PTFE Cell Case for UV Irradiation Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultraviolet irradiation systems, particularly those using low-pressure mercury lamps, face challenges in sterilization efficiency and module downsizing due to short lamp life and increased size, while UV LED systems lack optimization for enhancing sterilization efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cell for an ultraviolet irradiation module is designed with a case partially formed of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) having specific crystallite sizes and average crystallinity, enhancing ultraviolet light reflectance and retention within the module to improve sterilization efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a low-pressure mercury lamp is used as a light source, then ultraviolet light emission efficiency is improved, but the service life is shortened and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters of the cell case by specifying precise crystallite size ranges (60-250 nm in (110) direction) and crystallinity ranges (50-80%) of PTFE, which fundamentally alters the cell's optical properties to improve UV light utilization efficiency without relying on high-power lamps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a composite material with specifically controlled crystalline structure to create a cell case that provides both mechanical integrity and optimized ultraviolet light reflection, combining structural and optical functions in a single material system
2Use of energy by moving object
If a low-pressure mercury lamp is used as a light source, then ultraviolet light emission is improved, but the overall device size is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the cell case through controlled PTFE crystallization, achieving high UV reflectance and light trapping efficiency that allows for compact device design without requiring large-volume lamp assemblies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/optical system of large lamp assemblies with a material-based optical optimization approach, using PTFE's crystalline structure to achieve superior light management in a compact form factor
3Volume of moving object
If the cell material is optimized for ultraviolet LED, then device downsizing is achieved, but sterilization efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the crystallite size (60-250 nm) and crystallinity (50-80%) parameters of PTFE to simultaneously achieve compact device size and enhanced sterilization efficiency through improved UV light reflection and distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs PTFE with specifically engineered crystalline structure as a functional composite material that provides both size reduction and enhanced sterilization performance through its optical properties
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 use of PTFE in the ultraviolet irradiation module increases the density of ultraviolet light within the internal space, significantly improving the sterilization efficiency of objects being irradiated, as demonstrated by reduced bacterial survival rates in treated samples.
Implementation Method 1
the inside of the cell is coated with a highly reflective material
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is intended to provide a cell for an ultraviolet irradiation module and an ultraviolet irradiation module with which it is possible to improve the efficiency of sterilizing an object to be irradiated to a greater extent than in the past. The cell for an ultraviolet irradiation module includes a case being at least partially formed of polytetrafluoroethylene having a crystallite size in a direction of 60 nm or more and 250 nm or less and having an internal space into which an object to be irradiated can be introduced.