U.S. patent application number 15/491856 was filed with the patent office on 2017-08-03 for sterilization units, systems, and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to PurpleSun, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is PurpleSun, Inc.. Invention is credited to Arto Cinoglu, David Moses, Luis Fernando Romo.
Application Number | 20170216468 15/491856 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50979228 |
Filed Date | 2017-08-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170216468 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Romo; Luis Fernando ; et
al. |
August 3, 2017 |
STERILIZATION UNITS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS
Abstract
A Sterilization Unit includes: a UV-C radiation source
configured to emit UV-C radiation; and a room partition selectably
configurable between two or more different partition geometrics and
configured, in each of the two or more different partition
geometrics, to (a) physically separate floor space of a room into
sterilization target area and a non-target area, and (b) direct the
UV-C radiation to the target area from at least two different
directions while shielding the non-target area from the UV-C
radiation.
Inventors: |
Romo; Luis Fernando; (New
York, NY) ; Cinoglu; Arto; (Bohemia, NY) ;
Moses; David; (Bohemia, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PurpleSun, Inc. |
New York |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
PurpleSun, Inc.
New York
NY
|
Family ID: |
50979228 |
Appl. No.: |
15/491856 |
Filed: |
April 19, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14744461 |
Jun 19, 2015 |
9675720 |
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15491856 |
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PCT/US2013/076717 |
Dec 19, 2013 |
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14744461 |
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61739098 |
Dec 19, 2012 |
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61776914 |
Mar 12, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61L 2/10 20130101; A61L
9/20 20130101; A61L 2202/16 20130101; A61L 2/24 20130101; A61L
2202/121 20130101; A61L 2202/25 20130101; A61L 2202/11
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61L 2/10 20060101
A61L002/10 |
Claims
1. A method of disinfecting a target zone having a perimeter, said
method comprising: providing a plurality of UV light emitting
sources disposed on different positions on a UV light emitting
device; disposing the plurality of sources along at least a portion
of the perimeter of the target zone; illuminating the target zone
from a plurality of directions with UV light emitted from at least
some of the plurality of emitting sources; converging at least some
of the UV light in the target zone; and disinfecting the target
zone with the converged UV light.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the converged UV light originate
from sources disposed in a plurality of different planes.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the converged UV light forms
amplified UV light with an increased intensity relative to an
intensity of UV light emitted from a single source that is an
equivalent distance away from the target zone.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the UV light emitted from the at
least some of the plurality of emitting sources form a grid of
overlapping UV light throughout the target zone.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the converged UV light comprises
multivector UV-energy originating from the sources.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the target zone has a first
region adjacent the plurality of sources and a second region
further away from the plurality of sources than the first
region.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the converged UV light in the
second region has an equivalent intensity as an intensity of UV
light in the first region.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein converged UV light in the second
region has a greater intensity than an intensity of UV light in the
first region.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the UV emitting device comprises
a plurality of panel structures hingedly coupled together and
wherein converging the UV light comprises pivoting a first of the
plurality of panel structures relative to at least a second
plurality of panel structures.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the UV emitting sources comprise
at least two sources that are disposed in planes transverse to one
another.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the UV light from the at least
two sources converge to provide converged UV light across the
target zone.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein illuminating the target zone
comprises disinfecting a coverage area of UV light in the target
zone that is increased relative to disinfecting a coverage area
provided by a system that illuminates the target zone with light
from a single source.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein illuminating the target zone
comprises providing an intensity of the UV light in the target zone
that is increased relative to an intensity of light provided by a
system that illuminates the target zone with light from only a
single source.
14. The method of claim 1, wherein disposing the sources along at
least a portion of the perimeter of the target zone comprises
disposing the sources along a plurality of sides of the target
zone.
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising disposing at least
one UV light emitting source at an interior of the target zone.
16. The method of claim 1, wherein the target zone comprises at
least a portion of a room.
17. The method of claim 1, wherein the UV-light is UV-C light.
18. A system for disinfecting a target zone having a perimeter,
said system comprising: a plurality of UV light emitting sources
disposed on a housing, wherein the plurality of sources are
disposed on different positions along the housing such that the
plurality of sources are configured to be disposed along at least a
portion of a perimeter of the target zone, and at least some of the
plurality of sources are configured to illuminate the target zone
with UV light from a plurality of directions, wherein at least some
of the sources are disposed so at least some of the UV light
converges in the target zone and disinfects the target zone with
the converged UV light.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the converged UV light
originate from sources disposed in a plurality of different
planes.
20. The system of claim 18, wherein the converged UV light forms
amplified UV light with an increased intensity relative to an
intensity of light emitted from a single source that is an
equivalent distance away from the target zone.
21. The system of claim 18, wherein the UV light emitted from the
at least some of the plurality of emitting sources form a grid of
overlapping UV light throughout the target zone.
22. The system of claim 18, wherein the converged UV light
comprises multivector UV-energy originating from the sources.
23. The system of claim 18, wherein the target zone has a first
region adjacent the plurality of sources and a second region
further away from the plurality of sources than the first
region.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein converged UV light in the
second region has an equivalent intensity as an intensity of UV
light in the first region.
25. The system of claim 23, wherein converged UV light in the
second region has a greater intensity than an intensity of UV light
in the first region.
26. The system of claim 23, wherein the UV emitting device
comprises a plurality of panel structures hingedly coupled together
and wherein converging the UV light comprises pivoting a first of
the plurality of panel structures relative to at least a second
plurality of panel structures.
27. The system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of UV light
emitting sources comprise two sources that are disposed on the
housing in planes transverse to one another.
28. The system of claim 27, wherein the UV light from the at least
two sources converge to provide converged UV light across the
target zone.
29. The system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of sources
configured to illuminate the target zone with UV light from a
plurality of directions provides a disinfection area of UV light in
the target zone increased relative to a disinfection area provided
by a system that illuminates the target zone with light from a
single source.
30. The system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of sources
configured to illuminate the target zone with UV light from a
plurality of directions provides an intensity of UV light in the
target zone increased relative to an intensity provided by a system
that illuminates the target zone with light from a single
source.
31. The system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of sources
disposed at different positions along the housing is disposed along
a plurality of sides of the target zone.
32. The system of claim 18, further comprising at least one UV
light emitting source disposed at an interior of the target
zone.
33. The system of claim 18, wherein the target zone comprises at
least a portion of a room.
34. The system of claim 18, wherein the UV light is UV-C light.
35. A method of disinfecting a target zone within a specified time
comprising: providing a plurality of UV light emitting sources
disposed on different positions on a UV light emitting device;
disposing the plurality of sources along at least a portion of a
perimeter of the target zone; illuminating the target zone from a
plurality of directions with UV light emitted from at least some of
the plurality of emitting sources; creating a UV light convergence
field in the target zone; and disinfecting the target zone with the
UV light convergence field.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein the specified time comprises
180 seconds or less.
37. The method of claim 35, wherein the specified time comprises
120 seconds or less.
38. The method of claim 35, wherein the specified time comprises 90
seconds or less.
39. The method of claim 35, wherein the specified time comprises 60
seconds or less.
40. The method of claim 35, wherein the specified time comprises 30
seconds or less.
41. The method of claim 35, wherein the specified time comprises 15
seconds or less.
42. The method of claim 35, wherein the UV light is UV-C light.
43. A method of disinfecting a target zone comprising: providing a
plurality of UV light emitting sources disposed on different
positions on a UV light emitting device; moving an element that is
translationally attached to a stationary element of the device,
thereby increasing a surface area of the device; illuminating the
target zone with UV light emitted from a plurality of sources in
the translational element and a plurality of sources in the
stationary element; and disinfecting the target zone with the UV
light.
44. The method of claim 43, wherein the moving comprises linearly
moving the translational element relative to the stationary
element.
45. The method of claim 43, wherein the moving comprises
horizontally moving the translational element relative to the
stationary element.
46. The method of claim 43, wherein the moving comprises moving the
translational element in any direction.
47. The method of claim 43, wherein the translational element
comprises a panel or wherein the stationary element comprises a
panel.
48. The method of claim 43 further comprising disposing the device
along at least a portion of a perimeter of the target zone.
49. The method of claim 43, wherein the UV light is UV-C light.
50. A system for disinfecting a target zone having a perimeter,
said system comprising: a housing having a stationary element and a
translational element, wherein the translational element is movable
relative to the stationary element so as to increase a surface area
of the housing; a plurality of UV light emitting sources disposed
on the stationary element and the translational element, wherein at
least some of the sources are configured to illuminate and
disinfect the target zone with UV light.
51. The system of claim 50, wherein the translational element moves
linearly relative to the stationary element.
52. The system of claim 50, wherein the translational element moves
horizontally relative to the stationary element.
53. The system of claim 50, wherein the translational element moves
in any direction.
54. The system of claim 50, wherein the translational element
comprises a panel or wherein the stationary element comprises a
panel.
55. The system of claim 50, wherein the housing is disposed along
at least a portion of a perimeter of the target zone.
56. The system of claim 50, wherein the UV light is UV-C light.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of, and claims the
benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/744,461 (Attorney
Docket No. 46747-704.301) filed Jun. 19, 2015, which claims the
benefit of International PCT Application No. PCT/US2013/076717
(Attorney Docket No. 46747-704.601) filed Dec. 19, 2013, which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/739,098 (Attorney Docket No. 46747-704.101), filed Dec. 19,
2012, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/776,914
(Attorney Docket No. 46747-704.102), filed Mar. 12, 2013; the
entire contents of each of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD
[0002] Some example embodiments of the present invention generally
relate to a sterilization device and to methods for sterilizing.
More particularly, some example embodiments of the present
invention relate to a device for sterilization of a space, surface,
or structure, and to methods of sterilizing a space, surface, or
structure utilizing the device.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Microbial contamination is a global concern within many
industries, especially in the healthcare industry. It costs
countries billions of dollars in expenses per year, and, more
importantly, the contaminant pathogens plague private and public
(e.g. healthcare) settings and surroundings. Ultimately, these
contaminated surroundings lead to infections and can ultimately
lead to death.
[0004] Further, many communicable diseases are transmitted through
contact with contaminated areas. The types and seriousness of
communicable diseases transmitted in this manner are varied. For
example, viral and bacterial diseases alike can be communicated by
physical contact with surfaces upon which the infectious agents
reside. Further, there is an increasing awareness and concern
worldwide of the possibility of widespread outbreaks, or even
pandemics, of communicable disease; these concerns stem in part
from possible spontaneous mutations of influenza and other viruses,
as well as the increasing resistance of bacterial strains to
conventional and even newly-developed and powerful antibiotics.
[0005] Thus, a need exists for improved sterilization devices and
methods for sterilization which may, inter alia, assist in
providing sterilized spaces, surfaces, and/or structures, and in
combating the spread of diseases that may be communicated via
physical contact with infected areas.
[0006] In this specification, where a document, act or item of
knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion
is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or
any combination thereof was, at the priority date, publicly
available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge,
or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory
provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any
problem with which this specification is concerned.
SUMMARY
[0007] In accordance with example embodiments, the need for
improved sterilization devices and methods is satisfied. Example
embodiments may address one or more of the problems and
deficiencies of the art discussed above. However, example
embodiments may additionally or alternatively prove useful in
addressing other problems and deficiencies in a number of technical
areas. Therefore, the scope of embodiments of the present invention
should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of
the particular problems or deficiencies discussed herein.
[0008] Some embodiments of the presently-disclosed sterilization
device and methods have several features, no single one of which is
solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting
the scope of these devices and methods as defined by the claims
that follow, their more prominent features will now be discussed
briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after
reading the section of this specification entitled "Detailed
Description of the Invention," one will understand how the features
of the various embodiments disclosed herein provide a number of
advantages over the current state of the art. In accordance with
some embodiments, these advantages may include, without limitation:
providing improved sterilization devices and methods for
sterilization which may, inter alia, assist in providing sterilized
spaces, surfaces, and/or structures; providing a customizable
sterilization exposure area; allowing for appropriate exposure,
dosage, and sterilization processes of any spaces, surfaces, and/or
structures in need of sterilization; combating the spread of
diseases that may be communicated via physical contact with
infected areas; providing devices and methods that have highly
effective UV-C for sterilization; providing devices and methods
that are easily integratable within, e.g., healthcare logistics;
and allowing for sterilization in a fast, safe, and effective
manner Additional non-limiting unique capabilities of some
embodiments of the invention include: being self-sterilizable;
being buildable and stackable to maximize sterilization field;
ability to operate a sterilization device while users are present
with the invention in the same room; eradication of 99.9% of
microorganisms; ability to use the device to partition rooms and
allow use of sections of the room that are not under direct
sterilization; ability of the device to form an enclosure within
itself (e.g., a contained sterilization area); being expandable and
contractible; portability; ability to prevent user UV-C
contamination/exposure; ability to accommodate to a multitude of
exposure angles; ability to function in an open area (e.g., large
rooms or hospital wards), or more contained area (e.g., corners,
hallways, etc.).
[0009] In accordance with example embodiments, a sterilization
device includes: a UV-C radiation source configured to emit UV-C
radiation; and a room partition selectably configurable between two
or more different partition geometries and configured, in each of
the two or more different partition geometries, to (a) physically
separate floor space of a room into a sterilization target area and
a non-target area, and (b) direct the UV-C radiation to the target
area from at least two different directions while shielding the
non-target area from the UV-C radiation.
[0010] The UV-C radiation source may include a plurality of UV-C
radiation emitting devices.
[0011] The UV-C radiation emitting devices may each include one or
more light elements configured to generate UV-C radiation.
[0012] The UV-C radiation emitting devices may be mounted to the
room partition.
[0013] The sterilization device may be a free-standing unit
configured to be stably self-supported on a flat floor surface when
the room partition is in an upright position.
[0014] The room partition may include casters to allow the room
partition to be rolled between multiple configurations.
[0015] The room partition may be selectably reconfigurable between
a plurality of shapes corresponding to different delineations
between the target area and the non-target area.
[0016] The room partition may include first and second panels, each
configured to form a UV-C radiation barrier between the target area
and the non-target area and each having a first face configured to
face toward the non-target area and a second face configured to
face toward the target area.
[0017] The sterilization device may further include an electronic
control system including a computer processor configured to execute
computer-readably instructions to perform at least one
sterilization operation.
[0018] The processor may be configured to selectively control the
radiation intensity and duration of the radiation source for the
sterilization operation.
