Ultraviolet light-emitting device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an ultraviolet light-emitting device. The ultraviolet light-emitting device of the present disclosure comprises: at least one light-emitting unit emitting ultraviolet rays having a peak wavelength band in a range of 190 nm or more and less than 240 nm, the light-emitting unit comprising: a light source having a surface from which light is emitted and a rear surface facing the surface in the thickness direction; and an optical filter disposed on the surface of the light source, wherein a first thickness of the light-emitting unit at the central axis of the light-emitting unit in the longitudinal direction is greater than a second thickness of the light-emitting unit at the outer periphery of the light-emitting unit surrounding the central axis of the light-emitting unit.

Description

UV light emitting device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultraviolet light emitting device.

[0002] Ultraviolet lamps generate ultraviolet rays and are used in various fields for the purpose of sterilizing bacteria and fungi. Ultraviolet lamps generate ultraviolet rays (UV) of various wavelengths through materials provided inside the lamp. For example, ultraviolet lamps can generate UV-A (315 nm to 400 nm), UV-B (280 nm to 315 nm), UV-C (100 nm to 280 nm), etc.

[0003] Among these, ultraviolet rays with wavelengths corresponding to UV-C have the best sterilizing power. When bacteria and fungi are irradiated with UV-C, their DNA is damaged, causing them to die. In other words, UV-C has effective sterilizing power against various bacteria by damaging the DNA of living organisms. Therefore, sterilization using ultraviolet lamps is more efficient than sterilization by heat, chemicals, ozone, or radiation.

[0004] Recently, devices are also being developed that selectively irradiate ultraviolet rays in the wavelength range of 190 nm to 230 nm, which have been found to be harmless to the human body while providing ultraviolet sterilization effects, particularly the 222 nm wavelength known as Far UVC. To obtain light with a wavelength of 222 nm, the dust-proof gas is mainly KrCl, an excimer gas.

[0005] Such ultraviolet lamps must create a vacuum atmosphere within the internal space of the tube and inject gas between them. The internal space becomes a discharge space, which can generate far-ultraviolet rays through light emission. The ultraviolet lamp induces a discharge by applying voltage through electrodes.

[0006] The 'ultraviolet light irradiation device' disclosed in Korean Published Patent No. 10-2023-0156780 discloses: a light source emitting ultraviolet light; a housing formed with a light extraction unit that accommodates the light source and extracts ultraviolet light emitted from the light source out of the housing; an optical filter disposed in the light extraction unit that selectively transmits ultraviolet light; and a diffuse transmission member disposed in the light extraction unit that diffusely transmits ultraviolet light. The light source includes a plurality of light-emitting tubes arranged spaced apart from each other in one direction.

[0007] The aforementioned conventional ultraviolet light irradiation device uses a diffuse transmission member to convert the emission angle of the ultraviolet light emitted from the light extraction unit to be greater than the incident angle of the incident ultraviolet light. However, there is a problem in that some of the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source is reflected by the diffuse transmission member, resulting in light loss. Furthermore, since a separate diffuse transmission member must be formed, there are problems such as increased volume or increased complexity of the process. In addition, there is a problem in that the amount of light extracted is reduced because some light is absorbed by the diffuser.

[0008] Furthermore, the aforementioned conventional ultraviolet light irradiation device consists of multiple light-emitting tubes arranged spaced apart from each other, making it difficult to directly coat an optical filter onto the light source. Therefore, there is a problem in that the light source and the optical filter must be arranged separately.

[0009] In addition, for an optical filter to be placed separately, a substrate is required for the filter material to be coated. However, there is a problem in that some of the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source is reflected from the substrate, causing light loss.

[0010] In addition, due to the light source consisting of multiple light-emitting tubes arranged spaced apart from each other, there is a problem in that light is not emitted uniformly over the area of ​​the light extraction section.

[0011] Prior Art: Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0156780 (Publication Date: Nov. 14, 2023)

[0012] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with improved sterilization performance.

[0013] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with an increased sterilization area.

[0014] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with reduced harmfulness to living organisms.

[0015] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with reduced light loss.

[0016] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with improved light transmittance.

[0017] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with a compact structure.

[0018] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device that does not require a separate diffuse transmission member.

[0019] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light emitting device in which an optical filter and a light source are integrated.

[0020] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light emitting device having a surface light source in which ultraviolet light is uniformly emitted through a light extraction surface.

[0021] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device in which the ultraviolet path between the light source and the optical filter is simple and shortened.

[0022] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light emitting device that satisfies international safety standards.

[0023] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light emitting device with an increased directional angle.

[0024] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with improved durability.

[0025] The object of the present disclosure may be to provide an ultraviolet light-emitting device with reduced manufacturing costs.

[0026] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, an ultraviolet light emitting device comprises: at least one light emitting unit that emits ultraviolet light having a peak wavelength band in the range of 190 nm or more and less than 240 nm, wherein the light emitting unit comprises a light source having a surface on which light is emitted and a back surface facing the surface in the thickness direction, and an optical filter disposed on the surface of the light source, wherein the first thickness of the light emitting unit at the central axis in the length direction of the light emitting unit is greater than the second thickness of the light emitting unit at the outer edge of the light emitting unit that surrounds the central axis of the light emitting unit.

[0028] The above-mentioned light-emitting unit may be a single light-emitting unit.

[0029] The above-mentioned light-emitting units may be arranged in a plurality in a length direction or width direction intersecting the thickness direction.

[0030] The thickness of the light-emitting unit may decrease as it moves from the central axis of the light-emitting unit toward the outer edge.

[0031] The thickness of the light-emitting unit may decrease linearly or non-linearly from the central axis of the light-emitting unit toward the outer edge.

[0032] The thickness of the light source may be thicker at the central axis of the light-emitting unit than at the outer edge of the light-emitting unit.

[0033] The thickness of the light source may increase from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit toward the central axis of the light-emitting unit.

[0034] The optical filter may be a filter layer deposited on the surface of the light source.

[0035] The surface of the light source includes a first surface and a second surface connected on the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit, and the angle formed by the first surface and the second surface may be 90 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees.

[0036] The angle formed by the first surface and the second surface may be 110 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less.

[0037] The thickness of the optical filter may be thicker at the central axis of the light-emitting unit than at the outer edge of the light-emitting unit.

[0038] The thickness of the optical filter may increase from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit toward the central axis of the light-emitting unit.

[0039] The filter layer includes a first deposition surface deposited on a first surface of the light source and a second deposition surface deposited on a second surface of the light source, and the angle formed by the first deposition surface and the second deposition surface may be smaller than the angle formed by the first surface and the second surface.

[0040] The surface of the light source includes a third surface and a fourth surface located between the first surface and the second surface, and the angle formed by the third surface and the fourth surface may correspond to the angle formed by the first surface and the second surface.

[0041] The above-mentioned light-emitting unit may have a curved shape in the thickest part of the light-emitting unit.

[0042] The angle formed by the first surface and the second surface may increase as it approaches the central axis of the light-emitting unit.

[0043] The surface of the light source is formed flat, and the optical filter is a shard in which a filter layer is coated on a base material, and the thickness of the shard may increase from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit toward the central axis of the light-emitting unit.

[0044] The surface of the light source is formed flat, and the optical filter is a shard in which a filter layer is coated on a base material, and the distance of the shard from the surface of the light source in the thickness direction of the light source may increase as it approaches the central axis of the light-emitting unit.

[0045] The above shard includes a first shard and a second shard, the distance from the light source increases as it goes toward the center, and the angle formed by the first shard and the second shard may be 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less.

[0046] The angle formed by the first shard and the second shard may be 110 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less.

[0047] An ultraviolet light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is an ultraviolet light emitting device having at least one light emitting unit that emits ultraviolet light having a peak wavelength band in the range of 200 nm or more and less than 240 nm, wherein the light emitting unit comprises a light source having a surface on which ultraviolet light is emitted and a back surface facing the surface in the thickness direction, and an optical filter disposed on the surface of the light source, wherein the third thickness of the optical filter at the central axis in the length direction of the light emitting unit is greater than the fourth thickness of the optical filter at the outer edge surrounding the central axis of the light emitting unit, and wherein the light emitting unit is characterized in that, in the light distribution of the emitted light emitted from the optical filter, the beam angle formed by the optical axis with a portion corresponding to about 60% or more of the maximum light intensity is about 70 degrees or more.

[0048] The light intensity at the optical axis located at the center of the light-emitting unit and parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may be smaller than the maximum light intensity.

[0049] The first angle formed by the part representing the maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may be about 5 degrees or more.

[0050] The first angle mentioned above may be about 25 degrees or more.

[0051] The first angle between the portion representing the maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may be greater than the second angle between the portion representing the maximum light intensity and the portion representing the light intensity corresponding to the light intensity of the optical axis.

[0052] The rate of change in light intensity at the first angle between the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source and the part showing maximum light intensity may be smaller than the rate of change in light intensity at the third angle between the part showing maximum light intensity and the part showing light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity.

[0053]

[0054] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0055] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the light source is formed as a surface light source type having a surface from which light is emitted, so that ultraviolet light can be uniformly emitted through the light extraction surface.

[0056] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a light-emitting unit emitting ultraviolet light is formed such that the protruding height increases toward the center, thereby forming an angle within the light-emitting unit. Through this, the directional angle of the ultraviolet light emitting device can be widened.

[0057] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the ultraviolet light emitting device may have a plurality of light emitting units arranged in a length direction or width direction intersecting the height direction of the light emitting unit, thereby forming a more uniform directional angle.

[0058] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an optical filter is deposited on the surface of a light source, the thickness of which increases toward the center, so that the optical filter and the light source can be formed as a single unit. Through this, since there is no separate substrate for depositing the optical filter, the light loss of the light-emitting unit can be reduced.

[0059] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a light source comprises a first surface and a second surface positioned opposite each other, and the first surface and the second surface form an angle, so that an angle may be formed within the light source. Through this, the directional angle of the light-emitting unit can be widened. Furthermore, since the directional angle can be widened through the structure of the light-emitting unit itself, a separate diffusion-transmitting member for diffusing emitted ultraviolet light can be omitted. Through this, light loss caused by the diffusion-transmitting member can be reduced.

