UV-Transparent Door Handle with Embedded LEDs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sanitizing methods for surfaces, such as ultraviolet light systems, face challenges in effectively reaching and sanitizing shaped surfaces due to shadowing and the need for close light source placement, and they often involve harmful chemicals or residue, while traditional cleaning methods like washing may not fully remove germs without damaging surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A surface formed from ultraviolet-transparent material, such as glass or plastic, with embedded ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that emit germ-killing light, allowing for even sterilization without chemical residues, and a control system that activates the LEDs based on surface use or environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultraviolet light sources are placed close to the surface to sanitize effectively, then germ-killing effectiveness is improved, but the positioning interferes with surface use and creates shadowing on shaped surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The ultraviolet light source is embedded within the door handle structure itself, nesting the sanitizing function inside the object to be sanitized. This eliminates the need for external light sources that would interfere with handle operation, while maintaining close proximity for effective germ-killing.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source is positioned in three-dimensional space within the handle structure, allowing illumination from multiple angles and directions. This dimensional positioning overcomes shadowing issues on shaped surfaces while maintaining usability of the handle exterior.
2Ease of operation
If traditional cleaning methods like washing are used to remove germs, then ease of operation is improved, but germ removal effectiveness is insufficient without damaging surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical cleaning action of washing is replaced with ultraviolet radiation, a non-contact energy-based method. This substitution eliminates the need for water and physical friction while providing effective germ elimination without surface damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sanitizing mechanism changes from chemical/mechanical (washing) to electromagnetic radiation (ultraviolet). This parameter change enables germ killing through a different physical process that does not require surface contact or moisture.
3Reliability
If antibacterial cleaners are used to kill germs, then germ-killing effectiveness is improved, but harmful chemical residues are deposited into the environment
Solution Approach 1:
Chemical cleaners are replaced with ultraviolet light, substituting a chemical process with a physical radiation process. This elimination of chemicals removes the source of harmful residues while maintaining effective germ elimination through the radiation's biological impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful UV radiation that can damage materials is converted into a beneficial sanitizing tool by controlling exposure parameters and using it briefly for germ killing, then turning off to avoid material degradation while achieving the sanitizing benefit.
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
Ensures thorough and chemical-free sanitization of surfaces by using ultraviolet light that penetrates the material to reach all parts, reducing germ survival and minimizing environmental impact while maintaining surface functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The radiation system includes a plurality of light emitting diodes positioned within the outer part
Implementation Method 2
at least an outer portion of the door handle is formed of a material which is transparent to ultraviolet light or radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for sanitizing a surface is disclosed. The surface is formed of a material transparent to ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light is generated within the material opposite to the surface. The ultraviolet light passes through the material to illuminate and sanitize the surface. The material may be formed into the shape of a door handle which is sanitized. The system and method may also include a sensor for determining when to sanitize the surface.