.

[0077] The front cover channel may be formed with an inner face of the upper and lower members. This allows the upper and lower ends of the front member to be concealed from the user.

[0078] In some embodiments, the upper and lower ends of the front member may be fixed to the upper and lower members using fixing means such as screws, rivets or bolts.

[0079] In some embodiments, side ends of the upper member, lower member and the front member may abut inner faces of the first and second side members. This ensures that the side ends of the upper member, lower member and front member are concealed from view. The first and second side members may include one or more rims or grooves for receiving and engaging with a side end of the upper member, lower member and / or front member.

[0080] The or each rim or groove may be provided on a corresponding upper end, lower end and / or front side of the first and second side members. This ensures that the user cannot pry open the sides of the unit or hook anything onto them.

[0081] The or each rim or groove may have a depth in the range of 4-10 mm (or any integer value or range of values in that range).

[0082] In some embodiments, the side members may be fixed to the front member, upper member and / or lower member using fixing means such as screws, rivets or bolts.

[0083] In some embodiments, the one or more rear support members may include a rim(s) or groove(s) for receiving an upper end of the upper member and / or a lower end of the lower member.

[0084] A part or portion of the one or more rear support members may be received by the front cover panel. This allows the one or more rear support members to be connected to the front cover panel.

[0085] The one or more rear support members may be the part of the unit fixable onto the wall, which may, for example, be a wall of a room.

[0086] The or each module may be fixed to the one or more rear support members.

[0087] The or each enclosure inlet may be positioned in line with its corresponding module inlet. In other words, a central portion or axis of the or each enclosure inlet may be aligned with a central portion or axis of its corresponding module inlet. This allows air from the room to be drawn directly into the one or more modules.

[0088] The or each enclosure outlet may be positioned in line with its corresponding module outlet. In other words, a central portion or axis of the or each enclosure outlet may be aligned with a central portion or axis of its corresponding module outlet. This allows cleaned air to be released from the one or more modules directly to the outside of the unit.

[0089] A display or image may be provided to cover the front cover panel. The display or image may be provided on or attachable (using suitable connection means) to the front member of the front cover panel. This makes the unit more aesthetically pleasing and provides a better working, learning, or healing environment for the user.

[0090] The display or image may be a digital print, canvas or vinyl wrapping.

[0091] A reflective foil or mirror may be provided to the front cover panel, for example when the unit is a bathroom unit.

[0092] The unit may have a depth of no more than 100 mm. Preferably, the unit may have a depth no more than 80 mm, and more preferably, no more than 70 mm. This allows the unit to have a slender or slimline design, which does not take up too much space in the room. This also allows the unit to be more aesthetically pleasing.

[0093] The unit may be made from metal (such as aluminium), plastic (such as polycarbonate), or a combination of metal(s) and plastic(s). For example, the unit may be made from sheet metal or a combination of sheet metal, extruded metal and / or 3D printed plastic.

[0094] In some embodiments, any independently selected one, some or all of the upper member, lower member, first side member and second side member of the front cover panel may be made from aluminium. The front member of the front cover panel may be made from steel, e.g. a flat steel sheet. These embodiments may be considered as heavy-duty versions of the unit.

[0095] In some embodiments, any independently selected one, some or all of the front member, upper member, lower member, first side member and second side member of the front cover panel may be made from polycarbonate, for example a polycarbonate sheet. This is advantageous this allows the unit to be made from a strong but light material which is easier to fabricate.

[0096] In addition, because polycarbonate materials are transparent, the display or image and / or the reflective foil or mirror can be provided or attached to an inner surface of the front cover panel but still be visible to the user from outside the unit. This minimises the risk of tampering, and the potential problems associated with vinyl wrapping can be eliminated.

[0097] The or each enclosure inlet and its corresponding module inlet and corresponding first side of the fan means may be positioned in line with each other. In other words, the central portion or axis of the or each enclosure inlet and its corresponding module inlet may be aligned with its corresponding first side of the fan means. An outlet channel may be provided for connecting the or each enclosure outlet to its corresponding module outlet. This allows cleaned air to be released from the air disinfection module and directly out of the unit.

