U.S. patent application number 11/358799 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-24 for reverse pin ultraviolet germicidal lamp system.
Invention is credited to Gino J. Ciancanelli, Betty Jean Zayas.
Application Number | 20060186782 11/358799 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36911947 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060186782 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ciancanelli; Gino J. ; et
al. |
August 24, 2006 |
Reverse pin ultraviolet germicidal lamp system
Abstract
An ultraviolet gas discharge lamp having contact pins extending
from a base cap toward an opposing end in reverse pin fashion. The
lamp is placed within a conduit or duct for disinfecting air or
water flowing within the conduit. The reverse contact pins that
extend toward the opposing end mate with contact holes in a socket
attached to the conduit through which the lamp is inserted. The
lamp is only energized when the lamp is fully inserted into the
duct and is de-energized upon removing the lamp from the duct. A
shroud may protect the pins. A window may be incorporated in the
base cap so as to visually confirm that the lamp is energized and
radiating. A key and mating receiver may be used on the base cap
and the socket so as to prevent accidental insertion of an
inappropriate lamp. A locking latch may also be included.
Inventors: |
Ciancanelli; Gino J.;
(Southbury, CT) ; Zayas; Betty Jean; (Bridgeport,
CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CANTOR COLBURN, LLP
55 GRIFFIN ROAD SOUTH
BLOOMFIELD
CT
06002
US
|
Family ID: |
36911947 |
Appl. No.: |
11/358799 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11062988 |
Feb 22, 2005 |
|
|
|
11358799 |
Feb 21, 2006 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
313/318.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 439/934 20130101;
A61L 9/20 20130101; H01J 5/62 20130101; C02F 2201/004 20130101;
C02F 2201/3228 20130101; H01J 5/54 20130101; H01J 5/50 20130101;
C02F 1/325 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
313/318.01 |
International
Class: |
H01J 5/48 20060101
H01J005/48; H01J 5/50 20060101 H01J005/50 |
Claims
1. A germicidal gas discharge lamp comprising: a lamp envelope
containing gas and having a first end and a second end; an anode
and a cathode located in the lamp envelope; a base cap placed on
the first end of the lamp envelope and having a portion of the base
cap extending radially beyond at least one side of the envelope; at
least one return wire connected to the anode or the cathode wherein
one of the anode or the cathode is located proximate to the second
end, and wherein the least one return wire connects the anode or
the cathode to at least one contact pin structured to extend
towards the opposing second end of the lamp envelope and formed on
the radially extending portion of the base cap externally to the
envelope; and wherein the at least one return wire extends along
said lamp envelope.
2. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a shroud attached to the base cap, whereby the at least
one contact pin is protected.
3. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a window incorporated in the base cap, whereby the
window permits light to be seen when the germicidal gas discharge
lamp is operating providing visual confirmation that the lamp is
on.
4. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: an end cap placed on the second end of the lamp
envelope.
5. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a key incorporated on the base cap; and a receiver
adapted to receive the key incorporated on a socket adapted to
receive the germicidal gas discharge lamp, whereby the key and the
receiver are structured to mate in a predetermined orientation.
6. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 wherein the
germicidal gas discharge lamp is an ultraviolet lamp.
7. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 wherein the
germicidal gas discharge lamp is structured for being inserted
within a chamber and the at least one contact pins are structured
to engage a socket when the germicidal gas discharge lamp is
inserted through the socket and into the chamber.
8. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a protective tube placed over said envelope.
9. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 wherein the at
least one electrical contact pin comprises a plurality of
electrical contact pins orientated in a chosen pattern.
10. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 wherein the at
least one electrical contact pin comprises a plurality of
electrical contact pins orientated in different planes.
11. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly comprising: a lamp
envelope containing gas and having a first end and a second end; an
anode and a cathode located in the lamp envelope; a base cap placed
on the first end of the lamp envelope and having a portion of the
base cap extending radially beyond at least one side of the
envelope; at least one return wire connected to the anode or the
cathode wherein one of the anode or the cathode is located
proximate to the second end, and wherein the least one return wire
connects the anode or the cathode to at least one contact pin
structured to extend towards the opposing second end of the lamp
envelope and formed on the radially extending portion of the base
cap externally to the envelope and wherein the at least one return
wire extends along said lamp envelope; a receiving socket having
contact pin receiving holes with receiving contacts therein; and
wherein the second end, and the envelope, are capable of being
inserted through a hole in the receiving socket and wherein the at
least one contact pin is structured to engage the contact pin
receiving holes with receiving contacts therein in the socket.
12. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a shroud attached to the base cap whereby the at least
one contact pin is protected.
13. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a window incorporated in the base cap whereby the
window permits light to be seen when the germicidal gas discharge
lamp is operating providing visual confirmation that the lamp is
on.
14. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: an end cap placed on the second end of the lamp
envelope.
15. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a key incorporated on the base cap; and a receiver
adapted to receive the key incorporated on a socket adapted to
receive the germicidal gas discharge lamp, whereby the key and the
receiver are structured to mate in a predetermined orientation.
16. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 wherein
the germicidal gas discharge lamp is an ultraviolet lamp.
17. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a protective tube placed over said envelope.
18. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 wherein
the at least one electrical contact pin comprises a plurality of
electrical contact pins orientated in a chosen pattern.
19. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 wherein
the at least one electrical contact pin comprises a plurality of
electrical contact pins orientated in different planes.
20. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a locking latch incorporated on the base cap; and a
receiver adapted to receive the locking latch and incorporated on a
socket adapted to receive the germicidal gas discharge lamp,
whereby the locking latch and the receiver are structured to mate
in a predetermined orientation.
21. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 wherein the base
cap comprises a bi-cylindrical base cap having two connected
cylindrical sections which are attached or cooperate with a double
sectioned u-shaped envelope.
22. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 wherein the base
cap comprises a multi-base cap for mating with multiple
envelopes.
23. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a safety switch.
24. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a reflector located proximate to the gas discharge
lamp.
25. A germicidal gas discharge lamp as in claim 1 further
comprising: a cover for sealing the gas discharge lamp wherein the
cover is connectable to the socket base.
26. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a locking latch incorporated on the base cap; wherein
the receiving socket is adapted to receive the locking latch; and
whereby the locking latch and the receiving socket are structured
to mate in a predetermined orientation.
27. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 wherein
the base cap comprises a bi-cylindrical base cap having two
connected cylindrical sections which are attached or cooperate with
a double sectioned u-shaped envelope.
28. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 wherein
the base cap comprises a multi-base cap for mating with multiple
envelopes.
29. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a safety switch.
30. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 11 further
comprising: a reflector located proximate to the gas discharge
lamp.
31. A germicidal gas discharge lamp assembly as in claim 111
further comprising: a cover for sealing the gas discharge lamp
wherein the cover is connectable to the socket base.
32. A socket assembly for a germicidal gas discharge lamp
comprising: a receiving socket having contact pin receiving holes
with receiving contacts therein; a hole located in the receiving
socket for accepting a lamp envelope wherein the lamp envelope
contains gas and has a first end and a second end; an anode and a
cathode located in the lamp envelope and a base cap is placed on
the first end of the lamp envelope and a portion of the base cap
extends radially beyond at least one side of the envelope; and at
least one return wire connected to the anode or the cathode wherein
one of the anode or the cathode is located proximate to the second
end, and wherein the least one return wire connects the anode or
the cathode to at least one contact pin structured to extend
towards the opposing second end of the lamp envelope and formed on
the radially extending portion of the base cap externally to the
envelope; and wherein the at least one return wire extends along
said lamp envelope; wherein the second end, and the envelope, are
capable of being inserted through the hole in the receiving socket
and wherein the at least one contact pin is structured to engage
the contact pin receiving holes with receiving contacts therein in
the socket.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) application
of U.S. utility application Ser. No. 11/062,988 filed Feb. 22,
2005, priority to which is hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.120.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates in general to a lamp alone, a
socket alone, and a lamp base and socket and more specifically to a
lamp base and socket for inserting an ultraviolet lamp into an air
or fluid duct for germicidal purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Many germicidal applications use ultraviolet gas discharge
lamps. Ultraviolet gas discharge lamps are often placed in
containers or ducts that contain a fluid, such as air or water. The
ultraviolet radiation emitted from the ultraviolet gas discharge
lamp has a germicidal effect destroying germs, viruses, and
bacteria for disinfection. Often the ultraviolet gas discharge lamp
is placed directly within the air flow in a duct or conduit. In
applications involving the disinfecting of a liquid, often a
protective glass sleeve is used to surround the ultraviolet gas
discharge lamp.