[0019] The processor may be configured to adjust power supplied to
the radiation source based on age-based degradation of the
radiation source in order to provide consistency of UV-C light
intensity from the radiation source.
[0020] The processor may be configured to selectively control the
plurality of UV-C radiation emitting devices dependent upon which
of the plurality of shapes the partition is configured to have.
[0021] The processor may be configured to power on a subset of the
UV-C radiation emitting devices while one or more of the other UV-C
radiation emitting devices is powered off
[0022] The processor may be configured to receive a signal from one
or more sensors configured to measure UV-C light exposure in the
target area.
[0023] The processor may be configured to receive at least one
signal from a sensor configured to identify at least one of (a) an
item in the target area, and (b) a physical location of the target
area.
[0024] The at least one signal may be generated based on at least
one RFID tag disposed on the item in the target area and/or at the
physical location of the target area.
[0025] The sterilization device according to any one of claims 9 to
16, wherein the processor includes multiple underlying
processors.
[0026] The control system may be physically configured as part of
the room partition.
[0027] The control system may further include a transceiver
configured to send and receive information over a communication
network.
[0028] The control system may be configured to transmit information
providing the identity of at least one of (a) an item in the target
area and (b) the location of the target area.
[0029] The information transmission may indicate that the item or
target area location has been sterilized by the sterilization
unit.
[0030] The processor may be configured to receive via the
transceiver and process information that identifies a target area
and/or item that has been flagged as needing sterilization.
[0031] In accordance with example embodiments, a method includes:
identifying by a computer processor a set of beds in a healthcare
facility; determining, by a computer processor, a sterilization
status of the respective beds based on RFID chips assigned to the
respective beds; and sterilizing at least one of the beds based on
the determined sterilization status of the at least one of the
beds.
[0032] The identifying and the determining may be performed by the
same computer processor or different computer processors.
[0033] In accordance with example embodiments, a sterilization
device or unit includes: a UV-C source configured to emit UV-C
radiation; a first panel including a first side, and an opposite
second side configured to direct a first portion of the UV-C
radiation outwardly away from the second side, the first panel
configured to block UV-C radiation from passing outwardly from the
first side of the first panel; and a second panel including a first
side, and an opposite second side configured to direct a second
portion of the UV-C radiation outwardly away from the second side,
the second panel configured to block UV-C radiation from passing
outwardly from the first side of the second panel; wherein the
second panel is coupled to the first panel such that the first
panel and the second panel form a free-standing sterilization unit,
and an angle between the first panel and the second panel is
adjustable to allow the sterilization device to conform to
different spaces to be sterilized.
[0034] The UV-C source may include a plurality of UV-C radiation
emitters.
[0035] One or more of the UV-C radiation emitters may be mounted to
the first panel and/or the second panel.
[0036] The angle between the first panel and the second panel may
be adjustable from a first angle that is less than 5 degrees to a
second angle that is greater than 40 degrees.
[0037] The angle between the first panel and the second panel may
be adjustable from a first angle that is less than 5 degrees to a
second angle that is greater than 170 degrees.
[0038] At least one of the first panel and the second panel
includes a window configured to allow visual inspection of an area
to be sterilized from a position that is not exposed to UV-C
radiation generated by the UV-C radiation source.
[0039] The sterilization device may further include a third panel
including a first side, and an opposite second side configured to
direct a third portion of the UV-C radiation outwardly from the
second side, the third panel configured to block UV-C radiation
from passing outwardly from the first side of the panel, wherein
the third panel is coupled to the first panel and slideable along a
width of the first panel between a proximal position and a distal
position.
[0040] The sterilization device may further include a slide
mechanism via which the third panel is coupled to the first panel,
the slide mechanism comprising a track and a slide block configured
to move along the track.
[0041] The slide block may be configured to rotate relative to the
track to allow the third panel to rotate relative to the first
panel in a plane that includes the third panel.
[0042] The third panel may have a range of rotation of, e.g.,
greater than 3 degrees relative to the first panel. For example,
the third panel may have a range of rotation of greater than 5
degrees relative to the first panel.
[0043] The slide block may be rotatable relative to the track due
to clearance between the slide block and one or more guide rails of
the track.
[0044] The third panel may be configured to rotate, when in the
distal position, between a parallel orientation relative to the
first panel and an angled orientation relative to the first
panel.
[0045] The third panel, when in the angled orientation, may form,
e.g., a right angle relative to the first panel.
[0046] The sterilization device may further include: a slide
mechanism via which the third panel is coupled to the first panel,
the slide mechanism comprising a track and a slide block configured
to move along the track; and a pivot joint coupled to the slide
block and about which the third panel is configured to rotate
relative to the first panel between the parallel orientation and
the transverse orientation.
[0047] The pivot joint may include a locking mechanism to
releasably lock the angle of rotation of the third panel relative
to the first panel.
[0048] The third panel may be constrained from rotating from the
parallel position when the third panel is in the proximal
position.
[0049] The sterilization device may be configurable into a U-shaped
configuration in which the third panel and the second panel are at
right angles relative to the first panel.
[0050] The sterilization device may further include a fourth panel
including a first side, and an opposite second side configured to
direct a fourth portion of the UV-C radiation outwardly from the
second side, the fourth panel configured to block UV-C radiation
from passing outwardly from the first side.
[0051] The sterilization device may be configurable into a
multi-walled enclosure, each of the first panel, the second panel,
the third panel, and the fourth panel constituting a respective one
of the four walls such that the second side of each of the first
panel, the second panel, the third panel, and the fourth panel is
directed to the interior of the multi-walled enclosure.
[0052] The fourth panel may be slideably and rotatably coupled to
the second panel.
[0053] The sterilization device may further include an extension
arm, the sterilization device configurable into a C-shaped
configuration to receive a hospital bed, with the first and second
panels along a first longitudinal side of the bed, the third and
fourth panels along the ends of the bed and the extension arm is
extended across the bed and downward such that the extension arm
configured to emit UV-C radiation from the longitudinal side of the
bed that is opposite the first and second panels.
[0054] In accordance with example embodiments, a sterilization unit
or device includes: a first panel; a second panel coupled to the
first panel; a third panel coupled to the first panel; and a fourth
panel coupled to the second panel, wherein each of the first panel,
the second panel, the third panel, and the fourth panel includes a
first side, an opposite second side, and a UV-C radiation source
configured to emit UV-C radiation outwardly from the second side,
each of the first panel, the second panel, the third panel, and the
fourth panel configured to block UV-C radiation from being passing
outwardly away from the respective first side, wherein the third
panel is slideable between a proximal and distal position relative
to the first panel and, in the distal position, pivotable relative
to the first panel, wherein the fourth panel is slideable between a
proximal and distal position relative to the second panel and, in
the distal position, pivotable relative to the second panel, and
wherein the sterilization device is selectably configurable among a
plurality of configurations including a first configuration in
which the second side of the first panel faces the second side of
the second panel and a second configuration in which the second
panel is at a right angle or greater relative to the first
panel.
[0055] The first panel may be parallel to the second panel in the
first configuration of the device.
[0056] In the second configuration of the device, the third panel
may be parallel to the first panel and the fourth panel may be
parallel to the second panel.
[0057] The sterilization device may further include a third
configuration in which the third panel is oriented at an angle of
30 degrees or greater relative to the first panel.
[0058] The sterilization device may be positionable as a room
partition to emit UV-C radiation into a corner of a room while
blocking UV-C radiation from other portions of the room.
[0059] In the third configuration, the fourth panel may be oriented
at an angle of, e.g., 30 degrees or greater relative to the second
panel.
[0060] In the third configuration, the device may be positionable
adjacent to a straight wall to enclose a space between the wall and
the device such that the device emits UV-C radiation into the space
while blocking UV-C radiation from being emitted away from the
space.
[0061] In the second configuration, the third panel may be parallel
to the first panel, the fourth panel may be parallel to the second
panel, and the device may be positionable as a room partition to
emit UV-C radiation into a corner of a room while blocking UV-C
radiation from other portions of the room.
[0062] The sterilization device may further include a cantilevered
arm comprising a radiation source configured to emit UV-C
radiation, the cantilevered arm moveable between a folded position
and an extended position.
[0063] In the second configuration of the device, the first panel
may be parallel to the second panel, the third panel may be
perpendicular to the first panel, the fourth panel may be
perpendicular to the second panel, and the cantilevered arm may be
in the extended position.
[0064] In the second configuration, the device may define a space
to receive a hospital bed such that the hospital bed is irradiated
with UV-C light from four different sides, corresponding
respectively to (a) the first and second panels, (b) the third
panel, (c) the fourth panel, and (d) the cantilevered arm.
[0065] The sterilization device may be modular such that a free end
of the third panel is configured to mate with a free end of a
fourth panel of a like device, and a free end of the fourth panel
is configured to mate with a free end of a third panel of a like
device.
[0066] The sterilization device may further include an electronic
control system configured to selectably control the amount of UV-C
radiation emitted from at least one of the panels based at least in
part on the configuration of the panels.
[0067] In accordance with example embodiments, a method includes:
providing a plurality of UV-C radiation-emitting panels to form a
partitioned floor space in a room; and emitting UV-C radiation from
the panels to sterilize the partitioned floor space while blocking
the UV-C radiation from floor space outside the partitioned floor
space.
[0068] The partitioned floor space may be part of a hospital
room.
[0069] The portioned floor space may include a hospital bed.
[0070] The plurality of UV-C radiation-emitting panels may be part
of a mobile unit configured to sterilize temporary medical field
operations remote from a hospital.
[0071] These and other features and advantages of example
embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the
following detailed description of the various aspects of the
invention taken in conjunction with the appended claims and the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0072] FIG. 1 a perspective view of a sterilization unit in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0073] FIG. 2 shows some example configurations of the
sterilization unit of FIG. 1.
[0074] FIG. 3 is a view of an active side of the sterilization unit
of FIG. 1 in an expanded linear configuration.
[0075] FIG. 4 is a view of an active side of the sterilization unit
of FIG. 1 in a linear configuration without expanded distal
panels.
[0076] FIG. 5 is a side view of a pivot mechanism in the form of an
extension arm.
[0077] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the sterilization unit of
FIG. 1 in an expanded linear configuration.
[0078] FIG. 7 is a top view of the sterilization unit of FIG. 1 in
an expanded linear configuration.
[0079] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the sterilization unit of
FIG. 1, in an orthogonal expanded configuration in a corner of a
two-bed room of a healthcare facility.
[0080] FIG. 9 a top view of the configuration of FIG. 8.
[0081] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the sterilization unit of
FIG. 1 in a C-shaped configuration when the extension arm in an
extended position.
[0082] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the sterilization unit of
FIG. 1 in a cube-shaped enclosed orientation.
[0083] FIG. 12 is a sterilization system in accordance with related
art.
[0084] FIG. 13 shows a guide mechanism joining two panels of the
sterilization unit of FIG. 1.
[0085] FIG. 14 shows the guide mechanism of FIG. 13 with a guide
carriage removed from a guide channel
[0086] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the guide carriage of FIG.
13.
[0087] FIG. 16 is an end view of the guide channel of FIG. 13.
[0088] FIG. 17 is an end view of the guide chassis and guide
channel of FIG. 13.
[0089] FIG. 18 is a cross sectional-view taken through line A-A of
FIG. 17.
[0090] FIG. 19 is a cross sectional-view taken through line A-A of
FIG. 17 when one of the panels is on an upslope.
[0091] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional-view taken through line A-A of
FIG. 17 when one of the panels is on a downslope.
[0092] FIG. 21 is a cross sectional-view taken through line A-A of
FIG. 17 when one of the panels is supported on a lowered parallel
surface.
[0093] FIGS. 22A to 22E show screenshots of a computer interface of
the sterilization unit of FIG. 1.
[0094] FIGS. 23A to 23C schematically illustrate variations of
configurable sterilization units.
[0095] FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a sterilization device
according to an example implementation, and depicts an outer view
of a central sterilization structure of the embodied device.
[0096] FIGS. 24B and 24C are perspective views of a sterilization
device comprising the central sterilization structure of the device
shown in FIG. 24A, except the device shown in FIGS. 24B and 24C
comprises two additional panels attached to the central
sterilization structure, shown in substantially retracted
positions.
[0097] FIG. 25 is a view of the outer face of the central
sterilization structure of a sterilization device according to an
example implementation, where the central sterilization structure
has two additional panels attached thereto, shown in extended
positions.
[0098] FIG. 26 is a view of the inner face of the central
sterilization structure of a sterilization device according to an
example implementation. Two additional panels are attached thereto,
shown in substantially retracted positions.
[0099] FIG. 27 is a view of the inner face of the central
sterilization structure of a sterilization device according to an
example implementation. Two additional panels are attached thereto,
shown in extended positions.
[0100] FIGS. 28A and 28B are views of left and right profiles,
respectively, of an example implementation.
[0101] FIGS. 29A-D depict top views of embodiments in different
configurations.
[0102] FIGS. 30A and 30B are top views of a device according to an
embodiment, and depict rotational capabilities of the device.
[0103] FIG. 31 is a view of a device according to an embodiment in
a contained configuration, demonstrating the ability of the device
to form an enclosure within itself (e.g., a contained sterilization
area).
[0104] FIG. 32 is a top view of two devices according to an example
embodiment in a contained configuration, with a hospital bed
depicted therein. The two devices according to the invention are
coupled together. One is positioned on the left and one on the
right forming a larger enclosure and sterilization volume.
[0105] FIG. 33 depicts multiple devices according to an embodiment
of the invention, shown in a linear configuration.
[0106] FIG. 34 shows a block diagram of an exemplary cloud
computing environment according to example embodiments.
[0107] FIG. 35 shows an example of a computing device and a mobile
computing device in connection with example implementations.
[0108] FIG. 36 schematically shows, in connection with an example,
of a contaminated field surrounded by a sterilization unit of an
example implementation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0109] Some example embodiments of the present invention are
generally directed to, inter alia, a sterilization device and to
methods for sterilizing.
[0110] Although the present invention entails many different
embodiments, certain embodiments of the invention are shown and
described. It should be understood, however, that the present
disclosure is not intended to limit the invention to the
embodiments illustrated.
[0111] Reference numerals retain their designation and meaning for
the same or like or similar elements throughout the various
drawings except to the extent indicated otherwise.
[0112] In one aspect, example embodiments of the invention relate
to a device for sterilization of a space, surface, or structure.