[0098] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a slimline air disinfection unit for fixing onto a wall, the unit comprising: a rear support member and a front cover panel connectable together to form a secure enclosure; an enclosure inlet disposed in a front side of the unit and an enclosure outlet disposed in an upper side of the unit, the enclosure inlet allowing air to enter the enclosure and the enclosure outlet allowing air to exit the enclosure; an air disinfection module according to the first aspect of the invention disposed within the enclosure; and an air path for connecting the enclosure inlet to the module inlet and the enclosure outlet to the module outlet, wherein during use air is drawn into the enclosure through the enclosure inlet, through the module inlet and module outlet of the module, and out of the enclosure through the enclosure outlet.

[0099] The third aspect may include any feature or independently selected combination of features presented with respect to the above aspects of the invention.

[0100] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a slimline air disinfection unit for fixing onto a wall, the unit comprising : one or more rear support members and a front cover panel connectable together to form one or more secure enclosures; one or more enclosure inlets, the or each enclosure inlets being in the form of one or more first elongate apertures, and one or more enclosure outlets, the or each enclosure inlet allowing air to enter the one or more enclosures and the or each enclosure outlet allowing air to exit the one or more enclosures; a body or set of bodies which are disposed at or next to one, some or all of the enclosure inlets, the body or set of bodies being disposed between the front cover panel and one or more rear support members; one or more secondary inlets disposed in the or each body, the or each secondary inlet having the form of a second elongate aperture which is aligned with a corresponding one of the first elongate apertures, the or each second elongate aperture having a width / or length smaller than its corresponding first elongate aperture; and a finger guide or a set of finger guides which are adjacent to one, some or all of the second elongate apertures for aiding wiping of a corresponding one of the second elongate apertures.

[0101] Advantageously, this helps with cleaning the unit as the one or more enclosure inlets and the one or more secondary inlets can be easily wiped clean, for example, using a cloth and the user’s finger whilst preventing the user from inserting their hands, fingers or objects into the unit.

[0102] The one or more first elongate apertures may have a width of around 12-20 mm.

[0103] The one or more enclosure inlets may be disposed in a front side of the unit. The one or more enclosure inlets may be disposed in a front member of the front cover panel.

[0104] The body or set of bodies may be fixed to and abut a rear face of the front member of the front cover panel. The body or set of bodies are provided separately to the front cover panel. This allows the front cover panel to be made from a different material to the body or set of bodies if required.

[0105] The body or set of bodies may be a plate or a set of plates.

[0106] The body or set of bodies may be made from metal. Preferably, the body or set of bodies may be made from sheet metal.

[0107] In some embodiments, the finger guide or the set of finger guides may integrally form part of the body or set of bodies.

[0108] The or each finger guide may be formed as a recessed region in the body or set of bodies. The or each recessed region may be recessed towards a rear of the unit.

[0109] The finger guide or set of finger guides may be pressed on the body or set of bodies, for example, pressed on the sheet metal. This allows the finger guide or set of finger guides to be formed on the body or set of bodies, regardless of the material of the front cover panel. This reduces machining or forming of the front cover panel. The or each finger guide may have a concave shape.

[0110] The finger guide or set of finger guides may surround one, some or all of the second elongate apertures.

[0111] The one or more enclosure outlets may be disposed in an upper side of the unit.

[0112] The fourth aspect may include any feature or independently selected combination of features presented with respect to the above aspects of the invention.

[0113] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of units according to the second, third and / or fourth aspect of the invention may be provided.

[0114] The plurality of units may be disposed next to each other, for example the plurality of units may be fixable to the wall adjacent each other.

[0115] The plurality of units may be joined or connected together.

[0116] In embodiments where a display or image is provided to the front cover panel of each unit, the display or image of each unit may form part of an overall display or image. In other words, the display or image of each unit is a portion of the overall display or image, or that the overall display or image is split between the units.

[0117] In embodiments where the plurality of units is joined or connected together, joining lines between each unit would be minimal, and thus the overall effect of the overall (large) display or image is not lost.

[0118] In embodiments where the plurality of units is made from polycarbonate, the display or image may be provided on an inner surface of the front cover panel of the units.

[0119] One some or all of the units may be fixed to the wall using a top and / or bottom rail system.

