Infrared Heating Element for Pathogen Reduction in Trees
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for treating infections caused by Pseudomonas syringae and Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae in trees, such as bleeding canker, are impractical and inefficient, particularly due to the need for extensive heat treatment that is time-consuming and can harm the tree, and existing disinfection methods for food and articles are not very effective or hygienic.
Innovation Solution
Exposure of the affected area to infrared radiation using a carbon crystal electric heating element, which efficiently heats the surface to kill pathogens by converting electricity into infrared radiation, allowing for precise temperature control and rapid heating of irregular surfaces like tree bark.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hot water is passed through a hose wrapped around the tree trunk to heat the bark, then bacterial growth is reduced or eliminated, but the treatment takes a very long time (up to 72 hours) and requires extensive hose length (250-1000 meters)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical water circulation system (hose, pump, insulation) with an electromagnetic heating system. Infrared heating elements or microwave generators directly convert electrical energy to thermal energy, eliminating the need for water transport infrastructure and dramatically reducing treatment time from 72 hours to a fraction of that time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the heating method from indirect water-based heating to direct electromagnetic or infrared heating. This parameter change allows rapid temperature elevation of the bark tissue, achieving pathogen elimination in significantly less time while requiring minimal equipment.
2Temperature
If hot water is passed through a hose wrapped around the tree trunk, then the bacteria are exposed to temperatures of at least 39°C, but water cools down every meter making it infeasible to heat the entire bark
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the water-based thermal transfer system with direct electromagnetic heating. Infrared heating elements or microwave generators convert electrical energy directly to heat within the bark tissue, eliminating heat loss during water transport and making comprehensive bark heating feasible without extensive hose networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields (infrared or microwave) as an intermediary energy carrier between the power source and the bark tissue. This intermediary enables direct energy transfer without requiring physical contact or fluid transport, solving the heat loss problem inherent in water-based systems.
3Temperature
If the temperature of groundwater and outside air is used for heating, then the treatment depends on environmental conditions, but these temperatures vary a lot during night and day
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive environmental heating with active electromagnetic heating controlled by electrical power. Infrared heating elements or microwave generators can maintain consistent temperatures regardless of external conditions, as they convert electrical energy directly to heat without relying on groundwater or air temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating system generates its own thermal energy through electromagnetic conversion, making it self-sufficient and independent of environmental temperature sources. The system controls its own heating output through electrical power regulation, ensuring consistent treatment temperatures.
4Reliability
If exposure to high temperatures is extended to ensure pathogen elimination, then bacterial growth is reduced, but the tree may be harmed by prolonged high temperature exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic or pulsed electromagnetic heating to achieve pathogen elimination. By delivering intense thermal energy in controlled pulses or cycles, the system can raise bark temperature to lethal levels for pathogens while allowing brief cooling intervals that protect tree tissues from thermal damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the heating profile from prolonged moderate heating to rapid, controlled thermal pulses. This parameter change allows achieving pathogen elimination through brief high-temperature exposure followed by cooling, reducing cumulative thermal stress on the tree while maintaining effective pathogen kill rates.
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
This method provides a quick, accurate, and efficient means to reduce or eliminate pathogens in trees and other subjects, with the ability to reach and maintain temperatures sufficient to kill bacteria like Pseudomonas syringae within a shorter timeframe than traditional methods, while minimizing harm to the tree.
Implementation Method 1
Exposure of the affected area to infrared radiation using a carbon crystal electric heating element, which efficiently heats the surface to kill pathogens by converting electricity into infrared radiation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for reducing pathogens in and/or on a subject, comprising exposing the subject to infrared radiation. The source of the infrared radiation comprises in particular a carbon crystal heating element, which can be applied to and/ or positioned in the vicinity of a subject. In particular, the method includes treating infections in a tree, such as bleeding canker in horse chestnut trees and/or canker in kiwifruit trees. The method may further include disinfecting articles, for example for pasteurising or sterilising foodstuff.