Movable UV Source for Simultaneous Surface and Air Disinfection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultraviolet light sources for disinfection are limited in their ability to effectively disinfect both surfaces and air simultaneously, as they typically require manual positioning and may not efficiently utilize UV-C light for air purification when not actively disinfecting surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an ultraviolet source configured to emit germicidal UV-C light, which can be positioned to disinfect surfaces and, when repositioned, used to disinfect air passing through the apparatus, utilizing a fixture module to switch between 'ready' and 'storage' positions to control UV light emission and incorporate air ventilation for air disinfection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ultraviolet source is positioned to disinfect surfaces, then surface disinfection effectiveness is improved, but air disinfection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ultraviolet source is made movable between two positions: a first position for surface disinfection and a second position for air disinfection. The fixture module enables the ultraviolet source to dynamically switch between these positions, allowing the system to adapt its function based on operational requirements.
2Reliability
If the ultraviolet source is positioned to disinfect air, then air disinfection effectiveness is improved, but surface disinfection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture module enables the ultraviolet source to switch between a second position for air disinfection and a first position for surface disinfection. This dynamic repositioning allows the system to optimize air disinfection when the ultraviolet source is in the second position while maintaining the capability to perform surface disinfection by returning to the first position.
3Device complexity
If a single ultraviolet source is used for both surface and air disinfection, then device complexity is reduced, but functional versatility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A single ultraviolet source is designed to perform multiple functions by repositioning between two distinct positions. In the first position, it disinfects surfaces; in the second position, it disinfects air. This multi-functionality is achieved without adding multiple separate ultraviolet sources, thereby maintaining device simplicity while enhancing functional versatility.
4Reliability
If the ultraviolet source emits light continuously, then disinfection coverage is improved, but safety risk deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ultraviolet source operates in periodic cycles, alternating between surface disinfection mode and air disinfection mode. During surface disinfection, the source emits UV light toward surfaces; during air disinfection, it emits UV light through the fixture module toward the air. This periodic switching ensures comprehensive disinfection coverage while minimizing continuous UV exposure to occupants.
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 both surfaces and air using UV-C light, ensuring thorough microbial reduction in both exposed areas and circulating air, enhancing sanitation efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an ultraviolet source configured to emit germicidal ultraviolet light
Data Source
AI summary
An antimicrobial system for disinfecting surrounding surfaces and air passing through an apparatus mounted above a space to be disinfected. The system includes a disinfecting apparatus that includes an ultraviolet source emitting ultraviolet light for disinfecting exposed surfaces. The system also includes a fixture module retaining and supporting the ultraviolet source within the disinfecting apparatus. The system includes a drive module that positions the ultraviolet source in one of two positions within the fixture module. The ultraviolet source emits ultraviolet light onto exposed surfaces when in a “ready” position within the fixture module. The ultraviolet source is shielded when in a “storage” position within the fixture module, such that emitted ultraviolet light will not reach the exposed surfaces. The disinfecting apparatus is configured to disinfect air passing through the disinfecting apparatus when the ultraviolet source is in the “storage” position.