U.S. patent application number 16/577871 was filed with the patent office on 2020-01-16 for electric light radiant energy control systems.
The applicant listed for this patent is Vital Vio, Inc.. Invention is credited to Robert Barron, Jorel Lalicki, Yichuan Wang, Cori Joslyn Winslow.
Application Number | 20200016288 16/577871 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 62709170 |
Filed Date | 2020-01-16 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200016288 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lalicki; Jorel ; et
al. |
January 16, 2020 |
Electric Light Radiant Energy Control Systems
Abstract
Radiant energy control systems, methods, and apparatuses are
provided. An example light emitting device may comprise a sensor
operable to detect whether a space is occupied, and a controller in
communication with the sensor and operable to cause output, via a
first light emitter for a first time period in the space, of a
white light comprising a spectral energy of up to 30% energy in a
wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm, cause output, via a second light
emitter for a second time period in the space, of a non-white light
comprising a spectral energy greater than 70% energy in the
wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm, and switch, based on whether the
space is occupied and to achieve a minimum dosage of light in the
wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm during a third period that
includes the first time period and the second time period, between
causing output of the white light and causing output of the
non-white light.
Inventors: |
Lalicki; Jorel; (Troy,
NY) ; Barron; Robert; (Port Washington, NY) ;
Winslow; Cori Joslyn; (Port Washington, NY) ; Wang;
Yichuan; (Troy, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Vital Vio, Inc. |
Troy |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
62709170 |
Appl. No.: |
16/577871 |
Filed: |
September 20, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15857128 |
Dec 28, 2017 |
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16577871 |
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15856971 |
Dec 28, 2017 |
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15857128 |
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62440208 |
Dec 29, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 31/226 20130101;
A61L 2202/14 20130101; A61L 2/0047 20130101; A61L 9/20 20130101;
A61L 2202/11 20130101; A61L 2/084 20130101; A61L 2202/25 20130101;
A61L 2/28 20130101; A61L 2/24 20130101; A61L 2/0052 20130101; A61L
2/10 20130101; A61L 2209/111 20130101; A61L 12/063 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61L 2/24 20060101
A61L002/24; A61L 2/08 20060101 A61L002/08; A61L 2/10 20060101
A61L002/10; A61L 9/20 20060101 A61L009/20; A61L 2/28 20060101
A61L002/28 |
Claims
1. A light emitting device comprising: a sensor operable to detect
whether a space is occupied; and a controller in communication with
the sensor and operable to: cause output, via a first light emitter
and for a first time period in the space, of a white light
comprising a spectral energy of up to 30% energy in a wavelength
range of 380 to 420 nanometers (nm); cause output, via a second
light emitter and for a second time period in the space, of a
non-white light comprising a spectral energy greater than 70%
energy in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm; and switch, based
on whether the space is occupied and to achieve a minimum dosage of
light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm during a third
period that includes the first time period and the second time
period, between causing output of the white light and causing
output of the non-white light.
2. The light emitting device of claim 1, wherein the controller is
further operable to: determine a dosage of light in the wavelength
range of 380 to 420 nm for the first time period; compare the
dosage of light to a threshold; and adjust, based on the comparing,
an intensity of the white light within the space.
3. The light emitting device of claim 1, wherein the controller is
further operable to: determine occupancy of the space for the first
time period; determine vacancy of the space for the second time
period; determine, from a beginning of the first time period to an
end of the second time period, a dosage of light supplied to the
space; compare the dosage of light to a threshold; and adjust,
based on the comparing and based on a subsequent occupancy of the
space, an intensity of the white light within the space.
4. The light emitting device of claim 1, wherein the controller is
further operable to: determine occupancy of the space for the first
time period; determine vacancy of the space for the second time
period; determine, from a beginning of the first time period to an
end of the second time period, a dosage of light supplied to the
space; compare the dosage of light to a threshold; and adjust,
based on the comparing and based on a subsequent vacancy of the
space, an intensity of the non-white light within the space.
5. The light emitting device of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a
first sensor and wherein the light emitting device further
comprises: a second sensor operable to detect an environmental
characteristic of the space; wherein the controller is further
operable to: determine, based on the environmental characteristic
of the space, a threshold intensity of the white light; adjust,
based on the threshold intensity of the white light, an intensity
of the white light.
6. The light emitting device of claim 1, wherein the sensor is
further operable to detect more than one occupant in the space.
7. The light emitting device of claim 1, further comprising a
bioburden sensor operable to measure an amount of bioburden,
wherein the minimum dosage of light in the wavelength range of 380
to 420 nm is determined based on the amount of bioburden measured
by the bioburden sensor.
8. A light emitting device comprising: a sensor operable to detect
whether a space is occupied; and a controller in communication with
the sensor and operable to: cause output, via a first light emitter
within the space and based on detecting occupancy of the space, of
a white light comprising a spectral energy of up to 30% energy in a
wavelength range of 380 to 420 nanometers (nm); and cause output,
via a second light emitter and based on detecting vacancy of the
space, of a non-white light comprising a spectral energy greater
than 70% energy in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm.
9. The light emitting device of claim 8, wherein the controller is
further operable to: determine a dosage of light in the wavelength
range of 380 to 420 nm for a first time period that the white light
is output; compare the dosage of light to a threshold; and adjust,
based on the comparing, an intensity of the white light within the
space.
10. The light emitting device of claim 8, wherein the controller is
further operable to: determine occupancy of the space for a first
time period; determine vacancy of the space for a second time
period; determine, from a beginning of the first time period to an
end of the second time period, a dosage of light supplied to the
space; compare the dosage of light to a threshold; and adjust,
based on the comparing and based on a subsequent occupancy of the
space, an intensity of the white light within the space.
11. The light emitting device of claim 8, wherein the controller is
further operable to: determine occupancy of the space for a first
time period; determine vacancy of the space for a second time
period; determine, from a beginning of the first time period to an
end of the second time period, a dosage of light supplied to the
space; compare the dosage of light to a threshold; and adjust,
based on the comparing and based on a subsequent vacancy of the
space, an intensity of the non-white light within the space.
12. The light emitting device of claim 8, wherein the sensor is a
first sensor and wherein the light emitting device further
comprises: a second sensor operable to detect an environmental
characteristic of the space; wherein the controller is further
operable to: determine, based on the environmental characteristic
of the space, a threshold intensity of the white light; adjust,
based on the threshold intensity of the white light, an intensity
of the white light.
13. The light emitting device of claim 8, wherein the sensor is
further operable to detect more than one occupant in the space.
14. The light emitting device of claim 8, further comprising a
bioburden sensor operable to measure an amount of bioburden,
wherein the controller is further operable to determine, based on
the amount of bioburden measured by the bioburden sensor, a minimum
dosage of light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm to be
output.
15. A method comprising: outputting, via a first light emitter and
for a first time period in a space, a white light comprising a
spectral energy of up to 30% energy in a wavelength range of 380 to
420 nanometers (nm); outputting, via a second light emitter and for
a second time period in the space, a non-white light comprising a
spectral energy having greater than 70% energy in the wavelength
range of 380 to 420 nm; and switching, to achieve a minimum dosage
of light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm during a third
period that includes the first time period and the second time
period, between causing output of the white light and causing
output of the non-white light.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: determining a
dosage of light in the wavelength range of 380 to 420 nm for the
first time period; comparing the dosage of light to a threshold;
and adjusting, based on the comparing, an intensity of the white
light within the space.
