Disinfecting device

Abstract

Disinfecting device (10) having at least one emitter unit (23) comprising a set of three of primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and at least one secondary emitter (27).

Description

[0001] "DISINFECTING DEVICE"

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to a disinfecting device capable of reducing and / or inhibiting the action of one or more microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, spores, or moulds. The disinfecting device performs the function of an electromagnetic radiation source with disinfecting effects for both surfaces and the air and therefore for the environment in which it is used. The disinfecting device allows a controlled emission and a uniform diffusion of the electromagnetic radiation that makes it possible to obtain an effective reduction and / or inhibition of the action of a wide group of microorganisms potentially harmful to people and / or animals.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] Disinfecting devices employing LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology are known and comprise LED emitters that emit electromagnetic radiation in the visible spectrum and / or in the ultraviolet spectrum, which are used for their bactericidal effect in the environment. However, these known devices have been found to be potentially harmful to humans and do not allow for effective disinfecting of environments and surfaces. They are often limited to specific bacterial species and are not effective against other microorganisms.

[0006] It is well known that most microbial species are sensitive not only to ultraviolet radiation but also to some wavelengths of visible light, particularly to wavelengths in the range between 400 and 420 nm, which is included in the so-called Soret band.

[0007] They are also known as UV-C ray emitters. However, UV-C rays, by their nature, do not guarantee the elimination of microorganisms, but only carry out an action of temporary inactivation of the same, meaning that the pathogens resume their vitality after a certain period of time, which means that effective disinfecting of the environments and surfaces is not guaranteed.

[0008] UV-C also has the additional defect that it is often absorbed by water vapour or the walls towards which it is projected.

[0009] In addition, the known devices, to emit the desired radiation for both light and disinfecting, work at voltages of approx. 22-36 V, requiring customized power supplies, or drivers, therefore with increased costs and higher energy consumption.

[0010] The use of certain solutions with more advanced LED emitters, has the disadvantage that the radiation fluxes emitted by the various of LED emitter units are not uniformly distributed over the entire emission area of the device, so that at certain points the respective irradiated cones overlap each other while at other points they are separated and non-uniform. Since the irradiated cones are separated, therefore, even by greatly increasing the intensity of energy provided by the electromagnetic radiation it is not possible to obtain an effective removal and / or inhibition of the microorganisms. In addition, their encumbrance does not allow an effective installation inside small-sized lamp holders, or inside other devices with limited dimensions.

[0011] Another disadvantage is given by the fact that the presence of the green and red LED emitters shifts the frequency band towards the microwave range, affecting not only the harmful microorganisms, such as the bacteria sensitive to the Soret band, but also other microorganisms that are not as harmful and whose presence is indeed fundamental for a balance between the various species, resulting in a substantially sterile environment. This therefore makes the known solution not very versatile for use in different fields of application. Added to this is the further disadvantage that, although the microbial load break-down times are considerably shorter than other known technologies, they do not lend themselves to applications where a controlled and / or selective sterilization in even shorter times is required.

[0012] Solutions are also known relating to a lamp comprising three blue-violet type LED emitters which are separated and spaced from each other, adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths that are close to but different from each other, which are flanked by a white LED emitter adapted to emit a light with continuous spectrum at a certain colour temperature. Even this solution, however, while making it possible to obtain a targeted effect on the microorganisms sensitive to the electromagnetic radiation of the Soret band, does not make it possible to obtain a uniform emission of the radiation, as it is given by the superposition of the radiation emitted by each of the LED emitters. This latter solution therefore presents the same problems as the previous solution.

[0013] In general, known disinfecting devices, particularly those requiring the emission of an emission spectrum effective against various microbial species, present the following problems: limited precision in emission control, in particular maintaining the electromagnetic radiation in a specific range with an amplitude of less than 20 nm; problems of uneven distribution of the radiation, causing concentrated or sparse areas of radiation; problems of interference and energy dispersion between the adjacent LED emitters due to non-optimized mutual distances; the overall emission of the disinfecting device is not optimized; disinfecting requires times unsuitable for specific applications; encumbrances that are not acceptable for specific applications; reduced effectiveness towards some microbial species and excessive effectiveness towards other microbial species, with consequent lowering of the overall degree of efficiency.

[0014] It is also known that in the case of electromagnetic radiation sources that emit electromagnetic radiation at different wavelengths, in which the sources are distinct and separate elements, such as for example in the case of clusters of separate sources or RGBW chips, chromatic aberrations can occur that typically create coloured halos and non-uniform emissions both under the photometric and colorimetric profile, even over the entire volume of the irradiated solid angle.

[0015] The need to obtain a compliant, uniform and homogeneous diffusion of electromagnetic radiation is also known, in particular in some fields, including, by way of example, in medicine and biology, in materials sciences, in telecommunications, as well as for the protection of the microbiological contamination of environments and / or materials, but also domestic or industrial washing and / or drying of objects.

[0016] It is also known the need to obtain effective disinfecting both of surfaces and environments in short times with low energy consumption.

[0017] From CN 109 786 538 a lighting device is known comprising multiple LED chips mounted on a ceramic support having main wavelengths varying between 405 and 455 nm.

[0018] These single-frequency emitters do not obtain a significant disinfecting effect, as they do not effectively and specifically neutralise the bacteria that are most harmful to human health. There is therefore the need to perfect a disinfecting device capable of elimininating, or at least significantly reducing, the microbial load in a surrounding environment that can overcome at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0019] To do this, it is necessary to solve the technical problem of providing a disinfecting device suitable for emitting a highly focused beam of electromagnetic radiation and comprising different and uniformly distributed wavelengths which are combined with each other to effectively sanitize environments and / or surfaces without causing harm to people.