The device may include a sterilization structure that has an outer
first face and an inner second face, where the inner face comprises
one or more UV-C radiation sources.
[0113] In some embodiments, the central sterilization structure
comprises a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first and
second panels are attached to one another to form the central
sterilization structure,
[0114] In some embodiments, the central sterilization structure is
a structure comprising a first panel and a second panel, wherein
the first and second panels are attached to another to form the
central sterilization structure. As used herein, the term
"attached" refers to both direct and indirect attachments. So, for
example, in the case of the first and second panels of the central
sterilization structure of the device of the invention, "attached
to one another" means that the first and second panels are attached
to one another either directly or indirectly (e.g., through any
acceptable joining structure, for example, through a central
structure such as a central beam or base portion).
[0115] In some embodiments, the first and second panels may be
fixedly attached to one another, meaning that the panels are
attached either directly or indirectly (e.g., through a structure
such as a central beam) and are not configured to move in relation
to one another. In some embodiments, the first and second panels
may be moveably attached to one another, meaning that the panels
are attached directly or indirectly and are configured to be able
to move in relation to one another. As used herein, "moveably
attached" means that an item is able to move in any desired or
art-accepted manner (e.g., slidingly, translationally, hingedly,
and/or rotationally, etc.) in relation to the item to which it is
directly or indirectly attached (e.g., where moveably attached, the
first and second panels are able to move in any desired or
art-accepted manner in relation to one another).
[0116] In some embodiments, panels and/or other elements of devices
of the invention are hingedly attached, meaning, e.g., that
elements are attached such that at least one element is able to
turn or pivot with respect to the other, and/or that the elements
are positions such that they (or at least one of the elements) can
be rotated with respect to each other. For example, in relation to
hingedly attached panels, the panels are attached such that at
least one of the panels is able to turn or pivot with respect to
the other (e.g., through any acceptable attachment means), and/or
that the panels are positioned such that they (or at least one of
the panels) can be rotated with respect to each other. In some
embodiments, hingedly attached refers to a mechanism of attachment
wherein the panels of the device are attached, for example, with a
bracket hinge, telescope hinge, ball bearing hinge, pivot hinge
etc. where a pivotal axis perpendicular to the direction or degree
of motion can be identified.
[0117] In some embodiments, panels and/or other elements of devices
of the invention are slidingly attached, meaning, e.g., that the
elements are attached such that at least one element is able to
slide back and forth (for example, in a linear and/or parallel
direction) in relation to the other element. For example, in
relation to slidingly attached panels, the panels are attached such
that at least one of the panels is able to slide back and forth in
in relation to the other panel.
[0118] In some embodiments, panels and/or other elements of devices
of the invention are translationally attached, meaning, e.g., that
elements are attached such that at least one element is able to
move in at least one linear direction in relation to another
element. As used herein, "translationally" includes movement in
more than one direction, e.g., in two, three, four, five
directions, etc. The direction(s) of translational movement may be
any desired direction(s).
[0119] In some embodiments, structure of the sterilization device
or unit provides sufficient support (e.g., by virtue of an L-shaped
configuration) for the sterilization device to stably stand upright
during operation, for example, such that inner and/or outer faces
of the sterilization device are relatively perpendicular to a
floor.
[0120] In some embodiments, the sterilization device comprises one
or more supportive structures. Supportive structures include any
desirable structures that enhance the device (e.g., a
stabilization-enhancing structure). For example, in some
embodiments, the sterilization device comprises a supporting
appendage and/or or a base. In some embodiments, the sterilization
device comprising a supporting appendage that extends from an outer
face of the sterilization device.
[0121] In some examples, the sterilization structure of the
sterilization device of the invention includes an outer face and an
inner face, where the inner face comprises one or more UV-C
radiation sources.
[0122] In accordance with example embodiments, the UV-C light or
radiation sources may be one or more suitable sources that emit
ultraviolet (UV) electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of
between about 100 and about 280 nm. The UV-C radiation sources may
be configured, e.g., to sterilize any space, surface, and/or
structure.
[0123] The UV-C radiation sources may be any suitable source. In
some implementations, the one or more radation sources may include
one or more germicidal fluorescent lamp. In some examples, the lamp
may have a wattage greater than 15 W, e.g., greater than 20 W,
e.g., greater than 30 W, e.g., greater than 40 W, e.g., 41 W or
greater, and the lamp may operate on any suitable voltage circuit,
e.g., an alternating current source of 120V. In some examples, the
lamp may output UV-C light (e.g., 253.7 nm wavelength) at greater
than 15 W, e.g. greater than 20 watts, e.g., 21 watts or greater.
In some examples, the lamp may provide a UV-C light intensity, at 3
meters distance from the bulb, of 15 or greater, e.g., 17 or
greater, microwatts per square centimeter. In a particular example,
the lamp is (in nominal values) a 42 W lamp with a 425 mA current,
113V voltage, 21W UV-C output, 17 microwatt per square centimeter
at 3 meters, and an average bulb life of 16,000 hours.
[0124] In some embodiments, the UV radiation source is one or more
ultraviolet lamps, for example, a model 3 watt 10.5 volt T6
Intermediate Screw (E17) Base Germicidal Preheat Incandescent lamp
(EIKO), or its equivalent. In some embodiments, the UV-C radiation
source is one or more of a traditional UV lamp, such as a
mercury-based or non-mercury-based UV lamp. In some embodiments,
the UV-C radiation source is one or more UV-C light emitting diode
(LED) lamps. In some embodiments the UV-C radiation sources (e.g.,
bulbs) are shatter resistant, which can enhance the safety of the
device. In some embodiments, the one or more UV-C radiation sources
comprise at least two different types of UV-C radiation sources. In
some embodiments, the sterilization device of the invention is one
which excludes UV LEDs (the UV-C radiation source(s) is(/are) not
one or more LEDs). The UV-C radiation sources used in the invention
may be present in any size, shape, and number desired.
[0125] In certain embodiments, the one or more UV-C radiation
source of the invention emits continuous radiation. In certain
embodiments, the one or more UV-C radiation source of the invention
is able to produce different patterns of radiation. The patterns
may be, for instance, pulsed, fractional, collimated or scattered
to ensure sufficient propagation of the UV-C radiation. In some
examples, the patterns may be selected and/or controlled by or via
a computer processor of a control system of the sterilization
device.
[0126] In some embodiments, the inner face of the sterilization
structure of the sterilization device includes a first panel and a
second panel, and at least one of the first and second panels
comprises one or more UV-C radiation sources. In some embodiments,
both the first and second panels comprise one or more UV-C
radiation sources. Where the face of a panel comprises one or more
UV-C radiation sources, that face may be called an "active
face".
[0127] In some embodiments, the sterilization device of the
invention comprises two or more (e.g., three, four, five, six,
seven, eight, nine, or ten or more) UV-C radiation sources.
[0128] In some embodiments, the sterilization device of the
invention comprises one or more of an array of UV-C radiation
sources.
[0129] In some embodiments, the device of the invention includes a
control or management mechanism. As used herein, "management
mechanism" refers to a mechanism that, alone or together with some
mechanism, contributes to controlling and/or powering the
sterilization device. In some embodiments, the management mechanism
may include, for example, an activation switch for controlling a
part of the device (e.g., for controlling one or more UV-C
radiation sources of the sterilization device). In some
embodiments, the management mechanism includes a power source. The
power source may be suited, for example, for electrically powering
one or more UV-C radiation sources. Any acceptable power source may
be used. In some embodiments, the power source may include an AC
power cord, a DC power cord, e.g., from a transformer or battery
pack, a USB or IEEE 1394 receptacle for plugging into a (DC)
powered USB or IEEE 1394 device, a battery or set of batteries, or
a fuel cell. In some embodiments, the management mechanism may
include a timing unit or circuit to control the duration of
exposure of a target to one or more UV-C radiation sources. In some
embodiments, the management mechanism comprises a control box. In
some embodiments, the management mechanism comprises a switch
(e.g., a gyroscopically-based switch), also referred to herein as a
"safety trigger", that automatically turns-off the device of the
invention if the device tips all or partially over. The switch or
safety trigger may be implemented as a precautionary item that aims
to prevent accidental UV exposure to a user in case the device were
to fall over during a sterilization process and or be bumped and
redirected during a sterilization process, which could result in
accidental exposure to a user. In some embodiments, the management
mechanism serves as an advantageous aspect of the integratability
of the device within the complex healthcare environment. In various
embodiments, the management mechanism is able to recognize, record,
and/or report parameters such as date, time, user ID, patient room
number, type of sterilization surface or space (e.g., hospital
bed), duration of sterilization, optical intensity, and/or
sterilization effectiveness. In such embodiments, the management
mechanism may beneficially contribute toward providing logistical
structure for the sterilization process, and may thereby reduce
infection rates in a healthcare institution.
[0130] In various embodiments, the devices and methods of the
invention utilize one or more field markers, which may serve
multiple purposes. In some embodiments, field markers are used to
communicate with the management mechanism. For example, in some
embodiments, one or more field markers (which may be any desirable
structure, e.g , small buoy-like structures) have a UV (e.g., UV-C)
detector and a software mechanism to communicate with the
management mechanism In embodiments where the device of the
invention comprises one or more field marker(s), the field
marker(s) may either be attached to, or may exist as a separate
physical entity (or entities) from the device of the invention. In
certain embodiments, the field marker includes (e.g., has a coating
of) a polymer containing UV sensitive pigments, enabling the field
marker to change color(s) during a sterilization cycle, thereby
giving the user a qualitative affirmation that the desired
sterilization is taking place. In some embodiments, at the onset of
a sterilization procedure, the one or more field markers may be
placed on or near the object (e.g., surface or structure) or space
being sterilized--then the sterilization process may be initiated
and the field marker communicates to the management mechanism once
sufficient UV-C exposure to the object or space being sterilized
has been reached. This communication can function as a quantitative
affirmation that the sterilization process has been completed and
successful. This parameter can be determined by, e.g., intensity,
proximity and exposure time, alone or in any combination. In some
embodiments, the invention can also contain a sensor mechanism
along the faces of panels or other structures, which may also act
as a safety mechanism in case a user or other person were to
accidentally attempt to walk through the sterilization field during
a sterilization process. This sensor may be, for example, a light,
vibration, infrared, and/or ultrasonic sensor.
[0131] In some embodiments, the control or management system or
mechanism is in electrical communication, whether direct or
indirect, with the sterilization device. In some embodiments, the
management mechanism is physically dissociated from an outer face
of the sterilization structure of the sterilization device. For
example, in some implementations, the management mechanism may be
free-standing, and in some implementations, the management
mechanism may be a self-contained device. In some examples, the
management mechanism is physically connected to the device of the
invention. In some examples, the management mechanism is located on
the device of the invention. For example, in some implementations,
the management mechanism is located on the sterilization structure
of the sterilization device of the invention, for example, on the
outer face of the one or more panels of the sterilization
structure. In some examples, some aspects of the management
mechanism are located separately from other aspects of the
management mechanism. For example, a power switch may be physically
located separate and apart from a power source.
[0132] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sterilization device 1000
according to an example embodiment, and depicts an outer view of a
sterilization structure. In various embodiments, the outer face of
the sterilization structure is intended to be the point of
operation, or the user interface for devices of the invention.
[0133] The sterilization device shown in FIG. 1 includes a first
panel 1200 and a second panel 1300 that are hingedly attached to
one another to form a free-standing sterilization structure. More
specifically, first panel 1200 is indirectly hingedly attached to
second panel 1300 through base body 1100. Base body 1100 is
connected to base 1105. In the illustrated embodiment, base body
1100 is essentially a hollow tubular structure, to which the panels
1200 and 1300 connect via joints 1120a, 1120b, 1120c, and 1120d,
collectively referred to as joints 1120. The joints 1120 allow the
panels 1200 and 1300 to rotate relative to each other between a
closed configuration, as illustrated in the left portion of FIG. 2,
to open configurations such as shown in the top, right, and bottom
portions of FIG. 2.
[0134] The first panel 1200 and the second panel 1300 pivot
relative to the base body via two separate parallel vertical
rotation or pivot axes A and B, as shown in FIG. 1. The first pivot
axis A is defined by joints 1120a and 1120b, and the second pivot
axis B is defined by joints 1120c and 1120d. It should be
understood, however, that any number of joints, including a single
joint, may be provided for each pivot axis. It should be further
understood that other configurations may include only a single
pivot axis between the first panel 1200 and the second panel 1300,
e.g., in configurations where the first panel 1200 is directly
hinged or otherwise mounted to the second panel 1300. Moreover, the
one or more pivot axes of the panels 1200 and 1300 may be provided
in any suitable orientation relative to each other and/or the
surroundings, e.g., the floor on which the device 1000 is
supported.
[0135] The first panel 1200 has a first face 1210 and a second face
1220. Likewise, the second panel 1300 has a first face 1310 and a
second face 1320.
[0136] Slideably connected to the first and second panels 1200 and
1300 are third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500, respectively. The
third panel 1400 is mounted to slide relative to the first panel
1200 via a first set of parallel guide mechanisms 1600a and 1600b,
while the fourth panel 1500 is mounted to slide relative to the
second panel 1300 via a second set of parallel guide mechanisms
1600c and 1600d. As these mechanisms 1600a, 1600b, 1600c, and 1600d
operate in the same manner in the illustrated example, they are
described generically as guide mechanism 1600, it being understood
that these elements have the same features, except that guide
mechanisms 1600a and 1600b are mirror images with respect to guide
mechanisms 1600c and 1600d.
[0137] In addition to each of the third and fourth panels 1400 and
1500 being slideable between respective proximal positions (see,
e.g., FIG. 1, and left-side portion of FIG. 2) and distal positions
(see, e.g., FIGS. 6 and 7 and top portion of FIG. 2), the fourth
and fifth panels 1400 and 1500 are rotatable, after moving into
their distal positions, relative to the respective first and second
panels 1200 and 1300. The fourth and fifth panels 1400 and 1500 are
shown in rotated orientations in the bottom and right-side portions
of FIG. 2 and in FIG. 10.
[0138] Referring to FIG. 3, the third and fourth panels 1400 and
1500 are rotatable relative to the first and second panels 1200 and
1300 about rotation or pivot axes C and D, which in the illustrated
example are vertical and parallel to the pivot axes A and B of the
respective first and second panels 1200 and 1300. It should be
appreciated, however, that in some examples the pivot axes may be
non-vertical and/or non-parallel to each other. The angle of
rotation of adjacent elements (e.g., panels) about the axes A, B,
C, and D may be within any suitable range and include any number of
angles, e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 135 degrees, 180 degrees, 225
degrees, 270 degrees, or 360 degrees.