17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: determining, via a
sensor, occupancy of the space for the first time period;
determining, via the sensor, vacancy of the space for the second
time period; determining, from a beginning of the first time period
to an end of the second time period, a dosage of light supplied to
the space; comparing the dosage of light to a threshold; and
adjusting, based on the comparing and based on a subsequent
occupancy of the space, an intensity of the white light within the
space.
18. The method of claim 15, further comprising: determining
occupancy of the space for the first time period; determining
vacancy of the space for the second time period; determining, from
a beginning of the first time period to an end of the second time
period, a dosage of light supplied to the space; comparing the
dosage of light to a threshold; and adjusting, based on the
comparing and based on a subsequent vacancy of the space, an
intensity of the non-white light within the space.
19. The method of claim 15, further comprising: detecting, via a
sensor, an environmental characteristic of the space; determining,
based on the detected environmental characteristic of the space, a
threshold intensity of the white light; adjusting, based on the
threshold intensity of the white light, an intensity of the white
light.
20. The method of claim 15, further comprising: detecting, via a
sensor, more than one occupant in the space; and adjusting, based
on the detecting more than one occupant in the space, an intensity
of the white light.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
15/857,128, filed Dec. 28, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of
U.S. application Ser. No. 15/856,971, filed Dec. 28, 2017, and
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/440,208,
filed Dec. 29, 2016. U.S. application Ser. No. 15/857,128, U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/856,971, and U.S. Provisional Application
No. 62/440,208 are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to
electric light systems, methods, and apparatus for using,
generating, controlling or detecting radiant energy. Aspects of the
present disclosure relate to controlling electric light sources
that emit radiation in at least the near-ultraviolet portion of the
light spectrum.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The disclosure relates generally to illumination, and more
particularly, to control systems for a disinfecting light emitting
diode (LED) lighting system and methods of regulating operations of
the disinfecting LED lighting systems.
[0004] Light-emitting devices are a primary requirement in most
indoor occupied environments to provide illumination of the area,
of tasks being completed in the area, and of the area's occupants
and objects. Alternative light sources have been created with
additional performance factors in mind that utilize emitted light
in different manners. Lighting fixtures and devices for
horticulture, health, warmth, and disinfection have been
demonstrated. In addition to being tuned for luminous efficacy of
radiation, these lighting fixtures and devices are tuned to provide
increased outputs of certain regions of radiation to accomplish the
additional performance factor. In these lighting fixtures and
devices that emit light for multiple functions, the light emissions
can be balanced to achieve an acceptable level of each function.
One of the functions can be general illumination (e.g., when the
multiple-function lighting fixtures and devices are used in spaces
occupied by humans), in which case, achieving a relatively high
luminous efficacy of the emitted light is balanced not only against
achieving desirable color characteristics of the emitted light, but
also of achieving the one or more other functions to an acceptable
or desired level. New laws and regulations around energy efficiency
in residential and commercial spaces means that these multiple
function light sources must also have control systems to balance
energy efficiency in addition to their desired effects.
[0005] One new function of lighting is disinfecting, e.g. using
blue light in combination with other light to emit what is
perceived as white light. Unlike ultraviolet light (UV), white
disinfecting light can be used on 24 hour/7 days without harming
the occupants of a room. UV systems require extensive safety
measures to prevent accidental exposure or unknown occupants and
have emergency shut off switches in situations of accidental
occupancy. UV systems include remote controlled robots and lockable
rooms, which can only be used when a room is not occupied, which is
not always feasible. Disinfecting white light does not require such
safety features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A first aspect of the disclosure provides a control system
for a disinfecting light system including a disinfecting light
fixture, the control system including: a controller operably
coupled to the disinfecting light fixture, the disinfecting light
fixture illuminating a space, where the controller regulates an
operation of the disinfecting light fixture by performing processes
including at least one of: adjusting an amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture in
response to at least one of: determining an amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture does
not meet a disinfecting energy threshold, determining a sensed
bacterial load of the space does not meet a bacterial load
threshold, or determining the amount of disinfecting energy
provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture does not
meet a preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with a
detected, environmental characteristic of the space; or adjusting
an amount of illuminating light provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture in response to determining the amount of
illuminating light provided to the space by the disinfecting light
fixture does not meet a preferred amount of illuminating light.
[0007] A second aspect of the disclosure provides a method of
regulating operations of a disinfecting light fixture of a
disinfecting light system, the method including: obtaining data
relating to a space illuminated by the disinfecting light fixture,
the data including at least one of: an amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture, a
bacterial load of the space illuminated by the disinfecting light
fixture, or an environmental characteristic of the space; and
adjusting at least one of: the amount of disinfecting energy
provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture in response
to at least one of: determining the amount of disinfecting energy
provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture does not
meet a disinfecting energy threshold, determining the bacterial
load of the space does not meet a bacterial load threshold, or
determining the amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space
by the disinfecting light fixture does not meet a preferred amount
of disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic of the space; or an amount of illuminating light
provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture in response
to determining the amount of illuminating light provided to the
space by the disinfecting light fixture does not meet a preferred
amount of illuminating light.
[0008] The illustrative aspects of the present disclosure are
designed to solve the problems herein described and/or other
problems not discussed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] These and other features of this disclosure will be more
readily understood from the following detailed description of the
various aspects of the disclosure taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings that depict various embodiments of the
disclosure, in which:
[0010] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an illustrative environment
including a disinfecting light system and a control system,
according to embodiments of the disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 2 shows a flow chart of example processes for
regulating disinfecting energy generated by a disinfecting light
system within a space, according to embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 3 shows a flow chart of example additional processes
for regulating disinfecting energy generated by a disinfecting
light system within a space as shown in FIG. 2, according to
embodiments of the disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 4 shows a flow chart of example processes for
regulating illuminating light generated by a disinfecting light
system within a space, according to embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 5 shows a flow chart of example processes for
regulating disinfecting energy generated by a disinfecting light
system within a space, according to additional embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a disinfecting light system
including a control system, according to embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a control system including
a controller that regulates disinfecting energy generated by a
disinfecting light system, according to embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of an illustrative environment
including a disinfecting light system and a control system,
according to additional embodiments of the disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of an illustrative environment
including a disinfecting light system, a control system and a
single sensor, according to embodiments of the disclosure.
[0019] FIGS. 10 and 11 show schematic views of an illustrative
environment including a disinfecting light system providing
distinct amounts of disinfecting energy and/or illuminating light,
according to embodiments of the disclosure.
[0020] FIGS. 12 and 13 show schematic views of an illustrative
environment including a disinfecting light system providing
distinct amounts of disinfecting energy and/or illuminating light,
according to additional embodiments of the disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 14 shows a schematic view of an illustrative
environment made up of a plurality of spaces in a single room of
the environment, according to embodiments of the disclosure. The
environment also includes a light system, a control system and a
plurality of sensors.