[0120] One, some or all of the units may be 500 mm wide and 1500 mm high. One, some or all of the units may have 100 mm returns along one or both of its long edges, thus creating a U-shaped front cover panel. The formed side members of the front cover panel of the unit(s) may be returned to the wall and would not be visible to the user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0121] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0122] Figure 1 a shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a slimline modular air disinfection unit of the present invention;

[0123] Figure 1 b shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 a;

[0124] Figure 2a shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a slimline modular air disinfection unit of the present invention;

[0125] Figure 2b shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 2a;

[0126] Figure 3a shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of a slimline modular air disinfection unit of the present invention;

[0127] Figure 3b shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 3b;

[0128] Figure 4a shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a slimline air disinfection unit of the present invention;

[0129] Figure 4b shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 4a;

[0130] Figures 5a shows a perspective view of an air disinfection module of the present invention for use within the air disinfection unit of Figures 1 a to 4b;

[0131] Figure 5b shows a front view of the air disinfection module of Figure 5a;

[0132] Figure 6a shows a perspective view of the interior of the air disinfection module of Figures 5a and 5b;

[0133] Figure 6b shows a front view of the interior of the air disinfection module of Figure 6a; and

[0134] Figure 7 shows a front view of a set of secondary inlets provided behind each enclosure inlet at a front of the unit of Figure 1 a and 1 b. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0135] Referring firstly to Figures 1 a and 1 b, a first embodiment of a slimline modular air disinfection unit for fixing onto a wall in an indoor environment, e.g., a room, is generally indicated at 10.

[0136] The unit 10 is a rectangular structure comprising a front cover panel 12 and two rear support members 14 connectable to the front cover panel 12 to form two secure enclosures on either side of the unit 10.

[0137] An air disinfection module 16 is disposed within each enclosure. The air disinfection module 16 will be described in more detail below.

[0138] The front cover panel 12 includes a front member 18, an upper member 20, a lower member (not shown) opposite the upper member 20, a first side member (not shown) and a second side member 22 opposite the first side member, which are all planar members in this embodiment.

[0139] Smooth arcuate corner members 24 connect the first and second 22 side members to the upper 20 and lower members forming a frame. Ends or edges of the front member 18 are fixed to a front side of the frame.

[0140] Two enclosure inlets 26 are provided at either side of a lower section of the front member 18, each formed as a plurality of parallel first elongate apertures. That is, as viewed from the front, the apertures are in or towards the lower-left and lower-right corners of the front cover panel 12.

[0141] Each first elongate aperture may have a width of around 12-20 mm.

[0142] Two enclosure outlets 28 are provided in either side of the upper member 18, directly above the respective enclosure inlets 26. Each enclosure outlet 28 is formed as a plurality of perforations forming an overall rectangular outlet.

[0143] The enclosure outlets 28 are sized small enough to prevent a user from inserting their hands, fingers or objects into the unit 10.

[0144] Each rear support member 14 is a rectangular member with opposing folded sides 15. A body of each folded side 15 extends perpendicularly away from the rear support member 14 towards the front cover panel 12. Ends of each folded side 15 is further folded and extend perpendicularly away from the body towards the other folded side The folded sides 15 of each rear support member 14 are received by the front cover panel 12, forming two secure enclosures each housing an air disinfection module 16. The ends of the folded sides 15 of each rear support member 14 are fixed to the upper 18 and lower members of the front cover panel 12 using fixing means such as rivets or bolts.

[0145] A respective enclosure outlet 28 is disposed between the ends of the folded sides 15 of each rear support member 14.

[0146] Each rear support member 14 is fixable onto a wall of a room using suitable fixing means.

[0147] In this embodiment, the air disinfection modules 16 are disposed at a lower section of the unit 10. Each module 16 is fixed to a respective rear support member 14. This is described in more detail below.

[0148] Referring to Figures 2a to 4b, second, third and fourth embodiments of the air disinfection unit are generally indicated at 100, 200 and 300, respectively. These embodiments are suitable as anti-ligature units for use in an environment with high risk of abuse and self-harm, for example, in a mental health hospital, a patient bedroom, a prison or an immigration centre.

[0149] The unit may be used as a bedhead unit, a wall-fixed decor panel unit, or a bathroom unit, for example.

[0150] The third and fourth embodiments are smaller air disinfection units 200, 300 and include one enclosure inlet 226, 326, one enclosure outlet 228, 328 and one rear support member 214, 314.

[0151] In the anti-ligature units, the enclosure inlet(s) 126, 226, 326 is provided as a plurality of perforations forming an overall circular inlet in the lower section of the front member 1 18, 218, 318. The enclosure outlet(s) 128, 228, 328 is provided as a plurality of perforations forming an overall rectangular outlet in the upper member 120, 220, 320. The enclosure inlet(s) 126, 226, 326 and enclosure outlet(s) 128, 228, 328 are sized small enough to prevent a user from inserting their hands, fingers or objects into the unit 100, 200, 300.