[0139] At the distal ends of the third and fourth panels 1400 and
1500 are first and second linking sections or panels 1480 and 1580
respectively. The linking sections 1480 and 1580 are rotatable
relative to the third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500 about
rotation or pivot axes E and F, illustrated in FIG. 3. Although
these axes E and F are parallel with axes A, B, C, and D, any
suitable rotation axes may be provided. Linking panels 1480 and
1580 may be folded or rotated about respective axes E and F in any
suitable angle and/or direction and may include, in some
implementations, a matte black or other suitable surface configured
to reduce light reflection and/or light leakage around the edges of
the unit 1000.
[0140] The linking sections 1480 and 1580 are complementary in that
they are configured to be releasably attached to each other at
their respective distal ends via a latching and/or locking
mechanism. This allows the sterilization unit 1000 to be folded and
secured into the orientation shown in the bottom portion of FIG. 2
and in FIG. 11, as well as securing the unit 1000 in its closed
orientation, as shown, for example, in the left-side portion of
FIG. 2.
[0141] The complementary nature of the linking sections 1480 and
1580 also allow multiple instances of the sterilization unit 1000
to be linked to each other end-to end. In some such examples, the
control system of one of the linked sterilization units may control
all of the other linked units 1000 in a master-slave
arrangement.
[0142] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the UV-C light is emitted from
UV-C light sources 1060a, 1060b, 1060c, 1060d, 1060e, 1060f, 1060g,
1060h, 1060i, 1060j, 1060k, 1060m, 1060n, 1060p, 1060q, 1060r, and
1060t which may be generically and/or collectively referred to
herein as UV-C light source or sources 1060 and include the
features of the UV-C light sources described herein unless
indicated otherwise. Each of the UV-C light sources includes a
fluorescent UV-C emitting bulb and a curved reflective panel
mounted behind the bulb. The reflective panel provides greater
light intensity by reflecting light initially emitted away from the
sterilization target back toward the target. The curvature may be
round, parabolic, or any other suitable geometry. Some examples may
not include reflectors, e.g., where direction light-emitting
elements are provided.
[0143] Referring to, for example, FIGS. 4 and 5, the UV-C light
source 1060t is mounted on a cantilevered pivot mechanism 1700,
which pivots about a rotation or pivot axis G at a location that is
relatively close to the base body 1100, although the location of
the pivot axis G may be at any other suitable location in some
examples. Although the pivot mechanism 1700 is mounted to the
second panel 1300 it should be understood that the pivot mechanism
1700 may be mounted to any panel or base body or any other suitable
component of the sterilization unit 1000. The pivot axis G is
parallel to the other axes A, B, C, D, E, and F, but may be
selected to be non-parallel and/or non-vertical in some examples.
Further, although the pivot mechanism 1700 includes a single UV-C
light source 1060t mounted on a downward extension 1710 in the
illustrated example, it should be understood that any number of
UV-C light sources may be provided and at any suitable location.
For example, one or more additional UV-C sources may be provided on
the pivot arm 1705 of the pivot mechanism 1700. This would allow,
in some examples, UV-C light to be projected downwardly to a
sterilization target or targets at a location below the pivot arm
1705.
[0144] The pivot mechanism 1700 is actuatable to move the light
source 1060t from a retracted position, as shown in FIG. 4, to an
extended position, as shown in FIG. 10. The pivot mechanism may be
actuated, for example, by manual actuation and/or automatic
actuation, e.g., an electro-mechanical actuator which, in some
examples, may be powered and/or controlled by the control system of
the overall unit and/or a dedicated control system. The pivot
mechanism 1700 may also be comprised of one or more UV-C emitting
devices
[0145] Although the UV-C-emitting components of the UV-C light
sources 1060 are linear fluorescent bulbs, it should be appreciated
that any suitable UV-C light source may be provided, e.g.,
non-linear and/or non-fluorescent elements.
[0146] The various panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500, as well as
the base body 1100 and the linking sections 1480 and 1580 are
configured to block UV-C light radiation from passing
therethrough.
[0147] Since the panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 include UV-C
light sources mounted on their respective second faces 1220, 1320,
1420, and 1520, and the panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 are
highly configurable, the sterilization unit 1000 is extremely
adaptable to many different sterilization applications. Adding to
this flexibility is the ability of the unit 1000 to selectively
control the UV-C light sources based on particular
applications.
[0148] Further, since the various panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and
1500, as well as the base body 1100 and the linking sections 1480
and 1580 are configured to block UV-C light radiation from passing
therethrough, the sterilization unit 1000 is selectably
configurable in a manner that irradiates--from multiple
angles--desired sterilization targets while shielding the
surroundings, including people and/or animals, from the UV-C
light.
[0149] In some examples, such as illustrated in FIG. 3, one or more
windows 1080 are provided. In the illustrated example, the each of
the panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 includes a respective window
1080a, 1080b, 1080c, and 1080d, which may be generically and/or
collectively referred to herein as window or windows 1080.
[0150] The windows 1080 allow visible light to pass from the
irradiated sterilization area, but block UV-C light. This allows a
human operator to view the sterilization zone without being exposed
to the UV-C light. The window may be, for example, glass and/or one
or more polymeric materials. The window may or may not include a
protective barrier against UV-A and UV-B light which may be
generated as byproducts from some UV-C light sources. Such
protection may be provided, for example, as a protective film
and/or tint, which in some examples may also serve to dampen the
brightness of the light sources 1060 for bystanders.
[0151] The panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 are reconfigurable
between a large number of selectable panel orientations depending
upon, for example, desired mobilization of the unit 1000, the
particular sterilization application, and/or space constraints in a
particular environment. In some orientations, the panels 1200,
1300, 1400, and 1500 are controlled to sterilize spaces, surfaces,
and/or objects onto which the unit 1000 is configured to direct
UV-C light, as described in greater detail herein.
[0152] Referring to FIG. 3, the device 1000 includes casters 1050a,
1050b, 1050c, 1050d, 1050e, 1050f, 1050g, 1050h, and 1050i, which
may be referred to collectively or generically herein as caster or
casters 1050. The casters 1050a, 1050b, and 1050c are mounted at
the base 1105 of the base body 1100, the casters 1050d and 1050e
are mounted at the respective distal portions of the first and
second panels 1200 and 1300, the casters 1050f and 1050h are
mounted at respective proximal locations on the third and fourth
panels 1400 and 1500, and the casters 1050g and 1050i are mounted
at respective distal locations on the third and fourth panels 1400
and 1500. The casters 1050 thus fully support the sterilization
unit 1000 while allowing the unit 1000 to be rolled to different
locations and repositioned into the multiple configurations such
as, for example, the various example configurations described
herein.
[0153] Although the unit 1000 may be moved or transported while in
any desired panel orientation, it may be particularly beneficial to
configure the unit 1000 into a closed panel orientation, as
illustrated in the left-side portion of FIG. 2, since the compact
dimensions may allow the unit 1000 to be more easily maneuvered,
including moving the unit through standard door openings (e.g.,
door openings that are 32 inches wide by 82.5 inches tall).
[0154] Once the unit 1000 is in a desired position in a room, the
first and second panels 1200 and 1300 may be opened relative to
each other at any suitable angle (e.g., assuming the closed,
parallel position to be zero degrees, the selected angle may be any
angle between zero and 360 degrees, e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees,
135 degrees, 180 degrees, 225 degrees, 270 degrees, or 360 degrees)
and the third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500 may each by fully or
partially slid into their distal positions and remain parallel to
the slide path or rotated about their respective pivot axes C and
D.
[0155] To secure the sterilization unit 1000 against unintentional
rolling, the first panel 1200 and the second panel 1300 include
securement feet 1230 and 1330 as illustrated, for example, in FIG.
3. The securement feet 1230 and 1330 are each actuatable between a
retracted position, in which the feet 1230 and 1330 do not contact
the surface supporting the unit 1000, and an extended position in
which the feet 1230 and 1330 contact the surface supporting the
unit 1000 in order to resist rolling via casters 1050. In the state
illustrated in FIG. 3, the securement foot 1230 is in the retracted
position and securement foot 1330 is in the extended position.
Although the illustrated example includes securement feet, it
should be appreciated that any form of temporary locking mechanism
may be provided, and some examples may not include any mechanism to
resist against rolling.
[0156] FIGS. 6 and 7 show a configuration that may be advantageous
for sterilizing an elongated surface, such as, for example, a wall
of a hospital room or hallway. In this configuration, the first and
second panels 1200 and 1300 have been rotated to an angle of 180
degrees and substantially coplanar, and the third and fourth panels
1400 and 1500 have been extended into their distal positions,
without further rotation, such that each of the first panel 1200,
the second panel 1300, the third panel 1400, and the fourth panel
1500 are parallel and have their UV-C sources 1060 directed to emit
UV-C light in the same direction. For this example unit 1000, this
configuration maximizes the effective length of the unit 1000,
which may provide for more efficient sterilization of longer
surfaces such as long walls in a room or a hallway.
[0157] Further, due to the presence of multiple UV-C sources 1060,
the target surface, e.g., a wall, is hit at each location with
light from multiple angles, which increases the effective light
strength and facilitates light coverage, especially where there are
irregularities in the target surface. In contrast, alternative
systems such as shown in FIG. 12 only allow each location of a
sterilization target to be hit with a UV-C radiation from a single
direction, corresponding to the single source, and the UV-C light
intensity decreases dramatically as the light progresses further
away from the source 20. Another problem is the results in systems
such as shown in FIG. 12 are never repeatable to achieve
epidemiological results because of the target surfaces; in example
implementations in accordance with the present invention, there are
known quantities of space, which allows for reproducible results
(e.g., light intensity at various locations) within the known
quantities of space (e.g., surface area and/or volume). Alternative
systems such as illustrated in FIG. 12 are, in contrast, subject to
the size variation and/or irregularities of a room.
[0158] In the example of FIGS. 6 and 7, the linking sections 1480
and 1580 are rotated to provide shielding against UV-C light
passing from the sterilization target area. In other examples, the
linking panels 1480 and 1580 may be coupled to corresponding
linking sections 1580 and 1480, respectively, of one or more other
sterilization units 1000. This modular structure allows for an even
longer effective length for simultaneous sterilization.
[0159] FIGS. 8 and 9 show an example configuration for sterilizing
a portion of a two-bed hospital room. In these configurations, the
sterilization unit 1100 has been rolled into the room, e.g.,
through a standard doorway entrance, and expanded into the
illustrated configuration. This configuration is similar to that of
FIGS. 6 and 7 in that the third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500 are
in their fully extended distal positions, without further rotation,
but differs in that the first and second panels 1200 and 1300 have
been rotated to an angle less than 180 degrees, in particular a
substantially right angle. Referring, for example, to FIGS. 8 and
9, it should be noted that the base body 1100 may be oriented at
differing angles relative to the panels 1200 and 1300. In this
manner, the base body 1100 may function as an additional linkage in
the structure of the sterilization unit 1000, which provides for
additional flexibility and allows for controls located on the base
body 1100 to be oriented in a desired direction.
[0160] As illustrated, the configuration of FIGS. 8 and 9, as well
as many other possible configurations, allows for only a selected
target portion of a larger area (the room in this example) to be
sterilized, while simultaneously blocking the UV-C light from other
portions of the area. This has many potential advantages,
including, for example, the ability to sterilize one bedding area
of a room while simultaneously the second bed is inhabited by a
patient and healthcare personnel are permitted to be present in the
room without substantial exposure to the UV-C light. This also
provides advantages for convenient healthcare work flow and
permitting use of the space surrounding the sterilization unit in
considerations for the urgency and expedited needs of a healthcare
facility.
[0161] The room partition setups such as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and
9 may be extremely effective especially for contact precaution
sterilization. In this position, the outer panels are fully
extended and are placed against the wall as illustrated. The first
and second, or inner, panels 1200 and 1300 form a 90.degree. angle
to each other creating an enclosure combined with the wall portions
adjacent the corner of the room. The configuration may be locked
via a locking mechanism such as described in greater detail
herein.
[0162] Further, due to the orthogonal orientation of the first and
third panels 1200 and 1400 relative to the second and fourth panels
1300 and 1500, the UV-C light sources 1060 provide enhanced UV-C
irradiation across the entire target area. Light output from the
four panels 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 are schematically
illustrated in FIG. 9 by arrows shown in the sterilization target
zone. The arrows use different styles of broken lines to help
distinguish the output from the four different panels for
illustration purposes and do not denote any differences in
intensity of UV-C light coming from the various panels 1200, 1300,
1400, and 1500. As illustrated, the light paths overlap in the
target zone, which increases effective intensity, coverage, and the
number of angles from which the surfaces or objects are hit with
the UV-C light. This focusing of UV-C energy from multiple
directions results in convergent amplification on the target
surface and pathogens. Since, for particular configurations,
distances between the light sources and various locations within
the sterilization target area are known and output intensities of
the UV-C sources 1060 are known, the system 1000 may, in some
implementations, selectively control the number and/or intensities
of the UV-C sources based on the configuration in order to achieve
adequate UV-C light intensity at locations to be sterilized.
[0163] As indicated above, alternative systems such as shown in
FIG. 12 only allow each location of a sterilization target to be
hit with a UV-C radiation from a single direction, corresponding to
the single source, and the UV-C light intensity decreases
dramatically as the light progresses further away from the source
20. In addition to not effectively sterilizing the target area, at
least without repositioning the source 20 multiple times within the
same room for a single object or area, the system of FIG. 12 also
does not include any mechanism to prevent areas outside of a target
area from receiving UV-C radiation.
[0164] FIG. 10 shows a further configuration of the of the
sterilization unit 1000. This configuration is similar to the
configuration of FIGS. 6 and 7 but differs in that the third and
fourth panels 1400 and 1500 have been further rotated, about
respective axes C and D, to be at substantially right angles to the
first and second panels 1200 and 1300, and the pivot mechanism 1700
has been pivoted into a fully extended position orthogonal to the
first and second panels 1200 and 1300. This configuration may be
especially useful for elongated, e.g., rectangular, sterilization
targets, such as, for example, a patient bed or operating table 30
such as that illustrated in FIG. 10. The light source 1060t allows
for the sterilization unit 1000 to irradiate the target 30 with
true 360 degree UV-C light exposure, e.g., on a surface, object, or
space. It should be noted that in some examples the pivot mechanism
1700 includes multiple UV-C light sources and/or the unit includes
multiple pivot mechanisms 1700.