[0022] FIG. 15 shows a schematic view of an illustrative
environment made up of a plurality of spaces in two distinct rooms
of the environment, according to embodiments of the disclosure. The
environment also includes a light system, a control system and a
plurality of sensors.
[0023] It is noted that the drawings of the disclosure are not to
scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of
the disclosure, and therefore should not be considered as limiting
the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings, like numbering
represents like elements between the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] As an initial matter, in order to clearly describe the
current disclosure it will become necessary to select certain
terminology when referring to and describing relevant components
within the disclosure. When doing this, if possible, common
industry terminology will be used and employed in a manner
consistent with its accepted meaning. Unless otherwise stated, such
terminology should be given a broad interpretation consistent with
the context of the present application and the scope of the
appended claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that often a particular component may be referred to using several
different or overlapping terms. What may be described herein as
being a single part may include and be referenced in another
context as consisting of multiple components. Alternatively, what
may be described herein as including multiple components may be
referred to elsewhere as a single part.
[0025] As indicated above, the disclosure relates generally to
illumination, and more particularly, to control systems for a
disinfecting light emitting diode (LED) lighting system and methods
of regulating operations of the disinfecting LED lighting
systems.
[0026] These and other embodiments are discussed below with
reference to FIGS. 1-15. However, those skilled in the art will
readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with
respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and
should not be construed as limiting.
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an illustrative environment
including a disinfecting light system and a control system.
Specifically, FIG. 1 shows environment 10 and a disinfecting light
system 100 that may be at least partially positioned within and/or
may interact with environment 10. In the non-limiting example shown
in FIG. 1, environment 10 may be a room within a building. As
discussed herein, disinfecting light system 100 may illuminate
environment 10, as well as provide disinfecting energy within
environment 10 in order to disinfect environment 10. It is
understood that the term "environment" and "room" may be used
interchangeably when discussing the non-limiting examples herein.
Additionally, although shown as only a single room, it is
understood that environment 10 may include a plurality of rooms
and/or distinct areas that include disinfecting light system
100.
[0028] As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1, environment
10 may include at least one of the items and/or objects included
therein. Specifically, and at least partially dependent on the type
of environment 10 (e.g., room), environment 10 may include a
plurality of items and/or objects positioned within environment 10.
For example, environment 10 formed as a room may include a window
12 formed in one of a plurality of walls 18 of environment. As such
in FIG. 1, the window may provide an opening to environment 10
which may allow sunlight or natural light 20 to enter and/or be
emitted into environment 10. Additionally, in non-limiting
examples, environment 10 may also include a door 22 to allow
user(s) (FIGS. 12 and 13) to access environment 10 and/or the items
or objects positioned therein. Additionally, environment 10 may
also include a chair 24, desk or workstation 26 (hereafter,
"workstation 26"), and cabinets 28. In a non-limiting example,
workstation 26 may be a "clean" or "sterile" workstation or area
that may be used for specific, sterile procedures and/or processing
(e.g., sterile table for microchip inspection). As discussed
herein, the items and/or objects (e.g., window 12, chair 24,
workstation 26, and so on) may be accounted for when regulating the
operations of disinfecting light system 100, and more specifically,
regulating the disinfecting energy and/or illuminating light
provided to environment 10 by disinfecting light system 100.
Additionally, characteristics and/or properties of environment 10
may also be accounted for and/or may affect the regulation of
operations of disinfecting light system 100, and more specifically
the regulation of the disinfecting energy and/or illuminating light
provided to environment 10, as discussed herein. For example, and
as discussed in detail herein, the color of paint on walls 18/door
22, the amount of sun exposure for environment 10 based on window
12, the size of environment 10, and so on, may be accounted for
and/or may affect the regulation of the disinfecting energy and/or
illuminating light provided to environment 10 by disinfecting light
system 100.
[0029] Environment 10 may include one or more spaces defined
therein. For example, environment 10 may include and/or be
"divided" into a plurality of distinct spaces 30, 32. Specifically,
and as shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1, environment 10
(e.g., room) may include a first space 30 and a second space 32. In
this non-limiting example, second space 32 may be included within
first space 30. However, and as discussed herein, second space 32
may be defined as distinct and/or unique from first space 30 by
disinfecting light system 100. That is, the spaces 30, 32 of
environment 10 may be based on and/or may be defined by, at least
in part, disinfecting light system 100 of environment 10 and its
various components (e.g., light fixtures), as discussed herein.
Additionally, or alternatively, the plurality of spaces 30, 32 of
environment 10 may be based on and/or may be defined by, at least
in part, items and/or objects of environment 10 (e.g., sterile
workstation 26), and/or characteristics and/or properties of
environment 10, as discussed herein (see, FIGS. 14 and 15).
[0030] The number of spaces 30, 32 shown in FIG. 1 and included
within environment 10 are merely illustrative. As such, although
two spaces 30, 32 are shown and discussed herein, it is understood
that environment 10 may include more or less spaces. In other
non-limiting examples where environment 10 includes a plurality of
rooms, spaces of environment 10 may be defined as each individual
room making up environment 10 (see, FIG. 15). Additionally, or
alternatively in the non-limiting examples, each of the plurality
of rooms of environment 10 may include one or more spaces similar
to those discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1 (see, FIG.
14).
[0031] Disinfecting light system 100 included and/or operating
within environment 10 may include at least one disinfecting light
fixture 102, 104. Disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 may be
positioned within, exposed to, illuminate and/or may provide
(light) energy to environment 10. That is, and as discussed herein,
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 may be positioned within
and/or exposed to environment 10 to provide illuminating light
and/or disinfecting energy to environment 10. As shown in the
non-limiting example of FIG. 1, a first disinfecting light fixture
102 may be positioned within environment 10 and may be coupled to a
ceiling 34 of environment 10. Additionally, a second disinfecting
light fixture 104 may be positioned within environment 10 and may
be coupled to cabinets 28, adjacent workstation 26. As discussed
herein, the plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104
within environment 10 may define, at least in part, space(s) 30, 32
of environment 10. Specifically, the position of each of
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 within environment 10 and/or
the area of environment in which the plurality of disinfecting
light fixtures(s) 102, 104 may illuminate and/or provide
disinfecting energy may, at least in part, define space(s) 30, 32
of environment 10. First disinfecting light fixture 102 coupled to
ceiling 34 of environment 10 may illuminate and/or provide
disinfecting energy to substantially all of environment 10 (e.g.,
room). Therefore, the light emitted by first disinfecting light
fixture 102 may define, at least in part, first space 30.
Additionally, second disinfecting light fixture 104 coupled to
cabinet 28 of environment 10 may illuminate and/or provide
disinfecting energy to workstation 26. As such, the light emitted
by second disinfecting light fixture 104 may define, at least in
part, second space 32.
