Optical Fluid Reflector Layout for UV Sanitization at Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fluid processing systems face a decrease in sanitization efficiency as the intensity of ultraviolet light decreases with distance from the light source due to divergence and repeated reflections on the housing walls, leading to reduced sanitization effectiveness at positions away from the light source.
Innovation Solution
The optical fluid processing apparatus employs a parabolic reflector to convert divergent light into parallel light, combined with a heat sink extended along the fluid flow direction to maintain light intensity and extend exposure time, while using fans to enhance fluid flow and recirculation for increased sanitization efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If ultraviolet light is used to sanitize fluid, then sanitization effect is achieved, but light intensity decreases as distance from light source increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a parabolic reflector with a curved surface to collect and redirect ultraviolet light. The parabolic geometry focuses divergent light from the source into a parallel beam, preventing intensity loss over distance and solving the contradiction between maintaining light intensity and extending exposure distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The parabolic reflector acts as an intermediary between the ultraviolet light source and the fluid. It captures light that would otherwise be lost and redirects it along the fluid flow path, effectively multiplying the light's reach and maintaining intensity without increasing source power.
2Productivity
If light source power is increased to maintain intensity at distance, then sanitization efficiency improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parabolic reflector serves as an energy-efficient intermediary that redirects existing light energy rather than requiring additional energy input. It captures divergent light and focuses it into a parallel beam, maintaining intensity at distance without increasing the light source power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial distribution parameter of light by using the parabolic reflector to transform divergent light into a parallel beam. This parameter change allows the light to maintain its intensity over longer distances, improving sanitization efficiency without increasing energy consumption.
3Productivity
If fluid flow speed is increased to improve processing rate, then productivity increases, but exposure time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The parabolic reflector creates a continuous parallel beam of ultraviolet light that travels along the fluid flow path. This continuous illumination ensures that fluid particles receive adequate exposure duration even at higher flow speeds, maintaining both productivity and sanitization effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved parabolic surface of the reflector is designed to match the geometry of fluid flow, creating a parallel beam that follows the fluid path. This geometric design ensures continuous and uniform exposure throughout the fluid channel, allowing higher flow rates without compromising exposure time.
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 configuration maintains high sanitization efficiency by reducing light attenuation and extending exposure time, ensuring effective sanitization even at positions distant from the light source, with improved heat dissipation and fluid flow management.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflector (22) having a mirror surface... The light source (24) is disposed to face the mirror surface of the first reflector (22)... A light beam from the light source (24) includes a wavelength that is configured to inactivate a microorganism in the fluid
Implementation Method 2
The heat sink (26) is thermally connected to the light source (24)... extended along a flow direction of the fluid flowing from the inlet (28a) to the outlet (28b)
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, an optical fluid processing apparatus includes a first reflector, a light source, a housing, and a heat sink. The first reflector includes a mirror surface. The light source is disposed to face the mirror surface of the first reflector. The housing includes an inlet and an outlet of a fluid. The first reflector and the light source are disposed inside the housing. The heat sink is thermally connected to the light source, and extended along a flow direction of the fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet. A light beam from the light source includes a wavelength that is configured to inactivate a microorganism in the fluid.