[0165] The arrangement of FIG. 10 allows in some examples, a
plurality of targets 30 to be sterilized sequentially. This may be
facilitated, for example, by swinging open the third or fourth
panel 1400 or 1500 to provide access for inserting and removing the
respective targets 30 before and after the respective
sterilizations.
[0166] FIG. 11 shows a further configuration whereby the
sterilization unit forms a continuous enclosure around the
sterilization target or targets. In this configuration, the first
and second panels 1200 and 1300 are rotated to be orthogonal to
each other and the third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500 have been
fully distally extended and further rotated to be orthogonal to the
first and second panels 1200 and 1300, respectively. To complete
and secure the enclosure, the first linking section 1480 is latched
with the second linking section 1580. This arrangement provides for
the UV-C light to impinge on the sterilization target or targets
from all four sides while blocking the UV-C light from the
surrounding areas.
[0167] The sterilization unit 1000 may be advantageously utilized
for discharge sterilization of patient rooms, which is a
sterilization procedure that occurs when a patient is being
released from a healthcare facility. In some examples, the
healthcare worker would implement the sterilization unit 1000 after
mechanical cleaning of patient room. Example Items that need
sterilization that could be performed by the sterilization unit
1000:
[0168] Patient bed (All sheets and linens off bed)
[0169] Night stand
[0170] Sink/Sink Area
[0171] Bathroom
[0172] Chair
[0173] Over-the-bed-table/Meal tray
[0174] Wall/Patient Zone
[0175] The patient bed may need to be sterilized independently from
all other items to ensure effective 360.degree. sterilization.
Depending on the layout of room, some other items, e.g., chair,
nightstand, and food tray may be combined and effectively
sterilized at the same time. In some other example implementations,
all items may be sterilized simultaneously.
[0176] FIGS. 13 to 21 show in greater detail the guide mechanism
1600 by which the third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500 slide and
rotate relative to the respective first and second panels 1200 and
1300. The example illustrated is, in particular one of the
mechanisms 1600c or 1600d linking the second and fourth panels 1300
and 1500, it being understood that the guide mechanisms 1600a and
1600b are mirror images of what is illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 21.
The guide mechanisms 1600 each include a linear C-shaped guide
channel 1610 and a guide carriage 1640 configured to be received in
the guide channel 1610. Referring to FIG. 16, the guide channel
1610 is C-shaped and includes a back plate 1630, which mounts
directly to the first or second panel 1200 or 1300. The guide
channel 1610 also includes an upper flange 1612 and a lower flange
1622 spaced apart and supported from the back plate 1630 via an
upper block 1614 and a lower block 1624, respectively, to form a
respective upper and lower spaces or recesses 1616 and 1626.
[0177] Referring to FIG. 15, the guide carriage includes a guide
plate 1645 and a mounting plate 1660. The guide plate 1645 includes
an upper extension 1646 and a lower extension 1647. When the guide
carriage and channel of respective FIGS. 15 and 16 are assembled,
as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 13, the upper extension 1646
of the guide carriage 1640 is received and laterally constrained in
the upper recess 1616 of the guide channel 1610, and the lower
extension 1647 of the guide carriage 1640 is received and laterally
constrained in the lower recess 1626 of the guide channel 1610.
This mating allows the guide carriage 1640 to slide along axis G,
shown in FIG. 13. Although the axis G is horizontal and linear in
the illustrated example, it should be understood that any suitable
sliding path may be provided, including, for example, curved,
nonlinear, and/or non-horizontal paths.
[0178] To apply lateral support forces during the sliding of the
guide carriage 1640 relative to the guide channel 1610, the guide
carriage 1640 includes bearing surfaces 1648a, 1648b, 1648c, and
1648d, which may be collectively referred to herein as bearing
surfaces 1648. Bearing surfaces 1648a, 1648b, 1648c, and 1648d are
configured to contact and be slideable along respective bearing
surfaces 1611a, 1611b, 1611c, and 1611d of the guide channel 1610,
which is illustrated in FIG. 16, in order to laterally constrain
the guide carriage 1640 as it slides along the path defined by the
guide channel 1610. These interfaces constitute a plain bearing,
although it should be appreciated that any other suitable guide
mechanism may be provided, e.g., one or more linear bearings or
other guides.
[0179] The bearing surfaces 1648 may be formed of a low-friction
material, such as, for example, PTFE, although any suitable
material may be provided.
[0180] As indicated above, the guide carriages 1640 and guide
channels 1610 provide lateral constraint between the guide
carriages 1640 and the guide channels 1610, which are mounted to
the first and second panels 1200 and 1300. Referring to FIG. 1,
these guide interfaces are provided at two locations--one upper and
one lower--on each panel 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500. The guide channels
1610 extend along the length of the first and second panels 1200
and 1300, while the guide carriages 1640 mount along a proximal end
of each of the third and fourth panels 1400 and 1500.
[0181] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, the third and fourth panels
1400 and 1500 are each mounted to the mounting plates 1660 of the
guide carriages 1640 via a pivot or rotation shaft 1680 which
passes through an opening 1661 in the mounting plate 1660, forming
the respective rotation axis C or D depending on the panel, axis D
being shown in the illustrated example of FIG. 15. Referring to
FIG. 13, the third and fourth panel 1400 and 1500 have a clevis
structure that extends above and below the mounting plate 1660 to
receive the pivot shaft 1680 above and below the mounting plate
1660.
[0182] After rotating the third or fourth panel 1400 or 1500 the
angle of rotation may, in some examples, be temporarily set or
locked in position. In the illustrated example of FIGS. 13 to 21,
the angle is temporarily locked by selectively pushing a locking
pin through a recess or hole in the panel 1400 or 1500 and one of a
plurality of recesses or holes 1663 at various angles about the
opening 1661. It should be understood, however, that any suitable
mechanism may be provided.
[0183] Likewise, the angle of each of the first and second panels
1200 and 1300 is locked by an analogous locking system.
[0184] The locking of the rotation angle of each panel 1200, 1300,
1400, and 1500 may be activated by levers or switches, e.g., on
each of the respective panels. Further the locking, or any other
actuation described herein may be performed manually or
automatically by an actuator (e.g., a motor, leadscrew, hydraulic
piston, pneumatic piston, and/or any other suitable actuator).
[0185] Although the proximal portions of the third and fourth
panels 1400 and 1500 are laterally supported by the guide
mechanisms 1600, the weight of the third and fourth panels 1400 and
1500 is supported by respective sets of casters including casters
1050f and 1050g for third panel 1400 and casters 1050h and 1050i
for fourth panel 1500. Accordingly, on flat, even surfaces, the
guide plates 1645 of the guide carriages 1640 are maintained level
and at an approximately centered distance relative to upper and
lower channel surfaces 1611e and 1611f, leaving upper and lower
clearances or gaps 1635a and 1635b, as illustrated in FIGS. 17 and
18.
[0186] Providing the substantial clearances 1635a and 1635b
provides forgiveness and helps prevent binding of the mechanisms
1600 on uneven surfaces. For example, FIG. 19 illustrates a
situation where the fourth panel 1500 is on a slight upslope
relative to a flat horizontal surface supporting the base 1100 and
second panel 1300. Having both casters 1050h and 1050i of the
fourth panel 1500 in contact with the up-sloped support surface
causes the guide plate 1645 to be rotated with respect to the guide
channel 1610. This results in longitudinal axis H of the guide
plate 1645, which in FIG. 18 aligns with the channel or path axis
G, being angled at an angle 0 relative to the axis G.
[0187] Similarly, FIG. 20 illustrates a situation where the fourth
plate 1500 is on a slight downslope relative to a flat horizontal
surface supporting the base 1100 and second panel 1300. Having both
casters 1050h and 1050i of the fourth panel 1500 in contact with
the down-sloped support surface causes the guide plate 1645 to be
rotated with respect to the guide channel 1610. This results in
longitudinal axis H of the guide plate 1645 being angled relative
to the axis G such that the angle 0 is negative.
[0188] The maximum and minimum for the angle 0 is determined in
this example by the extent to which the guide plate 1645 can rotate
in each direction before the upper or lower surface 1649a or 1649b
of the guide plate 1645 contacts the upper or lower surface 1611e
or 1611f of the guide channel 1610. Although any suitable range of
rotation of the guide plate 1645 may be provided, in some
implementations, the range of motion may include an angle 0 that
can vary, for example, (a) from 30 degrees to negative 30 degrees,
(b) from 25 degrees to negative 25 degrees, (c) from 20 degrees to
negative 20 degrees, (d) from 15 degrees to negative 15 degrees,
(e) from 10 degrees to negative 10 degrees, (f) from 8 degrees to
negative 8 degrees, (g) from 5 degrees to negative 5 degrees, or
(h) from 3 degrees to negative 3 degrees. In some implementations,
the permissible range for angle 0 is selected based on intended
applications. For example, in a hospital setting with relatively
flat floors, a much smaller range of angles may be needed as
compared to a surface in a field application such as, e.g., a war
zone or disaster relief setting where the ground/support surface to
the base 1100 would be much more irregular.
[0189] FIG. 21 illustrates a situation where the fourth plate 1500
is on a surface that is parallel but lower than the surface
supporting the base 1100 and second panel 1300. Having both casters
1050h and 1050i of the fourth panel 1500 in contact with the lower
parallel surface causes the guide plate 1645 to be translated
downwardly with respect to the guide channel 1610 up until a limit
set by contact between the lower surface 1649b of the guide plate
1645 and the lower surface 1611f of the channel 1610 Similarly,
having the fourth plate 1500 is on a surface that is parallel but
higher than the surface supporting the base 1100 and second panel
1300 would cause the guide plate 1645 to be translated upwardly
with respect to the guide channel 1610 up until a limit set by
contact between the upper surface 1649a of the guide plate 1645 and
the upper surface 1611e of the channel 1610.
[0190] As indicated above, the sterilization unit includes a
control system that manages various aspects and functions of the
sterilization unit 1000, including, inter alia, selectively
controlling the multiple UV-C sources. In some examples, the
control system will determine what orientation the unit 1000 is in
and activate one or more UV-C sources 1060 (e.g., as determined by
the control system based on the unit orientation) for calculated or
predetermined periods of time that may be the same or different
among the activated UV-C source or sources (e.g., on a source by
source or panel by panel basis).
[0191] The control system in the illustrated example includes a
touchscreen 1810 which serves as both a display and an input
device. It should be understood than any known displays, e.g.,
non-touchscreen displays, or user input devices, e.g., keyboards,
trackpads, and/or mice, may be provided in addition or instead of a
touchscreen.
[0192] FIGS. 22A to 22D include screen shots of example software in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0193] FIG. 22A is an initial start screen after powering up the
unit 1000, e.g., plugging in a receptacle and/or activating a
battery-based power supply, and settings have been loaded by a
computer processor from a data storage device, e.g., any known
computer data storage physically or wirelessly connected to the
data storage computer allowing for internet/web connectivity and
communication. Once this screen appears, the button at the bottom
may be pressed to move to the next screen, which is illustrated in
FIG. 22B.
[0194] FIG. 22B is the control screen, which is the main screen for
the sterilization unit 1000. In this example, it appears after the
initial start screen. This screen is utilized to control the
sterilization cycles of the sterilization unit 1000. From this
screen, the user is able to select or deselect the panels (i.e.,
the first panel 1200, second panel 1300, third panel 1400, and/or
fourth panel 1500 in the illustrated example) that will be needed
for the sterilization process. The timer allows the user to choose
the appropriate exposure time in seconds and the start button
initiates the sterilization cycle. The user can click on the
appropriate button or buttons for the desired action, e.g., the
examples described herein. The buttons of the main screen control
in the illustrated example are:
[0195] (1811)--Left Extended Panel. This button corresponds to the
third panel 1400 of the sterilization unit 1000.
[0196] (1812)--Left Inner Panel. This button corresponds to the
first panel 1200 of the sterilization unit 1000.
[0197] (1813)--Right Inner Panel. This button corresponds to the
second panel 1300 of the sterilization unit 1000.
[0198] (1814)--Right Extended Panel. This button corresponds to the
fourth panel 1500 of the sterilization unit 1000.
[0199] (1815)--Extension Arm. This button corresponds to the
cantilevered pivot mechanism 1700 of the sterilization unit
1000.
[0200] (1816)--Start Button. This button begins one or more
selected sterilization programs to perform a sterilization
cycle.
[0201] (1817)--Timer Button. In this example, the time is entered
in seconds and corresponds to a desired sterilization time.
[0202] When a panel button is selected, a border around the button
icon changes, e.g., turns to green, to indicate that the panel has
been selected. Any one or more panels may be selected or deselected
based on what panels are needed or not needed according to the
positioning and specific configuration of the device.
[0203] Referring to the screenshot of FIG. 22D, the timer button
1817 of the human-machine interface (HMI) launches a numeric keypad
via which the operator may enter a desired sterilization time for
the certain type of sterilization being performed. For example, if
the required sterilization time is 60 seconds, the user would type
in "60," corresponding to 60 seconds of UV-C radiation emitted from
the selected panels.
[0204] Referring to FIG. 22E, the illustrated screen may appear
when the left hinges 1120a and/or 1120b and/or right hinges 1120c
and/or 1120d are not locked. Further, locking systems in connection
with guide mechanism 1600 are monitored. In this regard, if the
third or fourth panel 1300 or 1400 is not distally extended and
locked in its rotated position relative to respective first or
second panel 1200 or 1300, then the respective third or fourth
panel 1300 (or both if neither is extended and locked) is not shown
on the screen or is otherwise indicated as not being activated.
[0205] In this example, the screen is showing the operator that
hinge locks for both the first and second panels 1200 and 1300 are
not engaged and therefore two red indicators at the two outer most
positions. Once they both are engaged, the screen will return to
the normal Control Screen.