[0020] One purpose of the present invention is to provide a disinfecting device capable of overcoming the optical problems typical of the distinct and separate sources underlying a reflector and / or a refractor, which have non-homogeneous emissions having coloured halos that alter the emitted beam with discolourations and non- uniform chromatic rendering on the illuminated objects at all solid emission angles affected by the beam.

[0021] Yet another purpose of the invention is to provide a disinfecting device adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation precisely centred around well-defined values, avoiding undesired effects such as, for example, interference phenomena that reduce the combination of the electromagnetic radiation.

[0022] Another purpose of the present invention is to create a disinfecting device having controlled energy emission and uniform diffusion of electromagnetic radiation.

[0023] Another purpose of the invention is to provide a disinfecting device that is highly effective in breaking down microorganisms sensitive to the electromagnetic radiation within a well-defined band.

[0024] The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.

[0025] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0026] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claim / s. The dependent claims describe other characteristics of the present invention or variants to the main inventive idea.

[0027] In accordance with the above purposes and to resolve the above technical problems in a new and original way, also achieving considerable advantages compared to the state of the prior art, a disinfecting device according to the present invention for reducing the bacterial load, or other microbes, in a surrounding environment comprises at least one emitter unit, which in turn comprises a set of three of primary emitters and at least one secondary emitter.

[0028] Each set of three comprises three primary emitters that are different from each other, each configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength with a specific peak value different from the other two primary emitters.

[0029] Preferably, the primary emitters are adapted to emit a light radiation in the violet spectrum, indicatively comprised between 380 nm and 435 nm; the at least one secondary emitter is adapted to emit a light radiation in the blue spectrum, indicatively comprised between 435 nm and 500 nm.

[0030] According to one aspect of the present invention, the set of three of primary emitters comprises:

[0031] - a first emitter configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength comprised between 404 nm and 409 nm, preferably 407 nm;

[0032] - a second emitter configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength comprised between 411 nm and 416 nm, preferably 413;

[0033] - a third emitter configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with wavelength comprised between 418 nm and 424 nm, preferably 420.

[0034] The at least one secondary emitter is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with wavelength comprised between 452 nm and 458 nm, with a preferential peak value of 455 nm.

[0035] This combination of primary emitters with different wavelengths, together with the secondary emitter, e.g. in a 1: 1: 1: 1 ratio, makes it possible to obtain a substantially uniform overall electromagnetic radiation flux having wavelengths with respective peak values between 400 nm and 470 nm and preferably between 402 nm and 460 nm, even more preferably centered in the range of 404 nm to 424 nm and between 450 nm and 460 nm.

[0036] Therefore, with the solution according to the present invention, a disinfecting of environments and objects is carried out, particularly to remove microorganisms comprising Gram+, Gram-, viruses, spores, moulds, fungi, mites and yeasts that are potentially harmful to humans.

[0037] In particular, the superposition of the irradiated cones emitted by the individual primary emitters with different wavelengths means that the overall cone emitted by the emitter unit, defined by the interference and combination of the individual cones emitted by the eight emitters of a group or respective multiples thereof, is already focused and centred on the wavelengths with a high antimicrobial and bactericidal effect.

[0038] Using a multi-peak light spectrum, i.e. simultaneously emitting multiple selected wavelengths in the visible light region, exploits the principle of spectral resonance, which describes the ability of particular light frequencies to effectively interact with specific biological targets in bacteria.

[0039] These targets, which include molecules such as porphyrins, flavins, NADH and cytochromes, and sub-cellular structures such as membranes and DNA, react selectively at certain light frequencies, generating harmful biological effects for bacteria.

[0040] Compared to a mono-peak spectrum, which is focused on a single light frequency and thus limits the number of molecular structures involved, the multipeak spectrum obtained in the present invention makes it possible to interact simultaneously with a greater number of biological targets. This approach expands the biological coverage, thus maximizing the antibacterial effect through a more complete and targeted resonance.

[0041] The simultaneous use of multiple frequencies allows synergistic effects to be generated, simultaneously causing oxidative stress, direct structural damage to bacterial membranes, genetic alterations and enzyme inhibitions. The multiplicity of frequencies also makes it harder for bacteria to develop resistance mechanisms, because adapting to multiple simultaneous stimuli is complex and biologically less likely.

[0042] The use of emitters as described above exploits in particular the photodynamic action of the frequencies used, specifically promoting light absorption by bacterial chromophores. This combined mechanism is extremely effective at amplifying the overall bacterial damage.

[0043] The emitter according to the present invention implements this multi-frequency approach using three distinct spectral bands, which advantageously and respectively have their own peaks at 407 nm, 413 nm and 420 nm, in the region of visible light. These specific peaks are selected for their ability to enter biological resonance, that is, to selectively stimulate target molecules typical of bacteria such as porphyrins, flavins and other chromophore proteins. Biological resonance refers to the phenomenon whereby a specific light frequency interacts specifically with a biological molecule, inducing an effective and targeted response that amplifies the antibacterial effect due to a precise and intensified action on sensitive cellular structures.

[0044] This configuration allows continuous disinfection in inhabited environments without damage or risk to human and animal health.

[0045] The adoption of the multi-peak spectrum according to the present invention represents a considerable innovation with respect to the single-frequency light sources used in the prior art. This approach ensures enhanced antibacterial efficacy, high operational safety, and a significant reduction in the ability of bacteria to develop resistance.

[0046] It should also be noted that the emitter of the present invention, characterized by wavelengths between 400 and 460 rnn, is particularly effective for use in controlling pest insects. In fact, it has been shown that blue wavelengths, especially around 420 nm, represent an alternative to traditional chemical methods.

[0047] Irradiation with blue light at 417 nm has been shown to have a significant lethal effect on mosquito larvae and pupae.