[0032] The plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 of
disinfecting light system 100 may be any suitable light fixture,
component, or assembly that is capable of providing a spectral
range of light energy, illumination, and/or illuminating light, as
well as, disinfecting energy to environment 10. Additionally, the
plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 may be any
suitable light fixture, component, or assembly that is capable of
providing only illuminating light (e.g., disinfecting light fixture
output=100% illuminating light), only disinfecting energy (e.g.,
disinfecting light fixture output=100% disinfecting energy), or
both illuminating light and disinfecting energy simultaneously
(e.g., disinfecting light fixture output=approximately 70-90%
illuminating light, approximately 10-30% disinfecting energy).
Additionally, the plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102,
104 may be any suitable light fixture, component, or assembly that
is capable of switching between providing only illuminating light,
only disinfecting energy, or both illuminating light and
disinfecting energy simultaneously. For example, the plurality of
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 of disinfecting light system
100 may include light fixtures similar to those described in U.S.
Pat. No. 9,333,274, U.S. Pat. No. 9,439,989, and U.S. Pat. Pub. No.
2017/0030555 the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by
reference. Additionally, or alternatively in another non-limiting
example discussed herein, the plurality of disinfecting light
fixture(s) 102, 104 of disinfecting light system 100 may also be
any suitable light fixture, component, or assembly that is capable
of adjusting and/or varying the brightness or lumen output of the
illuminating light and/or the operational function, output, dosage,
and/or intensity (hereafter, "operational intensity") of the
disinfecting energy during operation of disinfecting light
fixture(s) 102, 104. That is, and as discussed herein, the
plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 may be
configured to and/or capable of adjusting the lumen output of the
illuminating light and/or the operational intensity of the
disinfecting energy provided to environment 10.
[0033] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 1, first
disinfecting light fixture 102 may emit only light energy and/or
illuminating light 106 (hereafter, "illuminating light 106") to
first space 30 of environment 10. Additionally in the non-limiting
example shown in FIG. 1, second disinfecting light fixture 104 may
emit both illuminating light 106, as well as, disinfecting energy
108 to second space 32 of environment 10. As discussed herein, the
output (e.g., illuminating light 106, disinfecting energy 108) of
each of the plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 may
be based on sensed or measured characteristics of space(s) 30, 32
of environment 10, characteristics and/or properties of space(s)
30, 32 of environment 10, and/or predetermined information (e.g.,
scheduled outputs) for environment 10.
[0034] The number of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104
included within environment 10, as shown in the non-limiting
example of FIG. 1, is understood to be illustrative. As such,
although disinfecting light system 100 is shown to include two
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104, it is understood that
disinfecting light system 100 may include more or less disinfecting
light fixture(s). Additionally, the position of disinfecting light
fixture(s) 102, 104 included within environment 10, as shown in the
non-limiting example of FIG. 1, is understood to be illustrative.
Disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 of disinfecting light system
100 may be positioned anywhere within, adjacent to, and/or exposed
to environment 10 to provide illuminating light 106 and/or
disinfecting energy 108 to a defined space within environment 10,
as discussed herein.
[0035] Furthermore, and as discussed in detail in U.S. Pat. No.
9,333,274, U.S. Pat. No. 9,439,989, and U.S. Pat. Pub. No.
2017/0030555 incorporated herein by reference, illuminating light
106 may generate visible light energy within the spectral range of
approximately 380 nanometers (nm) to approximately 750 nm, and
disinfecting energy 108 may be a disinfecting energy within the
spectral range of approximately 380 nm to approximately 420 nm
(e.g., 405 nm). That is, illuminating light 106 may include visible
light energy within a spectral range that may illuminate and/or
provide light to space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10. Additionally,
disinfecting energy 108 generated by disinfecting light fixture(s)
102, 104 (see, second disinfecting light fixture 104) may include
disinfecting energy within the spectral range that may alter,
adjust, and/or control the bacterial load, bioburden, and/or
microbial load (e.g., disinfect, or sterilize) within space(s) 30,
32 receiving disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., violet light). In
another non-limiting example, disinfecting energy 108 may include
ultraviolent (UV) light having disinfecting properties and
including a spectral range of approximately 100 nm to approximately
400 nm.
[0036] In a non-limiting example, and as discussed herein, during
operation of the plurality of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102,
104 illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 may be
varied and/or adjusted. Specifically, the plurality of disinfecting
light fixture(s) 102, 104 may be capable of varying and/or
adjusting the lumen output of illuminating light 106 and/or the
operational intensity of disinfecting light 108 during operation of
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 of disinfecting light system
100. For example, during operation of disinfecting light fixture(s)
102, 104, the lumen output of illuminating light 106 may be
adjusted to increase or decrease the brightness of illuminating
light 106, and the operational intensity of disinfecting energy 108
may be adjusted to increase or decrease the amount of disinfecting
energy 108 provided to space(s) 30, 32. The lumen output of
illuminating light 106 may be varied between approximately 0% of
the total lumen output, brightness, and/or illuminating
capabilities of illuminating light 106 (e.g., 0%=no illuminating
light 106), and approximately 100% of the total lumen output,
brightness, and/or illuminating capabilities of illuminating light
106 (e.g., 100%=illuminating light 106 at maximum brightness or
lumen output). Additionally, the operational intensity of
disinfecting energy 108 may be varied between approximately 0% of
the total operational intensity of disinfecting energy, and/or
disinfecting capabilities of disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., 0%=no
disinfecting energy), and approximately 100% of the total
operational intensity of disinfecting energy, and/or disinfecting
capabilities of disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., 100%=disinfecting
energy 108 at maximum operational intensity or output). Regardless
of the variation or change in lumen output and/or operational
intensity, illuminating light 106 may be emitted within the
spectral range of approximately 380 nm to approximately 750 nm, and
disinfecting energy 108 may be emitted within the spectral range of
approximately 380 nm to approximately 420 nm, or alternatively
approximately 100 nm to approximately 420 nm. Additionally in a
non-limiting example, the illuminating light 106 and/or
disinfecting energy 108 may be adjusted and/or varied independent
of the function and/or operation of one another. For example,
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 may adjust the lumen output
of the emitted illuminating light 106 when disinfecting light
fixture(s) 102, 104 is not emitting disinfecting energy 108, or
alternatively, without adjusting or varying the operational
intensity of the emitted disinfecting energy 108 when disinfecting
light fixture(s) 102, 104 is emitting disinfecting energy 108 along
with illuminating light 106. Additionally, disinfecting light
fixture(s) 102, 104 may adjust the operational intensity of the
emitted disinfecting energy 108 when disinfecting light fixture(s)
102, 104 is not emitting illuminating light 106, or alternatively,
without adjusting or varying the lumen output of the emitted
illuminating light when disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 is
emitting illuminating light 106 along with disinfecting energy 108.
Furthermore in the non-limiting example where both illuminating
light 106 and disinfecting energy 108 are both being emitted by
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104, the lumen output of
illuminating light 106 and the operational intensity of
disinfecting energy 108 may be adjusted and/or varied
simultaneously. In this non-limiting example, the lumen output of
illuminating light 106 and the operational intensity of
disinfecting energy 108 may be adjusted and/or varied independent
of one another (e.g., increase in the lumen output of illuminating
light 106, decrease in the operational intensity of disinfecting
energy 108). The lumen output of illuminating light 106 and the
operational intensity of disinfecting energy 108 may be adjusted
and/or varied based on sensed or measured characteristics of
space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10, characteristics and/or
properties of space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10, and/or
predetermined information (e.g., scheduled outputs) for environment
10.