[0206] In some examples, the computer processor may present the
user with a menu of predefined sterilization programs, which may or
may not ask for particular parameters from the user. These programs
may automatically determine, inter alia, the panels, UV-C light
sources, and/or sterilization times to be utilized. In some
examples, the sterilization unit is fully or substantially
automated, such that the unit 1000 itself automatically actuates
(e.g., slides, rotates, locks, etc.) the panels into the
orientations needed for a selected program. In some examples, the
processor provides the user with instructions for manually
configuring the panel orientation for a selected program. In some
examples, the sterilization unit 1000 includes sensors that verify
that the panels are in the correct orientation for the particular
program. In some examples, the processor prevents the selected
program from proceeding until the panels are in the required
orientation and, in some examples, locked.
[0207] In some examples, the unit 1000 is self-reporting for
parameters such as, for example, UV-C light intensity, in order for
the unit 1000, e.g., via the control system, to determine if there
are any problems with the operating state of the unit 1000.
[0208] In some examples, the processor may adjust an electrical
power applied to one or more particular UV-C source based on
age-based degradation of the output intensity of the source, e.g.,
a fluorescent bulb. This may be, for example, in response to a
smart sensors system to provide internal feedback of the overall
functionality and health of the sterilization unit.
[0209] The processor may also be able to send and receive signals,
e.g., wirelessly, to indicate that particular items or locations
have been sterilized and/or that indicate items or locations that
are in need of sterilization.
[0210] In some examples, the processor adjusts light intensity and
duration based on a selected sterilization program or
configuration.
[0211] In some examples, the control system is configured to
identify specific areas and/or items based on identifiers such as,
for example, RFID tags, bar codes, or any other suitable
mechanism.
[0212] Although some example implementations described herein
include four panels, it should be understood that other examples
may include any suitable number of panels, including a single
panel. Referring to the schematic illustrations of FIGS. 23A to
23C, which are top views, other examples may include bendable
panels and/or connectors (see FIGS. 23A and 23C) and/or a plurality
of very narrow panels (see FIG. 23B).
[0213] FIGS. 24A to 33A of other example implementations, in the
form of sterilization units 100 and 200. The sterilization units
1000, 100, and 200 shown and described herein generally share all
features in common except to the extent indicated otherwise.
[0214] An "L-shaped" or central sterilization structure as
discussed herein may, in some implementations, refer to a structure
comprising two appendages that extend from a center portion or
vertex of the structure (i.e., the direct or indirect meeting point
of the two appendages, or structure at the intercept or vertex of
the two appendages--e.g., a central beam, a direct meeting point of
the appendages, etc.). For embodiments of indirect attachment the
two appendages may be connected to a center portion or vertex in
any acceptable way. In some embodiments, appendages may be directly
attached to support beams, which may be attached to the center
portion or vertex, thereby indirectly attaching the appendages to
one another through the center portion or vertex structure. The
central sterilization structure, may in some implementations be
configured such that the two appendages are capable of forming
substantially a right angle (i.e., 90.degree..+-.10.degree.) with
one another, whether attached directly or indirectly. While the
central sterilization structure is operational in various
conformations, some of which are described herein, the central
sterilization structure is intended to be, and is operational to
sterilize a space, surface, or structure when configured in an open
configuration, e.g., at substantially right angle or at any other
suitable angle, and when the faces of the panels of the invention
are vertically oriented (i.e., perpendicular to a floor). Although
some implementations may be described as "L-shaped," it should be
understood that example implementations of the present invention
may take many different shapes other than L-shaped units.
[0215] In some embodiments, the two appendages, e.g., panels, of
the central sterilization structure are capable of forming, e.g.,
an angle of 90.+-.45.degree., 40.degree., 35.degree., 30.degree.,
25.degree., 20.degree., 15.degree., 10.degree., or 5.degree., as
well as many other angles outside this range, as set forth
herein.
[0216] In some embodiments, the central sterilization structure is
a single, unitary structure, such that the two appendages represent
a continuous single structure. The single structure may be rigid,
such that the appendages are relatively non-movable in relation to
one another, or flexible, such that the appendages are able to move
in relation to one another.
[0217] FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a sterilization device or
unit 100 according to an example embodiment, and depicts an outer
view of a central sterilization structure. In various embodiments,
the outer face of the central sterilization structure is intended
to be the point of operation, or the user interface for devices of
the invention.
[0218] The sterilization device shown in FIG. 24A comprises a first
panel 10 and a second panel 12 that are hingedly attached to one
another to form a central sterilization structure. More
specifically, first panel 10 is indirectly hingedly attached to
second panel 12 through central beam 8. Central beam 8 is connected
to base 2. In the depicted embodiments, central beam 8 is
essentially a hollow tube structure, to which support beams 6 are
configured to connect. In particular, first panel 10 is connected
to support beams 6, positioned at the top and bottom of panel 10,
and second panel 12 is connected to support beams 6, positioned at
the top and bottom of panel 12. The support beams 6 connected to
panels 10 and 12 are connected to central beam 8, which thereby
functions as a point of attachment, or vertex structure, for panels
10 and 12. Accordingly, in the depicted embodiment, first panel 10
and second panel 12 are attached to one another via central beam 8,
even though the panels do not necessarily directly touch central
beam 8. Support beams 6 also enhance the structure and stability of
the depicted central sterilization structure.
[0219] The first panel 10 has a first face (pictured) and a second
face (not pictured), the first face forming a part of the outer
face of the central sterilization structure, the second face
forming a part of the inner face of the central sterilization
structure. The second panel 12 has a first face (pictured) and a
second face (not pictured), the first face forming a part of the
outer face of the central sterilization structure, the second face
forming a part of the inner face of the central sterilization
structure. In the depicted embodiment, the outer portion of central
beam 8 (as shown), also forms a part of the outer face of the
central sterilization structure and acts as the pivotal axis which
formulates the hingedly attached joint that enables pivotal motion.
The first face of the first panel 10, the depicted portion of
central beam 8, and the first face of the second panel 12 are the
major constituents forming the outer face of the central
sterilization structure of the device 100 of FIG. 24A.
[0220] In some embodiments, sterilization devices of the invention
comprise one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) windows, which
allow a user to see through a sterilization device of the invention
so as to, e.g., accurately position the device and the object(s)
(e.g., space, surface, or structure) intended to be sterilized. In
preferred embodiments, the windows are UV-protecting windows, which
do not permit penetration of harmful UV radiation. Sterilization
device 100 of FIG. 24A includes two UV-protecting windows 26.
[0221] FIG. 24A depicts a sterilization device 100 having a control
or management mechanism 20 located on a base or central beam 8 on
the outer face of the central sterilization structure. In the
depicted device, the management mechanism 20 comprises, inter alia,
a control panel for operating one or more UV-C radiation sources,
and a control screen.
[0222] In various embodiments, the sterilization device of the
invention comprises one or more (for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.)
additional panels attached (e.g., adjacent to and typically
connected to in any art-acceptable manner) to the central
sterilization structure. In some embodiments, the one or more
additional panels are fixedly attached to the, e.g. L-shaped,
central sterilization structure. In some embodiments, the one or
more additional panels are moveably attached to the central
sterilization structure in any desired or art-acceptable manner For
example, in some embodiments, the one or more additional panels are
each individually slidingly, translationally, hingedly, and/or
rotationally attached to the central sterilization structure. In
some embodiments, one or more additional panels is fixedly attached
to the central sterilization structure and one or more additional
panels is moveably attached to the central sterilization structure.
In some embodiments, there are two or more additional panels
attached to the central sterilization structure. In some
embodiments, the one or more additional panels are at least
slidingly attached to the central sterilization structure.
[0223] FIGS. 24B and 24C are perspective views of a sterilization
device 200 comprising the central sterilization structure of the
device 100 shown in FIG. 24A, except the device 200 shown in FIGS.
24B and 24C comprises two additional panels 14 and 16 slidingly
attached to the central sterilization structure. The two additional
panels 14 and 16 are shown in substantially retracted positions,
where a majority of panels 10 and 12 is eclipsed behind panels 14
and 16, respectively. Panels 14 and 16 slide parallel adjacent to
panels 10 and 12, respectively, of the central sterilization
structure, such that the additional panels of the sterilization
device 200 may be fully refracted, retracted to a certain extent,
or extended fully or to any desired extend. Panels 14 and 16 extend
from the central sterilization structure by sliding outwardly away
from central beam 8 by any acceptable means, for example, along
tracks 4, located on first panel 10 and second panel 12. In other
embodiments utilizing tracks to enable sliding of panels, the
tracks may be located in any other desirable position/location on
the sterilization device 200, for example, at the top and bottom of
the first faces of each of the first panel 10 and the second panel
12.
[0224] The device 200 of FIGS. 24B and 24C includes four
UV-protecting windows 26.
[0225] The device 200 of FIGS. 24B and 24C comprises management
mechanism 20, which, as in FIG. 24A, comprises, inter alia, a
control panel for operating one or more UV-C radiation sources, and
a control screen. The management mechanism 20 incorporates software
that controls self-sterilization mechanisms 52 in a
self-sterilization process. The management mechanism 20 also allows
for controlling operation of (including e.g., intensities and
exposure times) the UV-C radiation sources 40.
[0226] In some embodiments, panels of the sterilization device
comprise coupling mechanisms, which are configured to enable the
attachment (e.g., connection, joining, etc.) of one panel to at
least one other panel. In some embodiments of the invention, the
sterilization device is operable without utilizing the coupling
mechanisms, whereas in other embodiments, the coupling mechanisms
are used during operation of the device. The coupling mechanisms
may be any mechanism that can serve the intended purpose of
enabling attachment. For example, the coupling mechanisms may be,
e.g., magnetic, fasteners (e.g., hook and loop fasteners, for
example, fabric, plastic, etc.), coupling hinges and pins or other
suitable counter coupling mechanism. In various embodiments, the
coupling pin in the coupling column acts as a "ball and socket"
("pin and socket" as used in the depicted embodiment) connection
with the coupling hinge. While the pin and hinge are interlocked
when forming various contained configurations, the pin socket
connection also provides some pivotal capabilities to the panels of
the device of the invention. In some embodiments, one or more
additional panels attached to the central sterilization structure
comprise coupling mechanisms.
[0227] In the sterilization device 200 shown in FIGS. 24B and 24C,
additional panels 14 and 16 comprise, as coupling mechanisms,
coupling hinges 30, coupling pins 32 (not pictured in FIGS. 24B and
24C; see, e.g., FIG. 26), coupling column 34, and coupling control
36. In the sterilization device 200, additional panel 14 has two
coupling hinges 30, although other embodiments may have no coupling
hinges, only one coupling hinge, or more than two coupling hinges.
The coupling hinges 30 are configured to align with, and be able to
unite with coupling pins (not shown) on coupling column 34 on
additional panel 16, such that additional panels 14 and 16 may be
attached, when desired. Coupling (attachment of panels) occurs via
coupling control 36. In various embodiments, where present, the
coupling control 36 can be initiated electronically, or
mechanically. In the mechanical version of the depicted embodiment,
the coupling control 36 functions as a lever arm and when pressed
(e.g., by a user's foot) it retracts the coupling pins. Upon the
release of the control lever the pins engage with the coupling
hinge and form the junction. In the case of an electrical control,
this process can be initiated by the management mechanism and
instead of having a mechanical junction it could be substituted
for, e.g., a magnetic junction.
[0228] In various embodiments, the sterilization device is portable
(e.g., movable, transportable). In some embodiments, the device is
easily portable. For example, in some embodiments, the device is
configured to be easily moved from one location to another. The
device 200, as shown, e.g., in FIG. 24C, comprises wheels or
casters 24, which make the device easily portable from one location
to another. By virtue of wheels 24, device 200 is easily portable
even while it remains configured in the vertical position depicted
(the configuration in which the device is intended to be able to
operate). This is an advantage over various prior art devices,
which are not portable when configured in their intended
operational configuration.
[0229] In certain embodiments, the sterilization device comprises
one or more points of contact. As used herein, a "point of contact"
is a designated area or mechanism on the sterilization device
intended to represent a location on the device that a user would
make contact with to maneuver the device. A common, non-limiting
example of a point of contact is a handle. In some embodiments, at
least one point of contact is located on the outer face of the
central sterilization structure of a device according to the
invention.
[0230] In certain embodiments, the sterilization device of the
invention comprises one or more self-sterilization mechanisms. As
used herein, a "self-sterilization mechanism" is a mechanism of the
device of the invention that functions to sterilize a portion of
the device that is not generally otherwise subjected to UV-C
radiation from the UV-C radiation sources that are configured to
sterilize a space, surface, or structure. In some embodiments, one
or more self-sterilization mechanisms of the invention are located
on the outer face of a central sterilization structure. In various
embodiments, self-sterilization mechanisms include chambers which,
in some embodiments, comprise one or more points of contact. The
chamber self-sterilization mechanisms may be configured to
sterilization the one or more points of contact.
[0231] As shown in FIG. 24C, device 200 includes points of contact
50, which are handles configured to allow a user to maneuver the
device 200. In the device 200, points of contact 50 and management
mechanism 20 are located in self-sterilization mechanisms 52, which
are chambers configured to self-sterilize their contents (i.e.,
management mechanism 20 and points of contact 50 in device 200).
The self-sterilization mechanisms 52 can sterilize using any
desired or art-accepted means, for example, using germicidal sprays
or UV-C radiation. In various embodiments, the self-sterilization
mechanisms 52 are configured to shield a user during the period of
self-sterilization. For example, in some embodiments,
self-sterilization mechanisms 52 are chambers having cylindrical
portions that are configured to cover the interior of the chamber
and its contents, thereby containing the chamber and separating the
chamber and its contents from a user, and sterilization (e.g., UV
irradiation) is performed within the contained chamber. In various
embodiments, operation of self-sterilization mechanisms 52 is
controlled by management mechanism 20. In some embodiments, the
self-sterilization mechanism is used between each sterilization
use/cycle of a device of the invention. Where present,
self-sterilization mechanisms can serve to prevent the device of
the invention from becoming a carrier of pathogens. In such
embodiments, the self-sterilization mechanisms prove an advantage
over numerous prior art methods and devices by minimizing and/or
preventing cross-contamination between the environment and a
healthcare worker or patient. The self-sterilization mechanism(s)
reduce the risk of the device of the invention itself becoming
another transferring body for pathogens during and after a
sterilization process and therefore the inventive device is a first
of its kind to have embodiments that incorporate a
self-sterilization mechanism.