[0060] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the light source may have a symmetrical structure such that the angle formed by the third surface and the fourth surface positioned opposite each other corresponds to the angle formed by the first surface and the second surface. Through this, a light-emitting unit having a uniform directional angle in different directions can be provided.

[0061] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the optical filter may be formed as a shard in which the distance from the surface of the light source increases toward the center, and the optical filter may be formed as a structure in which the height increases toward the center. Through this, an internal angle may be formed in the optical filter.

[0062] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the shard comprises a first shard and a second shard positioned opposite each other, and the first shard and the second shard form an angle, so that an angle may be formed within the shard. Through this, the directional angle of the light-emitting unit can be widened. Furthermore, since the directional angle can be widened through the structure of the light-emitting unit itself, a separate diffusion-transmitting member for diffusing emitted ultraviolet light can be omitted. Through this, light loss caused by the diffusion-transmitting member can be reduced.

[0063] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the light-emitting unit is formed such that, in the light distribution of the light emitted from the optical filter, the beam angle corresponding to about 60% or more of the maximum light intensity is about 70 degrees or more, so the sterilization range of the ultraviolet light-emitting device can be increased.

[0064] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the light intensity at the optical axis located at the center of the light-emitting unit and parallel to the thickness direction of the light source is smaller than the maximum light intensity, so the phenomenon of light flux concentration on the optical axis can be reduced. Through this, the light intensity of ultraviolet rays irradiated on the optical axis can be reduced. Accordingly, the harmfulness to the human body of the ultraviolet light-emitting device can be reduced. In addition, an ultraviolet light-emitting device that satisfies international safety standards can be provided.

[0065] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the first angle representing maximum light intensity and the angle formed by the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source are formed to be about 5 degrees or more, thereby providing an ultraviolet light emitting device that forms a more uniform light intensity over a wider range.

[0066] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the angle formed by the first angle representing maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source is formed to be about 25 degrees or more, so that the difference in light intensity between low and high angles can be reduced. Through this, an ultraviolet light emitting device that forms a more uniform light intensity over a sterilization area can be provided.

[0067] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the rate of change in light intensity between a first angle representing maximum light intensity and an optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source is smaller than the rate of change in light intensity between a first angle and a third angle representing about 60% of the maximum light intensity, so that a sterilization area with uniform light intensity can be formed within the directional angle.

[0068] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims.

[0069] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the appearance of ultraviolet light being irradiated in an indoor space where an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed.

[0071] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 4 is a part of the cross-sectional view of line 91-92 of Figure 1.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a part of an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 9 is a spectrum of ultraviolet light generated from a light source according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 10 is a transmission spectrum of ultraviolet light incident at an angle of incidence of 0 on an optical filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] FIG. 11 is a transmission spectrum according to the angle of incidence of an optical filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] Figure 12 is a graph showing the light distribution of emitted light in a conventional ultraviolet light emitting device.

[0081] Figure 13 is a graph showing the allowable time for ultraviolet rays by wavelength according to the existing ACGIH regulations.

[0082] Figure 14 is a graph showing the allowable time for ultraviolet rays by wavelength according to the relaxed regulations of ACGIH.

[0083] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a light-emitting unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a light-emitting unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] FIG. 17 is a first cross-sectional view of a light-emitting unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] FIG. 18 is a second cross-sectional view of a light-emitting unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] FIG. 19 is a graph showing the light distribution of emitted light in an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a light-emitting unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] FIG. 21 is a first cross-sectional view of a light-emitting unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] FIG. 22 is a second cross-sectional view of a light-emitting unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] FIG. 23 is a graph showing the light distribution of emitted light in an ultraviolet light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] FIG. 24 is a transmission spectrum of ultraviolet light incident at an angle of incidence of 0 on an optical filter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] FIG. 25 is a transmission spectrum of ultraviolet light incident on an optical filter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure at an angle of incidence of 0 to 80 degrees.

[0094] FIG. 26 is a graph showing the light distribution of emitted light in an ultraviolet light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095]

[0096] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components are given the same reference numeral regardless of drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0097] The suffixes “module” and “part” for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles.

[0098] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that they include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0099] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0100] When it is stated that one component is “connected” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0101] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0102]

[0103] The ultraviolet light emitting device (100) of the present invention can be used for sterilization. For example, the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be combined with a home appliance to provide a sterilization function to the user along with the original function of the home appliance. For example, the ultraviolet light emitting device of the present invention can be applied to an air conditioner. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the ultraviolet light emitting device according to the present invention applied to an air conditioner. As another example, the ultraviolet light emitting device of the present invention may be applied to various home appliances such as refrigerators, air purifiers, and dish dryers, rather than to an air conditioner.

[0104] The ultraviolet light emitting device (100) according to the present invention can be modularized and applied to home appliances. For example, the ultraviolet light emitting module may include a component for supplying power to the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) and a component for mounting the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) to home appliances, etc. Hereinafter, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) will be described as a concept including the ultraviolet light emitting device (100), an inverter device (150), and a device frame (110). Hereinafter, using an air conditioner among home appliances as an example, the structure of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) equipped in the air conditioner will be described in detail.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 2, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) can irradiate ultraviolet light toward the indoor space (I) of the place where the air conditioner is installed. Here, the indoor space (I) refers to the place where the air conditioner is installed, and refers to the space where the air conditioner aims to control temperature or humidity.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 1, the appearance of an air conditioner is illustrated. The air conditioner may be installed on the ceiling. When the air conditioner is installed on the ceiling, a part of the air conditioner may be housed inside the ceiling, and the remaining part may be exposed to the room (I). Among the cases (10, 20) to be described later, the upper case (10) may be housed inside the ceiling, and the lower case (20) may be exposed to the room (I).

[0107] The overall shape of the upper case (10) among the above cases (10, 20) may be approximately a rectangular prism shape. The upper case (10) may include a base plate (11) placed inside the ceiling and a side plate (13) erected along the edge of the base plate (11).

[0108] A lower case (20) may be coupled to the upper case (10). The lower case (20) may cover the open bottom surface of the upper case (10). Here, the bottom surface of the lower case (20) is based on the direction shown in FIG. 1. That is, the lower case (20) may be positioned to face the floor of the room (I). The lower case (20) may be coupled to the upper case (10) as a separate entity from the upper case (10). As another example, the lower case (20) may be provided integrally with the upper case (10).

[0109] The lower case (20) may include an inner plate (21) and an outer plate (22). The inner plate (21) may form the center of the lower case (20). An air intake part (30) may be provided in the center of the inner plate (21). An air discharge part may be provided in the outer part of the inner plate (21). The outer plate (22) may be arranged around the periphery of the inner plate (21). Reference numeral 31 is a grill part and constitutes the air intake part (30).

[0110] A portion of the surface of the lower case (20) may be exposed to the interior (I). Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first plate surface (22A), which is the bottom surface of the lower case (20), is exposed to the interior (I). Referring to FIG. 2, the upper case (10) is shown housed inside the ceiling.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 2, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) placed in the lower case (20) can irradiate far ultraviolet light toward the room (I). In FIG. 2, α (alpha) represents half of the irradiation angle of the far ultraviolet light emitting module (100). The far ultraviolet light irradiated in this way reaches the ground of the room (I), and the reference numeral X represents the shortest distance between the far ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) and the ground of the room (I). Since the far ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) is diffused at an angle α, a sterilization range (F) enclosed by the reference numeral Y can be formed. The interior of the sterilization range (F) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet light emitting module (100). Sterilization may mean killing pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, etc., or causing them to lose their infectivity or toxicity.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) is placed in the lower case (20). More precisely, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) may be placed in a mounting portion (25) provided in the lower case (20). Since the mounting portion (25) is a part that is not exposed to the indoor space (I), most of the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) is obscured from the indoor space (I). However, a part of the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) is positioned to face the indoor space (I), and this part of the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) facing the indoor space (I) can generate ultraviolet light to sterilize the indoor space (I).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 4, we will examine the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) above.

[0114] The above ultraviolet light emitting module (100) can irradiate ultraviolet light to the outside of the case (10, 20). More precisely, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) is positioned in the case (10, 20) so as to face the room (I) and can irradiate ultraviolet light into the room (I). The lower case (20) may include an irradiation hole (222) through which ultraviolet light generated from the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) passes. The irradiation hole (222) may be a through hole formed in the lower case (22). The ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be exposed to the room (I) through the irradiation hole (222). For example, the light-emitting unit (140) of the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) can be exposed to the room (I) through the irradiation hole (222). Through this, the ultraviolet light emitting module (100) can sterilize the room (I).

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the ultraviolet light-emitting module (100) includes a device frame (110) that is fixed to the case (10, 20). The device frame (110) forms the skeleton of the ultraviolet light-emitting module (100) and allows the ultraviolet light-emitting module (100) to be fixed to the case (10, 20). As shown in FIG. 7, the device frame (110) may be composed of a pair of frames spaced apart from each other. The lamp housing (120) is disposed between the pair of frames.

[0116] The device frame (110) may include a support member (111) that is in close contact with the case (10, 20) and a post member (115) that is erected from the support member (111). Based on FIG. 7, the bottom surface of the support member (111) is in close contact with the second plate surface (22B) of the outer case (10, 20), and a pair of the post members (115) may be extended from the top surface of the support member (111). The inverter device (150) may be seated on the top of the post member (115).

[0117] A lamp housing (120) is disposed on the device frame (110). The lamp housing (120) accommodates the light-emitting unit (140) and a pair of electrode parts (130A, 130B) (130). A mounting space (122) may be recessed in the center of the housing body (121). The electrode part (130) and the light-emitting unit (140) may be stacked in the mounting space (122).

[0118] Referring to FIG. 7, the housing body (121) may be provided with a storage fence (124). The storage fence (124) may be structured to protrude from the edge of the mounting space (122) to surround both sides of the mounting space (122). The mounting space (122) may be positioned between a pair of the storage fences (124).