[0048] Irradiation with blue light in a range of wavelengths between 404 and 467 nm is lethal for different vital stages of insects. In particular, the very marked lethal action around 417 nm is very effective on mosquitoes, with a sharp increase in the mortality of pupae, confirming the species-specificity of these wavelengths in counteracting insects.

[0049] The lethal effect of blue light appears to be primarily associated with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which severely damage insect tissues. This mechanism of action, which exploits the formation of ROS resulting from the absorption of light by specific chromophores in insect tissues, is safe for the environment and free of toxic residues compared to traditional chemical insecticides.

[0050] Therefore, the light spectrum obtained with this invention, with wavelengths between 400 and 460 nm, is an effective, environmentally sustainable and promising technical solution for controlling insect populations. According to embodiments, said primary emitters and / or said secondary emitters are LED emitters, having a substantially circular shape.

[0051] According to embodiments, emitter units are provided in which there are N first emitters, N second emitters, N third emitters, and N secondary emitters, such that the ratio 1 : 1 : 1 : 1 is maintained and repeated each time.

[0052] In another embodiment, there are 2, 3, 4, 5 or more secondary emitters for each set of three of primary emitters.

[0053] The solution according to the present invention therefore has the advantage of allowing the execution of effective disinfecting, in an optimized and repeatable way, with low energy consumption and low costs.

[0054] In fact, considering a voltage of approx. 3 V, for each of the primary emitters and the secondary emitter, each emitter unit requires a voltage of approx. 12V, or multiples thereof, that is, a voltage that is likely to be manageable with standardized power supplies, or drivers, therefore with low costs and reduced energy consumption.

[0055] In the 12V powered version, the LEDs can have a power supply scheme that includes 4 LEDs powered in series, or two series powered in parallel to each other, of 4 LEDs.

[0056] This power supply configuration advantageously allows the balancing of currents on the internal branches, allowing the use within the acceptance ranges of the individual internal chips.

[0057] A variant provides for the recalibration of the chemical composition of phosphor in order to maintain the colourimetric coordinates, and consequently the colour temperatures, within the acceptance range for professional lighting according to ANSI C78.377

[0058] The spectral emission and its efficiency with respect to white emission is slightly lower than a 24 volt version, but the energy transmitted in the range of wavelengths ranging from 400 to 420 nm is increased by approximately 25%.

[0059] As mentioned above, the use of a 36V power supply falls within the scope of the present invention, with the consequent possible modification of the configuration of the connections between the LEDs and variation of the position of the chips to promote the uniformity of light emission compared to the 12V or 24V configuration, while maintaining the logic of distances and alternation between adjacent wavelengths.

[0060] In other words, the emitter unit according to the present invention, being designed to operate at 12V or its multiples, makes it possible to extend the possible combinations that can be used while maintaining low consumption, even in the order of approximately 4W.

[0061] The disinfecting device according to the present invention provides the possibility of performing highly effective disinfecting by destroying microorganisms sensitive to electromagnetic radiation.

[0062] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the emitter unit comprises at least one electronic support configured to support the set of three of primary emitters and the at least one secondary emitter, and at least one support element, which is configured to support and maintain the electronic board, in a certain position, in which the set of three of primary emitters and the at least one secondary emitter, emit the radiation in the desired direction.

[0063] Here and in the following, by way of example and not for this limiting, the electronic board may be a support package for emitters, for example LEDs. Advantageously, the electronic board can be a package of the type SMD, COB, DOB, Flip LED, or other similar packages.

[0064] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the emitter unit comprises at least one refraction element configured to cooperate with the set of three of primary emitters and the at least one secondary emitter, so as to asymmetrically condition the refraction of the emitted light radiation.

[0065] In advantageous embodiments, the refraction element may comprise at least one shaped portion, which is configured so as to asymmetrically direct the refraction of the emitted light radiation, on a refraction plane defining a given angle of refraction, with respect to an emission plane.

[0066] The LEDs used in the present invention are designed to emit electromagnetic radiation in the violet and blue spectrum, with wavelengths between 400 nm and 420 nm. This choice of wavelengths offers some significant advantages over the use of UV-C rays or other disinfecting technologies:

[0067] For example, in the case of application in environments where water is present, the wavelengths produced by the emitters present in the LEDs according to the present invention (380-500 nm) interact with water differently than the UV-C rays traditionally in use (200-280 nm), where the interaction of light with water is mainly influenced by the phenomena of refraction, absorption and dispersion, better known as scattering.

[0068] In fact, the index of refraction of water varies with the wavelength of light due to a phenomenon known as optical dispersion, decreasing as the wavelength increases. For UV-C wavelengths between 200 nm and 250 nm this ranges from 14.98 • 10”1to 13.96 • 10”1, while for wavelengths in the portion of the visible spectrum between 380 nm and 500 nm, as from the solution according to the present invention, this ranges from 13.43 • 10-1to 13.33 • 10-1. This difference reduces the angle of refraction for the wavelengths of the LEDs according to the present invention, minimizing the dispersion of light.

[0069] In addition, water has an absorption coefficient for UV-C rays between 200 and 250nm of approx. 104-103cm-1, while for the violet and blue wavelengths the absorption coefficient falls to values between approx. 0.01 cm1and 0.001 cm'1. This means that the wavelengths emitted by the LEDs according to the present invention are absorbed much less by water than traditional solutions, allowing a deeper penetration.

[0070] With the solution according to the present invention, the water and the walls do not have absorption effects but rather effectively reflect light so as to homogeneously illuminate the compartment. In addition, these UV-C lights are also somewhat energy-intensive and need dedicated power supply systems.

[0071] Finally, the phenomenon of scattering is also a key factor that influences the effectiveness of electromagnetic radiation in the penetration of water droplets. With regard to the scattering phenomenon, a distinction is made between Rayleigh scattering and Mie scattering.