[0004] The ultraviolet gas discharge lamp should be easily
installed, and installed so as to prevent ultraviolet radiation
from escaping from the conduit or container. Often, as a safety
feature, switches are used to prevent removal of the ultraviolet
gas discharge lamp while the lamp is on so as to prevent exposure
to potentially dangerous ultraviolet radiation. An ultraviolet lamp
having a construction to prevent radiation when the lamp is removed
from a duct is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,838,057 entitled "Power
Disruption Apparatus for A Radiation Lamp," and issued to Russell
et al on Jan. 4, 2005. Disclosed therein is a radiation lamp having
a flange attached to the lamp base. Additionally, an electrical
socket is detachable mounted in a manner that prevents removal of
the radiation lamp from the duct without prior detachment of the
electrical socket from electrical pins.
[0005] Another ultraviolet lamp that can be quickly installed is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,797,966 entitled "Quick-install
Irradiation Unit and Method of Making Same" issued to Summers et al
on Sep. 28, 2004. Disclosed therein is an irradiation unit for
irradiating a surface including a frame.
[0006] Another sterilization device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,902,552 entitled "Ultraviolet Air Sterilization Device" issued to
Brickley on May 11, 1999. Disclosed therein is an ultraviolet air
sterilization device including a housing and mounts. A receptacle
connects to corresponding mounts by means of a threaded connection
enabling the lamp units to be removed.
[0007] While these prior devices aided in the installation and
operation of an ultraviolet germicide gas discharge lamp used to
disinfect fluids, they often required relatively complicated
mounting hardware and additional switches to prevent operation of
the lamp upon removal from the fluid flowing in a duct or conduit.
Therefore, there is a need for an easily installed, simple, and
safe operating ultraviolet germicidal gas discharge lamp for
placement into a duct or conduit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] An embodiment may comprise a germicidal gas discharge lamp
comprising: a lamp envelope containing gas and having a first end
and a second end; an anode and a cathode located in the lamp
envelope; a base cap placed on the first end of the lamp envelope
and having a portion of the base cap extending radially beyond at
least one side of the envelope; at least one return wire connected
to the anode or the cathode wherein one of the anode or the cathode
is located proximate to the second end, and wherein the least one
return wire connects the anode or the cathode to at least one
contact pin structured to extend towards the opposing second end of
the lamp envelope and formed on the radially extending portion of
the base cap externally to the envelope; and wherein the at least
one return wire extends along said lamp envelope.
[0009] An embodiment may also comprise a germicidal gas discharge
lamp assembly comprising: a lamp envelope containing gas and having
a first end and a second end; an anode and a cathode located in the
lamp envelope; a base cap placed on the first end of the lamp
envelope and having a portion of the base cap extending radially
beyond at least one side of the envelope; at least one return wire
connected to the anode or the cathode wherein one of the anode or
the cathode is located proximate to the second end, and wherein the
least one return wire connects the anode or the cathode to at least
one contact pin structured to extend towards the opposing second
end of the lamp envelope and formed on the radially extending
portion of the base cap externally to the envelope and wherein the
at least one return wire extends along said lamp envelope; a
receiving socket having contact pin receiving holes with receiving
contacts therein; and wherein the second end, and the envelope, are
capable of being inserted through a hole in the receiving socket
and wherein the at least one contact pin is structured to engage
the contact pin receiving holes with receiving contacts therein in
the socket.