[0119] The lamp housing (120) may include an irradiation holder (125). The irradiation holder (125) is assembled to the housing body (121) and can hang a part of the light-emitting unit (140). The irradiation holder (125) can fix the light-emitting unit (140) and the electrode part (130) positioned on its upper side (see FIG. 7).

[0120] The above-mentioned irradiation holder (125) may include a holder body and a hanging arm (126) extending from the holder body to fix the light-emitting unit (140). The hanging arm (126) may extend in a direction orthogonal to the holder body and be positioned on the light extraction surface (141A) of the light-emitting unit (140).

[0121] As shown in FIG. 7, a power connection hole (128) may be formed in the housing body (121). The inverter device (150) may be connected to the power connection hole (128). A part of the inverter device (150) may be directly inserted into the power connection hole (128) to supply AC power. As another example, a wire or terminal extending from the inverter device (150) may be inserted into the power connection hole (128). As yet another example, the inverter device (150) may be omitted, and a wire or terminal for applying power from the outside may be inserted into the power connection hole (128). Reference numeral 129 is an inverter fixing groove for fixing the inverter device (150), and a fixing protrusion (159) of the inverter device (150) is inserted into the inverter fixing groove (129).

[0122] An electrode portion (130) may be disposed in the lamp housing (120). The electrode portion (130) is intended to supply power to the light-emitting unit (140). The electrode portion (130) receives AC power from the inverter device (150) and transmits it to the light-emitting unit (140) to induce discharge of the light-emitting unit (140). The electrode portion (130) may be composed of a pair of electrode portions (130A, 130B).

[0123] AC power from the inverter device (150) can be applied to each of the pair of electrode parts (130A, 130B). Since the pair of electrode parts (130A, 130B) receiving AC power are each in contact with the light-emitting unit (140), they can induce a discharge of the inert gas filled inside the light-emitting unit (140). Each of the pair of electrode parts (130A, 130B) is made of a conductive material. In this embodiment, the pair of electrode parts (130A, 130B) are in the form of blocks.

[0124] Looking at the light-emitting unit (140) above, in this embodiment, the light-emitting unit (140) generates far-ultraviolet (far-UVC) rays. The light-emitting unit (140) may have a roughly plate-like structure. The light-emitting unit (140) supports the electrode portion (130) and is a component through which far-ultraviolet rays pass, and can generally be made of quartz or ceramic material which has good far-ultraviolet light transmittance. Alternatively, the light-emitting unit (140) may be made of fused silica, which has a lower OH content than quartz and excellent far-ultraviolet light transmittance.

[0125] The light-emitting unit (140) is composed of a plurality of plate members, and a discharge space may be formed between the plate members. The plurality of plate members may be joined by melting, and the discharge space may be formed between them. In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit (140) is composed of an excimer lamp. Reference numeral 143 is a side end portion provided at each end in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140), and the side end portion (143) can be seen as a melted and sealed portion.

[0126] At least a portion of the light extraction surface (141A) of the light-emitting unit (140) may be positioned to face the room (I). With reference to FIG. 2, the light-emitting unit (140) may irradiate far ultraviolet rays downwards. In this embodiment, since the air conditioner is installed on the ceiling, the light extraction surface (141A) of the light-emitting unit (140) may be positioned to face the ground of the room (I). Reference numeral 141B indicates an electrode connection surface (141B) formed on the opposite side of the light extraction surface (141A) of the light-emitting unit (140).

[0127] The inverter device (150) can supply AC power to the pair of electrode parts (130). The inverter device (150) may be positioned on the opposite side of the light-emitting unit (140) with the pair of electrode parts (130) as the center. The inverter device (150) may include an inverter body (151) and an AC generating device (155) provided in the inverter body (151). The inverter device (150) may include a converter part that converts commercial power from an air conditioner into DC power, and an inverter part that converts it back into AC after removing ripple from a smoothing circuit. As another example, the inverter device (150) may be omitted or positioned spaced apart from the ultraviolet light-emitting module (100).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 8, an ultraviolet light emitting device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Here, the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be seen to include the lamp housing (120), the pair of electrode parts (130A, 130B), and the light emitting unit (140), excluding the mounting frame (110) and inverter device (150) described above.

[0129]

[0130] Referring to FIG. 9, the spectrum of ultraviolet light generated from a light source (144) is described.

[0131] Distribution of the optical spectrum

[0132] The ultraviolet light irradiated by the light-emitting unit (140) can be subdivided according to the length of the wavelength. For example, the ultraviolet light can be divided into UV-A with a wavelength of 320 nm to 400 nm, UV-B with a wavelength of 280 nm to 320 nm, and UV-C with a wavelength of 200 nm to 280 nm.

[0133] The light-emitting unit (140) has been used to sterilize bacteria and fungi by generating ultraviolet rays, and generally, DNA exhibits the highest ultraviolet absorption characteristics around a wavelength of 260 nm. Therefore, UV-C, which is a short-wavelength ultraviolet ray, has the characteristic of destroying the DNA of bacteria and causing a chemical reaction in special substances, so it can be effectively used for sterilization.

[0134] The light-emitting unit (140) irradiates UV-C and can generate far-ultraviolet (far-UVC), which is a narrow spectrum within UV-C light. The far-ultraviolet (far-UVC) is known to provide the same pathogen sterilization effect as UV-C light but without harmful side effects of other frequencies or wavelengths. The ultraviolet light-emitting device (100) may use an excimer discharge to generate far-ultraviolet (far-UVC) in a specific wavelength range.

[0135] The light-emitting unit (140) can use a far UV-C excimer lamp that can affect a distance of about 2.5m and can go beyond simply sterilizing the air to sterilize furniture, floors, and walls in the space.

[0136] In the discharge space formed inside the light-emitting unit (140), an inert gas selected from the group consisting of argon (Ar), neon (Ne), xenon (Xe), and krypton (Kr) may be provided. At this time, the inert gas may be selected from the group consisting of ArBr, ArCl, ArF, ArO, NeF, XeI, XeO, XeBr, XeCl, XeF, KrBr, KrCl, KrO, and KrF.

[0137] Far UVC is generated by the discharge of the light-emitting unit (140) and is emitted. At this time, the wavelength of the emitted far UVC may vary depending on the type of inert gas used. For example, a KrCl excimer lamp can generate ultraviolet light with a main emission wavelength of 222 nm.

[0138] <Emission Wavelength Band>

[0139] The light source (144) may include an emission wavelength band. The emission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength range in which the light source (144) generates a certain amount of light or more so that it can substantially affect the surface to be irradiated. The emission wavelength band may be set based on the maximum amount of light. The wavelength representing the maximum amount of light may be referred to as the peak wavelength or the main emission wavelength. For example, in the optical spectrum of a KrCl excimer lamp, the maximum amount of light may be about 276.3 uW / cm^2 and the peak wavelength may be about 222 nm. Accordingly, the emission wavelength band of the KrCl excimer lamp may be a wavelength band having a light amount of 2.76 uW / cm^2 or more, which corresponds to 1% of the maximum amount of light of 276.3 uW / cm^2. Therefore, the peak wavelength band may correspond to an amount of about 200 nm or more and 260 nm or less.

[0140] <Peak Distribution>

[0141] The ultraviolet radiation emitted from the KrCl excimer lamp exhibits a first peak with maximum light intensity at 222 nm. Additionally, the KrCl excimer lamp exhibits a weak second peak around 257 nm. The ultraviolet radiation around 257 nm is close to 275 nm, which is harmful to the human body, and thus can affect the human body. However, since the second peak is significantly smaller than the first peak, if the permissible limit is met only for the wavelength around 222 nm, the wavelength around 257 nm may not pose a problem for safety standards.

[0142]

[0143] Referring to Fig. 10, the transmission spectrum of a conventional optical filter is described.

[0144] Transmission Spectrum

[0145] An optical filter can limit the transmission of some wavelength bands of ultraviolet light emitted from a light source. An optical filter can selectively transmit only some wavelength bands of ultraviolet light. The wavelength band transmitted by the optical filter can be referred to as the transmission wavelength band (TWB). The transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) may vary depending on the material, thickness, and stacking method of the optical filter (146).

[0146] Conventional optical filters

[0147] Conventional optical filters can generally form a transmitted wavelength band (TWB) of 237 nm or less. Ultraviolet rays in the wavelength band below 240 nm are easily absorbed by the surface of human skin and are difficult to penetrate deep into the skin, so they have little effect on the human body. On the other hand, among the wavelength bands of ultraviolet rays, the wavelength corresponding to 275 nm is known to be the most harmful to the human body. Therefore, conventionally, optical filters that transmit a wavelength band of 237 nm or less, which is a relatively short wavelength, have generally been used. Alternatively, optical filters that transmit a wavelength band of 230 nm or less have been used conservatively.

[0148] Transmittance Wavelength Band (TWB)

[0149] An optical filter may include a transmitted wavelength band (TWB). The transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may refer to a wavelength band of ultraviolet light that the optical filter substantially transmits. "Substantially transmits" may mean that the optical filter transmits incident light at a transmittance of at least a certain level. For example, a conventional optical filter may include a transmitted wavelength band (TWB) of 200 nm or more and less than 237 nm with a transmittance of about 5.0% or more.

[0150] Conventional optical filters can exhibit high transmittance around 222 nm, which is the main emission wavelength of a KrCl excimer lamp and effective for sterilizing pathogens. For example, conventional optical filters exhibit a transmittance of about 83.7% at 222 nm and about 87.3% at 229 nm.

[0151] In addition, the conventional optical filter exhibits a transmittance of about 5.0% at 200 nm, which is the lower limit of the transmission wavelength band (TWB), and a transmittance of about 6.3% at 236 nm, which is the upper limit of the transmission wavelength band (TWB). Accordingly, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the conventional optical filter can be set to be 200 nm or more and less than 237 nm.