[0072] With regard to Rayleigh scattering for water, a proportional coefficient of '4is expected, while for UV-C rays the scattering coefficient is significantly higher than for violet and blue wavelengths. This means, that applying the known formulas, the scattering coefficient for wavelengths at 250 nm is approx. 9.73 X 1022m-1, while for wavelengths at 400 nm it is approx. 1.48 X 1022m-1.

[0073] With regard to Mie scattering, there is a substantially less wavelength-dependent condition than Rayleigh scattering, but, in any case, the shorter wavelengths (UV- C rays) suffer a greater scattering effect. Therefore, since the wavelengths of the LEDs according to the present invention are less susceptible to both the refraction and absorption effects, and the effects of Rayleigh scattering and Mie scattering with respect to UV-C rays, the visible electromagnetic radiation can be distributed more uniformly.

[0074] According to embodiments, the disinfecting device comprises a photosensitive coating layer, which covers the at least one emitter unit, i.e. all emitters of a given emitter unit are covered by the same photosensitive coating layer.

[0075] This photosensitive coating layer has a broad photosensitivity band, comprised between 380 nm and 780 nm, unlike what is provided in the solutions of the prior art that provide coatings with a narrow photosensitivity band, comprised between 460 nm and 470 nm.

[0076] Using electromagnetic radiation generated by the 3 primary emitters, or multiples thereof, and by the secondary emitter, or multiples thereof, the photosensitive coating layer makes it possible to obtain visible light having a wavelength from 400 nm upwards, while maintaining a maximum value centred at the peak values of the three primary emitters. The photosensitive coating layer is de facto configured to absorb the various wavelengths, and go into an excited state to release photons covering a spectrum similar to white light with additionally the peak values of the wavelengths of the primary emitters that are functional to act against the different microorganisms. The photosensitive coating layer is substantially transparent to the wavelengths of the peak values of the primary emitters.

[0077] The photosensitive coating layer is configured to modify the wavelength of the emitted radiation, taking it outside the specific wavelength of the respective emitter unit, without however substantially modifying the radiation emitted at the wavelength around the Soret band.

[0078] The photosensitive coating layer, in combination with the radiation emitted by the primary and secondary emitters, thus allows a homogeneous light emission to be obtained, substantially free from chromatic aberrations, so that the emitted beam is uniform and free from discoloration over the entire solid angle of emission.

[0079] According to embodiments, the emitters of the at least one emitter unit are distributed on a surface of the electronic board so that the overlapping volume of the respective cones of emitted light comprises the light cones of the primary emitters and at least one of the light cones of the secondary emitters.

[0080] According to embodiments, the distance between primary emitters and / or first close secondary emitters, i.e. side by side, is reduced to a minimum, so as to optimise the combination of the emissions of the individual emitters.

[0081] According to embodiments, the distance between the emitters respectively side by side is comprised between 0.001 mm and 1.1 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.9 mm.

[0082] This configuration makes it possible to minimize the interferences and the electrical dispersion between adjacent emitters, and at the same time allows an optimal combination and overlap of the individual cones emitted by each emitter and obtaining a uniform and compliant propagation of the electromagnetic radiation.

[0083] In fact, in this way, a single cone of light is emitted from the electronic board, given by the combination of the cones emitted by the individual emitters.

[0084] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0085] These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein: - fig. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a disinfecting device according to the present invention;

[0086] - fig. 2 shows a section along the line II-II of fig. 1;

[0087] - fig. 3 is a schematic view of an emission group in accordance with a first variant of the invention, wherein the different emitters are indicated by respective lettersnAn"B" "C" "X"’

[0088] - fig. 4 is a graph showing the emission spectrum of the individual primary emitters and the spectrum resulting from their combination;

[0089] - fig. 5 is a graph showing the emission spectrum of the primary and secondary emitters of one or more emitter units alone;

[0090] - fig. 6 is a graph showing the emission spectrum of a disinfecting device according to the invention given by the combination of the radiation emitted by the emitter units with a phosphor coating layer;

[0091] - fig. 7 is a schematic view of an emission group according to an embodiment variant of the invention, in l+l+l+l configuration without a phosphor coating; - fig. 8 is a graph showing the emission spectrum of the emission group of fig. 7;

[0092] - fig. 9 is a schematic view of an emission group according to a further embodiment variant of the invention, in 2+2+2+2 configuration without a phosphor coating;

[0093] - fig. 10 is a graph showing the emission spectrum of the emission group of fig. 9; and

[0094] - fig. 11 is a schematic view of an emission group in accordance with an embodiment variant of the invention.

[0095] We must clarify that in the present description the phraseology and terminology used, as well as the figures in the attached drawings also as described, have the sole function of better illustrating and explaining the present invention, their function being to provide a non-limiting example of the invention itself, since the scope of protection is defined by the claims.

[0096] To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings. It is understood that elements and characteristics of one embodiment can be conveniently combined or incorporated into other embodiments without further clarifications.

[0097] DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT

[0098] INVENTION

[0099] With reference to the attached figures, two different embodiments of a disinfecting device 10 according to the present invention are illustrated, which can be integrated into disinfecting apparatus, generally indicated with the reference number 11, for example specific instruments both portable and fixed, intended for the disinfecting of environments or surfaces in general, or integrated into known apparatus and machines intended for other basic functions, such as washing and / or drying, or other, machines, in order to reduce the microbial load in a surrounding environment, both on surfaces, in the air, and in specific operating chambers.

[0100] For descriptive convenience, in the following description reference will be made to a generic support 15, which can be a wall, part of a frame, or a more complex instrument, or others suitable for the stable support of the disinfecting device 10, to serve the disinfecting purposes.