[0010] An embodiment may comprise a receiving socket for a
germicidal gas discharge lamp comprising: a receiving socket having
contact pin receiving holes with receiving contacts therein; a hole
located in the receiving socket for accepting a lamp envelope
wherein the lamp envelope contains gas and has a first end and a
second end; an anode and a cathode located in the lamp envelope and
a base cap is placed on the first end of the lamp envelope and a
portion of the base cap extends radially beyond at least one side
of the envelope; and at least one return wire connected to the
anode or the cathode wherein one of the anode or the cathode is
located proximate to the second end, and wherein the least one
return wire connects the anode or the cathode to at least one
contact pin structured to extend towards the opposing second end of
the lamp envelope and formed on the radially extending portion of
the base cap externally to the envelope; and wherein the at least
one return wire extends along said lamp envelope; wherein the
second end, and the envelope, are capable of being inserted through
a hole in the receiving socket and wherein the at least one contact
pin is structured to engage the contact pin receiving holes with
receiving contacts therein in the socket.
[0011] An embodiment may comprise an ultraviolet lamp and socket
that may be keyed to permit only a predetermined lamp in a
predetermined angular orientation to mate and be connected.
[0012] An embodiment may provide an ultraviolet lamp that can
easily be mounted in a fluid or air duct.
[0013] An embodiment may also provide an ultraviolet lamp that is
automatically de-energized upon removal from the fluid or air duct
without the need for any separate switches.
[0014] It is an advantage of an embodiment that the ultraviolet
lamp may be pushed directly into a socket engaging the contact
pins.
[0015] It is an advantage of an embodiment that upon removing the
ultraviolet lamp from the fluid duct and socket the contact pins
become disengaged, automatically removing power from the
ultraviolet lamp, and thus preventing the possibility of the
ultraviolet lamp remaining powered while unshielded by the
duct.
[0016] It is another advantage of an embodiment that direct visual
confirmation of operation of the lamp can be made through a window
even when the lamp is completely enclosed in a duct.
[0017] It is a feature of an embodiment that a contact pin shroud
extends from the base cap protecting the contact pins from
inadvertent electrical contact or damage to the pins.
[0018] It is a feature of an embodiment that the contact pins are
placed adjacent to the sides of the lamp and a distal end extends
toward an opposing end of the lamp.
[0019] These and other advantages and features will become more
readily apparent in view of the following more detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only,
with reference to the accompanying drawings which are meant to be
exemplary, not limiting, and wherein like elements are numbered
alike in several Figures, in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates the placement of an
embodiment of an ultraviolet lamp in a fluid or air duct.
[0022] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of another embodiment of an
ultraviolet lamp with a shroud.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a top view of a base cap of the embodiment of the
ultraviolet lamp illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a partial elevational view of the embodiment of
the ultraviolet lamp illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 being inserted
into a socket.
[0025] FIG. 5 is an elevational view of another embodiment of an
ultraviolet lamp having a protective tube.
[0026] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of yet an embodiment of an
ultraviolet lamp having a lamp and socket mating system and
electric line cord and power supply.
[0027] FIGS. 7-15c are various views of another embodiment using a
keying system.
[0028] FIGS. 16-25 are various views of another embodiment with a u
shaped lamp.
[0029] FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of another embodiment which
also incorporates a locking system.
[0030] FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of another embodiment which
also incorporates a stepped base.
[0031] FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of another embodiment which
shows that the contact pins can be located in many
orientations.
[0032] FIGS. 29-30 show perspective views of another embodiment
which also incorporates a reflector.
[0033] FIGS. 34-35 show perspective views of another embodiment of
a keying system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates an ultraviolet lamp fluid duct germicidal
system 10. A fluid or air duct 12 has an opening thereon on which a
mounting flange 14 is placed. The fluid duct 12 may contain air or
other gas or liquid such as water to be disinfected. The mounting
flange 14 has a socket 16. The socket 16 has a plurality of contact
pin holes 30 therein. A hole 17 is placed through the socket 16 and
mounting flange 14 and opens into the fluid duct 12. A lamp 18 is
placed within the socket 16 and extends into the interior of the
fluid duct 12. For example, the lamp 18 may be an ultraviolet gas
discharge, fluorescent lamp, or other type as are commonly used in
germicidal applications.
