Automated Fogging System with Door Lock Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current disinfection methods, such as manual spray and wipe, are labor-intensive, prone to human error, and may not effectively reach all surfaces, particularly in enclosed areas like patient rooms or operating rooms, where thorough disinfection is crucial for preventing the spread of infectious pathogens.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a fogging device with an atomizing fluid generator, a compressor, and a processor that initiates an automated treatment cycle, dispensing atomized fluid into an enclosed area only when the access door is locked, ensuring thorough disinfection of surfaces without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual spray and wipe method is used for disinfection, then labor intensity is reduced, but disinfection effectiveness and completeness deteriorate due to human error and inability to reach all surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated disinfection through a self-service mechanism where the fogging device automatically dispenses atomized disinfectant solution throughout the enclosed space without requiring manual intervention. The processor controls the compressor and atomizing nozzle to operate autonomously, eliminating human labor while ensuring complete and consistent disinfection coverage of all surfaces including hard-to-reach areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual spray and wipe system with an automated fogging system that uses a compressor-driven atomizing nozzle to disperse disinfectant as a fine mist. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with an automated pneumatic system achieves both reduced labor intensity and improved disinfection reliability through uniform distribution of the atomized solution throughout the treatment space.
2Reliability
If automated fogging system is implemented, then disinfection completeness is improved, but system complexity increases due to integration of door lock actuator, sensors, and processor control
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single unified device: the processor not only controls the fogging operation but also interfaces with the door lock actuator, humidity sensor, IR sensor, and UV light system. This multi-functional integration ensures that all disinfection-related operations (fogging, door locking, environmental monitoring, UV treatment) are coordinated through one central control unit, achieving complete disinfection while managing system complexity through functional consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate systems (fogging device, door lock mechanism, sensors, UV light) into an integrated automated treatment system. The processor merges the control of these distinct components into a coordinated operation sequence, where the door lock actuator, humidity sensor, IR sensor, and UV light work in unison with the fogging device to achieve comprehensive disinfection while simplifying the overall system architecture through consolidation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If door lock actuator is integrated with fogging device, then safety is improved by preventing access during treatment, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically locking the door before initiating the fogging treatment sequence. The processor detects when the door is closed and immediately actuates the electronic door lock actuator to secure the enclosure before the compressor begins atomizing and dispensing the disinfectant solution. This preliminary door locking action ensures safety by preventing access during the entire treatment cycle without requiring complex additional safety mechanisms.
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 provides a comprehensive and efficient method for disinfecting enclosed areas, ensuring that all surfaces are effectively treated, reducing the risk of human error, and enhancing the safety and hygiene of healthcare environments.
Implementation Method 1
an atomizing nozzle in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir and a compressor coupled to the atomizing nozzle... the compressor dispenses atomized fluid into the enclosed area via the atomizing nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
A system for treating an enclosed area having an access door with an atomized fluid may include a fogging device including a housing and an atomizing generator carried by the housing including an atomizing nozzle in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir, and a compressor coupled to the atomizing nozzle. The fogging device may further include a processor, and the system may further include a controller configured to selectively actuate an electronic door lock actuator to lock and unlock the access door. The processor may be configured to communicate with the controller to initiate an automated treatment cycle during which the compressor dispenses atomized fluid into the enclosed area via the atomizing nozzle while the access door is locked, and to not dispense atomized fluid into the enclosed area while the access door is unlocked.