Modular UV Lamp Array for Uniform Air Sterilization Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional UV sterilization lamps are large, inefficient in space usage, have high power consumption, and fail to provide uniform UV irradiation, leading to incomplete sterilization and increased energy costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact UV sterilization lamp with a circular shape and external electrode scheme, optimized dimensions for reduced power consumption and improved UV distribution, and a modular design for efficient spacing of lamps to enhance sterilization coverage and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large-sized UV lamp is used to provide sufficient sterilization coverage, then the sterilization power is improved, but the space efficiency deteriorates and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single large UV lamp into multiple small UV lamps arranged in an array. Each small lamp has dimensions of approximately 10mm in diameter and 50mm in length, while collectively they provide sterilization coverage equivalent to or greater than a single large lamp. This segmentation improves space efficiency and reduces power consumption while maintaining sterilization effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point UV source to a distributed array of multiple UV sources arranged in specific spatial patterns (linear, planar, or three-dimensional configurations). This dimensional expansion allows uniform UV irradiation across larger areas without requiring each individual lamp to be large, thereby improving both space efficiency and sterilization coverage
2Reliability
If a large-sized UV lamp is installed to increase sterilization coverage, then the sterilization area is improved, but the uniformity of UV irradiation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By using multiple small UV lamps instead of one large lamp, the patent creates numerous distributed UV sources that collectively provide uniform irradiation. The small lamps are arranged in arrays with optimized spacing to ensure even UV distribution across the target area, eliminating the hot spots and shadow zones that occur with single large lamps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the local arrangement of UV lamps in the array, positioning them at specific intervals and orientations to ensure each region receives appropriate UV dosage. The modular design allows adjustment of lamp positions and numbers to match specific application requirements, achieving uniform sterilization across different areas
3Reliability
If multiple UV lamps are used to increase sterilization coverage, then the sterilization power is improved, but the power consumption and electric charges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple small UV lamps with individually optimized power consumption. Each small lamp consumes less power than a corresponding portion of a large lamp would require. The modular array allows selective activation of lamps based on coverage needs, reducing total energy consumption while maintaining effective sterilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes operational parameters including the number of active lamps, their arrangement density, and irradiation duration to minimize power consumption. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves effective sterilization with lower total energy input compared to using fewer, larger, higher-power lamps
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 compact UV sterilization lamp design achieves uniform UV irradiation, reduces power consumption, and increases space efficiency, ensuring effective sterilization with lower operational costs and extended lamp lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a UV lamp according to an embodiment includes a lamp body having an internal space, an external electrode unit provided on an outer surface of the lamp body, and a gas discharge unit disposed inside the lamp body
Implementation Method 2
When voltage is applied to the electrodes, the gas atoms are excited and emit UV rays as they return to their ground state
Data Source
AI summary
A ultraviolet (UV) sterilization lamp, a UV sterilization module, and an air conditioner including a UV sterilization module are provided. The UV sterilization module may include a porous frame, a portion of which may be a mesh so as to allow a fluid to pass therethrough; a plurality of UV lamps provided on the mesh of the porous frame and including an external electrode on an outer surface thereof; a power supply connected to the plurality of UV lamps to supply power to the plurality of UV lamps; and a plurality of fixing portions configured to support the plurality of UV lamps and fixed to the porous frame. The plurality of fixing portions may be arranged to be spaced from each other such that the plurality of UV lamps may be arranged with a constant spacing. The constant spacing may be a shortest distance of about 8 cm or less to connect outer peripheral surfaces of the plurality of UV lamps adjacent to each other.