[0037] Furthermore, and as a result of adjusting the lumen output
of illuminating light 106 and/or the operational intensity of
disinfecting energy 108, a quality of visible light generated by
and/or provided to space(s) 30, 32 by disinfecting light fixtures
102, 104 may be affected. For example, when disinfecting light
fixtures 102, 104 is providing both illuminating light 106 and
disinfecting energy 108 an output ratio may be between
approximately 70-90% of illuminating light 106 and approximately
10-30% disinfecting energy 108. In these non-limiting examples, a
user of space(s) 30, 32 may not detect any change in quality (e.g.,
color rendering) in illuminating light 106 based on the inclusion
or emission of disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., violet light).
However, when disinfecting energy 108 is adjusted (e.g., increased
beyond 30%, increased operational intensity) the quality of light
provided to space(s) 30, 32 by illuminating light 106 may be
affected. For example, where disinfecting energy 108 is increased,
the violet light may become more apparent and/or visible to a user
of space(s) 30, 32, and/or certain colors forming illuminating
light 106 may be come over or under saturated by violet light of
disinfecting energy 108. As discussed herein, certain circumstances
and/or situations for space(s) 30, 32 (e.g., task(s) being
performed in first space 30) may require more or less illuminating
light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108, and may be performed or
carried out within space(s) 30, 32 with less disinfecting energy
108 and high light quality, or alternatively, may be performed with
more disinfecting energy 108 and low light quality.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, disinfecting energy system 100 can
include a control system 109 including at least one controller 110
configured to control operation of disinfecting light fixture(s)
102, 104. That is, controller 110 of control system 109 may be
configured to regulate illuminating light 106 and disinfecting
energy 108 (e.g., vary/adjust lumen output/operational intensity)
provided to space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10 via disinfecting
light fixture(s) 102, 104. Controller 110 can be hard-wired and/or
wirelessly connected to, operably coupled to, and/or in
communication with disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 via any
suitable electronic and/or mechanical communication component or
technique. Controller 110, and its various components discussed
herein (see, FIG. 7), may be a single stand-alone system that
functions separate from another system (e.g., computing device)
(not shown) that may control and/or adjust operations or functions
of other portions of environment 10 (e.g., HVAC system).
Alternatively, controller 110 may be integrally formed within, in
communication with and/or formed as a part of a larger control
system (e.g., computing device) (not shown) that may control and/or
adjust operations or functions of environment 10. For example,
controller 110 of control system 109 may be configured or formed as
a microcontroller or similarly embedded system on a chip (SOC)
component running a real-time operating system (RTOS).
[0039] Additionally, in the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 1,
control system 109 for disinfecting light system 100 may also
include one or more sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124
operably coupled to and/or in communication with controller 110 for
aiding controller 110 in controlling the operation of disinfecting
light fixture(s) 102, 104. As discussed herein, controller 110 may
utilize data, real-time information, and/or environment
characteristics of space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10, as determined
by sensor(s) 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124, to control the
operation of disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104 to ultimately
regulate illuminating light 106 and disinfecting energy 108
provided to space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, controller 110 of control system 109 may
be operably coupled to, in electrical and/or mechanical
communication with sensor(s) 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124
positioned throughout environment 10 (e.g., one shown).
Additionally, and as shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1,
controller 110 may be wirelessly connected to, and/or in
communication with sensor(s) 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124.
Sensor(s) 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124 may be positioned in
various locations and/or throughout environment 10, and more
specifically space(s) 30, 32. The position and/or location of
sensor(s) 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124 within space(s) 30,
32 of environment 10 may be dependent, at least in part, on the
type of sensor, and/or the data, information, and/or characteristic
of space(s) 30, 32 the sensor is measuring, detecting, and/or
sensing. Sensor(s) 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124 in
communication with controller 110 of control system 109 may be any
suitable sensor or device configured to detect and/or determine
data, information, and/or characteristics relating to environment
10. For example, and as discussed in detail herein, sensor(s) 112,
118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124 positioned within space(s) 30, 32
may be any suitable sensor configured to detect, measure, sense,
and/or determine an amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided to
space(s) 30, 32 by disinfecting light fixture(s) 102, 104, a
bacterial load for space(s) 30, 32, and/or environmental
characteristics (e.g., occupancy, daylight) for space(s) 30,
32.
[0041] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 1, environment 10
may include a first sensor 112. Specifically, first space 30 of
environment 10 may include first sensor 112 positioned therein and
in (wireless) communication with and/or operably connected to
controller 110 of control system 109. In the non-limiting example,
first sensor 112 may be positioned on and/or coupled to ceiling 34
within first space 30. First sensor 112 may be configured as any
suitable sensor capable of measuring an amount of disinfecting
energy 108 provided to space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture
102 of disinfecting light system 100. For example, first sensor 112
of disinfecting light system 100 may include or be formed as a
spectrometer, a photodiode, a watt meter, or any other suitable
sensor that may be capable of measuring and/or detecting the amount
of disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102.
[0042] The amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided to first
space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture 102, as measured by
first sensor 112, may be provided or transmitted to controller 110
to aid in controller's regulation of disinfecting energy 108
generated by first disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting
light system 100. As discussed herein, controller 110 may compare
the measured amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided to first
space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture 102 to a disinfecting
energy threshold, and may adjust the amount of disinfecting energy
108 provided to space 30 by adjusting the output of first
disinfecting light fixture 102. Although shown as being coupled to
ceiling 34 within first space 30 of environment 10, it is
understood that first sensor 112 may be positioned anywhere within
first space 30 so long as first sensor 112 is capable of measuring
the amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by
first disinfecting light fixture 102.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, environment 10 may also include a second
sensor 118. Specifically, first space 30 of environment 10 may
include second sensor 118 positioned therein and in (wireless)
communication with and/or operably connected to controller 110 of
control system 109. In the non-limiting example, second sensor 118
may be positioned on and/or coupled to wall 18 within first space
30. Second sensor 118 may be configured as any suitable sensor
capable of sensing a bacterial load of space 30. More specifically,
second sensor 118 may be any suitable sensor capable of sensing
bacterial load, bioburden, and/or microbial load within space 30 of
environment 10. For example, second sensor 118 of disinfecting
light system 100 may include or be formed as an optical sensor,
oxygen-depletion sensor, luminometer, or any other suitable sensor
that may be capable of sensing a bacterial load within first space
30. In non-limiting examples, second sensor 118 may sense the
bacterial load of first space 30 by measuring the bacterial load of
the air within first space 30, and/or measuring the bacterial load
on a surface of an object or item (e.g., window 12, wall 20, door
22, chair 24, and so on) positioned within first space 30.
