Sterilization Device with Multi-Directional LED Arrays for Uneven Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization methods using ultraviolet light, particularly with mercury lamps, face inefficiencies in power consumption and uneven surface sterilization due to the need for continuous lighting and complex shutter mechanisms, and LED-based solutions struggle to effectively reach shaded regions on unevenly shaped sterilization targets.
Innovation Solution
A sterilization device employing multiple LED light sources with distinct emission directions, positioned to maximize irradiation on uneven surfaces, including a proximity sensor and position controller to optimize UV light application, ensuring thorough coverage and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple LED light sources with distinct emission directions are used to sterilize uneven surfaces, then sterilization coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization device divides the illumination task into multiple segments by using several LED light sources positioned at different locations and orientations. Each LED targets specific regions of the uneven sterilization target, with at least one LED directing light into recessed areas. This segmentation approach ensures complete sterilization coverage without requiring a single complex light source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by configuring each LED light source with specific emission directions tailored to illuminate particular regions of the uneven surface. The LEDs are positioned and oriented to direct ultraviolet light into specific recessed areas or protruded portions, ensuring that each region receives appropriate sterilization intensity based on its geometric characteristics.
2Productivity
If LED light sources are positioned to maximize irradiation on uneven surfaces, then sterilization efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a position controller that dynamically adjusts the positions of LED light sources based on the detected shape of the sterilization target. A proximity sensor detects the three-dimensional shape, and the controller optimizes LED positions in real-time to maximize ultraviolet light irradiation into recessed areas. This dynamic adjustment improves sterilization efficiency without requiring fixed complex mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from proximity sensors to detect the shape of the sterilization target and automatically adjusts LED light source positions accordingly. The position controller receives information about recessed areas and protruded portions, then optimizes the configuration of LEDs to ensure maximum ultraviolet light coverage, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to different target geometries.
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 enhances sterilization efficiency by ensuring thorough UV light coverage on uneven surfaces, reducing sterilization time, and extending LED lifespan while minimizing energy use.
Implementation Method 1
Each light source 20 includes an LED element 22 that emits light in at least a main emission direction MR
Implementation Method 2
a sterilization device 1 that applies ultraviolet light from a plurality of light sources 20
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
There are provided a sterilization method and a sterilization device capable of effectively sterilizing a sterilization target having an uneven shape formed by a dented portion and a protruded portion. A sterilization method and a sterilization device (1) configured to apply ultraviolet light to a sterilization target (10) having an uneven shape (16) formed by a dented portion (12) and a protruded portion (14) include plural light sources (20) each including an LED element configured to apply ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light is simultaneously applied from each of the plural LED elements in a state where the sterilization target (10) arranged at previously set irradiation positions face the plural light sources (20), and reaches the sterilization target 10.