Systems and methods for applying ultraviolet light
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Solution Overview
Problem
UV LEDs used for purifying environments face challenges due to significant heat generation, humidity sensitivity, and limited durability, which affect their operation and lifespan when used in various environments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an elongate body with grooves and a cover that houses UV LEDs, featuring heat vents and connectors for efficient heat dissipation and mechanical durability, along with a method of pulsing power to LEDs to minimize heat and extend their lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UV LEDs are used to purify environments, then purification effectiveness is improved, but heat generation increases causing operational interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the heat dissipation function from the LED housing by incorporating dedicated heat sinks and thermal management structures. The housing is designed with thermal pathways that separate heat generation (LEDs) from heat dissipation (heat sinks exposed to ambient air), allowing the purification function to continue while managing the thermal byproduct.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermal interface materials and heat transfer intermediaries between the LEDs and heat sinks. These intermediary components facilitate efficient heat transfer from the LED junctions through the housing structure to the external environment, reducing operational temperature without compromising purification effectiveness.
2Productivity
If UV LEDs operate continuously for effective purification, then purification effectiveness is improved, but LED lifespan decreases due to heat and humidity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic operation cycles where LEDs are activated for purification intervals followed by rest intervals for thermal management. This periodic action allows the LEDs to operate at high intensity when needed for purification while providing sufficient cooling periods to prevent thermal degradation and extend operational lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates protective housing designs with humidity barriers and thermal insulation layers that are installed beforehand to cushion the LEDs against environmental stressors. These protective structures prevent humidity ingress and reduce thermal stress during operation, thereby extending LED lifespan without compromising purification effectiveness.
3Reliability
If LED power is increased to enhance purification, then purification effectiveness is improved, but heat generation and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes LED operating parameters including drive current, pulse width modulation duty cycles, and operational wavelengths to achieve maximum purification effectiveness at minimum power consumption. By carefully controlling these parameters, the system maintains high purification performance while reducing unnecessary energy loss and heat generation.
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 dissipates heat and protects UV LEDs from humidity, enhancing their durability and effectiveness in purifying air and liquids across a range of environments while reducing power consumption and extending LED life.
Implementation Method 1
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are efficient devices for applying UV light
Implementation Method 2
UV LEDs can, however, discharge significant heat
Implementation Method 3
UV LEDs can, however, discharge significant heat which, if not dissipated, can interfere with the operation of the UV LED
Implementation Method 4
the significant heat generated by the LEDs and the cycling of such LEDs on and off may result in significant expansion and contraction
Implementation Method 5
A window may be disposed in the cover adjacent the LED such that light emitted by the LED may pass through the window. The window may be made from a material that is at least partially transparent to one or more wavelengths of light emitted by the LED
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for applying light to an environment are provided. A system may include an elongate first body having a first side wall, a second side wall opposite the first side wall, and a bottom wall. The first body may define a lengthwise channel between the first side wall and the second side wall. The first body may have a first groove disposed along an inner surface of the first side wall, a second groove disposed along an inner surface of the second side wall, and a cover which may be coupled to the first body via the first groove and the second groove. The first body and the cover may collectively enclose at least a portion of the channel. The system may include an LED disposed within the channel.