[0044] In other non-limiting examples, the bacterial load of first
space 30 may be based on a correlated measurement. The correlated
measurement may be a calculated or determined bacterial load based
on collected data that may be correlated to a bacterial load
measurement. That is, data collected, measured, determined, and/or
sensed by second sensor 118 may be provided to controller 110,
which in turn may process and/or utilize the data from second
sensor 118 to calculate or determined the bacterial load forming
the correlated measurement. In non-limiting examples, the data
collected by second sensor 118 may not be data including and/or
pertaining directly to bacteria, microbial, and/or bioburden data,
but rather may be data that can be utilized to calculate or
determined the bacterial load, as discussed herein.
[0045] The bacterial load of first space 30 may change based on
changes within first space 30. For example, the bacterial load of
first space 30 may increase as a result of increased room occupancy
by users, when new items or objects are introduced to first space
30 of environment 10, and/or over a period of time where first
disinfecting light fixture 102 is not providing disinfecting energy
108 to first space 30. The bacterial load of space 30, sensed by
second sensor 118, may be provided or transmitted to controller 110
to aid in controller's regulation of disinfecting energy 108
generated by first disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting
light system 100. As discussed herein, controller 110 may compare
the sensed bacterial load of first space 30 to a bacterial load
threshold, and may adjust the amount of disinfecting energy 108
provided to space 30 by adjusting the output of first disinfecting
light fixture 102. That is, the bacterial load sensed by second
sensor 118 within first space 30 may be directly affected and/or
impacted by the amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided to space
by first disinfecting light fixture 102. Although shown as being
coupled to wall 18 within space 30 of environment 10, it is
understood that second sensor 118 may be positioned anywhere within
space 30 so long as second sensor 118 is capable of sensing the
bacterial load of first space 30.
[0046] First space 30 of environment 10 may also include at least
one additional, third sensor 120A, 120B, 120C positioned therein
and in (wireless) communication with and/or operably connected to
controller 110 of control system 109. In the non-limiting example,
control system 109 may include a plurality of third sensors 120A,
120B, 120C positioned throughout first space 30 of environment 10.
Each of the plurality of third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C may be
configured as environmental characteristic sensors, and/or may be
sensors configured to measure or detect environmental
characteristics of first space 30 of environment 10. As discussed
herein, a preferred amount of disinfecting energy for and/or to be
provided to first space 30 may be associated with the environmental
characteristics detected by third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C within
first space 30. Additionally, controller 110 may compare the
measured amount of disinfecting energy 108 within first space 30
(e.g., first sensor) with the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy associated with detected environmental characteristics of
first space 30, and may adjust the amount of disinfecting energy
108 provided to space 30 by adjusting the output of first
disinfecting light fixture 102.
[0047] Also discussed herein, each of the environmental
characteristics detected by third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C may
include a preferred amount or level of illuminating light that may
be associated with the detected environmental characteristic(s).
That is, a preferred amount of illuminating light for and/or to be
provided to first space 30 may be associated with the environmental
characteristics detected by third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C within
first space 30. Additionally, controller 110 may compare a measured
amount of illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 (e.g.,
third sensor, disinfecting light fixture) with the preferred amount
of illuminating light associated with detected environmental
characteristics of first space 30, and may adjust the amount of
illuminating light 106 provided to space 30 by adjusting the output
of first disinfecting light fixture 102. In the non-limiting
example shown in FIG. 1, and discussed herein, the plurality of
third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C configured to detect environmental
characteristics of first space 30 may all be the distinct types of
sensors and/or may detect distinct environmental characteristics of
first space 30. In another non-limiting example, the plurality of
third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C may all be the same type of sensor
and/or may detect the same environmental characteristics of first
space 30.
[0048] Third sensor 120A may be positioned on and/or coupled to a
wall 36 within first space 30. Additionally, third sensor 120A may
be coupled to wall 36, above cabinet 28 included within first space
30. Third sensor 120A may be configured as any suitable sensor
capable of measuring or detecting an occupancy level (e.g.,
environmental characteristic) for first space 30. The detected
occupancy level for first space 30 may include whether or not first
space 30 is being occupied and/or includes a user(s) positioned
therein, the number of users that may occupy first space 30 and/or
a (real-time) change in occupancy for first space 30. In
non-limiting examples, third sensor 120A of control system 109 may
include or be formed as an infrared sensor, an automated camera
system (e.g., image processing with camera based sensors), radar
sensor, Lidar sensor, audio sensor, (tomographic) motion sensor,
microwave sensor, ultrasonic sensor, or any other suitable sensor
that may be capable of detecting an occupancy level of first space
30.
[0049] The occupancy level of first space 30, as detected by third
sensor 120A, may be provided or transmitted to controller 110 to
aid in controller's regulation of disinfecting energy 108 generated
by first disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting light
system 100. As discussed herein, controller 110 may receive the
occupancy level of first space 30 from third sensor 120A, along
with a preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
occupancy level of first space 30. Additionally, controller 110 may
compare the measured amount of disinfecting energy 108 of first
space 30 (e.g., first sensor 112) with the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the occupancy level of first
space 30 detected by third sensor 120A, and may adjust the amount
of disinfecting energy 108 provided to space 30 by adjusting the
output of first disinfecting light fixture 102. Furthermore, and
similar to the preferred amount of disinfecting light, controller
110 may adjust the amount of illuminating light 106 provided to
space 30 by adjusting the output of first disinfecting light
fixture 102 based on the preferred amount of illuminating light
that may be associated with the detected, occupancy level of first
space 30. Although shown as being coupled to wall 36 within first
space 30 of environment 10, it is understood that third sensor 120A
may be positioned anywhere within first space 30 so long as third
sensor 120A is capable of detecting the occupancy level of first
space 30.
[0050] Third sensor 120B may be positioned on and/or coupled to
floor 38 of environment 10. Specifically, third sensor 120B may be
coupled to floor 38 with first space 30, substantially adjacent,
aligned with, below and/or within proximity of window 12 included
within first space 30 of environment 10. Additionally, as shown in
FIG. 1, third sensor 120B may be positioned substantially below,
aligned with, and/or within proximity of first disinfecting light
fixture 102 of disinfecting light system 100. Third sensor 120B may
be configured as any suitable sensor capable of detecting an amount
of visible light (e.g., illuminating light 106, natural light) in
first space 30. In non-limiting examples, third sensor 120B of
control system 109 may include or be formed as a spectrometer, a
photodiode, a watt meter, or any other suitable sensor that may be
capable of sensing an amount of visible light (e.g., illuminating
light 106, natural light) within first space 30.
[0051] In a non-limiting example, third sensor 120B may be
configured as a daylight sensor that may sense an amount of natural
light 20 included within first space 30. The amount of natural
light 20 of first space 30, as sensed by third sensor 120B, may be
provided or transmitted to controller 110 to aid in controller's
regulation of disinfecting energy 108 generated by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting light system 100. As
discussed herein, controller 110 may receive the amount of natural
light 20 of first space 30 from third sensor 120B, along with a
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected amount of natural light 20 of first space 30.
Additionally, controller 110 may compare the measured amount of
disinfecting energy 108 of first space 30 (e.g., first sensor 112)
with the preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with
the amount of natural light 20 of first space 30 detected by third
sensor 120B, and may adjust the amount of disinfecting energy 108
provided to space 30 by adjusting the output of first disinfecting
light fixture 102.
