Articulating UV Lamp Positioning for Confined-Space Disinfection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UV light disinfection systems struggle to effectively sanitize surfaces within confined spaces like aircraft cabins due to the need for increased power and distance from the disinfection zone, requiring longer disinfection times.
Innovation Solution
A UV light disinfecting system utilizing an articulating arm that moveably secures a UV lamp to structures within the enclosed space, allowing it to be quickly positioned and moved between stowed and deployed positions, enabling close proximity to disinfection zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the UV light emitter is spaced apart from the target area at a relatively long distance, then the UV light emitter can be positioned in confined spaces, but the power required for effective disinfection is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an articulating arm mechanism that enables the UV light emitter to dynamically adjust its position between extended and retracted states. This dynamic positioning allows the system to achieve close proximity to disinfection zones when needed, thereby reducing the power requirement while maintaining the ability to operate in confined spaces when the arm is retracted.
2Power
If the UV light emitter is placed closer to the surface for effective disinfection, then the power consumption is reduced, but the system becomes difficult to position in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating arm provides dynamic adjustability, allowing the UV emitter to be positioned close to surfaces during disinfection operations to minimize power consumption, while being able to retract to a compact position when confined spaces require minimal intrusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the positioning mechanism into segmented articulating arms that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows the UV emitter to achieve optimal close proximity positioning for low-power operation while maintaining the capability to retract for confined space operations.
3Reliability
If a higher power UV light emitter is used to disinfect at long distances, then the disinfection effectiveness is maintained, but the disinfection time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic positioning capability allows the system to switch between long-distance operation (using higher power for maintained effectiveness) and close-proximity operation (using lower power for faster disinfection). The articulating arm enables the operator to select the optimal distance based on the specific disinfection requirements, thereby reducing overall disinfection time while maintaining effectiveness.
4Loss of time
If the UV light emitter is positioned close to the disinfection zone, then the disinfection time is shortened, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating arm mechanism, while adding some structural complexity, provides the capability for close-proximity positioning that significantly reduces disinfection time. The mechanical articulation system offers a relatively simple and reliable solution for achieving the necessary movement range without requiring complex electronic or automated positioning systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables efficient disinfection with reduced power consumption by allowing the UV lamp to be positioned closer to the disinfection zone, thereby shortening disinfection times and enhancing effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a UV lamp coupled to the articulating arm, the UV lamp configured to emit UV light toward a disinfection zone within the enclosed space
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
A disinfecting system (100) and method for an enclosed space (102) include an articulating arm (104) moveably coupled to a structure (108) within the enclosed space (102). An ultraviolet (UV) lamp (106) is coupled to the articulating arm (104). The UV lamp (106) is configured to emit UV light (120) toward a disinfection zone (114) within the enclosed space (102). The articulating arm (104) allows the UV lamp (106) to move relative to the disinfection zone (114).