[0101] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in figures 1 and 2, the support 15 provides a seat in which the disinfecting device 10 according to the present invention can be positioned, in a suitable manner and with an appropriate orientation.

[0102] In particular, the disinfecting device 10 according to the present invention substantially comprises an electromagnetic radiation emitter unit 23 and a support, or electronic board 28, configured to support a set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C, and at least one secondary emitter 27, of the same emitter unit 23. Advantageously, the electronic board 28, or at least the portion thereof on which the emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and 27 are installed, has a substantially rectangular shape, so as to allow the emission of an overall light ray within a well-defined cone.

[0103] According to the embodiment in fig. 3 the emitter unit 23 provides for a single group of primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C, and a secondary emitter 27, while in other embodiments not shown in the attached figures, 3, 6, or 12, primary emitter units 26A, 26B and 26C, and a secondary emitter unit 27, can be provided in the same emitter unit 23.

[0104] As a general scheme, each emitter unit 23 can comprise four emitters between the three primary 26A, 26B, 26C, and the secondary 27, in a 1 : 1 : 1 : 1 ratio, and in any case providing overall the possibility that there are N first emitters 26A, N second emitters 26B, N third emitters 26C and N secondary emitters 27, in such a way that the 26A:26B: 26C:27 = 1: 1: 1: 1 ratio is always maintained.

[0105] According to the embodiment in fig. 11 the emitter unit 23 provides for eight emitters between the three primary 26A, 26B, 26C, and five secondary 27, in a 1: 1: 1:5 ratio, and in any case providing overall for the possibility that there are N first emitters 26A, N second emitters 26B, N third emitters 26C and N secondary emitters 27, so that the 26A:26B:26C:27 = 1: 1: 1:5 ratio is always maintained.

[0106] Other proportions between primary emitters and secondary emitters may still be provided.

[0107] According to embodiments, the electronic board 28, or at least the portion thereof on which the emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and 27 are installed, has a substantially circular, or rectangular, or square shape depending on the uses, so as to allow the emission of an overall light ray within a well-defined cone.

[0108] In accordance with embodiments, when there are at least two emitter units 23 as in fig. 9, the emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and 27 of one and of the other unit 23 are substantially homogeneously distributed on the surface of the electronic board 28. Preferably the primary emitters 26 A, 26B, and 26C are more concentrated in a central zone or band, and are at least partly surrounded by the secondary emitters 27, so as to obtain a better emission uniformity.

[0109] According to embodiments, the distance DI, D2 between side-by-side emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and 27, is between 0.001 mm and 1.1 mm, preferably between 0.1 and 0.9 mm.

[0110] According to embodiments, the "horizontal" distance DI between adjacent emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and 27 may be equal to or different from the "vertical" distance D2.

[0111] By way of example, the distance D 1 may be approx. 0.15 mm, while the distance D2 may be approx. 0.28 mm.

[0112] In the embodiment of fig. 3, the distances DI and D2 may be substantially the same or very similar to each other. By way of example, the distance DI may be approx. 0.70 mm and the distance D2 approx. 0.71 mm.

[0113] By way of example, the distance D 1 may be approx. 0.15 mm, while the distance D2 may be approx. 0.28 mm.

[0114] In other embodiments not specifically illustrated, the distance DI may vary between one emitter 26A, 26B, 26C or 27 and the one adjacent in the direction transverse to the longitudinal axes, for example between a minimum value Dimin of approx. 0.3 mm and a maximum value of approx. 0.5 mm, while the distance D2 in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axes may be substantially constant at around 0.5 mm.

[0115] In other embodiments, the distance DI may vary between one emitter 26A, 26B, 26C or 27 and the one adjacent in the direction transverse to the longitudinal axes, for example between a minimum value DI of approx. 0.30 mm and a maximum value of approx. 0.48 mm, while the distance D2 in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axes may vary between a minimum value D2min of approx. 0.80 mm to a maximum value of 1.02 mm.

[0116] It is clear, however, that the distances between the different primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and / or secondary emitters 27 on the electronic board 28 is determined both by the dimension of the electronic board 28 itself, and by the dimension, shape and number of the primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and secondary emitters 27 installed thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, the emitter unit 23 further comprises a refraction element, or lens 29, arranged in direct cooperation with the housing seat 22, and a support element, or capsule 30, arranged in direct cooperation with the housing seat 22, opposite the lens 29 and configured to maintain the electronic board 28, in a certain radiation emission position.

[0117] Advantageously, the lens 29 and the capsule 30 cooperate elastically with each other, by means of relative snap-on hooking members 31, which also define a stable clamping to the support 15 between the lens 29 and the capsule 30.

[0118] It is clear that the lens 29 is only one of the countless and possible accessory applications for the disinfecting device 10 according to the present invention, and it is not excluded that it may not be provided, i.e. replaced with other refraction and conveying systems of the radiation emitted by the emitter unit 23, in order to serve the disinfecting purposes envisaged for the disinfecting device 10 itself.

[0119] In this embodiment, the lens 29 has a shaped portion 33, which has a surface pattern such that it asymmetrically conditions the refraction of the light radiation emitted by the set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C, and by the secondary emitter 27. In the solution shown in fig. 2, the asymmetric conditioning of the light radiation takes place on a refraction plane Pl defining a certain refraction angle a, with respect to an emission plane P2, the latter substantially orthogonal to the support 15 on which the housing seat 22 is obtained. Advantageously, the refraction angle a can be between approx. 50° and approx. 70°.

[0120] Furthermore, as schematized in fig. 1, the shaped portion 33 is configured so as to expand the refraction of the emitted light radiation with a certain expansion angle fl, the latter lying on the refraction plane Pl.