[0152] <Restricted Wavelength Band (RWB)>

[0153] Conversely, conventional optical filters can form a restricted wavelength band (RWB) greater than 237 nm. The restricted wavelength band (RWB) may refer to a wavelength band of ultraviolet light to which the optical filter substantially limits transmission. Substantially limiting transmission may mean that the optical filter transmits incident light at a transmittance below a certain level. For example, a conventional optical filter may include a restricted wavelength band (RWB) between 237 nm and 277 nm with a transmittance of less than approximately 5.0%. Additionally, a conventional optical filter may include a restricted wavelength band (RWB) between 282 nm and 293 nm. Through this, the conventional optical filter can limit the wavelength of 275 nm, which is most harmful to the human body.

[0154]

[0155] Referring to Fig. 11, the transmission spectrum of an optical filter according to the angle of incidence is described.

[0156] <Change in Transmitted Wavelength Band (TWB) According to Angle of Incident>

[0157] The transmission spectrum of an optical filter can change depending on the angle of incidence of light with respect to the incident plane of the optical filter. That is, as the angle of incidence increases, the transmittance of ultraviolet light in the wavelength band being transmitted may decrease. This is understood to be because light with a small angle of incidence is easy to pass through the optical filter, whereas light with a large angle of incidence is difficult to pass through the optical filter and is easy to reflect.

[0158] Blue Shift

[0159] As the angle of incidence of light on the incident surface of the optical filter increases, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the transmission spectrum may shift toward the shorter wavelength side. This can be referred to as a blue shift. Additionally, as the angle of incidence of light on the incident surface of the optical filter increases, the upper limit of the transmission wavelength band (TWB) may shift toward the shorter wavelength side. For example, when the angle of incidence is 0 degrees, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) may be formed to be 200 nm or more and less than 237 nm. When the angle of incidence is 10 degrees, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) may be formed to be 200 nm or more and less than 236 nm. When the angle of incidence is 20 degrees, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) may be formed to be 200 nm or more and less than 233 nm. When the angle of incidence is 30 degrees, the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) can be formed to be 199 nm or more and less than 228 nm. When the angle of incidence is 40 degrees, the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) can be formed to be 198 nm or more and less than 222 nm. When the angle of incidence is 50 degrees, the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) can be formed to be 197 nm or more and less than 215 nm.

[0160] Change in Peak Wavelength Size

[0161] In addition, as the angle of incidence of light on the incident surface of the optical filter increases, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may gradually decrease. For example, when the angle of incidence is 0 degrees, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be approximately 87.3%. When the angle of incidence is 10 degrees, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be approximately 85.9%. When the angle of incidence is 20 degrees, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be approximately 84.4%. When the angle of incidence is 30 degrees, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be approximately 77.5%. When the angle of incidence is 40 degrees, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be approximately 45.6%. When the angle of incidence is 50 degrees, the maximum transmittance in the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) can be about 14.0%.

[0162] Accordingly, as the angle of incidence of light with respect to the incident surface of the optical filter increases, the transmittance of the effective sterilization wavelength of 222 nm may gradually decrease.

[0163] In addition, the sterilization area of ​​the ultraviolet light-emitting device may be limited to a certain range.

[0164]

[0165] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the allowable time for each wavelength band of ultraviolet light will be explained.

[0166] <acgih>

[0167] Considering the effects of ultraviolet rays generated from an ultraviolet emitting device (100) on the human body, a regulatory limit for the cumulative irradiation dose to the human body is established. Specifically, the regulatory limit established by the ACGIH (American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists) is recommended. For example, for ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 222 nm, the permissible limit for the cumulative irradiation dose per day (8 hours) is set at 22 mJ / cm². The irradiation dose can be calculated by multiplying the illuminance and the irradiation time.

[0168] Although ultraviolet rays in the wavelength band around 222 nm have low harmfulness to the human body, in order to safely operate an ultraviolet irradiation device, the allowable time must not be exceeded.

[0169] Accordingly, in order to satisfy the existing ACGIH regulations, if only ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 222 nm was limited to below the permissible limit, the wavelength band around 257 nm, which is close to harmful light, could not be a problem. Since the permissible duration of ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 222 nm was significantly shorter than the permissible duration of ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 257 nm, if the limit was focused on the permissible duration of 222 nm, 257 nm could naturally be limited to within the permissible limit.

[0170] <Problems Arising from Deregulation>

[0171] However, as ACGIH regulations have been relaxed in some countries, the gap between the permissible time of ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 222 nm and the permissible time of ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 257 nm has narrowed. Consequently, in order to satisfy the relaxed ACGIH regulations, a problem has arisen in that ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 257 nm, as well as ultraviolet radiation in the wavelength band around 222 nm, must be limited to within the permissible time.

[0172]

[0173] Referring to FIG. 14, the light distribution of the emitted light in a conventional ultraviolet light emitting device will be explained.

[0174] <Light distribution of emitted light according to conventional optical filters>

[0175] Conventional optical filters generally have a transmission wavelength band (TWB) of less than 240 nm. For example, conventional optical filters transmit ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of less than 237 nm, or more conservatively transmit ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of less than 230 nm. FIG. 14 is a graph showing the light distribution of emitted light in an ultraviolet emitting device (hereinafter referred to as the "conventional ultraviolet emitting device") to which a conventional optical filter is applied.

[0176] The light distribution graph sets the location where a conventional ultraviolet light emitting device or a conventional light emitting unit is positioned as the origin (the center of the graph) and establishes a polar coordinate system in a 360-degree space centered on this. 0 degrees and 180 degrees can be considered to be located on the optical axis. For example, the optical axis is formed in an up-and-down direction, 0 degrees may be the upper direction of the ultraviolet light emitting device, and 180 degrees may be the lower direction of the ultraviolet light emitting device. In addition, the maximum light intensity is set to 100%, and the relative intensity of the emitted light is displayed at an angle tilted from the optical axis relative to this.

[0177] Accordingly, looking at the light distribution graph, the maximum light intensity appears at 180 degrees, which is located on the optical axis of the conventional ultraviolet light emitting device. As the angle of inclination of the emitted light with respect to the optical axis increases, the relative light intensity with respect to the maximum light intensity gradually decreases.

[0178] An ultraviolet light emitting device may have a beam angle. The beam angle may refer to the angle formed by the optical axis and the region corresponding to approximately 60% or more of the maximum light intensity in the light distribution of the emitted light. The beam angle may refer to the angle formed between the emitted light corresponding to approximately 60% of the maximum light intensity. For example, in a conventional ultraviolet light emitting device, the light distribution of the emitted light shows the maximum light intensity on the optical axis, and the light intensity corresponding to 60% of the maximum light intensity appears in the emitted light at approximately 150 degrees and the emitted light at approximately 210 degrees. Accordingly, the beam angle of the conventional ultraviolet light emitting device may correspond to approximately 60 degrees, which is the angle between the emitted light at approximately 150 degrees and the emitted light at approximately 210 degrees.

[0179] As previously explained, light with a small angle of incidence can easily pass through an optical filter. Conversely, light with a large angle of incidence has difficulty passing through the optical filter and may instead be more likely to be reflected. Consequently, the proportion of light with a small angle of incidence among the emitted light from the optical filter may increase. Accordingly, the optical filter may narrow the light distribution of the emitted light. When the light distribution narrows, some of the emitted light may be concentrated in a localized area on the surface to be irradiated. For example, if a conventional optical filter that transmits wavelengths smaller than 237 nm is applied, it may exhibit a light distribution with a small beam angle of approximately 60 degrees. This can lead to the problem of a reduced sterilization area.

[0180] Problems that occur when the speed of light is concentrated in a localized area

[0181] In order to keep the maximum amount of ultraviolet radiation below the allowable limit, control must be performed based on the emitted light that exhibits maximum light intensity. For example, in a conventional ultraviolet emitting device, control must be performed based on the emitted light at 180 degrees, which is the lower side of the ultraviolet emitting device that exhibits maximum light intensity.

[0182] However, conventional ultraviolet light-emitting devices have a small beam angle, which can cause the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source to be concentrated in a localized area. As a result, not only is the sterilization area narrowed, but it is also difficult to limit it within the regulatory limits of ACGIH.

[0183] Therefore, it is desirable for the ultraviolet irradiation device to irradiate ultraviolet rays over a wide area in compliance with the applicable allowable limits, rather than irradiating with high localized intensity. In other words, it is desirable to increase the beam angle in the light distribution of the emitted light.

[0184]

[0185] With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the light-emitting unit (140) of the present disclosure will be described.

[0186] <Structure of the light-emitting unit (140) - light source (144) and optical filter (146)>

[0187] The light-emitting unit (140) can emit ultraviolet light. The light-emitting unit (140) may include a light source (144) that generates ultraviolet light. The light-emitting unit (140) may include an optical filter (146) into which ultraviolet light generated from the light source (144) is incident.

[0188] The light-emitting unit (140) may have a thickness formed in the vertical direction. The thickness direction of the light-emitting unit (140) may be parallel to the optical axis (LX) direction. The left-right direction and the front-back direction of the light-emitting unit (140) are the length directions, and the central axis (LX) of the length direction of the light-emitting unit (140) may be defined as a line parallel to the optical axis (LX) at the center of the length direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The central axis (LX) of the length direction of the light-emitting unit (140) usually coincides with the optical axis (LX).

[0189] The light-emitting unit (140) may have a width formed in a direction intersecting the thickness direction. The light-emitting unit (140) may have a width formed in a direction intersecting the thickness direction. The width direction of the light-emitting unit (140) and the width direction of the light-emitting unit (140) may intersect. For example, the light-emitting unit (140) may have a thickness formed in the up-down direction, a width formed in the left-right direction, and a width formed in the front-back direction.

[0190] The first thickness (H1) of the light-emitting unit (140) at the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140) is thicker than the second thickness (H2) of the light-emitting unit (140) at the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) that surrounds the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140). The outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) may refer to the rim or a position off from the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140) when viewed from the optical axis (LX).

[0191] Additionally, the thickness of the light-emitting unit (140) refers to the sum of the thickness of the light source (144) and the thickness of the optical filter (146).

[0192] Specifically, the thickness of the light-emitting unit (140) may increase from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The thickness of the light-emitting unit (140) may increase linearly or non-linearly from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140).

