Adjustable UV LED Sterilization Enclosure with Motion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surface sterilizing devices are often ineffective, insufficient in sterilization power, and cumbersome for use on objects like door handles, sponges, cutting boards, and electronic devices, failing to adequately address the spread of pathogens such as germs, viruses, and bacteria.
Innovation Solution
A customizable, adjustable ultraviolet LED sterilization enclosure with a movable or retractable cover that automatically activates UV-C light sources upon motion detection, ensuring thorough sterilization of surfaces and ambient air, and is designed to fit various object sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional surface sterilizing devices are used, then sterilization function is provided, but sterilization power is insufficient and device is too big or clumsy for use on various object surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization enclosure incorporates a movable component that transitions between an access position allowing volume access and a restricted position enclosing the volume. This dynamic structure enables the device to adapt its configuration based on operational needs, making it versatile for different object surfaces while maintaining effective sterilization capability through proper enclosure during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The sterilization enclosure is designed with adjustable dimensions and a flexible movable component system that can accommodate various object sizes and shapes. The main body defining a volume with movable components allows the same device to effectively sterilize diverse surfaces including door handles, sponges, cutting boards, dish racks, elevator buttons, keyboards, and mouse pads, providing universal applicability
2Reliability
If UV light is emitted continuously for sterilization, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but safety risk increases due to UV exposure to users
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is coupled to the movable component and configured to be in a closed position to allow power to flow to the light source only when the movable component is in the closed position, enclosing the volume. This preliminary safety mechanism ensures the sterilization space is properly sealed before UV emission begins, preventing user exposure while maintaining sterilization effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is coupled to the movable component and configured to cause the light source to emit light when the movable component is in the restricted position. This feedback mechanism continuously monitors the position of the movable component and automatically controls UV emission accordingly, ensuring safety by preventing operation when the enclosure is open while maintaining sterilization when properly enclosed
3Extent of automation
If automatic motion detection is added to control UV activation, then user safety and automation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motion sensor and controller are integrated to create an automatic system that detects motion and independently controls UV light activation without requiring manual user input. The system serves itself by automatically transitioning between sterilization and safety states based on detected motion, reducing operational complexity despite added automation components
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 solution provides effective sterilization of pathogens on diverse surfaces and in the air, ensuring safety by automatically activating and deactivating the UV light as needed, while being compact and user-friendly, thus addressing the limitations of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light emitting devices positioned on the inner surface and configured to output ultraviolet light having a wavelength that is capable of sterilization
Implementation Method 2
a motion sensor configured to detect motion
Data Source
AI summary
A sterilization enclosure includes a main body defining a volume and having a movable component configured to move between an access position to allow access to the volume and a restricted position to at least partially enclose the volume. The sterilization enclosure further includes a light source located in the volume and configured to emit light having a frequency that injures pathogens. The sterilization enclosure further includes a switch coupled to the movable component and configured to be in a closed position to allow power to flow to the light source to cause the light source to emit the light into the volume when the movable component is in the closed position.