Collimated Light Reflector for Uniform UV Disinfection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing germicidal light systems struggle to achieve uniform irradiant intensity distribution in air volumes, leading to inefficiencies in pathogen disinfection and potential health hazards from excessive UV exposure.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first reflector with a focal point, positioned to receive light from a light source, which reflects the light into two or more collimated rays, ensuring uniform distribution and minimizing exposure to occupants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If germicidal light sources are deployed within occupied spaces to inactivate pathogens, then pathogen reduction is achieved, but human health hazards from UV exposure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the germicidal irradiation function into a dedicated air treatment zone separated from the occupied space. UV light sources are contained within a housing that directs irradiation only toward the air intake or air handling components, not toward occupants. This segmentation allows pathogen inactivation to occur in the air stream while protecting humans from direct exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary air handling system that acts as a mediator between the germicidal light source and the occupied space. The UV irradiation is applied to the air or aerosols within the air handling pathway, and the treated air is then delivered to occupants. This intermediary approach enables pathogen destruction without direct UV exposure to humans.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If physical barriers are used to contain germicidal light, then human exposure is minimized, but air transport through the irradiated zone is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies germicidal irradiation locally to specific air handling components or air streams rather than creating a large enclosed irradiated zone. UV lights are positioned to target specific locations such as air intakes, filters, or ductwork where pathogens may be present, allowing air to flow freely through the system without being constrained by physical barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from containing UV light in a three-dimensional enclosed space to directing it along a one-dimensional air flow path. By positioning UV sources within air handling ducts or directing them at air intakes, the system enables air to move through the irradiated zone without requiring lateral confinement, thus maintaining ease of air transport while achieving pathogen inactivation.
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 effectively disinfects fluids by ensuring uniform irradiant intensity across the volume, reducing the risk of pathogen transmission while minimizing health hazards from UV exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflector having a first focal point and a light source positioned proximate to the first focal point of the first reflector, wherein the light source provides light to the first reflector from a first position having a beam angle of 180 degrees or less and wherein the first reflector reflects the light in two or more substantially collimated rays
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a device for controlling the direction of light from a light source is disclosed including: a first reflector having a first focal point; a light source positioned proximate to the first focal point of the first reflector; wherein the light source provides light to the first reflector from a first position having a beam angle of 180 degrees or less and wherein the first reflector reflects the light in two or more substantially collimated rays such that the two or more collimated rays are substantially parallel to each other in a first output pattern.