[0152] The upper 120, 220, 320 and lower 121 , 221 , 321 members are formed with a curved or arcuate surface. In particular, the curved surface curves from substantially horizontal at the wall-adjacent end to substantially vertical at the front cover-adjacent end (in the frame of reference of the units depicted). This prevents an object from being hooked onto the unit 100, 200, 300, further mitigating against a user from potentially causing harm by means of / involving the unit 100, 200, 300.

[0153] In Figures 2a, 2b, 4a and 4b, the upper 120, 320 and lower members 121 , 321 are integrally formed with the front member 118, 318. The first 123, 323 and second 122, 222, 322 side members have a profile that matches or complements the side profile of the unit 100, 200, 300.

[0154] In the second and fourth embodiments, the first 123, 323 and second 122, 322 side members include grooves 125, 325 for receiving and engaging with side ends of the upper member 120, 320, lower member 121 , 321 and front member 118, 318. This allows the upper 120, 320 and lower 121 , 321 members and the front member 118, 318 to be anchored by the first 123, 323 and second 122, 322 side members, and be concealed from the view of the user.

[0155] In the second embodiment, each rear support member 114 is provided as a pair of elongate L-shaped brackets extending from bottom to top of the unit 100. A first arm of each bracket is fixable to the wall of the room and the second arm is received by the front cover panel. A second arm of one of the brackets of each rear support member 1 14 is fixed to a respective side member 122, 123.

[0156] Elongate and planar members 127 are provided as further fixing structures between the upper 120 and lower 121 members, and the rear support members 1 14. Each member 127 includes a groove 129 disposed along one side for receiving an upper end of the upper member 120 and a lower end of the lower member 121 .

[0157] In the third embodiment, the first and second 222 side members are fixed to the front member, and rear support member 214 using fixing means. Corner members 124 with a quadrant shaped profile are provided and fixed to side ends of the upper 220 and lower 221 members, and upper and lower ends of the first and second 222 side members.

[0158] In the third and fourth embodiments, the rear support member 214, 314 is provided for forming a secure enclosure with the front cover panel 212, 312. Folded sides 215, 315 of the rear support member 214, 314 have a shorter length than the overall length of the rear support member 214, 314. The folded sides 215, 315 are received by the front cover panel 212, 312 and are fixed to the first 323 and second 222, 322 side members of the front cover panel 212, 312 using fixing means such as rivets or bolts. In the fourth embodiment, upper and lower ends of the rear support member 314 include grooves 329 which receive the upper end of the upper member 320 and the lower end of the lower member 321 .

[0159] Due to the smaller size of the third and fourth embodiments of the unit 200, 300, the air disinfection module 16 substantially fills the enclosure space of the unit 200, 300.

[0160] In all embodiments, the or each module 16 includes a housing 17 having a front wall, a rear wall and side walls.

[0161] Each module 16 has connection means for securing the module to a unit. In this embodiment, the connection means is provided in the form of four substantially rectangular flanges 44 (which can be more clearly seen in Figures 5a to 6b). The flanges 44 extend away from the housing 17 and are provided in the same plane as the rear wall of the housing 17.

[0162] Two flanges 44 extend away from an upper end of the rear wall, on either side of the housing 17. Two other flanges 44 extend away from either side of a lower section of the rear wall of the housing 17.

[0163] An aperture is provided substantially centrally in each flange 44. Fixing means such as one or more screws, bolts and / or rivets can be used to fix the module 16 to the rear support member 14, 1 14, 214, 314 of the unit 10, 100, 200, 300 via the flanges and apertures.

[0164] A module inlet 30 is provided as a circular aperture in a lower section of a front wall of each housing 17, and a module outlet 32 is provided as a rectangular aperture in an upper side wall of each housing 17, as can be more clearly seen in Figures 5a and 5b.

[0165] The two flanges 44 provided to the upper end of the rear wall of the housing 17 are each provided on either side of the module outlet 32.

[0166] The other two flanges 44 are provided below a central axis of the module inlet 30. The central axis of the module inlet 30 is the axis along which airflow enters the module inlet 30. In other words, the central axis is parallel to the direction of air flow into the module inlet 30.

