UV-C Lamp Amalgam Cooling via Forced Convection
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Solution Overview
Problem
High output germicidal UV-C lamps with mercury amalgam are limited to water treatment applications due to temperature issues, as the amalgam can melt and lose efficiency when exposed to ambient air, leading to reduced UV output and instability.
Innovation Solution
A method to control and maintain the temperature of the amalgam spots in UV-C disinfection devices using air flow, heat sinks, and thermoelectric devices, ensuring operation within the ideal temperature range of 80-140°C, even in vertical configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If very high output germicidal lamps with mercury amalgam are used to increase UV output, then disinfection effectiveness is improved, but the amalgam temperature exceeds maximum operating temperature causing melting and loss of efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary cooling system comprising a heat sink and air moving device positioned between the amalgam lamp and the ambient environment. The heat sink absorbs excess thermal energy from the lamp, while the air moving device facilitates heat dissipation through forced convection, thereby maintaining amalgam temperature within operational limits while preserving high UV output capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using an air moving device (fan or blower) to create forced air flow through and around the heat sink structure. This pneumatic cooling system removes heat from the amalgam lamp by circulating air through channels designed to maximize heat exchange surface area, effectively controlling lamp temperature during high-power operation
2Power
If very high output germicidal lamps are used in air applications, then UV output is increased, but the amalgam melts and moves out of position causing shorting or ineffective operation
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system acts as a thermal intermediary that stabilizes the amalgam lamp operating conditions. By continuously removing excess heat through the heat sink and air moving device, the system prevents temperature-induced amalgam migration and electrode shorting, ensuring reliable and stable lamp operation throughout the disinfection process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preventive cooling measures by positioning the heat sink and air moving device to activate before critical temperature thresholds are reached. This prior cushioning approach prevents amalgam melting and positional migration before they can occur, maintaining lamp reliability and preventing operational failures
3Power
If multiple germicidal lamps are used to achieve desired disinfection levels, then UV output is increased, but expenses and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of a single lamp by implementing active cooling, enabling it to operate at very high output levels continuously without overheating. This parameter change (temperature control under high power) allows one lamp to replace multiple lamps, reducing system complexity while maintaining required UV output for effective disinfection
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 the use of high output germicidal lamps in air and surface disinfection applications by maintaining optimal temperature, preventing amalgam melting and ensuring maximum UV output and stability.
Implementation Method 1
an air moving device, which delivers air through the conduit body in a first direction
Implementation Method 2
the at least one hole directs the air in a second direction and near the mercury spot of the lamp
Data Source
AI summary
This invention employs a computer system or a programmable logic controller (computer) with a specific wireless communication protocol (BLE) to allow for remote connectivity of the germicidal UV device to display the status of the disinfection cycle and to operate the device and send and transfer data wirelessly to the Cloud via the BLE interface. A dose sensitive coupon, which can undergo color change in response to UV dosage, can also be used.