[0232] FIG. 25 is a view of the outer face of the central
sterilization structure of a sterilization device 200 according to
an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, FIG. 25
depicts the device 200 of FIGS. 24B and 24C, where the two
additional panels 14 and 16 attached to the central sterilization
structure are shown in extended positions. While both of additional
panels 14 and 16 are shown in extended positions in FIG. 25, in
some embodiments, the device of the invention is configured such
that neither (see, e.g., FIG. 24B) or only one of the additional
panels is in an extended position. Extending the panels of the
device of the invention can be helpful, for example, when
sterilizing a larger object or portion thereof (e.g., a larger
space, surface, or structure).
[0233] FIG. 26 is a view of the inner face of the central
sterilization structure of a sterilization device 200 according to
an example embodiment. In particular, FIG. 26 depicts the device
200 of FIGS. 24B, 24C, where the two additional panels 14 and 16
attached to the central sterilization structure are shown in
substantially retracted positions. The inner face of the central
sterilization structure comprises UV-C radiation sources 40. As
shown, the inner face of the central sterilization structure
comprises the second face of first panel 10, the second face of
second panel 12, and the depicted portion of central beam 8. The
second face of first panel 10 has four groupings of UV-C radiation
sources, with three UV-C radiation sources 40 in each group, for a
total of 12 UV-C radiation sources on the second face of first
panel 10. The second face of second panel 12 has four groupings of
UV-C radiation sources, with three UV-C radiation sources 40 in
each group, for a total of 12 UV-C radiation sources on the second
face of second panel 12. Accordingly, the inner face of the
depicted central sterilization structure has 24 UV-C radiation
sources.
[0234] FIG. 26 illustrates the inner portion of coupling column 34,
which comprises two coupling pins 32, located at the top and bottom
of column 34. Coupling pins 32 are configured such that they are
capable of meeting and attaching with coupling hinges 30, thereby
permitting the sterilization device 200 to be configured in a
contained configuration (see, e.g., FIGS. 31 and 32).
[0235] In some embodiments, sterilization devices according to the
present invention comprise one or more angular mechanisms, which
are structures configured to provide further angular positioning
for optimal sterilization. The angular mechanisms of embodiments of
the invention may be any structure that functions to assist in
improving or optimizing the angle of UV-C radiation emitted from
the device. In some embodiments, the angular mechanisms are
reflective structures. In some embodiments, the angular mechanisms
are shaped in any manner to angle UV-C radiation as desire. For
example, in some embodiments, the angular mechanisms are convex
structures, e.g., a cylinder of a portion thereof. In some
embodiments, the angular mechanisms are configured to be
stationary, whereas in some embodiments, the angular mechanisms are
configured to be movable in any desired manner For example, in some
embodiments, the angular mechanisms extend out from the
sterilization device, and can be manipulated into a plurality of
different positions. In some embodiments, the angular mechanisms
are, e.g., robotic arms. In various embodiments, the robotic arms
allow for the distribution of UV-C light above, below, right, left,
and the opposite sides of a structure being sterilized. For
example, for sterilizing, e.g., a hospital bed, in some
embodiments, the bed may be positioned long-ways left-right, e.g.,
close to a wall, but not touching the wall within a room. The
device of the invention could then be positioned between a user and
the bed, thereby creating a barrier and creating the sterilization
field. Once positioned as desired, the robotic arm(s) could extend
outwards toward the hospital bed--some arms could be, e.g.,
positioned above and below and others positioned right & left
and some or all of the arms could extend beyond the width of the
bed so as to partially curve around the only side of the hospital
bed not exposed to the UV-C sources, thereby enhancing the surface
area of the bed that would be subject to UV-C exposure.
[0236] The sterilization device 200 depicted in FIG. 26 comprises
four angular mechanisms 22, which, in the depicted device 200, are
robotic arms.
[0237] FIG. 27 is a view of the inner face of the central
sterilization structure of a sterilization device 200 according to
an embodiment of the present invention. Two additional panels 14
and 16 are attached thereto, shown in extended positions. In
particular, FIG. 27 depicts an inner view of the device 200 for
which an outer view is shown in FIG. 25. As shown, in addition to
the UV-C radiation sources 40 on panels 10 and 12, additional
panels 14 and 16 also have UV-C radiation sources 40 disposed
thereon, on the inner, second faces of the panels. While device 200
has UV-C radiation sources on each of the panels of the device,
other embodiments of the invention have UV-C radiation sources on
fewer than all of the panels of the device (e.g., on one, two, or
three panels). The panels of the invention may comprise any
desirable material(s). The surfaces of the second, inner faces
(depicted) of panels 10, 12, 14, and 16 of device 200 comprise a
reflective material that reflects UV-C radiation, such as polished
aluminum. However, in certain embodiments, the material bordering
the edges of one or more second, inner faces of panels used in the
invention comprises a material that absorbs UV-C radiation for
example pressed zinc oxide, black paint, or china clay. In such
embodiments, UV-C splash at and around the edges of the device is
reduced and/or prevented. In various embodiments, devices of the
invention comprises one or more splash guard(s) 28 that are
configured to reduce and/or prevent exposure of users to UV-C
radiation around the perimeters of the panels. Coupling column 34
may also function to reduce and/or prevent user exposure to UV-C
radiation.
[0238] In various preferred embodiments, the sterilization device
of the present invention is configured such that users are shielded
from, and/or are not exposed to harmful UV-C radiation.
[0239] FIGS. 28A and 28B are views of left and right profiles,
respectively, of an example embodiment. In particular, FIGS. 28A
and 28B are profile views of the device 200 shown in FIGS. 24B and
24C.
[0240] FIGS. 29A-D depict top views of example embodiments in
different configurations. In particular, FIGS. 29A-D depict various
top views of different rotational configurations of the device 200
shown in FIGS. 24B and 24C. FIG. 29A shows the device 200 of FIGS.
24B and 24C where first panel 10 (not pictured) and second panel 12
(not pictured) are folded into one another, as indicated by the
positioning of the depicted support beams 6. FIG. 29B shows the
device 200 of FIGS. 24B and 24C in a configuration where panels 10
and 12 (not pictured) are configured in a 90.degree. angle. FIG.
29C shows the device 200 of FIGS. 24B and 24C in a configuration
where panels 10 and 12 (not pictured) are configured in a
270.degree. angle. FIG. 29D shows the device 200 of FIGS. 24B and
24C in a configuration where panels 10 and 12 (not pictured) are
configured in a 180.degree. angle.
[0241] FIGS. 30A and 30B are top views of a device 200 according to
an example embodiment, and depict rotational capabilities of the
device. FIGS. 30A and 30B depict the device 200 shown in FIGS. 24B
and 24C, with additional panels 14 and 16 extended, as in FIGS. 25
and 27. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 30A, additional panels 14
and 16 slide outward along, and extend from first panel 10 and
second panel 12 along the direction of the arrows. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 30B, additional panels 14 and 16 are
slidingly attached to panels 10 and 12, as in the FIG. 30A
embodiment. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 30B, additional
panels 14 and 16, upon reaching their fully-extended position, are
configured to be able to pivot about the terminal point of
attachment to panels 10 and 12, respectively.
[0242] FIG. 31 is a view of a device 200 according to an embodiment
in a contained configuration. In particular, FIG. 8 depicts an
embodiment of the device 200 of FIG. 25, where additional panels 14
and 16 are in extended positions. The coupling hinges 30 (not
shown) on the inner face of panel 14 align with, and are attached
to coupling pins 32 (not shown) on coupling column 34 on additional
panel 16, thereby attaching panels 14 and 16 to one another, such
that device 200 is configured in a contained configuration.
[0243] FIG. 32 is a top view of a device 300 according to an
embodiment in a contained configuration, with a hospital bed
depicted therein. The device 300 comprises two devices 200 as shown
in FIG. 25, where the panels, coupling pins, and coupling hinges of
one of the devices of FIG. 25 are labeled as described hereinabove,
and where the panels, coupling pins, and coupling hinges of the
second device of FIG. 25 are labeled as 10', 12', 14', 16', 30',
and 32'. As depicted, the two devices 200 are attached via coupling
pins 32 and coupling hinges 30' of the first and second devices 200
respectively, and via coupling pins 32' and coupling hinges 30 of
the second and first devices 200 respectively (where only one pin
and hinge are shown per device 200).
[0244] FIG. 33 depicts a device 400 according to an example
implementation. The device 400 comprises three devices 200 as shown
in FIG. 25, where the three devices are attached to each other, and
are shown in a linear configuration.
[0245] In another aspect, example implementations provide or relate
to a method of sterilizing a space, surface, or structure. The
method may include exposing the space, surface, or structure to
ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted from the one or more UV-C
radiation sources of a device according to the present
invention.
[0246] In various embodiments, devices and methods of the present
invention sterilize or are configured to sterilize one or spaces,
one or more surfaces, and/or one or more structures (for example,
kill at least 85%, or at least 88% or at least 90% or at least 91%,
or at least 92% or at least 93% or at least 94% or at least 95% or
at least 96% or at least 97% or at least 98% or at least 99% or at
least 99.2% or at least 99.5% or at least 99.9% of pathogens, such
as viruses and/or bacteria and/or other pathogens on a structure)
by irradiating the target or targets with radiation comprising UV-C
radiation. In some embodiments, three-dimensional UV-C irradiation
of a target or targets, that is, irradiation from 2 or more
directions, for instance, 2 or more orthogonal directions is
provided.
[0247] Some implementations provide or relate to a method of
sterilizing a space, surface, or structure by positioning the
device of the invention within about 10 feet or fewer (e.g., 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 ft) from the space, surface, or
structure, and irradiating the space, surface, or structure with
UV-C radiation.
[0248] The following is a partial list of pathogens killed by
example embodiments of the present invention emitting UV-C
radiation, and some of the diseases they cause: Bacteriophage (E.
Coli), HIV, Infectious Hepatitis, Influenza (Flu),
Poliovirus-Poliomyelitis, Tobacco mosaic, Rotovirus, S Bacillus
anthracis (Anthrax), Bacillus magaterium sp.(Spores), Bacillus
magaterium sp. (Veg), Bacillus paratyphusus, Bacillus subtilus
spores, Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium tetani (Tetanus/Lockjaw),
Clostridium difficile, Corynebacterium diphtheriae (Diphtheria),
Eberthella typosa, Escherichia Coli (E.Coli), Leptospira
Canicoal-infections (Jaundice), Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Micrococcus candidus, Micrococcus
spheroids, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Tuberculosis), Neisseria
catarrhalis, Phtomomnas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas fluorescens,
Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella paratyphi (Enteic Fever),
Salmonella typhosa (Typhoid Fever), Salmonella typhimurium, Sarcina
lutea, Serratia marcescens, Shigella dysenteriae (Dysentery),
Shigella flexneri--(Dysentery), Shigella paradysenteriae, Spirillum
rubrum, Staphylococcus Albus (Staph), Staphylococcus Aureus
(Staph), Streptococcus hemolyticus, Streptococcus lactis,
Streptococcus viridians, Vibrio comma--(Cholera), and mold spores
including Aspergillius Flavis, Aspergillius glaucus, Aspergillius
niger, Mucor racemosus A, Mucor racemosus B, Oospora lactis,
Penicillium expansum, Penicillium roqueforti, Penicillium
digitatum, and Rhisophus nigricans. The effectiveness of aspects of
this invention to kill other pathogens will be apparent to those of
skill in the art.
[0249] As shown in FIG. 34, an implementation of a network
environment 3400 for use in controlling and operating one or more
sterilization units is shown and described. Any of the components
of this environment may be integrated into one or more
sterilization units themselves, or provided as one or more entities
separate from the sterilization unit or units. In brief overview,
referring now to FIG. 34, a block diagram of an exemplary cloud
computing environment 3400 is shown and described. The cloud
computing environment 3400 may include one or more resource
providers 3402a, 3402b, 3402c (collectively, 3402). Each resource
provider 3402 may include computing resources. In some
implementations, computing resources may include any hardware
and/or software used to process data. For example, computing
resources may include hardware and/or software capable of executing
algorithms, computer programs, and/or computer applications. In
some implementations, exemplary computing resources may include
application servers and/or databases with storage and retrieval
capabilities. Each resource provider 3402 may be connected to any
other resource provider 3402 in the cloud computing environment
3400. In some implementations, the resource providers 3402 may be
connected over a computer network 3408. Each resource provider 3402
may be connected to one or more computing device 3404a, 3404b,
3404c (collectively, 3404), over the computer network 3408.
[0250] The cloud computing environment 3400 may include a resource
manager 3406. The resource manager 3406 may be connected to the
resource providers 3402 and the computing devices 3404 over the
computer network 3408. In some implementations, the resource
manager 3406 may facilitate the provision of computing resources by
one or more resource providers 3402 to one or more computing
devices 3404. The resource manager 3406 may receive a request for a
computing resource from a particular computing device 3404. The
resource manager 3406 may identify one or more resource providers
3402 capable of providing the computing resource requested by the
computing device 3404. The resource manager 3406 may select a
resource provider 3402 to provide the computing resource. The
resource manager 3406 may facilitate a connection between the
resource provider 3402 and a particular computing device 3404. In
some implementations, the resource manager 3406 may establish a
connection between a particular resource provider 3402 and a
particular computing device 3404. In some implementations, the
resource manager 3406 may redirect a particular computing device
3404 to a particular resource provider 3402 with the requested
computing resource.
[0251] FIG. 35 shows an example of a computing device 3500 and a
mobile computing device 3550 that can be used to implement the
techniques described in this disclosure. The computing device 3500
is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such
as laptops, desktops, workstations, personal digital assistants,
servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other appropriate
computers. The mobile computing device 3550 is intended to
represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital
assistants, cellular telephones, smart-phones, and other similar
computing devices. The components shown here, their connections and
relationships, and their functions, are meant to be examples only,
and are not meant to be limiting. The computing devices of FIG. 35
may be, for example, part of the control system of the
sterilization units described herein.
[0252] The computing device 3500 includes a processor 3502, a
memory 3504, a storage device 3506, a high-speed interface 3508
connecting to the memory 3504 and multiple high speed expansion
ports 3510, and a low-speed interface 3512 connecting to a
low-speed expansion port 3514 and the storage device 3506. Each of
the processor 3502, the memory 3504, the storage device 3506, the
high-speed interface 3508, the high-speed expansion ports 3510, and
the low-speed interface 3512, are interconnected using various
busses, and may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other
manners as appropriate. The processor 3502 can process instructions
for execution within the computing device 3500, including
instructions stored in the memory 3504 or on the storage device
3506 to display graphical information for a GUI on an external
input/output device, such as a display 3516 coupled to the
high-speed interface 3508. In other implementations, multiple
processors and/or multiple buses may be used, as appropriate, along
with multiple memories and types of memory. Also, multiple
computing devices may be connected, with each device providing
portions of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server bank, a
group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system).