[0193] The light-emitting unit (140) may have a height that increases toward the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The height of the light-emitting unit (140) may be measured in the thickness direction. The height direction of the light-emitting unit (140) may be parallel to the thickness direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The light-emitting unit (140) may protrude toward the center. For example, the height of the protrusion of the light-emitting unit (140) may increase toward the center. The light-emitting unit (140) may have a horn shape with the highest center. For example, it may have a square pyramid shape with the highest center height and a lower height toward the edges. However, it is not limited to this, and the light-emitting unit (140) may be formed in various shapes such as a cone or a polygonal pyramid.

[0194] An angle may be formed inside the light-emitting unit (140). An angle may be formed between opposing surfaces with respect to the central axis in the height direction of the light-emitting unit (140), such that the height increases towards the center. This may be referred to as the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140). For example, the light-emitting unit (140) may include a first surface (141A1) and a second surface (141A2) connected to each other on the central axis (LX) in the length direction, and the first surface (141A1) and the second surface (141A2) may form an internal angle.

[0195] <Optical Axis (LX)>

[0196] FIG. 15 illustrates the optical axis (LX) of ultraviolet light emitted from the light-emitting unit (140). The optical axis (LX) may be formed in an up-and-down direction. The optical axis (LX) may be parallel to the thickness direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The optical axis (LX) may be the center of the ultraviolet light beam emitted from the light-emitting unit (140). The optical axis (LX) may extend in the direction in which the light-emitting unit (140) is facing.

[0197] <Single light-emitting unit (140)>

[0198] The ultraviolet light emitting device (100) may have at least one light emitting unit (140). For example, the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) may include a single light emitting unit (140).

[0199] <Multiple light-emitting units (140)>

[0200] Referring to FIG. 16, the ultraviolet light-emitting device (100) may include a plurality of light-emitting units (140). The plurality of light-emitting units (140) may be arranged in the width direction of the light-emitting units (140) and / or in the width direction of the light-emitting units (140). The plurality of light-emitting units (140) may be connected to each other.

[0201] The heights of the plurality of light-emitting units (140) may correspond to each other. The widths of the plurality of light-emitting units (140) may correspond to each other. The widths of the plurality of light-emitting units (140) may correspond to each other.

[0202] Each of the multiple light-emitting units (140) may have a central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140). Each of the multiple light-emitting units (140) may have the thickest thickness at the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140), and may become thinner as it moves away from the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of each light-emitting unit (140).

[0203]

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the cross-section and stacked structure of the light-emitting unit (140) will be described.

[0205] <Shape of light source (144) - internal angle>

[0206] The light-emitting unit (140) may include a light source (144) that emits ultraviolet light. The light source (144) may form the framework of the light-emitting unit (140). The thickness of the light source (144) may be thicker along the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140) than along the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140). Specifically, the thickness of the light source (144) may increase from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140). The thickness of the light source (144) may increase linearly or non-linearly from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140).

[0207] The thickness direction of the light source (144) may correspond to the thickness direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The height of the light source (144) may increase as it approaches the central axis (LX) in the length direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The height direction of the light source (144) may correspond to the height direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The width direction of the light source (144) may correspond to the width direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The width direction of the light source (144) may correspond to the width direction of the light-emitting unit (140). For example, the light source (144) may have a height formed in the vertical direction, a width formed in the horizontal direction, and a width formed in the front-back direction.

[0208] The light source (144) may protrude from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140). For example, the height of the protrusion of the light source (144) may increase toward the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140). The light source (144) may be a pyramid shape with the highest center. For example, the light source (144) may be a square pyramid shape with the highest center height and a lower height toward the edge. However, it is not limited to this, and the light source (144) may be formed in various shapes such as a cone or a polygonal pyramid.

[0209] The light source (144) may include a surface (144A) from which ultraviolet light is emitted. The surface (144A) of the light source (144) may be referred to as a light extraction surface. The light source (144) may form an angle between the surfaces (144A) connected on the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140). This may be referred to as an internal angle of the light source (144). For example, the light source (144) may include a first surface (144A1) and a second surface (144A2) facing each other with respect to the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140), and the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2) may form an angle (beta12). For example, the first surface (144A1) may be the left side surface (144A1) of the light source (144), and the second surface (144A2) may be the right side surface (144A2) of the light source (144).

[0210] Additionally, the light source (144) includes a third surface (144A3) and a fourth surface (144A4) that face each other with respect to a central axis in the height direction, and the third surface (144A3) and the fourth surface (144A4) can form an angle (beta34). The third surface (144A3) may be located between the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2). The fourth surface (144A4) may be located between the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2). For example, the third surface (144A3) may be the front surface (144A3) of the light source (144), and the fourth surface (144A4) may be the rear surface (144A4) of the light source (144).

[0211] The light source (144) may have a highest point in the height direction that has curvature. Here, having curvature means that the highest point is round, curved, or curved.

[0212] That is, the highest point in the height direction of the light source (144) can be formed in a curved shape. The end of the protrusion of the light source (144) can be formed in a curved shape. The internal angle of the light source (144) can increase as it approaches the center. For example, the angle between the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2) of the light source (144) can increase as it is measured closer to the center. That is, the angle (beta120) between the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2) measured at a point close to the center can be greater than the angle (beta121) between the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2) measured at a point far from the center.

[0213] If the light source (144) has a curved shape at its highest point in the height direction, it has the advantage of being more resistant to impact and less likely to be damaged during the manufacturing process or use compared to when the light source (144) has a wedge shape at its highest point in the height direction.

[0214]

[0215] Structure of the optical filter (146)

[0216] The optical filter (146) can substantially block ultraviolet rays in wavelength bands harmful to the human body. The optical filter (146) can sterilize pathogens by transmitting wavelength bands effective for sterilization. For example, the optical filter (146) can substantially limit the transmission of wavelength bands of 260 nm or more that are harmful to the human body. For example, the optical filter (146) can sterilize pathogens using ultraviolet rays in wavelength bands of 200 nm or more. Additionally, the optical filter (146) can sterilize pathogens using ultraviolet rays in wavelength bands of less than 255 nm.

[0217] The optical filter (146) may include a dielectric multilayer film in which layers with different refractive indices are stacked. The dielectric multilayer film may have high refractive index layers and low refractive index layers stacked alternately. For example, the optical filter (146) may include a dielectric multilayer film in which a high refractive index layer formed of hafnium oxide (HfO2) and a low refractive index layer formed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) are stacked alternately. The dielectric multilayer film may have a structure stacked between 40 and 44 layers. For example, the dielectric multilayer film may be formed by stacking a high refractive index layer formed of hafnium oxide (HfO2) and a low refractive index layer formed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) alternately up to 42 layers.

[0218] <Shape of optical filter (146) - internal angle>

[0219] An optical filter (146) may be placed on the surface (144A) of a light source (144). The optical filter (146) may be formed directly on the surface (144A) of the light source (144) without interposing a separate substrate. The optical filter (146) may be coated directly on the surface (144A) of the light source (144). Alternatively, the optical filter (146) may be adhered to the surface (144A) of the light source (144). For example, the optical filter (146) may be deposited on the surface (144A) of the light source (144).

[0220] Accordingly, since a separate base material for placing the optical filter (146) is not required, the reflection of ultraviolet light emitted from the light source (144) by the base material can be reduced. That is, the light extraction efficiency of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be improved.

[0221] In addition, the manufacturing cost of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be reduced.

[0222] The third thickness of the optical filter (146) at the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140) may be thicker than the fourth thickness of the optical filter (146) at the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140). The thickness of the optical filter (146) may increase from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140). The thickness of the optical filter (146) may increase linearly or non-linearly from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit (140) toward the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140).

[0223] The optical filter (146) may include a coating surface (146A) from which ultraviolet light is emitted. Depending on the manufacturing process, the coating surface (146A) may be referred to as a deposition surface (146A). The coating surface (146A) of the optical filter (146) may form an angle between the coating surfaces (146A) connected to each other on the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140). This may be referred to as an internal angle of the optical filter (146). For example, it may include a first deposition surface (146A1) and a second deposition surface (146A2) facing each other with respect to the longitudinal central axis (LX) of the light-emitting unit (140), and the first deposition surface (146A1) and the second deposition surface (146A2) may form an angle (gamma12). For example, the first deposition surface (146A1) may be the left side of the deposition surface (146A) of the optical filter (146), and the second deposition surface (146A2) may be the right side of the deposition surface (146A) of the optical filter (146).

[0224] Additionally, the optical filter (146) includes a third deposition surface (146A3) and a fourth deposition surface (146A4) that face each other with respect to the central axis (LX) in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit (140), and the third deposition surface (146A3) and the fourth deposition surface (146A4) can form an angle (gamma34). The third deposition surface (146A3) may be located between the first deposition surface (146A1) and the second deposition surface (146A2). The fourth deposition surface (146A4) may be located between the first deposition surface (146A1) and the second deposition surface (146A2). For example, the third deposition surface (146A3) may be the front portion of the deposition surface (146A) of the optical filter (146), and the fourth deposition surface (146A4) may be the rear portion of the deposition surface (146A) of the optical filter (146).

[0225] The optical filter (146) can be formed such that its highest point in the height direction has curvature. That is, the highest point in the height direction of the optical filter (146) can be formed in a curved manner. The end of the protrusion of the optical filter (146) can be formed in a curved manner. Accordingly, the internal angle of the optical filter (146) can increase toward the center. For example, if the optical filter (146) is deposited on the surface (144A) of a light source (144) in which the highest point in the height direction is formed bluntly, the highest point in the height direction of the optical filter (146) can also be formed in a rounded manner.

[0226]

[0227] With reference to FIG. 19, the light distribution of the emitted light in an ultraviolet light emitting device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0228] Changes in light distribution due to internal angle formation

[0229] According to the light distribution of the emitted light from the light-emitting unit (140), the directional angle may increase as the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) increases. Here, the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) may be the internal angle of the light source (144) or the internal angle of the optical filter (146).

