Sterlization system and control method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization systems using ultraviolet light are ineffective for sterilizing large spaces such as rooms and factories, as they do not efficiently cover wide areas and require significant effort or equipment changes, limiting their application in environments like those affected by viruses, including COVID-19, where bacteria and viruses can adhere to surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A sterilization system with a light source unit emitting ultraviolet rays, adjustable in both horizontal and vertical angles, controlled by a controller that adjusts the irradiation based on pre-set angles and positions to ensure comprehensive coverage of a wide area, including estimation of distance to surfaces for optimal irradiation time and intensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a traditional sterilizer is used for sterilization, then sterilization of a specific target object is achieved, but sterilization of a wide range of space is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilizer divides the wide sterilization area into multiple regions by using a plurality of light source units arranged in specific patterns. Each light source unit covers a specific angular range, and collectively they achieve comprehensive coverage of the entire target space, resolving the contradiction between large sterilization area and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular positioning (horizontal and vertical angles) as additional dimensions for controlling light source units. By adjusting the irradiation angles of multiple light sources rather than moving a single source physically, the system achieves wide-area sterilization while maintaining operational simplicity through automated angular control.
2Reliability
If air conditioning equipment is changed or air is replaced to sterilize space, then sterilization is achieved, but the workload and equipment changes are significant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical air handling systems (air conditioners, air replacement systems) with a optical field-based ultraviolet sterilization system. By using light source units that emit ultraviolet rays to directly sterilize the air and surfaces in the space, the system achieves reliable sterilization without requiring complex mechanical equipment changes or high workloads.
3Reliability
If antiseptic solution is sprayed to inactivate bacteria, then sterilization is achieved, but the workload is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic irradiation cycles where light source units systematically activate and deactivate in sequences, covering different angular ranges over time. This periodic operation allows the system to sterilize the entire space efficiently without requiring continuous manual intervention or prolonged exposure times, thus reducing the overall sterilization time while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated control system enables the sterilizer to operate autonomously by automatically positioning light source units according to pre-programmed angular patterns and timing sequences. The system self-manages the sterilization process without requiring manual spraying or continuous human operation, significantly reducing the workload and time investment compared to traditional antiseptic methods.
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
Enables efficient and wide-range sterilization of spaces, ensuring effective disinfection while minimizing human exposure to UV radiation, thus improving environmental safety and reducing the workload associated with traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
A light source unit 21 that emits ultraviolet rays UV in a radiating form
Data Source
AI summary
A sterilization system of an embodiment includes a light source unit, a horizontal angle adjustment unit and/or a vertical angle adjustment unit, and a controller. The light source unit emits ultraviolet rays in a radiating form. The horizontal angle adjustment unit adjusts a horizontal angle of the light source unit by causing rotation of the light source unit in a horizontal direction. The vertical angle adjustment unit adjusts a vertical angle of the light source unit by causing rotation of the light source unit in a vertical direction. The controller reads setting information including the horizontal angle and/or the vertical angle, controls the rotation caused by the horizontal angle adjustment unit and/or the vertical angle adjustment unit, and controls irradiation of the ultraviolet rays by the light source unit.