[0253] The memory 3504 stores information within the computing
device 3500. In some implementations, the memory 3504 is a volatile
memory unit or units. In some implementations, the memory 3504 is a
non-volatile memory unit or units. The memory 3504 may also be
another form of computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic or
optical disk.
[0254] The storage device 3506 is capable of providing mass storage
for the computing device 3500. In some implementations, the storage
device 3506 may be or contain a computer-readable medium, such as a
floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or
a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory
device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area
network or other configurations. Instructions can be stored in an
information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more
processing devices (for example, processor 3502), perform one or
more methods, such as any of the methods described herein. The
instructions can also be stored by one or more storage devices such
as computer- or machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory
3504, the storage device 3506, or memory on the processor
3502).
[0255] The high-speed interface 3508 manages bandwidth-intensive
operations for the computing device 3500, while the low-speed
interface 3512 manages lower bandwidth-intensive operations. Such
allocation of functions is an example only. In some
implementations, the high-speed interface 3508 is coupled to the
memory 3504, the display 3516 (e.g., through a graphics processor
or accelerator), and to the high-speed expansion ports 3510, which
may accept various expansion cards (not shown). In the
implementation, the low-speed interface 3512 is coupled to the
storage device 3506 and the low-speed expansion port 3514. The
low-speed expansion port 3514, which may include various
communication ports (e.g., USB, Bluetooth.RTM., Ethernet, wireless
Ethernet) may be coupled to one or more input/output devices, such
as a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, or a networking device
such as a switch or router, e.g., through a network adapter.
[0256] The computing device 3500 may be implemented in a number of
different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be
implemented as a standard server 3520, or multiple times in a group
of such servers. In addition, it may be implemented in a personal
computer such as a laptop computer 3522. It may also be implemented
as part of a rack server system 3524. Alternatively, components
from the computing device 3500 may be combined with other
components in a mobile device (not shown), such as a mobile
computing device 3550. Each of such devices may contain one or more
of the computing device 3500 and the mobile computing device 3550,
and an entire system may be made up of multiple computing devices
communicating with each other.
[0257] The mobile computing device 3550 includes a processor 3552,
a memory 3564, an input/output device such as a display 3554, a
communication interface 3566, and a transceiver 3568, among other
components. The mobile computing device 3550 may also be provided
with a storage device, such as a micro-drive or other device, to
provide additional storage. Each of the processor 3552, the memory
3564, the display 3554, the communication interface 3566, and the
transceiver 3568, are interconnected using various buses, and
several of the components may be mounted on a common motherboard or
in other manners as appropriate.
[0258] The processor 3552 can execute instructions within the
mobile computing device 3550, including instructions stored in the
memory 3564. The processor 3552 may be implemented as a chipset of
chips that include separate and multiple analog and digital
processors. The processor 3552 may provide, for example, for
coordination of the other components of the mobile computing device
3550, such as control of user interfaces, applications run by the
mobile computing device 3550, and wireless communication by the
mobile computing device 3550.
[0259] The processor 3552 may communicate with a user through a
control interface 3558 and a display interface 3556 coupled to the
display 3554. The display 3554 may be, for example, a TFT
(Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) display or an OLED
(Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, or other appropriate
display technology. The display interface 3556 may comprise
appropriate circuitry for driving the display 3554 to present
graphical and other information to a user. The control interface
3558 may receive commands from a user and convert them for
submission to the processor 3552. In addition, an external
interface 3562 may provide communication with the processor 3552,
so as to enable near area communication of the mobile computing
device 3550 with other devices. The external interface 3562 may
provide, for example, for wired communication in some
implementations, or for wireless communication in other
implementations, and multiple interfaces may also be used.
[0260] The memory 3564 stores information within the mobile
computing device 3550. The memory 3564 can be implemented as one or
more of a computer-readable medium or media, a volatile memory unit
or units, or a non-volatile memory unit or units. An expansion
memory 3574 may also be provided and connected to the mobile
computing device 3550 through an expansion interface 3572, which
may include, for example, a SIMM (Single In Line Memory Module)
card interface. The expansion memory 3574 may provide extra storage
space for the mobile computing device 3550, or may also store
applications or other information for the mobile computing device
3550. Specifically, the expansion memory 3574 may include
instructions to carry out or supplement the processes described
above, and may include secure information also. Thus, for example,
the expansion memory 3574 may be provided as a security module for
the mobile computing device 3550, and may be programmed with
instructions that permit secure use of the mobile computing device
3550. In addition, secure applications may be provided via the SIMM
cards, along with additional information, such as placing
identifying information on the SIMM card in a non-hackable
manner.
[0261] The memory may include, for example, flash memory and/or
NVRAM memory (non-volatile random access memory), as discussed
below. In some implementations, instructions are stored in an
information carrier and, when executed by one or more processing
devices (for example, processor 3552), perform one or more methods,
such as those described above. The instructions can also be stored
by one or more storage devices, such as one or more computer-or
machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory 3564, the
expansion memory 3574, or memory on the processor 3552). In some
implementations, the instructions can be received in a propagated
signal, for example, over the transceiver 3568 or the external
interface 3562.
[0262] The mobile computing device 3550 may communicate wirelessly
through the communication interface 3566, which may include digital
signal processing circuitry where necessary. The communication
interface 3566 may provide for communications under various modes
or protocols, such as GSM voice calls (Global System for Mobile
communications), SMS (Short Message Service), EMS (Enhanced
Messaging Service), or MMS messaging (Multimedia Messaging
Service), CDMA (code division multiple access), TDMA (time division
multiple access), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), WCDMA (Wideband
Code Division Multiple Access), CDMA2000, or GPRS (General Packet
Radio Service), among others. Such communication may occur, for
example, through the transceiver 3568 using a radio-frequency. In
addition, short-range communication may occur, such as using a
Bluetooth.RTM., Wi-Fi.TM., or other such transceiver (not shown).
In addition, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver module 3570
may provide additional navigation- and location-related wireless
data to the mobile computing device 3550, which may be used as
appropriate by applications running on the mobile computing device
3550.
[0263] The mobile computing device 3550 may also communicate
audibly using an audio codec 3560, which may receive spoken
information from a user and convert it to usable digital
information. The audio codec 3560 may likewise generate audible
sound for a user, such as through a speaker, e.g., in a handset of
the mobile computing device 3550. Such sound may include sound from
voice telephone calls, may include recorded sound (e.g., voice
messages, music files, etc.) and may also include sound generated
by applications operating on the mobile computing device 3550.
[0264] The mobile computing device 3550 may be implemented in a
number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it
may be implemented as a cellular telephone 3580. It may also be
implemented as part of a smart-phone 3582, personal digital
assistant, or other similar mobile device.
[0265] Various implementations of the systems and techniques
described here can be realized in digital electronic circuitry,
integrated circuitry, specially designed AS1Cs (application
specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware,
software, and/or combinations thereof. These various
implementations can include implementation in one or more computer
programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable
system including at least one programmable processor, which may be
special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and
instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a
storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output
device.
[0266] These computer programs (also known as programs, software,
software applications or code) include machine instructions for a
programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level
procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in
assembly/machine language. As used herein, the terms
machine-readable medium and computer-readable medium refer to any
computer program product, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic
discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs))
used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable
processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives
machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term
machine-readable signal refers to any signal used to provide
machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.
[0267] To provide for interaction with a user, the systems and
techniques described here can be implemented on a computer having a
display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid
crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user
and a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or a trackball)
by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of
devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well;
for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of
sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or
tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any
form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.
[0268] The systems and techniques described here can be implemented
in a computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., as
a data server), or that includes a middleware component (e.g., an
application server), or that includes a front end component (e.g.,
a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web
browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of
the systems and techniques described here), or any combination of
such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components
of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of
digital data communication (e.g., a communication network).
Examples of communication networks include a local area network
(LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and the Internet.
[0269] The computing system can include clients and servers. A
client and server are generally remote from each other and
typically interact through a communication network. The
relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer
programs running on the respective computers and having a
client-server relationship to each other.
[0270] In view of the structure, functions and apparatus of the
systems and methods described here, in some implementations, a
system and method for use in controlling and operating one or more
sterilization units are provided. Having described certain
implementations of methods and apparatus for use in controlling and
operating one or more sterilization units, it will now become
apparent to one of skill in the art that other implementations
incorporating the concepts of the disclosure may be used.
Therefore, the disclosure should not be limited to certain
implementations, but rather should be limited only by the spirit
and scope of the following claims.
[0271] Throughout the description, where apparatus and systems are
described as having, including, or comprising specific components,
or where processes and methods are described as having, including,
or comprising specific steps, it is contemplated that,
additionally, there are apparatus, and systems of the disclosed
technology that consist essentially of, or consist of, the recited
components, and that there are processes and methods according to
the disclosed technology that consist essentially of, or consist
of, the recited processing steps.
[0272] It should be understood that the order of steps or order for
performing certain action is immaterial so long as the disclosed
technology remains operable. Moreover, two or more steps or actions
may be conducted simultaneously.
[0273] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and
"the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "comprise" (and any form of comprise, such as
"comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such
as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of include, such as
"includes" and "including"), and "contain" (and any form contain,
such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs.
As a result, a method or device that "comprises", "has", "includes"
or "contains" one or more steps or elements possesses those one or
more steps or elements, but is not limited to possessing only those
one or more steps or elements. Likewise, a step of a method or an
element of a device that "comprises", "has", "includes" or
"contains" one or more features possesses those one or more
features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more
features. Furthermore, a device or structure that is configured in
a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be
configured in ways that are not listed.
[0274] Where one or more ranges are referred to throughout this
specification, each range is intended to be a shorthand format for
presenting information, where the range is understood to encompass
each discrete point within the range as if the same were fully set
forth herein.
[0275] While several aspects and embodiments of the present
invention have been described and depicted herein, alternative
aspects and embodiments may be affected by those skilled in the art
to accomplish the same objectives. Accordingly, this disclosure and
the appended claims are intended to cover all such further and
alternative aspects and embodiments as fall within the true spirit
and scope of the invention. Moreover, the features of the
particular examples and embodiments described herein may be used in
any combination. The present invention therefore includes
variations from the various examples and embodiments described
herein, as will be apparent to one of skill in the art.
EXAMPLE 1
Effect of Multivector UV Energy on Eradication of Medically
Important Bacteria and Fungi
[0276] This Example shows, among other things, how embodiments of
the invention may be used in a clinically relevant manner to
eradicate bacteria and/or fungi that are of significant medical
concern.
Study Design
[0277] In this Example, isolates of resistant bacterial pathogens
and of pathogenic fungi were exposed to UV energy for various
amounts of time (in seconds) and at different distances from the UV
sources in the sterilization unit in a given experiment according
to the following design.
[0278] Referring to FIG. 36, fields with text "UV": cumulatively
make up a sterilization unit configured in accordance with the
implementation of the present invention shown in FIG. 10, and
indicate the approximate location of the UV sources comprising a
portion of the sterilization unit; fields marked "P 1" to "P6":
cumulatively made up a contaminated field with quantitative culture
plates of bacteria or fungi, with each of the cells marked P1-P6
representing a section on the contaminated field. Preparation of
the culture plates is described below. Each section P1-P6 contained
two culture plates exposed to UV energy for a specific period of
time. In this Example, the time points were 5 seconds, 15 seconds,
30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, 120 seconds, or 180
seconds.
[0279] The number of colonies growing on each plate were counted
and plotted as a function of time of (1) UV exposure, (2) distance
from the UV energy element, (3) estimated energy of exposure, and
(4) time-energy product. UV intensity ranges for a single second in
time for the unit in this Example ranged from 1,000-2,500
microWatt/cm.sup.2 using this value with the product of time in
seconds, values of approximately 26,000 microWatts/cm.sup.2 *
seconds are reached. Without wishing to be held to a particular
theory, it is likely that these levels may be sufficient to achieve
killing of extremely resistant organisms, for example, Anthrax
spores.
Organisms
[0280] In this Example, each section P 1-P6 contained 3 isolates
each of the following pathogens: methicillin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus
faecium (VRE), ESBL Escherichia coli, carbapenemase-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC), multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas
aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, C. albicans, C. glabrata, C.
parapsilosis, C. krusei, Aspergillus fumigatus, Fusarium solani,
and Scedosporium apiospermum.
Preparation of Inoculum
[0281] The inoculum for the quantitative culture assay was prepared
by growing the isolate for 24 hours at 37.degree. C. on Mueller
Hinton Agar (MHA), inoculating the samples of 3 colonies into a
starter broth of two 50 ml Erlenmeyer flasks of RPMI broth and
incubating the broth for 2 hours in a gyratory water bath at
37.degree. C. One hundred microliters (0.1 ml) of this suspension
was transferred into 50 ml of fresh RPMI broth in each of two
250-ml Erlenmeyer flasks. These flasks were incubated overnight at
37.degree. C. for 16 hours in a gyratory water bath in order to
generate logarithmic-phase growth. The suspension was then
centrifuged, the pellet washed with normal saline, the
concentration adjusted with a hemacytometer, and a serial dilution
performed to obtain a suspension of 3,000-2,000 CFU/ml. One hundred
microliters (0.1 ml) was then inoculated and spread onto MHA plates
with 5% sheep blood for bacteria and potato dextrose plates for
fungi.
[0282] The plates were then labeled, placed in the UV energy field,
exposed to UV energy for one of the aforementioned time periods,
and then incubated at 37.degree. C. for 18 hours. The number of
colonies on a given plated were then counted and recorded as shown
in Table 1.
Statistical Analysis
[0283] All experiments were run in triplicate for a given species.
Values are expressed as means.+-.SEMs. All groups exposed to UV
energy were compared against the unexposed control group by
analysis of variance (ANOVA). A two-tailed P value of <0.05,
which has already been adjusted for multiple comparisons by
Bonferroni's method, is considered to be statistically
significant.
[0284] Values are expressed as Mean.+-.SEM (Standard error of the
mean) of LOG (Cfu/ml) from six different locations of the grid at
specific times of exposure to UV energy. Referring to Table 1,
below, shaded cells represent time of exposure at which organism is
completely cleared from the plates.
* * * * *