[0035] The lamp 18 has a base cap 34 on a first end and an end cap
22 on the second end. The end cap 22 may also be called the blind
side cap because the electrical connections used to power the lamp
18 are all made via contact pins 26 located on the first end.
Therefore, no contact pins 26 are located on the end cap 22 and
this results in a "single ended" lamp arrangement which is
excellent for insertion into air or liquid as shown in FIG. 1 for
example. The base cap assembly 20 comprises a base cap 34 and a
cylindrical base 32. A portion of the base cap 34 extends radially
and sufficiently beyond the exterior surface of the lamp 18 so as
to permit contact pins 26 to have the distal ends thereof extending
downward towards the opposite second end of the lamp 18 and away
from the base cap 34. This is termed herein "a reverse pin"
arrangement because the contact pins 26 are reversed in comparison
to a standard single sided lamp with non-reversed or forward facing
pins.
[0036] In order to locate all of the electrical contact pins 26 at
the first end in order to have a single sided contact pin lamp
arrangement, a return wire 24 provides an electrical connection
between the end cap electrode 36 adjacent the end cap 22 and the
contact pins 26 on the base cap 34. These electrodes can be AC
anodes/cathodes. An anode and a cathode create a voltage which
excites gas present in the lamp as is well known in gas discharge
lamps.
[0037] In this example, one pair of the contact pins 26 are
electrically connected to the base cap electrode 38. The other pair
of contact pins 26 is coupled to the end cap 22 electrode 36
through wires 24. Depending upon the number of contact pins used,
one or more wire 24 may be used to provide an electrical connection
to contact pins on a "single end" of the lamp 18. A power cable 28
is electrically connected to the socket 16 and provides power to
the lamp 18. Arrow 40 represents the movement of the lamp 18 in and
out of the fluid duct 12. The lamp 18 may preferably be an
ultraviolet gas discharge lamp or an ultraviolet fluorescent lamp,
but may by any other type of lamp having pin contacts, pin-like
contacts, or other electrical contacts.
[0038] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate another embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, a shroud or guard 146 is used to
protect the contact pins 126. The ultraviolet lamp 118 comprises an
envelope 119 and has a base cap 120 and an end cap 122. Electrodes
138 and 136 are placed adjacent each cap 120 and 122. Wires 124
electrically couple the electrode 136 to a pair of contact pins
126. The contact pins 126 are formed within the base cap 120. The
base cap 120 comprises a cylindrical base attached to one end of
the envelope 119. A base cap 134 is formed on the cylindrical base
cap 132 and has a diameter sufficiently greater than that of the
envelope 119 usually made of glass and the cylindrical base cap 132
to permit contact pins 126 to be positioned along a side of the
cylindrical base cap 132. The distal ends of the contact pins 126
extend downward from the base cap 134 towards the end cap 122 at
the opposing end of the lamp 118. A pin shroud 146 is formed on the
edge of the base cap 134 to protect a user or installer from
inadvertently touching the contact pins 116 and also to protect the
contact pins 126 from damage. The pin shroud 146 guards the contact
pins 126 against inadvertent contact and from being bent or
damaged. Indicia 148 may be placed or etched on the envelope 119 to
provide identifying information.
[0039] In this embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, a hole 142
is also formed in the base cap 134 and extends through to the
interior of the lamp 118. A transparent window 144 seals the
external end of the hole 140. The transparent window 144 permits a
view into the interior of the lamp 118. The window 144 permits
visual confirmation that the lamp is on when the lamp 118 is placed
with a duct or conduit and thus only the end of the base cap 120 is
visible.
[0040] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the base cap 120 more clearly
illustrating the window 144 and contact pins 126. In this example,
four contact pins 126 are positioned around the base cap 134 and
extend downward adjacent the cylindrical base cap 132. However,
many other window and pin configurations are also possible.