[0052] Additionally, the amount of natural light 20 sensed by third
sensor 120B may also include a known, calculated, predetermined,
and/or measurable amount of natural disinfecting energy 40 (e.g.,
spectral energy of approximately 405 nm), which may be provided to
first space 30. In one non-limiting example, third sensor 120B of
control system 109 may be configured to measure an amount of
natural disinfecting energy 40 provided to first space 30 along
with natural light 20. In another non-limiting example, the amount
of natural disinfecting energy 40 from natural light 20 may be
calculated or determined based on a variety of factors including,
but not limited to, the time of day, the date, the position of
first space 30 and/or window 12 (e.g., facing east), and
characteristics of window 12 (e.g., double-pane, blue light
blocker, tinted, and so on). In a non-limiting example, controller
110 of control system 109 may receive the measured amount of
natural disinfecting energy 40, or determine the amount of natural
disinfecting energy 40, provided to first space 30 via natural
light 20 sensed by third sensor 120B, and may adjust the amount of
disinfecting energy 108 provided to space 30 by adjusting the
output of first disinfecting light fixture 102.
[0053] In another non-limiting example, third sensor 120B may be
configured as a visible light sensor that may sense the amount of
illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102. In the non-limiting example, the
amount of illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 by
first disinfecting light fixture 102, and sensed by third sensor
120B, may be provided or transmitted to controller 110 to aid in
the controller's regulation of illuminating light 106 generated by
first disinfecting light fixture 102. As discussed herein,
controller 110 may receive the amount of illuminating light 106 of
first space 30 from third sensor 120B, along with a preferred
amount of illuminating light associated with first space 30. The
preferred amount of illuminating light may be based on sensed or
measured characteristics of first space 30 (e.g., occupancy level,
amount of natural light 20, task(s), and so on), characteristics
and/or properties of first space 30, and/or predetermined
information (e.g., scheduled outputs) for first space 30.
Additionally, controller 110 may compare the measured amount of
illuminating light 106 of first space 30 with the preferred amount
of illuminating light for first space 30, and may adjust the amount
of illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 by adjusting
the output of first disinfecting light fixture 102.
[0054] In an additional non-limiting example, third sensor 120B may
be configured as a visible light sensor that may sense a total
amount of visible light (e.g., combination or sum of illuminating
light 106 and natural light 20) within first space 30, as well as
sense natural light 20 provided to first space 30, as discussed
herein. In this non-limiting example, third sensor 120B may provide
the total amount of visible light and natural light 20 provided to
first space 30, and sensed by third sensor 120B, to controller 110.
In the non-limiting example, controller 110 may analyze and/or
compare the total amount of visible light and natural light 20
provided to first space 30 to determine the amount of illuminating
light 106 provided to first space 30 by first disinfecting light
fixture 102. Controller 110 may then compare the determined amount
of illuminating light 106 of first space 30 with a preferred amount
of illuminating light for first space 30, and may adjust the amount
of illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 by adjusting
the output of first disinfecting light fixture 102. Although shown
as being positioned on floor 38 of first space 30, it is understood
that third sensor 120B may be positioned anywhere within first
space 30 so long as third sensor 120B is capable of sensing the
amount of natural light 20 for first space 30.
[0055] As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1, third sensor
120C of control system 109 may be positioned within first space 30
of environment 10. Specifically, third sensor 120C may be coupled
to door 22 within first space 30. Third sensor 120C may be
configured as any suitable sensor capable of identifying at least
one task being carried out in first space 30. That is, third sensor
120C may be a task-identifying sensor that may detect, sense,
and/or identify task(s) being carried out and/or performed within
first space 30 of environment 10. The identified task being carried
out and/or performed within the first space 30 may require a
predetermined or preferred amount of illuminating light 106 and/or
disinfecting energy 108 to be provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 when performing the task. In
non-limiting examples, third sensor 120C of control system 109 may
include or be formed as a camera sensor (e.g., image processing
with camera based sensors) and/or a scanner sensor that may detect
certain work pieces and/or users associated with a predetermined
task are positioned or located within first space 30. Additionally
in another non-limiting, third sensor 120C may be formed as a
component-detection sensor, which may be configured to identify
when an object, and/or item (e.g., microscope (not shown)) of first
space 30 that is associated with and/or used specifically for a
certain task is being utilized within first space 30.
[0056] Controller 110 may identify that a task(s) is being carried
out in first space 30, via third sensor 120C, and may adjust the
amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided to space 30 by adjusting
the output of first disinfecting light fixture 102. That is,
controller 110 may receive the task(s) being carried out in first
space 30, as identified by third sensor 120C, along with a
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
identified task being carried out in first space 30. Additionally,
controller 110 may compare the measured amount of disinfecting
energy 108 of first space 30 (e.g., first sensor 112) with the
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
identified task(s) of first space 30, identified by third sensor
120C, and may adjust the amount of disinfecting energy 108 to space
30 by adjusting the output by first disinfecting light fixture
102.
[0057] Furthermore, and similar to the preferred amount of
disinfecting light, controller 110 may adjust the amount of
illuminating light 106 provided to space 30 by adjusting the output
of first disinfecting light fixture 102 based on the preferred
amount of illuminating light that may be associated with the
detected, task(s) being carried out in first space 30. That is, a
preferred amount of illuminating light for and/or to be provided to
first space 30 may be associated with the task(s) to be performed
in first space 30, and detected by third sensor 102C. Additionally,
controller 110 may compare a measured amount of illuminating light
106 provided to first space 30 (e.g., third sensor 120B,
disinfecting light fixture) with the preferred amount of
illuminating light associated with the detected task(s) for first
space 30, and may adjust the amount of illuminating light 106
provided to space 30 by adjusting the output of first disinfecting
light fixture 102. Although shown as being coupled to door 24
within first space 30 of environment 10, it is understood that
third sensor 120C may be positioned anywhere within first space 30
so long as third sensor 120C is capable of that a task(s) is being
carried out within first space 30.
[0058] The number of sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C included
within control system 109 for first space 30, as shown in the
non-limiting example of FIG. 1, is understood to be illustrative.
As such, although control system 109 of disinfecting light system
100 is shown to include five sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C
within first space 30, it is understood that control system 109 may
include more or less sensors for providing data and/or information
to controller 110 (see, FIGS. 8-13). Additionally, although first
space 30 is shown to include five sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B,
120C, it is understood that controller 110 may adjust the amount of
illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 provided to
space 30 by adjusting the output of first disinfecting light
fixture 102 based on only a portion of the five sensors 112, 118,
120A, 120B, 120C. In one non-limiting example, control system 109
may include first sensor 112 and one or more third sensors 120A,
120B, 120C. In another non-limiting example, control system 109 may
include first sensor 112 and second sensor 118. In an additional
non-limiting example, control system 109 may include second sensor
118 and one or more third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C.
[0059] Furthermore, although discussed herein as being positioned
and/or included within space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10, it is
understood that some of sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C may be
positioned outside of space(s) 30, 32, when applicable.