[0167] Referring to Figures 6a and 6b, fan means 34 is disposed in a lower section of the housing 17, a UV lamp 36 is disposed in an upper section of the housing 17, and an air filter 38 is disposed between the fan means 34 and UV lamp 36. Air is drawn along a path into the module 16 through the module inlet 30, through the fan means 34, air filter 38 and UV lamp 36, and forced out through the module outlet 32.

[0168] The air filter 38 removes odour and particulates such as dust and pollen from the air. The air filter 38 can be a HEPA filter, a carbon filter, a PET filter or a combination of such filters.

[0169] The air filter 38 is impregnated with ODOGard (RTM) treatment. This technology or treatment helps to quickly and permanently eliminate odour in the air by bonding to odour molecules.

[0170] The air filter 38 covers the whole width of the housing 17 of the module 16 to ensure that most of the particulates and odour are removed from the air.

[0171] The UV lamp 36 disinfects i.e., kills or removes pathogens from the air. The UV lamp 36 can be a UV-C tube, or a PCO tube or cell. The UV lamp 36 reduces the number of pathogens in the air that can cause an illness.

[0172] The UV lamp 36 lies horizontally across the width of the housing 17 of the module 16. This ensures that air is efficiently disinfected as it flows through the module 16.

[0173] An air entry side of the fan means 34 is positioned in line with the enclosure inlet 26, 126, 226, 326 and the module inlet 30. This means that air flows in one direction through the enclosure inlet 26, 126, 226, 326, module inlet 30 and the fan means 34. This allows the fan means 34 to directly draw in air from the outside of the unit 10, 100, 200, 300 to the inside of the module 16.

[0174] Air is forced out of the fan means 34 at an angle from the flow of incoming air, which is substantially towards the left side of a central section of the module 16 as can be seen in Figure 4b. The fan means 34 may be a centrifugal fan. The fan means includes a fan housing 35 which directs air from the fan means 34 towards an upper section of the module 16.

[0175] An air flow channel or duct means 31 in the upper section of the module 16 enables the air to flow from the fan means 34 through the air filter 38 and UV lamp 36 before exiting the module 16 through the module outlet 32 provided in the upper side wall of the housing 17. The air flow channel substantially curves from the left side of the module 16 towards the centre of the module 16, between lateral sides of the module 16. In the first embodiment of Figures 1 a and 1 b, two plates 40 (more clearly seen in Figure 7) are provided between the enclosure inlet 26 and the module inlet 30 i.e. , one either side of the unit 10, and are each fixed to a rear face of the front member 18.

[0176] Secondary inlets in the form of second elongate apertures 40a are formed through each plate 40. Each second elongate aperture 40a is aligned with a corresponding first elongate aperture and has a width and length smaller than the corresponding first elongate aperture. The secondary inlets further restrict access to the unit 10 for substantially preventing insertion of a foreign body e.g., a user’s finger.

[0177] Each plate 40 includes recessed regions 40b. Each recessed region 40b is recessed towards a rear of the unit 10. Each recessed region 40b forms a finger guide 40a which surrounds a corresponding second elongate aperture 40a. Each finger guide 40a has a concave shape. The finger guides allow each first elongate aperture and each second elongate aperture 40a to be easily wiped clean for example, using a cloth and the user’s finger.

[0178] An outlet channel 42, 142, 242, 342 extends from the or each module outlet 32 to its corresponding enclosure outlet 20, 120, 220, 230 and connects the or each module outlet 32 to its corresponding enclosure outlet 20, 120, 220, 320.

[0179] The outlet channel 42, 142 extends substantially along the whole upper section of the unit 10, 100 in the first and second embodiments. On the other hand, the outlet channel 242, 342 extends along part of the upper section of the unit 10 in the third and fourth embodiments.

[0180] During use, air enters the unit 10, 100, 200, 300 through the enclosure inlet 26, 126, 226, 326. The air then enters the or each air disinfection module 16 through the module inlet 30 and passes through the fan means 34, air filter 38 and UV lamp 36 before the air is released out of the or each module 16 through the module outlet 32 and out of the unit 10, 100, 200, 300 through the enclosure outlet 28, 128, 228, 328. An air path through the unit 10, 100, 200, 300 is formed by the action or operation of the fan means 34.