[0041] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the germicidal
ultraviolet lamp system 110, illustrating the base cap 120 and the
socket 116 attached to a fluid chamber or duct 112. The mounting
flange 114 may be mounted by any conventional means, such as
screws, to a fluid chamber or duct 112. The socket 116 has a hole
or bore 117 through which is placed the envelope 119 of the
germicidal ultraviolet lamp. Contact pin holes 130 are formed
within the socket 116 and are positioned and adapted to receive the
contact pins 126 formed on the base cap 120. Contact pin shroud 146
protects the contact pins 126. A power cord 128 is connected to a
ballast or power supply 150 for powering the germicidal ultraviolet
lamp. The contact pins 126 may be asymmetrically spaced on the base
cap 120 to require a predetermined angular orientation of the lamp
to connect or mate with the corresponding contact pin holes 130 in
the socket 116.
[0042] FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, a protective tube 252 is placed over
the envelope 219. The protective tube 252 is used to further
protect the envelope 219, in air or especially when the fluid being
treated is water or other liquid. In this embodiment, the lamp
system 218 comprises an envelope 219 and end cap 222 positioned
adjacent to an electrode 236 at one end. Indicia 248 may be placed
or etched onto the envelope 219 to identify the lamp system 218.
Wires 224 electrically couple the end cap electrode 236 to one pair
of the four contact pins 226. The cylindrical base 232 is attached
to the protective tube 252 forming a seal and preventing fluids
from contacting the envelope 219. The base cap 220 also has a hole
242 and window 244 formed therein, as well as a pin shroud 246. The
base cap electrode 238 is placed adjacent the cylindrical base 232
of the base cap 220. In this embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 5, the
germicidal ultraviolet lamp system 218 may be installed as a unit
into a chamber or duct containing fluid or air to be
disinfected.
[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, a key and receiver system is used to
assure that the appropriate lamp is matched with the appropriate
socket or application. That is, a specific power or type of lamp
may have a key and mating receiver system that will only permit the
correct lamp to fit a receiver on a socket. The key and receiver
system may also be used to assure that the lamp is placed in a
predetermined angular orientation within the chamber or duct, if
desired.
[0044] In FIG. 6 a mounting flange 314 is attached to socket 316
having a hole 317 there through. Contact pin holes 330 are formed
within socket 316. The contact pin holes 330 are coupled to a
ballast or power supply 350 by power cord 328. The envelope 319 is
adapted to be placed through a hole 317 within socket 316. The base
cap 320 comprises a cylindrical base cap 332 attached to, or
cooperates with, the envelope 319. Formed within the base cap 320
are contact pins 326. The contact pins 326 are protected by shroud
346. A hole or opening 342 and window 344 is formed in the base cap
320.
[0045] A socket key 354 may be formed on socket 316 and a mating
base receiver 356 may be formed within the pin shroud 246. The
socket key 354 and mating base receiver 256 may be used to assure
that an appropriate lamp is used with the appropriate socket. The
key and receiver may be reversed, as also illustrated in FIG. 6,
with the base key 358 formed on the cylindrical base 332 and the
mating socket receiver 360 formed on the socket 316. The key and
receiver may be matched to prevent an inappropriate lamp from being
energized causing potential injury or damage. While several
different keys and receivers have been illustrated, other known
methods may be used to physically match the lamp and the
socket.
[0046] An optional safety switch arrangement 380 is also shown in
FIG. 6. The safety switch, in addition to the structures described
above, further ensures that the lamp 318 will not turn on and emit
harmful UV rays into an installer's eye inadvertently for example.
Any kind of switch may be used, however in this simple example, a
rod 381 is located in mounting flange 314 and is connected to a
first contact 383. A plunger 384 extends into contact hole 330 and
is also connected to second contact 383 so that when the base cap
320 is inserted into the socket 316, the contact pin 326 enters the
contact pin hole 330 and pushes plunger 384 down which in turn
pushes second contact 383 down onto first contact 382 to enable the
power from wire 328 to flow to the lamp 318. In this way, the
installer will not be exposed to UV rays inadvertently.
[0047] FIGS. 7-15c illustrate another embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, a key and receiver system is also
used to assure that the appropriate lamp is matched with the
appropriate socket or application. Again, as stated above, a
specific power or type of lamp may have a key and mating receiver
system that will only permit the correct lamp to fit the receiver
on the socket. The key and receiver system may also be used to
assure that the lamp is placed in a predetermined angular
orientation within the chamber or duct, if desired.
