UV Sanitation Device with Motion-Activated Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sanitation devices, such as chemical sprays and wipes, are impractical for frequent use on common touch points like door handles and can be harmful to the environment, while light-based solutions using harmful wavelengths and require external power sources.
Innovation Solution
A sanitation device with a housing containing light emitting diodes that emit UV light through a channel, a motion sensor to detect object proximity, and a shield to narrow the field of view, allowing for autonomous disinfection of touch points without external power and minimizing harm to humans and animals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chemical sprays and wipes are used to clean common touch points, then sanitation is achieved, but waste is produced and surfaces are worn down over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical sanitation methods (sprays and wipes) with a light-based sanitation system using UV LEDs. The device uses ultraviolet light emitted through a channel to disinfect surfaces without requiring physical contact or chemical substances, thereby eliminating waste production while maintaining sanitation effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a motion sensor that automatically detects when a user approaches and triggers the UV light emission. The system sanitizes the surface autonomously without requiring manual application of chemicals, and the battery-powered design enables independent operation without external infrastructure
2Loss of substance
If light wavelengths are used to clean surfaces, then chemical waste is eliminated, but the light may be harmful to human skin and eyes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a shield with an aperture that spatially confines the UV light emission to a specific direction and area. The shield narrows the field of view of the motion sensor and directs the light pathway, ensuring that UV exposure is localized to the target surface and does not reach users' skin or eyes
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses UV LEDs that emit at specific wavelengths effective for sanitation while the shield and channel geometry control the distribution and intensity of the light. The motion-activated timing ensures light is emitted only when needed and for brief periods, reducing cumulative exposure
3Reliability
If external power sources are used for light-based sanitation devices, then sanitation capability is achieved, but applicability is limited where power is not readily available
Solution Approach 1:
The device is equipped with an internal battery that provides autonomous power, eliminating the need for external electrical infrastructure. The motion sensor automatically detects user presence and triggers UV light emission, enabling the device to function independently in locations without readily available power 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
Effectively disinfects common touch points between uses using UV light, reducing waste and environmental impact while being safe and power-independent.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of light emitting diodes emit light through the openings in the channel
Implementation Method 2
A motion sensor is able to detect light through the shield, such that the shield narrows a field of view of the motion sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A sanitation device includes a housing with a channel extending into the housing and a plurality of openings in the channel. A plurality of light emitting diodes emit light through the openings in the channel. A shield is coupled to the housing and a motion sensor emits and detect light through the shield when activated, such that the shield narrows a field of view of the motion sensor. The sanitation device is positioned near a common touch point with the motion sensor determining when an object is near, and has moved away from, the touch point. The plurality of light emitting diodes are activated to clean the touch point after the object moves away. The sanitation device may further include a status indicator light to provide information regarding the current state of operation of the sanitation device.