[0121] A compact and homogeneous beam of light radiation is thus defined which, according to the orientation given to the shaped portion 33, is directed in a deliberate and homogeneous maimer.

[0122] According to some variants not illustrated in the attached figures, in combination or in place of the oriented lens 29 the radiation can also be directed by appropriately shaping the housing seat 22.

[0123] With regard to the set of three primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C, and to the secondary emitter 27, the solution according to the present invention provides that the set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C comprises:

[0124] - a first emitter 26A configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength Al comprised between 404 nm and 409 nm, with a preferential peak value of 407 nm;

[0125] - a second emitter 26B configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with wavelength A2 comprised between 411 nm and 416 nm, with a preferential peak value of 413 nm; and

[0126] - a third emitter 27C configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength A3 comprised between 418 nm and 424 nm, with a preferential peak value of 420 nm.

[0127] The secondary emitter 27 is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength A4 comprised between 452 nm and 458 nm, with a preferential peak value of 455 nm.

[0128] Other components, not illustrated, such as for example one or more temperature sensing sensors, power supply, conversion systems, microcontrollers or the like may also be provided on the electronic board 28.

[0129] According to some variants, the primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C and the secondary emitter 27, may comprise a platelet, not illustrated and known as chip or DIE, which is made of semiconductor material and configured to emit a substantially mono-frequency highly focused radiation with the desired wavelength. For example, this may be achieved by doping the semiconductor material.

[0130] Preferably, both the primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and the secondary emitter 27 are configured to emit radiation within a very narrow and precise range of the wavelength, for example of approx. 4-8 nm centred on the respective peak value. Preferably, the wavelength range around the respective peak value is ± 3nm.

[0131] From a comparative analysis of a single LED emission at a certain wavelength, for example 405 nanometers, it can be seen how the FWHM value changes significantly with respect to the emission of two or more neighbouring wavelengths emitted at the same time.

[0132] FWHM (Full Width at Half Maximum) refers to the width of the spectral curve of the LED measured at half the maximum height of the light emission. In practice, this indicates how narrow or wide the band of light emitted by the LED is at a certain wavelength.

[0133] The meaning of FWHM is as follows:

[0134] Narrow FWHM: Means that the LED emits a light with a very narrow wavelength range, i.e. a very "pure" light from a spectral point of view (selective or narrow spectral emission).

[0135] Wide FWHM: Means that the LED emits a light with a wider wavelength range, i.e. a less "pure" light from a spectral point of view, but richer and more uniform at the energy level in the wavelength bands of interest (wide or less selective spectral emission).

[0136] This parameter is normally used to define the purity and spectral quality of the colour emitted by a single frequency, but can be used in this case to better understand how the approach of a multifrequency as in the present invention can favour the disinfecting effect with respect to a single wavelength with the same emission intensity.

[0137] In the context of interaction with gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens, FWHM takes on particular relevance because bacteria possess different chromophores (light-sensitive molecules such as porphyrins, flavins, NADH, and cytochromes) characterized by specific absorbance spectra. These spectra determine which wavelengths the bacteria respond to most, enabling targeted disinfection via spectral resonance.

[0138] Taking for example the mapped spectral emission of a 405 nanometer source with a peak intensity of 0.332 W / nm @ 405nm

[0139]

[0140] Applying the calculation to derive the FWHM value in nanometers, we see that the spectral width is approximately 10 nanometers, as would be expected from a classic monochromatic source.

[0141] This determines the ability to transfer an average level of energy in the Soret band to the bacterial species to be treated within a limited spectral width, which also explains very well why single frequencies require very high intensities or very long exposures in order to achieve satisfactory treatments.

[0142] This feature, a narrow FWHM, ensures high precision, but significantly limits the number of biological molecules that can be stimulated simultaneously. The biological interaction is thus limited to a narrow group of chromophores (e.g., predominantly porphyrins), with reduced biological coverage and potentially lower energy efficiency than the diversity of existing bacteria.

[0143] The multifrequency approach, on the other hand, is characterized by the use of three monochromatic LEDs that emit at close but distinct wavelengths in order to cover the entire Soret band with a constant average energy level. Below is an example of the emission of the single constituent LED according to the present invention:

[0144] The energy emission of each individual LED is calibrated in order to have a uniformly distributed source resulting from the sum of the emission at the individual three wavelengths with a peak between 413 and 414 nanometers.

[0145]

[0146] This makes it possible to have a resultant emission that covers a very wide band of wavelengths with a high average energy.

[0147] 5 The FWHM value in the emitter according to the present invention is approx. 20 nm, twice that of a monochromatic source, considering the same peak energy emission value.

[0148] Due to this higher spectral amplitude, the average light energy transmitted to pathogens is significantly higher, because it covers a wider range within the absorbance spectra of bacteria, thus increasing the probability of interaction with multiple biological targets simultaneously.

[0149] The technology according to the present invention uses a multi-peak light spectrum, i.e. it simultaneously emits several selected wavelengths in the region of visible light. This choice is linked both to the greater energy efficiency with respect to the treated bacterial species, affecting a wider spectrum of absorbance, and to the principle of spectral resonance, which describes the ability of particular light frequencies to interact effectively with specific biological targets in bacteria. These targets, which include molecules such as porphyrins, flavins, NADH and cytochromes, and sub-cellular structures such as membranes and DNA, react selectively at certain light frequencies, generating harmful biological effects for bacteria.

[0150] Compared to a mono-peak spectrum, which is focused on a single light frequency and thus limits the number of molecular structures involved, the multipeak spectrum of the present invention makes it possible to interact simultaneously with a greater number of biological targets. This approach expands the biological coverage, thus maximizing the antibacterial effect through a more complete and targeted resonance.

