UV Light Array Chamber for Shopping Cart Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Shopping carts and similar devices harbor high levels of bacteria and pathogens, posing a risk of microbial infections and virus transmission, with manual cleaning being inconsistent and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing ultraviolet light arrays and a sanitation chamber to automate the sterilization of shopping carts, employing germicidal UVc light to achieve a 4-log reduction of pathogens, with modular design for adaptability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning with wipes and chemical agents is used, then cleaning can be performed, but the cleaning is inconsistent, labor intensive and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cleaning with an automated UV sterilization system. The system uses ultraviolet light arrays positioned in a chamber to automatically sterilize shopping carts without human intervention, eliminating the inconsistency and labor intensity of manual cleaning while maintaining reliable sterilization results
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service sterilization where shopping carts are automatically processed through the UV chamber without requiring manual cleaning operations. The carts themselves are the objects being serviced, and the system provides automated sterilization that is both consistent and labor-free
2Reliability
If ultraviolet light arrays are positioned close to cart surfaces, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sterilization system into modular components: multiple UV light arrays that can be independently positioned and adjusted, a chamber structure that can be configured for different cart sizes, and controllable positioning mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to achieve close proximity for effective sterilization while maintaining manageable complexity through modularity
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and movable UV light arrays that can be dynamically positioned at optimal distances from cart surfaces. The arrays can be moved into place for sterilization and retracted or repositioned afterward, allowing the system to achieve close proximity for effectiveness without permanent complex structural commitments
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 reduces pathogens on shopping cart surfaces by 99.99% within thirty seconds, meeting or exceeding CDC standards for UV sterilization, and can be adapted for various cart sizes and types, ensuring consistent sanitation.
Implementation Method 1
directing ultraviolet light from arrays of light fixtures placed proximate surfaces of the carts including internal surfaces of cart basket areas
Data Source
AI summary
A shopping cart sterilization system is provided comprising a sealable chamber with front and rear doors and a plurality of light arrays inside the chamber. The arrays comprise at least two horizontal fixtures attached along horizontal edges and at least one ultraviolet light bulb in each fixture for directing ultraviolet light at a cart in the chamber. The system also comprises a motor with pulleys and cables to move the arrays proximate and away from the cart. The system moves the light arrays proximate outer surfaces of the cart. Arrays are arranged in a basket arrangement for lowering into an internal area of the cart. Arrays are moved proximate a handle, a child seat, and wheels of the cart.