[0230] The case where the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is 180 degrees, that is, where no internal angle is formed, is described. In other words, it may be a case where no internal angle is formed in either the light source (144) or the optical filter (146). In this case, according to the light distribution of the emitted light from the light-emitting unit (140), the maximum light intensity appears at 180 degrees located on the optical axis (LX). As the angle between the emitted light and the optical axis (LX) increases, the relative light intensity relative to the maximum light intensity may gradually decrease. For example, the emitted light at 190 degrees or 170 degrees, tilted 10 degrees relative to the optical axis (LX), may exhibit a relative light intensity of approximately 93%. Also, the emitted light at 200 degrees or 160 degrees, tilted 20 degrees relative to the optical axis (LX), may exhibit a relative light intensity of approximately 88%.

[0231] As the light is emitted at a high angle relative to the optical axis (LX), the relative light intensity of the emitted light gradually decreases, and a relative light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity may appear at about 205 degrees and about 155 degrees. Accordingly, when no internal angle is formed in the light-emitting unit (140), the directional angle (theta3) may correspond to about 50 degrees.

[0232] The case in which the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 140 degrees is described. In this case, according to the light distribution of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit (140), the maximum light intensity appears in the light emitted at around 170 degrees, which is tilted about 10 degrees from the optical axis (LX). Accordingly, the light intensity of the light emitted at 180 degrees along the optical axis (LX) may be relatively reduced. The relative light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity may appear at about 140 degrees and about 215 degrees. Accordingly, when the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 140 degrees, the directional angle (theta2) may correspond to about 75 degrees.

[0233] The case in which the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 120 degrees is described. In this case, according to the light distribution of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit (140), the maximum light intensity appears in the light emitted at around 150 degrees, which is tilted about 30 degrees from the optical axis (LX). Accordingly, the light intensity of the light emitted at 180 degrees along the optical axis (LX) can be relatively further reduced. The relative light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity can appear at about 120 degrees and about 230 degrees. Accordingly, when the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 120 degrees, the directional angle (theta1) can correspond to about 110 degrees.

[0234] <Effect>

[0235] The amount of ultraviolet irradiation can be set based on the maximum light intensity of the irradiated area. If the illuminance distribution of the emitted light is uniformized on the irradiated surface, the amount of ultraviolet irradiation can be increased overall compared to cases where the light intensity of the emitted light is locally high.

[0236] Accordingly, the directional angle can be increased, and the sterilization area can be expanded.

[0237] In addition, as the beam angle increases, the illuminance distribution of the sterilization area can be uniformized.

[0238]

[0239] Referring to FIG. 20, an optical filter (146) placed on the surface (144A) of a light source (144) will be described.

[0240] In FIG. 20, the thickness of the optical filter (146) may be exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0241] <Change in thickness of optical filter (146)>

[0242] The optical filter (146) placed on the surface (144A) of the light source (144) may become thicker towards the center. The optical filter (146) deposited on the surface (144A) of the light source (144) may become thinner towards the edge.

[0243] <Angle Difference>

[0244] The internal angle of the optical filter (146) may be smaller than the internal angle of the light source (144). For example, the angle (gamma12) between the first deposition surface (146A1) and the second deposition surface (146A2) of the optical filter (146) may be smaller than the angle (beta12) between the first surface (144A1) and the second surface (144A2) of the light source (144).

[0245]

[0246] Referring to FIGS. 21 and FIGS. 22, the cross-section and stacked structure of the light-emitting unit (140) will be described.

[0247] <Another embodiment - Shard (148)>

[0248] The optical filter (146) may include a base material on which a dielectric multilayer film is formed. That is, the optical filter (146) may be a shard (148) on which a dielectric multilayer film is formed on the base material.

[0249] The base material can be formed from a light-transmitting material. That is, the base material can transmit ultraviolet rays. The base material can be formed from ceramic materials such as quartz glass, or resin-based materials such as silicone resin or fluoropolymer resin. For example, the base material can be formed from fused silica.

[0250] The dielectric multilayer film can be referred to as a filter layer. The filter layer can be placed on one side of the substrate.

[0251] <Arrangement structure of shard (148)>

[0252] The shard (148) can be placed on the surface (144A) of the light source (144). The shard (148) may protrude toward the center. For example, the height of the protrusion of the shard (148) may increase toward the center. The height direction of the shard (148) may correspond to the height direction of the light source (144). The shard (148) may be a pyramid shape with the highest center. For example, it may be a square pyramid shape with the highest center height and a lower height toward the edge. However, it is not limited to this, and the shard (148) may be formed in various shapes such as a cone or a polygonal pyramid.

[0253] <Internal angle of shard (148)>

[0254] The shard (148) may include a first shard (148A1) and a second shard (148A2) facing each other with respect to a central axis in the height direction. For example, the first shard (148A1) may be the left side of the shard (148), and the second shard (148A2) may be the right side of the shard (148).

[0255] The first shard (148A1) and the second shard (148A2) can form an angle. This can be referred to as the internal angle of the shard (148). For example, the first shard (148A1) and the second shard (148A2) can form an angle (delta12).

[0256] Additionally, the shard (148) may include a third shard (148A3) and a fourth shard (148A4) facing each other with respect to a central axis in the height direction. The third shard (148A3) may be the front part of the shard (148), and the fourth shard (148A4) may be the rear part of the shard (148). The third shard (148A3) may be located between the first shard (148A1) and the second shard (148A2). The fourth shard (148A4) may be located between the first shard (148A1) and the second shard (148A2). The third shard (148A3) and the fourth shard (148A4) may form an angle (delta34).

[0257]

[0258] With reference to FIG. 23, the light distribution of the emitted light in an ultraviolet light emitting device (100) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0259] Changes in light distribution due to internal angle formation

[0260] According to the light distribution of the emitted light from the light-emitting unit (140), if the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) increases, the directional angle may increase. Here, the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) may be the internal angle of the shard (148).

[0261] This describes the case where the internal angle of the shard (148) is 180 degrees, that is, the case where no internal angle is formed. In other words, the shard (148) may be formed flat. In this case, according to the light distribution of the emitted light from the light-emitting unit (140), the maximum light intensity appears at 180 degrees located on the optical axis (LX). As the angle between the emitted light and the optical axis (LX) increases, the relative light intensity relative to the maximum light intensity may gradually decrease. For example, the emitted light at 190 degrees or 170 degrees tilted 10 degrees relative to the optical axis (LX) may exhibit a relative light intensity of about 93%. Also, the emitted light at 200 degrees or 160 degrees tilted 20 degrees relative to the optical axis (LX) may exhibit a relative light intensity of about 88%.

[0262] As the light is emitted at a high angle relative to the optical axis (LX), the relative light intensity of the emitted light gradually decreases, and a relative light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity may appear at about 205 degrees and about 155 degrees. Accordingly, when no internal angle is formed in the light-emitting unit (140), the directional angle (theta6) may correspond to about 50 degrees.

[0263] The case in which the internal angle of the shard (148) is formed at 150 degrees is described. In this case, according to the light distribution of the emitted light from the light-emitting unit (140), the maximum light intensity appears in the emitted light at around 140 degrees, which is emitted at an angle of about 40 degrees from the optical axis (LX). Accordingly, the light intensity of the 180-degree emitted light emitted along the optical axis (LX) can be relatively reduced. Relative light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity can appear at around 130 degrees and about 220 degrees. Accordingly, when the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 150 degrees, the directional angle (theta5) can correspond to about 90 degrees.

[0264] The case in which the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 125 degrees is described. In this case, according to the light distribution of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit (140), the maximum light intensity appears in the light emitted at around 140 degrees, which is tilted about 40 degrees from the optical axis (LX). Accordingly, the light intensity of the light emitted at 180 degrees along the optical axis (LX) can be relatively further reduced. Relative light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity can appear at about 120 degrees and about 230 degrees. Accordingly, when the internal angle of the light-emitting unit (140) is formed at 125 degrees, the directional angle (theta4) can correspond to about 110 degrees.

[0265] Accordingly, the directional angle can be increased, and the sterilization area can be expanded.

[0266] In addition, as the beam angle increases, the illuminance distribution of the sterilization area can be uniformized.

[0267]

[0268] FIG. 24 shows the transmission spectrum of an optical filter (146). Specifically, it is a transmission spectrum showing the transmittance for each wavelength in a graph for ultraviolet rays incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of 0 degrees.

[0269] With reference to FIG. 24, the transmission spectrum of an optical filter (146) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0270] Transmittance Wavelength Band (TWB)

[0271] The optical filter (146) may include a transmission wavelength band (TWB). The transmission wavelength band (TWB) may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) substantially transmits incident light. Alternatively, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits incident light at a transmittance of at least a certain level. For example, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident at an angle of 0 degrees at a transmittance of at least 5.0%.

[0272] The transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may exist in a wavelength band of 190 nm or more and less than 275 nm. For example, the lower limit of the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be located in a wavelength band of 190 nm or more, and the upper limit of the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) may be located in a wavelength band of less than 275 nm.

[0273] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) can transmit ultraviolet light of the transmission wavelength band (TWB).

[0274] Additionally, the optical filter (146) can substantially limit the transmission of ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 275 nm, which are most harmful to the human body.

[0275] The upper limit of the transmitted wavelength band (TWB) can be located in a wavelength band greater than 237 nm.

[0276] Expansion of Transmissible Wavelength Band (TWB) - Upper Limit 250nm>

[0277] The optical filter (146) according to the present disclosure may have an extended transmission wavelength band (TWB) compared to conventional optical filters. The optical filter (146) may substantially transmit ultraviolet rays in a wavelength band of less than 250 nm. The transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) may include a wavelength band greater than 237 nm and less than or equal to 250 nm.

[0278] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure, unlike conventional optical filters, can use a wavelength band greater than 237 nm and less than 250 nm for sterilization.

[0279] In addition, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) can be further extended toward the long wavelength side.

[0280] Expansion of Transmissible Wavelength Band (TWB) - Upper Limit 255nm>

[0281] Additionally, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) can be further extended to a wavelength band of less than 255 nm. That is, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) may include a wavelength band greater than 250 nm and less than 255 nm. To this end, the thickness and / or number of layers of the dielectric multilayer film, in which a high refractive index layer and a low refractive index layer are alternately stacked, may be increased.