[0151] The substantial difference in FWHM between the two approaches (10 nm for single frequency vs. approximately 20 nm for the multifrequency of the present invention) is not just a technical issue, but reflects a different biological approach: the emitter according to the present invention amplifies and diversifies biological interaction, achieving higher levels of average energy transferred to pathogens and simultaneously generating a plurality of harmful effects on bacteria.

[0152] The simultaneous use of multiple frequencies allows synergistic effects to be generated, simultaneously causing oxidative stress, direct structural damage to bacterial membranes, genetic alterations and enzyme inhibitions. The multiplicity of frequencies also makes it harder for bacteria to develop resistance mechanisms, because adapting to multiple simultaneous stimuli is complex and biologically less likely.

[0153] The emitter according to the present invention exploits in particular the photodynamic action of the frequencies used, specifically promoting light absorption by bacterial chromophores. This combined mechanism is extremely effective at amplifying the overall bacterial damage.

[0154] In concrete terms, the emitter according to the present invention implements this multi-frequency approach using three distinct spectral bands, precisely at 407 nm, 413 nm and 420 nm, in the region of visible light. These specific peaks are selected for their ability to enter biological resonance, that is, to selectively stimulate target molecules typical of bacteria such as porphyrins, flavins and other chromophore proteins. Biological resonance refers to the phenomenon whereby a specific light frequency interacts specifically with a biological molecule, inducing an effective and targeted response that amplifies the antibacterial effect due to a precise and intensified action on sensitive cellular structures.

[0155] This configuration allows continuous disinfection in inhabited environments without damage or risk to human and animal health.

[0156] The adoption of the multi-peak spectrum in the technology of the present invention represents a significant technical and scientific advance over singlefrequency light sources, with optimized efficiency and lower transmitted energy for the same result. This approach ensures enhanced antibacterial efficacy, high operational safety, and a significant reduction in the ability of bacteria to develop resistance.

[0157] In accordance with embodiments, the emitters 26 A, 26B, 26C, and 27 are connected by gold connecting wires, preferably gold having a purity greater than 99%, more preferably greater than 99.95%.

[0158] According to embodiments, the emitter unit 23 comprises a photosensitive coating layer 34 arranged in such a way as to enclose the primary emitters 26A, 26B and 26C and the secondary emitter 27, to modify the overall emitted electromagnetic spectrum.

[0159] According to embodiments, the photosensitive coating layer 34 is configured to emit a spectrum with wavelength comprised between 400 nm and 700 nm, in which the peak values of the wavelengths XI, X2, X3 of the primary emitters 12 and possibly also the peak value of the wavelength 4 of the secondary emitter 27 are present.

[0160] According to embodiments, the phosphor coating layer 34 is configured to modify the frequency, i.e. the wavelength of the emitted radiation, bringing it at least partially outside the specific frequency / wavelength of the respective emitter unit 23 but letting pass, substantially without modifying them, i.e. without significantly affecting them, the types of radiation with wavelengths XI, X2, X3 generated by the primary emitters 26A, 26B e 26C, so as to have a high disinfecting effect on the sensitive microorganisms in this band.

[0161] The adoption of the phosphor layer 34, in particular but not exclusively of the KSF (Potassium Fluorosilicate) type, combined with the special configuration of the LED emitter described above, which, in addition to the blue emitter, also integrates three distinct emitters with wavelengths centered around 407 nm, 413 rnn and 420 nm, represents a highly innovative technological solution to significantly improve the overall efficiency of the LED. This configuration makes it possible to achieve a luminous efficiency comparable to that of LEDs with colour rendering (CRI) equal to 80, while maintaining a CRI higher than 90.

[0162] The broadening of the light spectrum towards the blue-violet bands produced by the additional emitters greatly improves colour perception and visual contrast, thus enriching the quality of the emitted light. This additional spectral range allows for more effective stimulation of the S cones in the retina, which are responsible for perceiving cooler colours and subtle shades, improving overall visual acuity.

[0163] KSF phosphors, due to their extremely narrow emission spectrum centered in the red region around 630 nm, allow an increase in the luminous efficiency of radiation (LER), effectively compensating for the introduction of emissions in the Soret band (deep blue band) generated by the emitters at 407, 413 and 420 nm. This compensation in terms of colorimetric coordinates helps to create an optimal balance that enhances both energy efficiency and colour quality. The superior stability of KSF phosphors under high light intensity and high temperatures also ensures better reliability and durability.

[0164] The integration of the KSF phosphors with the deep emissions in the Soret band produced by the LED according to the present invention generates a significantly richer light spectrum than traditional LED technologies based exclusively on nitride phosphors. This light spectrum is extremely similar to natural sunlight, improving the perception of visual comfort and the feeling of well-being in indoor environments.

[0165] The use of this technological combination therefore not only makes it possible to acheive high colour rendering with high energy efficiency, but also to replicate a quality of indoor lighting that closely resembles natural light, contributing to improved quality of life and physical and mental well-being.

[0166] The emitters 26A, 26B, 26C, and 27 are preferably of the high light efficiency type, preferably comprised between 120 and 200 Im / w, even more preferably comprised between 140 and 180 Im / w.

[0167] Figs. 4-6 illustrate the spectra of the electromagnetic radiation emitted respectively by the set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C, by one or more emitter units 23 comprising the set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and the secondary emitter 27, or respective multiples, and by one or more emitter units 23 in combination with a phosphor coating layer 34, or capable of converting blue light into continuous spectrum white light.

[0168] As can be seen in fig. 4, the presence of the three types of electromagnetic radiation having respective wavelengths XI, X2, X3 centred on peak values close to each other makes it possible to obtain a resulting spectral emission S that covers substantially the entire Soret band, so as to be strongly effective on certain microorganisms.

