Cold Cathode UV Lamp Control for Rapid Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UV disinfection devices using discharge lamps face challenges such as long activation times, high heat generation, and inefficient energy conversion, which hinder rapid disinfection of objects, especially in applications requiring quick exchange between individuals.
Innovation Solution
A device equipped with cold cathode UV lamps and a control system that adjusts power supply and temperature to achieve rapid UV output, utilizing auxiliary LED lighting and active thermal stabilization to minimize activation time and optimize UV dose delivery, while maintaining lamp efficiency and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If discharge lamps (hot cathode or cold cathode) are used for UV disinfection, then high UV power output is achieved, but long activation time is required before reaching nominal UV output
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-heats the cathode before initiating full UV output by applying a preliminary current that raises the cathode temperature to an optimal range, reducing the activation time to reach nominal UV output while maintaining high power performance
2Power
If discharge lamps are operated at high power, then effective disinfection is achieved, but excessive heat is generated requiring dissipation
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful excess heat into a beneficial pre-heating effect for the cathode by controlling the temperature to optimize UV output efficiency, thereby reducing overall heat dissipation requirements while maintaining high power disinfection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts operating parameters including current intensity and duty cycle based on real-time temperature feedback, optimizing the balance between UV power output and heat generation to maintain effective disinfection while minimizing thermal management requirements
3Ease of operation
If discharge lamps are frequently switched on and off, then device flexibility is maintained, but lamp life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system maintains the cathode in a pre-heated standby state during brief idle periods, allowing rapid reactivation without full cooling cycles, thereby preserving lamp life while maintaining operational flexibility for frequent use
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 solution enables rapid disinfection of objects within seconds, reducing heat generation and energy consumption, and extending lamp life, while ensuring effective pathogen elimination and user safety.
Implementation Method 1
cold cathode lamps...configured to irradiate the object to be disinfected with an ultraviolet radiation
Implementation Method 2
auxiliary LED lighting...utilizing auxiliary LED lighting and active thermal stabilization
Implementation Method 3
active thermal stabilization to minimize activation time and optimize UV dose delivery, while maintaining lamp efficiency and safety
Data Source
AI summary
A device for disinfecting objects comprising: a box-shaped body, at least one cold cathode lamp, mounted internally the box-shaped body and configured to irradiate the object to be disinfected with an ultraviolet radiation, one or more detection devices configured to detect environmental conditions, a control system configured to determine the activation time required for the at least one lamp to reach a nominal ultraviolet radiation output. The control system being further configured to control the power supply of the at least one lamp.