UV-C Sanitizing Case with Reflective Tray for Product Disinfection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sanitizing various household objects is difficult to achieve in a convenient and reliable manner, especially with the recent rise in concerns about biological agents like COVID-19, as existing methods lack effective solutions for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A storage and sanitizing case with a UV permeable base tray, ultraviolet lights, and a reflective material is designed to sanitize products by using UV-C light, which is activated when the case is closed, ensuring effective disinfection of items like utensils and eyeglasses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sanitizing methods are used, then sanitizing can be performed, but it is difficult to achieve in a convenient and reliable manner
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines storage and sanitizing functions into a single integrated case. The case houses UV-C lights, reflective surfaces, and product supports within the same structure used for storing products, eliminating the need for separate sanitizing equipment and making the process as convenient as simply closing the case.
Solution Approach 2:
The case is designed to sanitize products automatically when closed. The UV-C lights are activated by the closing action itself (via magnet activation or latch mechanism), requiring no additional user intervention beyond placing products in the case and closing it. The system sanitizes itself along with the products.
2Reliability
If UV-C light is used for sanitizing, then effective disinfection is achieved, but the case structure must accommodate UV permeable materials and reflective surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies UV-permeable materials specifically to the base tray and cover tray portions that直接接触 products, and positions reflective surfaces strategically to direct UV-C light onto products. Not the entire case is made UV-permeable, only the necessary components, maintaining structural integrity while enabling effective sanitizing.
Solution Approach 2:
The case structure serves multiple functions: it stores products, provides UV-C illumination for sanitizing, reflects UV light to enhance coverage, and supports products in designated positions. The integrated design eliminates the need for separate sanitizing equipment while maintaining all necessary functions.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple UV lights are positioned around the case, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but more components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions UV-C lights at multiple locations including the base, cover, and side walls, utilizing three-dimensional space within the case. This spatial distribution of light sources ensures comprehensive coverage of products regardless of their position, achieving wide-area sanitizing without requiring an excessive number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
Reflective surfaces are introduced as intermediaries to redirect UV-C light from the light sources to areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach. The reflective materials bounce UV light onto products from multiple angles, extending the effective coverage area without adding additional light sources.
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 case provides a convenient and reliable mechanism for sanitizing products by using UV-C light, effectively killing bacterial, mold, and viral agents, ensuring the products are disinfected within a short time frame.
Implementation Method 1
The case provides a convenient and reliable mechanism for sanitizing products by using UV-C light, effectively killing bacterial, mold, and viral agents
Implementation Method 2
portions of the base tray are covered in a UV reflective material
Data Source
AI summary
A storage and sanitizing case includes a cover and a base, the cover being connected to the base for pivotal movement relative thereto. A base tray is positioned within the base for supporting products within the case. The base tray comprises a UV permeable material. The storage and sanitizing case also includes an electronic circuit board and ultraviolet lights.