[0181] The module 16 can have a depth of no more than 80 mm, preferably, the module no more than 60 mm, and more preferably, no more than 50 mm. This allows air to be drawn in air through the front of the module 16 and be released through the top of the module 16. The module 16 does not take up too much space and thereby can be used and disposed within a slender or slimline air disinfection unit 10, 100, 200, 300. The unit 10, 100, 200, 300 can have a depth of no more than 100 mm, preferably, no more than 80 mm, and more preferably, no more than 70 mm. The unit has a slender or slimline design, which allows it to be mounted to a wall of a room without taking up too much space in the room. The unit 10, 100, 200, 300 allows air in a room to be effectively disinfected no matter the size of the room. This also helps to reduce the pathogens sticking to surfaces in the room and remove bad odour in the air. The unit 100, 200, 300 can be useful in an environment where there is a high risk of abuse and self-harm since the unit cannot be easily dismantled and has anti-ligature features. The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A slimline air disinfection module providing unimpeded air flow for use within an air disinfection unit, the module comprising: a housing; a module inlet disposed in a front side of the housing; a module outlet disposed in an upper end of the housing; a UV lamp for disinfecting air, an air filter for removing odour and particulates from air and fan means for drawing air into the housing and forcing air out of the housing, the UV lamp, air filter and fan means being disposed within the housing, the fan means having a central axis substantially perpendicular to the front side of the housing; and duct means for ducting air from the fan means towards the module outlet in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the fan means, the air filter and UV lamp being positioned within the duct means.

2. A module as claimed in claim 1 , in which, during operation of the fan means, air is drawn into the fan means through a first side of the fan means and forced out through a second side of the fan means in a direction which is at a substantially perpendicular angle to the first side.

3. A module as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, in which the fan means is a centrifugal fan.

4. A module as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the fan means and the module inlet are disposed next to each other and are provided in a lower section of the module.

5. A module as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the UV lamp is disposed next to the module outlet, and is disposed in an upper section of the module.

6. A module as claimed any preceding claim, in which the air filter is disposed between the UV lamp and the fan means.

7. A module as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the UV lamp is a photo catalytic oxidation (PCO) tube or cell.

8. A module as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the module has a depth of no more than 80 mm.

9. A module as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the housing includes connection means for securing the module to or within the air disinfection unit.

10. A module as claimed in claim 9, in which the connection means are in the form of one or more external flanges extending away from housing of the module.1 1 . A module as claimed in claim 10, in which the one or more external flanges are disposed at or around a rear wall of the housing, and the one or more external flanges comprise one or more apertures for receiving fixing means.

12. A slimline modular air disinfection unit for fixing onto a wall, the unit comprising: one or more rear support members and a front cover panel connectable together to form one or more secure enclosures; one or more enclosure inlets disposed in a front side of the unit and one or more enclosure outlets disposed in an upper side of the unit, the or each enclosure inlet allowing air to enter the one or more enclosures and the or each enclosure outlet allowing air to exit the one or more enclosures; one or more air disinfection modules as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , the or each one module being disposed within the one or more enclosures; and an air path for connecting the or each enclosure inlet to the a corresponding module inlet of the one or more modules and the or each enclosure outlet to a corresponding module outlet of the one or more modules, wherein during use air is drawn into the one or more enclosures through the one or more enclosure inlets, through the module inlet and module outlet of the one or more modules, and out of the one or more enclosures through the one or more enclosure outlets.

13. A unit as claimed in claim 12, when dependent on claim 2 and claim 4, in which the or each enclosure inlet and its corresponding module inlet and corresponding first side of the fan means are positioned in line with each other.

14. A unit as claimed in claim 12 or 13, in which the front cover panel includes a front member, an upper member, a lower member, a first side member and a second side member.

15. A unit as claimed in claim 14, in which the or each enclosure inlet is provided in the front member of the front cover panel.

16. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 15, in which the or each enclosure inlet is formed by one or more perforations, or one or more first elongate apertures.

17. A unit as claimed in claim 16, in which when the one or more enclosure inlets are in the form of the one or more first elongate apertures, a body or set of bodies are disposed at or next to one, some or all of the enclosure inlets, and the body or set of bodies are disposed between the one, some or all of the enclosure inlets and a corresponding module inlet of the one or more modules.

18. A unit as claimed in claim 17, in which one or more secondary inlets are disposed in the or each body, the or each secondary inlet having the form of a second elongate aperture which is aligned with a corresponding one of the first elongate apertures, the or each second elongate aperture having a width and / or length smaller than its corresponding first elongate aperture.

