UV-C Sterilization Housing With Closure-Sensed Exposure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UV-C sterilization apparatuses are either complex and limited in utility for sterilizing building spaces or too portable and ineffective for individual room use, and they lack mechanisms to prevent overexposure to UV radiation, which can be harmful to humans.
Innovation Solution
A UV-C sterilization apparatus with a housing that fits within a confined space, equipped with sensors to detect the closure position, a UV-C light source, and a controller to programmatically activate the light for fixed periods when the closure is closed, preventing exposure when opened, and allowing periodic activation as long as the closure remains closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UV-C light sources are activated continuously for sterilization, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but human safety deteriorates due to harmful exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives feedback from sensors detecting closure position and automatically adjusts UV-C light source operation accordingly. When the closure is detected as closed, the controller activates the UV-C light sources for sterilization; when opened, the controller immediately deactivates them, creating a closed-loop control system that balances sterilization effectiveness with human safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary verification of closure position through sensor detection before activating UV-C light sources. This preliminary action ensures the confined space is properly sealed before sterilization begins, preventing harmful exposure while maintaining sterilization effectiveness
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed installation UV-C sterilization systems are used in building ventilation, then sterilization coverage is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization system is segmented into a modular portable unit that can be independently deployed in different locations. Rather than requiring complex fixed installation throughout a building, the system divides the sterilization function into discrete, movable units that can be placed in individual rooms or confined spaces, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining sterilization coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static fixed installation to dynamic portable deployment. The sterilization apparatus can be moved between different locations and adapted to various confined spaces, providing versatility without the complexity of permanent installation. The system dynamically adjusts to different environments while maintaining effective sterilization
3Ease of operation
If portable UV-C sterilization apparatus are used for individual objects, then ease of operation is improved, but sterilization effectiveness deteriorates due to limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The portable UV-C sterilization apparatus is designed to nest within confined spaces such as gloveboxes or vehicle compartments. The compact housing allows the device to be placed inside these existing confined spaces, maintaining portability and ease of operation while utilizing the confined space environment to achieve effective sterilization of contents without requiring large external dimensions
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
Effectively sterilizes confined spaces of up to 2 cubic feet while minimizing human exposure to UV radiation by controlling the irradiation based on the closure's position, ensuring safety and efficiency in UV-C treatment.
Implementation Method 1
Ultraviolet radiation in the 200-300 nanometer (nm) range, also referred to as UV-C light, is effective at killing microorganisms such as airborne and surface bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and molds
Data Source
AI summary
A UV-C sterilization apparatus for a confined space having a closure which can be selectively positioned between a closed position, wherein the confined space is fully enclosed, and an opened position, wherein the confined space is accessible from an exterior thereof. The apparatus comprises means for connecting the apparatus to a power source to provide operating power to the apparatus and a housing dimensioned to fit within the confined space. The housing supports at least one sensor operative to detect when the closure is in the closed position and/or when the closure is not in the closed position; at least one source operative to emit UV-C light for irradiating the confined space; and a controller. The controller is connected to the at least one sensor and the at least one UV-C light source, and is operative to: determine when the closure is and is not in the closed position; activate the at least one UV-C light source to irradiate the confined space for a first fixed period of time when it is determined that the closure has gone to the closed position from not being in the closed position; periodically activate the UV-C light source to irradiate the confined space for at least a second fixed period of time, the periodic activation occurring following the first fixed period of time for so long as the closure remains in the closed position; and prevent the at least one UV-C light source from irradiating the confined space when it is determined that the closure is not in the closed position.