[0282] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure, unlike conventional optical filters, can use a wavelength band greater than 250 nm and less than 255 nm for sterilization.

[0283] In addition, the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) can be further extended toward the long wavelength side.

[0284] Main Transmitted Wavelength Band (MTWB)

[0285] The transmission wavelength band (TWB) may include a main transmission wavelength band (MTWB). The main transmission wavelength band (MTWB) may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits most of the incident light. Alternatively, the main transmission wavelength band (MTWB) may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits the incident light at a transmittance of at least a certain level. For example, the main transmission wavelength band (MTWB) may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident at an angle of 0 degrees at a transmittance of at least 70.0%.

[0286] The main transmission wavelength band (MTWB) may include a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0287] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) can transmit most of the ultraviolet light of a wavelength of 222 nm, which is the main emission wavelength of the KrCl excimer light-emitting lamp. For example, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure can maintain a high transmittance of about 72% at around 222 nm, which is the main emission wavelength of the KrCl excimer lamp and effective for sterilizing pathogens, and can exhibit a maximum transmittance of about 80.7% at around 231 nm.

[0288] The Main Transmittance Wavelength Band (MTWB) can be extended toward longer wavelengths. The upper limit of the Main Transmittance Wavelength Band (MTWB) can be located in a wavelength band exceeding 237 nm. For example, it exhibits a transmittance of approximately 5.0% at 250 nm, which is the upper limit of the Transmittance Wavelength Band (TWB).

[0289] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure, unlike conventional optical filters, can transmit most ultraviolet rays in the wavelength band greater than 237 nm.

[0290] In addition, by extending the upper limit of the main transmission wavelength band (MTWB) toward the long wavelength side, it is possible to compensate for the phenomenon where the transmittance of the 222nm wavelength, which is effective for sterilization due to blue shift, decreases.

[0291] Also, even if the angle of incidence of ultraviolet rays incident on the optical filter (146) increases, the transmittance at 222 nm is improved compared to conventional optical filters, so the directional angle of the ultraviolet emitting device (100) can be increased.

[0292] Additionally, as the directional angle of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) increases, the effective sterilization area of ​​the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be expanded.

[0293] The main transmittance wavelength band (MTWB) may include the wavelength at which the maximum transmittance of the optical filter (146) occurs. The wavelength at which the maximum transmittance occurs may be located in a wavelength band greater than 222 nm. For example, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure may exhibit a transmittance of about 84%, which is the maximum transmittance at a wavelength of 231 nm.

[0294] <257nm wavelength attenuation>

[0295] The optical filter (146) can attenuate ultraviolet light of a wavelength of 257 nm. That is, the optical filter (146) can attenuate the light intensity of ultraviolet light of a wavelength of 257 nm. The optical filter (146) can have a transmittance of about 50.0% or less for ultraviolet light of a wavelength of 257 nm. For example, the optical filter (146) can have a transmittance of about 50.0% or less for ultraviolet light in the wavelength band greater than 255 nm and less than 259 nm. That is, the optical filter (146) can attenuate the light intensity of ultraviolet light of a wavelength of 257 nm to less than half.

[0296] Through this, the difference between the allowable time at 222nm and the allowable time at 257nm according to ACGIH regulations can be increased.

[0297] Accordingly, the ACGIH regulation value can be satisfied by controlling only the condition value at a wavelength of 222 nm of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100).

[0298]

[0299] FIG. 25 is a transmission spectrum of ultraviolet light incident on an optical filter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure at an angle of incidence of 0 to 80 degrees.

[0300] With reference to FIG. 24, the transmission spectrum of an optical filter (146) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0301] The optical filter (146) may include an intermediate transmission wavelength band. The intermediate transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band that substantially transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees. Alternatively, the intermediate transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees with a transmittance greater than a certain amount. For example, the intermediate transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees is transmitted with a transmittance of about 5.0% or more.

[0302] The intermediate transmission wavelength band may exist in a wavelength band of 190 nm or more and less than 270 nm. For example, the lower limit of the intermediate transmission wavelength band may be located in a wavelength band of 190 nm or more, and the upper limit of the intermediate transmission wavelength band may be located in a wavelength band of less than 270 nm.

[0303] Additionally, the optical filter (146) can substantially limit the transmission of ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 275 nm, which are most harmful to the human body.

[0304] The optical filter (146) can substantially transmit light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees in a wavelength band of less than 250 nm. The intermediate transmission wavelength band of the optical filter (146) may include a wavelength band greater than 210 nm and less than or equal to 250 nm.

[0305] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure, unlike conventional optical filters, can use a wavelength band greater than 237 nm and less than 250 nm for sterilization, and can efficiently obtain sterilization light even when light is incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees.

[0306] The intermediate transmission wavelength band may include the intermediate main transmission wavelength band. The intermediate main transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits most of the light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees. Alternatively, the intermediate main transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees with a transmittance greater than a certain amount. For example, the intermediate main transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees with a transmittance of about 70.0% or more.

[0307] The intermediate main transmission wavelength band may include a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0308] Therefore, since light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 37 degrees at around 222 nm, which is effective for sterilizing pathogens, is transmitted at a high value, there is an advantage of increased sterilization power.

[0309] The mid-angle main transmission wavelength band can be extended toward the long wavelength side. The upper limit of the mid-angle main transmission wavelength band can be located in a wavelength band exceeding 228 nm.

[0310] Also, even if the angle of incidence of ultraviolet rays incident on the optical filter (146) increases, the transmittance at 222 nm is improved compared to conventional optical filters, so the directional angle of the ultraviolet emitting device (100) can be increased.

[0311] Additionally, as the directional angle of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) increases, the effective sterilization area of ​​the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be expanded.

[0312] The intermediate main transmission wavelength band may include the wavelength at which the maximum transmittance of the optical filter (146) occurs. The wavelength at which the maximum transmittance occurs in the intermediate main transmission wavelength band may be located in the wavelength band greater than 222 nm.

[0313]

[0314] The optical filter (146) may include a high-angle transmission wavelength band. The high-angle transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band that substantially transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees. Alternatively, the high-angle transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees with a transmittance of at least a certain amount. For example, the high-angle transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees is transmitted with a transmittance of at least 5.0%.

[0315] The high-angle transmission wavelength band may exist in a wavelength band of 190 nm or more and less than 260 nm. For example, the lower limit of the high-angle transmission wavelength band may be located in a wavelength band of 190 nm or more, and the upper limit of the high-angle transmission wavelength band may be located in a wavelength band of less than 260 nm.

[0316] Additionally, the optical filter (146) can substantially limit the transmission of ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 275 nm, which are most harmful to the human body.

[0317] The optical filter (146) can substantially transmit light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees in a wavelength band of less than 250 nm. The high-angle transmission wavelength band of the optical filter (146) may include a wavelength band of greater than 210 nm and less than or equal to 250 nm.

[0318] Accordingly, the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure, unlike conventional optical filters, can use a wavelength band greater than 237 nm and less than 250 nm for sterilization, and can efficiently obtain sterilization light even when light is incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence greater than 0 degrees.

[0319] The high-angle transmission wavelength band may include a high-angle main transmission wavelength band. The high-angle main transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits most of the light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees. Alternatively, the high-angle main transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees at a certain transmittance or higher. For example, the high-angle main transmission wavelength band may refer to a wavelength band in which the optical filter (146) transmits light incident on the optical filter (146) at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees at a transmittance of about 60.0% or higher.

[0320] The high-angle main transmission wavelength band may include a wavelength of 222 nm.

[0321] Therefore, since light incident at an angle of incidence of 37 degrees or more and less than 47 degrees at the optical filter (146) at around 222 nm, which is effective for sterilizing pathogens, is transmitted at a high value, there is an advantage of increased sterilization power.

[0322] The high-angle main transmission wavelength band can be extended toward the long wavelength side. The upper limit of the high-angle main transmission wavelength band can be located at the 226nm wavelength band.

[0323] Also, even if the angle of incidence of ultraviolet rays incident on the optical filter (146) increases, the transmittance at 222 nm is improved compared to conventional optical filters, so the directional angle of the ultraviolet emitting device (100) can be increased.

[0324] Additionally, as the directional angle of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) increases, the effective sterilization area of ​​the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be expanded.

[0325] The high-angle main transmission wavelength band may include the wavelength at which the maximum transmittance of the optical filter (146) appears. The wavelength at which the maximum transmittance appears in the high-angle main transmission wavelength band may be located in the wavelength band greater than 222 nm.

[0326]

[0327]

[0328] Referring to FIG. 26, the light distribution of the emitted light according to the extended transmission wavelength band (TWB) is described.

[0329] When using the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure having an extended transmission wavelength band (TWB), that is, a transmission wavelength band (TWB) of 209 nm or more and 250 nm, the light distribution of the emitted light is examined.

[0330] When using a conventional optical filter having a transmission wavelength band (TWB), that is, a transmission wavelength band (TWB) of 200 nm or more and less than 237 nm, compared to the light distribution of the emitted light, the maximum light intensity in the extended transmission wavelength band (TWB) is formed at approximately 180 degrees, which is still located on the optical axis (LX). As the angle of inclination of the emitted light with respect to the optical axis (LX) increases, that is, as the emitted light is emitted at a higher angle, the relative light intensity to the maximum light intensity gradually decreases.

[0331] However, in the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) to which the optical filter (146) of the present disclosure is applied, the light intensity corresponding to 60% of the maximum light intensity appears at the emission light of approximately 140 degrees and the emission light of approximately 220 degrees. Accordingly, the directional angle of the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) having an extended transmission wavelength band (TWB) may correspond to approximately 80 degrees, which is the angle between the emission light of approximately 140 degrees and the emission light of approximately 220 degrees. That is, due to the extended transmission wavelength band (TWB), the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) of the present disclosure may have a directional angle that is approximately 20 degrees larger than that of a conventional ultraviolet light emitting device.

[0332] Accordingly, the sterilization area of ​​the ultraviolet light emitting device (100) can be expanded.