[0169] Fig. 5 shows the radiation emitted respectively by the set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and by the secondary emitters 27 without the phosphor coating layer 34, the spectral emission of the emitters S 1 given by the combination of the radiation from the primary 26A, 26B, 26C and secondary 27 emitters and the resulting spectral emission S2 given by the combination of the radiation from the primary 26A, 26B, 26C and secondary 27 emitters and of the photosensitive coating layer 34.

[0170] Finally, fig. 6 shows the resulting spectral emission S2 with the use of phosphor coating layer 34, compared to fig. 5, so that the overall trend can be observed in detail.

[0171] The comparison serves to demonstrate how radiation at 455nm is almost completely absorbed by the phosphor coating 34, to generate white light, while radiation in the Soret band remains almost unchanged.

[0172] With reference to figs. 7 and 9, two variants of emission group variants 23 are schematically shown, in which different layouts are provided by the set of three of primary emitters 26A, 26B, 26C and by the secondary emitters 27, with respect to the electronic board 28, in formats 2835 and 1616, with pure blue chromatic emission, which are particularly developed for vertical applications such as, for example, in installations of the disinfecting device 10 on vertical supports 15, such as external walls, or internal walls of operating rooms or other rooms.

[0173] In particular, in figs. 7 and 8 a configuration of l+l+l+l, 1616 or 2016 is schematized, with its graph showing the relative spectral emission S; while in figs. 9 and 10 a configuration of 2+2+2+2, 2835 or 3030 is schematized, with its graph showing the relative spectral emission S.

[0174] In the l+l+l+l configuration (fig. 7), the arrangement was designed for vertical applications, using emitters in 1616 or 2016 formats, particularly suitable for confined spaces or specific configurations. The 2+2+2+2 configuration (fig. 9) uses emitters in the 2835 or 3030 formats, which are best suited for applications where a higher emission intensity or a more uniform distribution of radiation is required.

[0175] The two configurations illustrated are not simply aesthetic or constructive variants, but represent distinct technical approaches to solve specific disinfecting needs within the machines. The l+l+l+l configuration is ideal for applications where compactness and precise radiation distribution are critical, while the 2+2+2+2 configuration is designed for situations where higher emission power is needed, for example for the disinfecting of large operating chambers or with particularly contaminated loads.

[0176] This distinction supports the flexibility of the patent in covering different applications and product variants, allowing a wide range of disinfecting needs to be addressed with optimized solutions.

[0177] Both solutions allow the joint use of LED+LENS or LED+Micro reflector, where the disinfecting function is maximized due to the mixing of frequencies inside the LED itself, and the minimum size allows the use of small concentrating optics and excellent flow and direction control.

[0178] It is clear that modifications and / or additions of parts may be made to the disinfecting device 10 described heretofore, without departing from the field and scope of the present invention, as defined by the claims.

[0179] It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person of skill in the art shall certainly be able to achieve other equivalent forms of the disinfecting device having the characteristics as set forth in the claims and hence all coming within the field of protection defined thereby.

[0180] In the following claims, the sole purpose of the references in brackets is to facilitate reading and they must not be considered as limiting factors with regard to the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Disinfecting device (10) comprising at least one emitter unit (23), characterized in that said emitter unit (23) comprises a set of three primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and at least one secondary emitter (27), wherein:- a first emitter (26A) configured to emit an electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with wavelength (LI) of 407 nm;- a second emitter (26B) configured to emit an electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with wavelength (L2) of 413 nm;- a third emitter (26C) configured to emit an electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength (L3) of 420 nm; and wherein said at least one secondary emitter (27) is configured to emit an electromagnetic radiation having a peak value with a wavelength (L4) comprised between 452 nm and 458 nm.

2. Disinfecting device (10) as in claim 1, characterized in that said emitter unit (23) comprises at least one electronic support (28) configured to support said set of three primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and said secondary emitter (27), and at least one support element (30) configured to hold said electronic support (28), in a specific emission position of the light radiation.

3. Disinfecting device (10) as in one or the other claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said emitter unit (23) comprises at least one refraction element (29), configured to cooperate with said set of three primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and said secondary emitter (27) to condition the refraction of the emitted light radiation.

4. Disinfecting device (10) as in claim 3, characterized in that said refraction element (29) comprises at least one shaped portion (33) configured so as to direct the refraction of the emitted light radiation onto a refraction plane (Pl) defining a specific angle of refraction (a) with respect to an emission plane (P2).

5. Disinfecting device (10) as in claim 4, characterized in that said shaped portion (33) is configured so as to expand the refraction of the emitted light radiation with a specific angle of expansion (Q) lying on said refraction plane (Pl).

6. Disinfecting device (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it comprises a photosensitive coating layer (34) disposed to enclose said at least one emitter unit (23) and configured to modify the overall electromagnetic spectrumemitted by said at least one emitter unit (23) in order to emit a visible electromagnetic spectrum comprised between 400 nm and 700 nm, in which the peak values of said primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) are present.

7. Disinfecting device as in claim 6, characterized in that said phosphor layer (34) is of the KSF (Potassium Fluorosilicate) type.

8. Disinfecting device (10) as in any previous claims from 2 onward, characterized in that said set of three primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and said secondary emitter (27) are distributed on the surface of said electronic support (28) so that the overlapping volume of the respective emitted light cones comprises the light cones of said primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and at least one of the light cones of said secondary emitter (27).

9. Disinfecting device (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that a distance (DI, D2) between adjacent said primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and / or adjacent said secondary emitter (27) is comprised between 0.001 mm and 1.1 mm, preferably between 0.1 and 0.9 mm.

10. Disinfecting device (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said primary emitters (26A, 26B, 26C) and / or said secondary emitters (27) are LED emitters, with a substantially circular shape.

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