[0048] As shown FIGS. 7-15c, socket 416 and socket base 480 has a
hole 417 there through. Contact pin holes 430 with contacts inside
(not shown) are formed within socket 416. The envelope 419, which
may be a tubular glass cover for example (note: other shapes of the
envelope and other materials are possible and contemplated for all
of the embodiments), of ultraviolet light 490 is structured and
shaped to be placed through hole 417 within socket 416. The base
cap 420 comprises a cylindrical base cap 432 which is attached to,
or cooperates with, the envelope 419. Other shapes other than a
cylindrical base cap are possible. Located within the base cap 420
are at least one contact pin 426 (see FIG. 9). The at least one
contact pin 420 is located external to the envelope 419 and formed
on an extending (radially or otherwise) portion of the base cap,
and the at least one contact pin 420 extends towards the opposing
second end of the lamp envelope 419. The contact pins 426 are
protected by dielectric insulating shroud 446. A hole or opening
442 and window 444 is formed in the base cap 420.
[0049] A protruding base cap key 454 is shaped to mate with an
indented receiving area 460 located on the socket 416. Thus, the
base cap key 454 and mating receiving area 460 may be used to
assure that an appropriate lamp is used with the appropriate
socket. Also, the key and receiver may be reversed, with a socket
key (not shown) formed on the socket 416 and the mating indented
receiver area (not shown) formed on the base cap 420. The key and
receiver may be matched to prevent an inappropriate lamp from being
energized causing potential injury or damage. For example, FIG. 8
shows the base cap 420 connected to the socket 416 in final
position. FIG. 9 shows how contact pins 426 are protected and
isolated by shroud 446.
[0050] FIG. 10 shows indented section 491 formed in socket base 480
which can also be termed a flange. This indented section may used
to align the socket base 480 onto a duct or other mounting. This
helps prevent undesired, improper, or non-matching socket bases
from being mounted to a particular conduit or duct.
[0051] FIGS. 16-25 illustrate another embodiment of the present
invention that uses a u-bulb. In this embodiment, a key and
receiver system may also be used, if desired, to assure that the
appropriate lamp is matched with the appropriate socket or
application so that a specific power or type of lamp may have a key
and mating receiver system that will only permit the correct lamp
to fit a receiver on a socket. Again, the key and receiver system
may also be used to assure that the lamp is placed in a
predetermined angular orientation within the chamber or duct, if
desired.
[0052] As shown FIG. 17, socket 516 and socket base 580 has a hole
517 there through. Contact pin holes 530 are formed within socket
516. The envelope 519 or a cover of ultraviolet light 590 is
adapted to be placed through hole 517 within socket 516. The base
cap 520 comprises a bi-cylindrical base cap 532 having two
connected cylindrical sections which are attached or cooperate with
the double section envelope 519. Formed within the base cap 520 are
contact pins 526 (see FIG. 16). The contact pins 526 are protected
by dielectric shroud 546. A hole or opening 542 and window 544 is
formed in the base cap 520. A triple bulb, quadruple bulb or any
multiple bulb or multiple envelope 519 solution can be created in
this manner and this disclosure contemplates such additional uses
and configurations.
[0053] As best seen by comparing FIG. 17 to FIG. 22, the shrouds
546 form protruding base cap keys that are shaped to mate with an
indented receiving area 560 located on the socket 516. Thus, the
shroud 546 and mating receiving area 560 may be used to assure that
an appropriate lamp is used with an appropriate socket. Also, the
key and receiver may be reversed, with a socket key (not shown)
formed on the socket 516 and the mating indented receiver area (not
shown) formed on the base cap 520. The key and receiver may be
matched to prevent an inappropriate lamp from being energized
causing potential injury or damage. For example, FIG. 22 shows the
base cap 520 connected to the socket 516 in final position. FIG. 20
shows how contact pins 526 are protected by shroud 546.