[0333] In addition, the illuminance distribution of the sterilization area can be uniformized.

[0334] If the transmission wavelength band (TWB) of the optical filter (146) is extended from a wavelength band of less than 250 nm to a wavelength band of less than 255 nm, the directional angle of the light-emitting unit (140) can be further increased.

[0335] Additionally, as the directional angle of the light-emitting unit (140) increases, the sterilization area of ​​the ultraviolet light-emitting device (100) can be expanded.

[0336] In addition, the illuminance distribution of the sterilization area can be uniformized.

[0337] In addition, the wavelength band around 257 nm, which is close to the 275 nm wavelength that is most harmful to the human body, can still limit transmission.

[0338]

[0339] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 26, an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: at least one light emitting unit that emits ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 200 nm or more and less than 240 nm, wherein the light emitting unit comprises: a light source having a surface (144A) on which light is emitted and a back surface facing the surface (144A) in the thickness direction; a pair of electrodes disposed on the back surface of the light source; and an optical filter disposed on the surface (144A) of the light source, wherein the height of the light emitting unit protruding in the thickness direction of the light source may increase toward the center.

[0340] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light-emitting unit may be a single light-emitting unit.

[0341] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light-emitting unit may be a plurality of light-emitting units arranged in a length direction or width direction intersecting the height direction.

[0342] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light source has a thickness between the surface (144A) and the back surface that increases toward the center, and the optical filter may be a filter layer deposited on the surface (144A) of the light source.

[0343] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the surface (144A) of the light source comprises: a first surface (144A) and a second surface (144A) positioned opposite each other and connected at the center of the surface (144A), and the angle formed by the first surface (144A) and the second surface (144A) may be greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0344] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the angle formed by the first surface (144A) and the second surface (144A) may be 110 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less.

[0345] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the thickness of the filter layer deposited on the surface (144A) of the light source may become thicker toward the center.

[0346] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the filter layer comprises: a first deposition surface deposited on a first surface (144A) of the light source; and a second deposition surface deposited on a second surface (144A) of the light source, wherein the angle formed by the first deposition surface and the second deposition surface may be smaller than the angle formed by the first surface (144A) and the second surface (144A).

[0347] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the surface (144A) of the light source comprises a third surface (144A) and a fourth surface (144A) positioned opposite each other and located between the first surface (144A) and the second surface (144A), and the angle formed by the third surface (144A) and the fourth surface (144A) may correspond to the angle formed by the first surface (144A) and the second surface (144A).

[0348] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light-emitting unit may have a central part with the highest protruding height formed bluntly.

[0349] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the angle formed by the first surface (144A) and the second surface (144A) may increase toward the center.

[0350] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the surface (144A) of the light source is formed flat, and the optical filter may be a shard in which a filter layer is coated on a base material.

[0351] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the distance of the shard from the surface (144A) of the light source in the thickness direction of the light source may increase as it approaches the center.

[0352] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shard comprises: a first shard and a second shard positioned opposite each other, with the distance from the light source increasing toward the center, and the angle formed by the first shard and the second shard may be 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less.

[0353] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the angle formed by the first shard and the second shard may be 110 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less.

[0354]

[0355] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 26, an ultraviolet light emitting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: at least one light emitting unit that emits ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 200 nm or more and less than 240 nm, wherein the light emitting unit comprises: a light source having a surface (144A) on which ultraviolet light is emitted and a back surface facing the surface (144A) in the thickness direction; and an optical filter disposed on the surface (144A) of the light source and having a height that increases in the thickness direction of the light source toward the center, wherein the light emitting unit may have a beam angle of about 70 degrees or more corresponding to about 60% or more of the maximum light intensity in the light distribution of the light emitted from the optical filter.

[0356] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light intensity at an optical axis located at the center of the light-emitting unit and parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may be smaller than the maximum light intensity.

[0357] According to another aspect of the present disclosure,

[0358] The first angle formed by the portion indicating maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may be about 5 degrees or more. The first angle formed by the portion indicating maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may also be used interchangeably with the first angle indicating maximum light intensity.

[0359] According to another aspect of the present disclosure,

[0360] The first angle formed by the part representing the maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source may be about 25 degrees or more.

[0361]

[0362] According to another aspect of the present disclosure,

[0363] The first angle may be larger than the second angle between the part representing the maximum light intensity and the part representing the light intensity corresponding to the light intensity of the optical axis.

[0364]

[0365] According to another aspect of the present disclosure,

[0366] The rate of change in light intensity at the first angle between the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source and the part showing maximum light intensity may be smaller than the rate of change in light intensity at the third angle between the part showing maximum light intensity and the part showing light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity.

[0367]

[0368] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinguishable from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0369] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, it means that even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, combination is possible except in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0370] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.< / acgih>

Claims

An ultraviolet light emitting device comprising at least one light emitting unit that emits ultraviolet light having a peak wavelength band in the range of 190 nm or more and less than 240 nm, The above-mentioned light-emitting unit is: A light source having a surface that emits light and a back surface facing the surface in the thickness direction; and It includes an optical filter disposed on the surface of the light source, and A UV light emitting device in which the first thickness of the light emitting unit at the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the light emitting unit is greater than the second thickness of the light emitting unit at the outer edge of the light emitting unit surrounding the central axis of the light emitting unit. In Article 1, The above-mentioned light-emitting unit is, Ultraviolet light-emitting device that is a single light-emitting unit. In Article 1, The above-mentioned light-emitting unit is, A plurality of ultraviolet light-emitting devices arranged in the length or width direction intersecting the thickness direction. In Article 1, A UV light-emitting device in which the thickness of the light-emitting unit decreases from the central axis of the light-emitting unit toward the outer edge. In Article 1, A UV light-emitting device in which the thickness of the light-emitting unit decreases linearly or non-linearly from the central axis of the light-emitting unit toward the outer edge. In Article 1, The thickness of the above light source is A UV light emitting device that is thicker at the central axis of the light emitting unit than at the outer edge of the light emitting unit. In Article 1, The thickness of the above light source is A UV light-emitting device that becomes thicker from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit toward the central axis of the light-emitting unit. In Article 1 or Article 6, The above optical filter is, Ultraviolet light emitting device, which is a filter layer deposited on the surface of the above light source. In Article 1, The surface of the above light source is: It includes a first surface and a second surface connected on the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit, and The angle formed by the first surface and the second surface is, Ultraviolet emitting device with a temperature of 90 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees. In Article 9, The angle formed by the first surface and the second surface is, A UV emitting device with a temperature of 110 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less. In Article 1, The thickness of the above optical filter is A UV light emitting device that is thicker at the central axis of the light emitting unit than at the outer edge of the light emitting unit. In Article 1, The thickness of the above optical filter is A UV light-emitting device that becomes thicker from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit toward the central axis of the light-emitting unit. In Article 8, The above filter layer is: A first deposition surface deposited on the first surface of the light source; and It includes a second deposition surface deposited on the second surface of the light source, and The angle formed by the first deposition surface and the second deposition surface is, A UV light emitting device smaller than the angle formed by the first surface and the second surface. In Article 9, The surface of the above light source is, It includes a third surface and a fourth surface located between the first surface and the second surface, and The angle formed by the third surface and the fourth surface is, An ultraviolet light emitting device corresponding to the angle formed by the first surface and the second surface. In Article 1, The above-mentioned light-emitting unit is, A UV light-emitting device in which the thickest part of the above-mentioned light-emitting unit is a curved shape. In Article 15, The angle formed by the first surface and the second surface is, A UV light emitting device that increases toward the central axis of the above-mentioned light-emitting unit. In Article 1, The surface of the above light source is, Formed flat, The above optical filter is, It is a shard with a filter layer coated on the base material, and The above shard is, A UV light-emitting device in which the thickness increases from the outer edge of the light-emitting unit toward the central axis of the light-emitting unit. In Article 1, The surface of the above light source is, Formed flat, The above optical filter is, It is a shard with a filter layer coated on the base material, and The above shard is, An ultraviolet light emitting device in which the distance from the surface (144A) of the light source in the thickness direction of the light source increases as it moves toward the central axis of the light emitting unit. In Article 18, The above shard is: ...and includes a first shard and a second shard, the distance from the light source increases as it goes toward the center, and The angle formed by the first shard and the second shard is, A UV emitting device with a temperature of 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less. In Article 19, The angle formed by the first shard and the second shard is, A UV emitting device with a temperature of 110 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less. An ultraviolet light emitting device comprising at least one light emitting unit that emits ultraviolet light having a peak wavelength band in the range of 200 nm or more and less than 240 nm, The above-mentioned light-emitting unit is: A light source having a surface that emits ultraviolet rays and a back surface facing the surface in the thickness direction; and It includes an optical filter disposed on the surface of the light source, and The third thickness of the optical filter at the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting unit is greater than the fourth thickness of the optical filter at the outer edge surrounding the central axis of the light-emitting unit, and The above-mentioned light-emitting unit is, An ultraviolet light emitting device in which, in the light distribution of the light emitted from the above optical filter, the beam angle formed by the optical axis with a portion corresponding to about 60% or more of the maximum light intensity is about 70 degrees or more. In Article 21, The light intensity at the optical axis located at the center of the light-emitting unit and parallel to the thickness direction of the light source is, UV light emitting device with a smaller maximum light intensity. In Article 21, The portion representing the maximum light intensity and the first angle formed by the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source are, A UV-emitting device with a temperature of about 5 degrees or higher. In Article 23, The above first angle is, A UV-emitting device with a temperature of approximately 25 degrees or higher. In Article 21, The first angle between the portion representing the maximum light intensity and the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source is, An ultraviolet light emitting device with a second angle greater than that between a portion indicating maximum light intensity and a portion indicating light intensity corresponding to the light intensity of the optical axis. In Article 21, The rate of change in light intensity at the first angle between the optical axis parallel to the thickness direction of the light source and the part exhibiting maximum light intensity is An ultraviolet emitting device having a rate of change in light intensity of a third angle between a portion showing maximum light intensity and a portion showing light intensity corresponding to about 60% of the maximum light intensity.

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