Self-sterilizing Input Device with UV-C Chamber
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Touch-based computer input devices pose a risk of bacterial and viral transmission between users, particularly in healthcare settings, and existing sterilization methods using disinfectant cloths are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A UV light-based sterilization system for input devices, where a chamber with UV-C lights is automatically activated when closed, using a sensor and controller to ensure safe exposure and efficient germicidal disinfection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual sterilization with disinfectant cloths is used, then the input device can be sterilized, but the process is unreliable and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The input device sterilizes itself automatically through an integrated UV-C lighting system that activates when the device is closed, eliminating the need for manual intervention with disinfectant cloths and ensuring consistent, reliable sterilization without human error
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of wiping with disinfectant cloths is replaced by an automated optical system using UV-C lights that electronically sterilize the device surfaces, improving reliability and eliminating operational variability
2Object-affected harmful factors
If UV-C light sterilization is implemented, then pathogen transmission is effectively reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UV-C lighting system is integrated directly into the input device housing, combining the sterilization function with the existing device structure. The lights are positioned within the housing to illuminate surfaces when the device is closed, eliminating the need for separate external sterilization equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The UV-C lighting system serves multiple functions: it sterilizes the device surfaces, provides illumination for the display, and can be controlled through the existing processor, thereby reducing the need for additional separate systems and minimizing overall complexity
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 reduces the risk of pathogen transmission by providing automated, reliable, and efficient UV-C light exposure for sterilization, minimizing human error and enhancing hygiene in high-risk environments.
Implementation Method 1
A chamber is provided for sterilizing the input device and includes a UV light
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for sterilizing a surface on an input device is disclosed. A chamber is configured to enclose an input device such as a keyboard and is configured to be switched between an open and a closed state. A drive unit may be provided to switch the chamber between states. In an embodiment, the drive unit may include a motor. A sensor provides a signal to a controller when the chamber is the closed state and the controller actuates a UV light. In an embodiment, the controller actuates the drive unit and the UV light in response to a trigger. In an embodiment, the trigger may be provided from a change in state in a computer coupled to the input device.