Pulsed Light Container Sterilization Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultraviolet sterilization devices require prolonged exposure to UV-C rays for effective sterilization, raising questions about the sufficiency of sterilization and the need for more efficient methods, especially for container hygiene in food and beverage establishments.
Innovation Solution
A container sterilization device using pulsed light, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) or flash light, that achieves high sterilization effects in a short time by minimizing shaded areas and adjusting the distance and operation based on the material of the container, integrated into a stage or structure for easy sterilization and washing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultraviolet sterilization devices using UV-C are used, then sterilization can be achieved, but prolonged exposure time is required and sterilization sufficiency is controversial
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of sterilization from ultraviolet radiation to intense pulsed light (IPL) with visible light band, delivering high energy density in a different physical form that achieves sterilization faster and more reliably
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pulsed light irradiation with specific pulse widths (1-100 microseconds) and repetition rates (1-100 Hz), using periodic high-energy light pulses to achieve sterilization effect in short time, contrasting with continuous or prolonged UV irradiation
2Productivity
If pulsed light is used for sterilization, then sterilization effect is improved in short time, but shaded area of pulsed light increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light generating area into multiple segments or zones, with the light source positioned at lower end of the container and light generating area extending upward, creating multiple irradiation zones to eliminate shaded areas while maintaining high pulsed light intensity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the light source in a different spatial dimension (at the lower end rather than above), extending the light generating area vertically along the container axis, which eliminates shadows by changing the irradiation geometry from top-down to bottom-up
3Reliability
If distance from lamp to object is not controlled, then device is simple, but sterilization effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable light source that can be automatically positioned or adjusted to optimal distance from the container surface, where the system self-regulates the irradiation distance to maintain optimal sterilization effectiveness without complex external control mechanisms
4Ease of operation
If device is not integrated with stage or structure, then device is simple, but sterilization and washing operation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pulsed light sterilization device with stage or structure elements, combining the light source, container support, and irradiation geometry into a unified integrated system that simplifies operation by pre-configuring the sterilization and washing process within the stage structure
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 pulsed light device provides a rapid and effective sterilization method by instantly irradiating high-energy light, improving the sterilization effect through adaptive control and integration with a stage or structure for efficient container handling and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
a pulsed light generating lamp configured to be extended from the container mounting area toward an inside of the container
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a device for sterilizing containers using pulsed light including a visible light band. The device includes: a housing provided with an openable door and providing an accommodation space therein; a container mounting area disposed on at least a portion of a bottom surface of the accommodation space; and a pulsed light generating lamp configured to be extended from the container mounting area toward an inside of the container, wherein a lower end of the pulsed light generating lamp is configured to be disposed lower than a lower end of the container mounted on the container mounting area.