19. A unit as claimed in claim 18, in which a finger guide or a set of finger guides are disposed adjacent to one, some or all of the second elongate apertures for aiding wiping of a corresponding one of the second elongate apertures.

20. A unit as claimed in claim 14, or any one of claims 15 to 19 when dependent on claim 14, in which the one or more enclosure outlets is provided in the upper member of the front cover panel.

21. A unit as claimed in any one or claims 12 to 20, in which the one or more enclosure outlets are formed by one or more perforations, or one or more third elongate apertures.

22. A unit as claimed in claim 14, or any one of claims 15 to 21 when dependent on claim 14, in which at least the upper and lower members of the front cover panel are formed with an arcuate shaped surface.

23. A unit as claimed in any of claims 12 to 22, in which an outlet channel is provided for connecting the or each enclosure outlet to its corresponding module outlet.

24. A unit as claimed in any of claims 12 to 23, in which the unit has a depth of no more than 100 mm.

25. A unit as claimed in claim 14, or any one of claims 15 to 24 when dependent on claim 14, in which the first and second side members include one or more rims or grooves for receiving and engaging with a side end of the upper member, lower member and / or front member.

26. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 25, in which a display or image is provided to the front cover panel.

27. A unit as claimed in claim 26, in which the display or image is provided to an inner surface of the front cover panel.

28. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 26, in which the front cover panel is made from polycarbonate.

29. A slimline air disinfection unit for fixing onto a wall, the unit comprising: a rear support member and a front cover panel connectable together to form at a secure enclosure; an enclosure inlet disposed in a front side of the unit and an enclosure outlet disposed in an upper side of the unit, the enclosure inlet allowing air to enter the enclosure and the enclosure outlet allowing air to exit the enclosure; an air disinfection module as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 1 1 disposed within the enclosure; and an air path for connecting the enclosure inlet to the module inlet and the enclosure outlet to the module outlet, wherein during use air is drawn into the enclosure through the enclosure inlet, through the module inlet and module outlet of the module, and out of the enclosure through the enclosure outlet.

30. A unit as claimed in claim 29, in which, during operation of the fan means, air is drawn into the fan means through a first side of the fan means and forcedout through a second side of the fan means in a direction which is at a substantially perpendicular angle to the first side.31 . A unit as claimed in claim 29 or claim 30, in which the fan means is a centrifugal fan.

32. A slimline air disinfection unit for fixing onto a wall, the unit comprising: one or more rear support members and a front cover panel connectable together to form one or more enclosures; one or more enclosure inlets disposed in a front side of the unit, the or each enclosure inlet being in the form of one or more first elongate apertures, and one or more enclosure outlets disposed in an upper side of the unit, the or each enclosure inlet allowing air to enter the one or more enclosures and the or each enclosure outlet allowing air to exit the one or more enclosures; a body or set of bodies which are disposed at or next to one, some or all of the enclosure inlets, the body or set of bodies being disposed between the front cover panel and the one or more rear support members; one or more of secondary inlets disposed in the or each body, the or each secondary inlet having the form of a second elongate aperture which is aligned with a corresponding one of the first elongate apertures, the or each second elongate aperture having a width and / or length smaller than its corresponding first elongate aperture; and a finger guide or a set of finger guides which are adjacent to one, some or all of the second elongate apertures for aiding wiping of a corresponding one of the second elongate apertures.

33. A unit as claimed in claim 32, in which the one or more first elongate apertures have a width of around 12-20 mm.

34. A unit as claimed in claim 32 or claim 33, in which the body or set of bodies is a plate or a set of plates, the body or set of bodies being fixed to and abutting a rear face of a front member of the front cover panel.

35. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 34, in which the body or set of bodies is a plate or a set of plates.

36. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 35, in which the finger guide or set of finger guides integrally forms part of the body or set of bodies.

37. A unit as claimed in any claim 36, in which the or each finger guide is formed as a recessed region in the body or set of bodies.

38. A unit as claimed in claim 37, in which the or each recessed region is recessed towards a rear of the unit.

39. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 38, in which the finger guide or set of finger guides is pressed on the body or set of bodies.

40. A unit as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 39, in which the or each finger guide has a concave shape.41 . A unit as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 40, in which the finger guide or set of finger guides surround one, some or all of the second elongate apertures.

42. A plurality of units as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 28, any one of claims 29 to 31 , and / or any one of claims 32 to 41 .

43. A plurality of units as claimed in claim 42, in which the units are disposed next to each other and are connected together.

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