[0054] FIG. 26 illustrates another embodiment. Parts which are
similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7-15c are labeled by the
same reference numbers and their description is not repeated
herein. In this embodiment, a locking system is also implemented.
The locking system comprises at least one latch 495 having a
protruding catch lip 495a. The latch 495 is made of resiliently
biased material such as plastic or other material which is flexible
enough to bend when inserted in order travel to, and spring engage,
a locking position within latch receiving opening 496. Thus, the
protruding catch lip 495a engages an inner wall within latch
receiving opening 496 in order to lock base cap 420 to socket base
480 upon insertion of the latch 495 into the socket base 480. To
remove the locked base cap 420 a tool such as screwdriver can be
used to bend latch 495 or it may be compressed by hand. Although
one embodiment is shown, many variations of latching devices or
other embodiments are possible, and any configuration of latching
devices may be used depending upon the desired application.
[0055] Additionally, many contact pin 426 configurations are
possible including contact pins 426 which are located in different
planes or "stepped" in relation to each other. This is best seen in
FIG. 27 where contact pin 426a is "stepped" or raised vertically on
step structure 499 in relation to the other pins 426. In this way,
the contact pins also form a keying system or structure which is an
additional safety feature.
[0056] Additionally, a plurality of contact pins 426 may be used
and the pins may orientated in any specific pattern that the
application requires. This shown in FIG. 28 wherein contact pins
426b are shown in possible other exemplary orientations in phantom.
However, any orientation of pins is possible and this figure should
not be considered to be limiting. For example, in one example, if
four pins 426 were used, the first two pins could be located close
together and the second two pins could be located further from each
other in order to structurally form a unique or "keyed"
orientation. The pin holes in the socket would be made to
correspond to this unique or keyed orientation of contact pins.
Therefore, in this way, the structure of the contact pins can
become part of a pin keying system as well.
[0057] Additional pins may be added and used for other purposes
than providing electrical contact such as proving signal feedback
to the power supply. Also, pins can be added which have no function
other than a keying function, i.e., "dummy pins."
[0058] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, a reflector 499
may also be added to any of the embodiments. The reflector 499 may
be attached to socket base 480 as shown or may be attached by other
means. In this example, rings 498 are used to help align the lamp
419 with the reflector 499 upon insertion. The reflector 499 is
used to direct the output of the lamp 419 in a desired direction.
The reflector can be parabolic or any desired shape.
[0059] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 31-33, an additional cover
403 may be used to cover and seal the lamp and may be fixed to
socket base 480 by the addition of threaded section 404, also known
as a nipple, which mates with threaded cap 406 to secure the cover
403. O-ring 405 is used to also help further seal the connection.
This embodiment is very useful for in water applications wherein an
extra tight seal is important.
[0060] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 34-35 another keying system
is shown wherein keys 454a are included and mate with receiving
sections 460a. Many other configurations are also possible.
[0061] While several different keys and receivers have been
illustrated, other methods or arrangements of keys and sockets or
other means may be used to physically match the lamp and the
socket.
[0062] Thus, the present invention permits safe operation of an
ultraviolet germicidal lamp for disinfecting a fluid flowing in a
conduit or duct. The reverse or transposed contact pin arrangement
of the present invention permits the ultraviolet germicidal lamp to
be pushed or inserted into a socket on the conduit or duct directly
without the need for any separate fixture attached to the base cap
end.
[0063] While the ultraviolet germicidal lamp has been illustrated
mounted in a vertical position or orientation, the ultraviolet
germicidal lamp may also be mounted in a horizontal position or
orientation, or at any angle. Additionally, upon removing the
ultraviolet germicidal lamp from the conduit or duct the contact
pins are automatically disengaged from the powered socket
eliminating the need for a separate safety switch. This greatly
improves safety by making it impossible to remove the ultraviolet
germicidal lamp in an energized or radiating state eliminating the
possibility of unintended exposure of dangerous ultraviolet
radiation. Accordingly, the present invention greatly advances the
art of disinfecting fluids with ultraviolet or other radiation.
[0064] While the present invention has been described with respect
to several different embodiments, it will be obvious that various
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of this invention.
* * * * *