Additionally where sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C are
positioned outside of space(s) 30, 32, control system 109 may
utilize additional components to aid in the measuring, sensing,
and/or detected of characteristics relating to space(s) 30, 32, as
discussed herein. For example, and as discussed in detail herein
with respect to FIG. 8, third sensor 120A configured to detect an
occupancy level of space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10 may be
configured as a video surveillance system that may monitor activity
within space(s) 30, 32, and may be utilized to provide data to
third sensor 120A regarding the occupancy level, which in turn may
be provided to controller 110 of control system 109, as similarly
discussed herein.
[0060] Additionally, although discussed herein as sensors 112, 118,
120A, 120B, 120C providing or transmitting data and/or information
relating to disinfecting light system 100 and/or space(s) 30, 32 to
controller 110, it is understood that some of the data may be
provided from distinct components within disinfecting light system
100. For example, and as discussed in detail herein with respect to
FIG. 8, data and/or information relating to an amount of
illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 provided to
first space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture 102 may be
provided to controller 110 by first disinfecting light fixture 102
of disinfecting light system 100.
[0061] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 1, control system
109 of disinfecting light system 100 may also include at least one
access control component 126. As shown in FIG. 1, access control
component 126 may be positioned within first space 30 of
environment 10. Specifically, access control component 126 may be
positioned on wall 42, adjacent door 22, within first space 30.
Access control component 126 may be operably coupled to and/or in
communication with controller 110 for providing data, information,
and/or input to controller for controlling the operation of
disinfecting light fixture(s) 102 and more specifically, regulating
illuminating light 106 and disinfecting energy 108 provided to
first space 30 of environment 10. For example, access control
component 126 may provide an override selector or option that may
be configured to temporarily permit switching controller 110 off
and/or suspending the operational processes performed by controller
110 of control system 109. In this non-limiting example, a user(s)
may utilize access control component 126 to manually adjust the
operation of controller 110 for controlling illuminating light 106
and/or disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102, independent of the data provided to
controller 110 by sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C. As discussed
herein, overriding the operation of controller 110 may result in
first disinfecting light fixture 102 maintaining a continuous
disinfecting energy 108 within first space 30, or alternatively,
maintaining an average disinfection level or amount of disinfecting
energy 108 in first space 30 at a minimum level. The continuous
disinfecting energy 108 or average disinfection level of
disinfecting energy 108 may be maintained despite changes in first
space 30 objects or items (e.g., moving chair 24), changes in first
space 30 characteristics (e.g., changing wall 18 paint
reflectivity, opening/closing curtains on window 12), and/or
detected and/or sensed data (e.g., change in bacterial load sensed
by second sensor 118, occupancy level detected by third sensor
120A).
[0062] In another non-limiting example, access control component
126 may provide a user(s) located in first space 30 the option to
manually input a predetermined task to be carried out within first
space 30. In this non-limiting example, third sensor 120C may not
be included within first space 30, or alternatively, third sensor
120C may not be able to detect the task to be carried out in first
space 30 due to circumstances surrounding the task; for example, a
workpiece for the task is not yet within first space 30, or first
space 30 needs to have a detected amount of disinfecting energy 108
before a workpiece is brought into first space 30 for the task. As
such, when a user(s) manually enters a task using access control
component 126, the operation of controller 110 for controlling
illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 provided to
first space 30 by disinfecting light system 102 may be adjusted
independent of the data provided to controller 110 by third sensors
120C. That is, user(s) may manually adjust illuminating light 106
and/or disinfecting energy 108 using access control component 126,
based on a detected or identified task(s) to be performed with
first space 30, independent of the data obtained, sensed, measured,
and/or detected by the sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C of
control system 109, as discussed herein.
[0063] In an additional non-limiting example, access control
component 126 may include a security access system to allow users
access to first space 30 of environment 10. In the non-limiting
example, a code associated with a user(s), such as an input code or
keycard, may be input, detected, and/or registered with access
control component 126, and may provide information, data and/or
input from access control component 126 to controller 110 relating
to first space 30. For example, when a user inputs their code in
access control component 126, access control component 126 may
provide information or data relating to an occupancy level of first
space 30 based on the user's accessing first space 30 to controller
110. In another example, user(s) may be associated with a specific
task to be performed within first space 30. As discussed herein,
the specific task associated with the user to be performed in the
first space 30 may require a predetermined amount of illuminating
light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 to be provided to first
space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture 102 when performing
the task. As such, when user inputs their code in or provides an
access key to access control component 126, access control
component 126 may provide the user information and/or data to
controller 110, which may include the specific task associated with
the user, and controller 110 may adjust illuminating light 106
and/or disinfecting energy 108 accordingly, as discussed
herein.
[0064] In a further non-limiting example, access control component
126 may include and/or be formed as an operational schedule system
for first space 30 of environment 10. More specifically, access
control component 126 may include and/or be formed as an
operational schedule system and/or a system capable of providing a
predetermined, operational schedule to controller 110 for
controlling the operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102
and/or adjusting illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy
108 provided to first space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture
102. The predetermined, operational schedule provided to controller
110 from access control component 126 may be defined or created by
a user(s) and/or operator of disinfecting light system 100 (e.g.,
building owner or maintenance person for the building include the
room forming environment 10).
[0065] Additionally, the predetermined operational schedule, which
determines how controller 110 adjusts illuminating light 106 and/or
disinfecting energy 108 to be provided to first space 30, may be
based on a plurality of data, factors, information, and/or
operational scenarios surrounding the operation of disinfecting
light system 100. For example, the predetermined operational
schedule provided to controller 110 may be defined and/or created
based on schedule data which includes a time of day and/or a day in
a week. That is, controller 110 may adjust illuminating light 106
and/or disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 based on the time of day (e.g., day
vs. night), and/or the day in the week (e.g., weekday vs. weekend).
The schedule data, information, and/or operational scenarios for
the predetermined operational scheduled may also include
associated, scheduled amounts of disinfecting energy to be provided
to first space 30. The scheduled amounts of disinfecting energy to
be provided to first space 30 may include, for example, a minimum
operational dosage or output of disinfecting energy 108 to be
provided to first space 30, and/or an average amount of
disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., daily joule dosage, 6 joules per
day) to be maintained over a predetermined period of time. For
example, during evening hours (e.g., 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM) or on
weekends when user(s) are not located in first space 30, as
established by the predetermined operational schedule provided by
access control component 126, controller 110 may control first
disinfecting light fixture 102 such that first disinfecting light
fixture 102 does not emit, or alternatively emits a low dosage or
lumen output (e.g., 10% brightness) of illuminating light 106.
Additionally in the non-limiting example, controller 110 may
control first disinfecting light fixture 102 such that output from
first disinfecting light fixture 102 is made up and/or includes a
minimal percentage of illuminating light 106 (e.g., disinfecting
light fixture 102 output=approximately 10% illuminating light 106).
The output of illuminating light 106 may be minimal when compared
to a total or combined amount of output (e.g., illuminating light
106 and disinfecting energy 108) from first disinfecting light
fixture 102. Furthermore in this non-limiting example, and based on
the predetermined operational schedule provided by access control
component 126, controller 110 may control first disinfecting light
fixture 102 such that first disinfecting light fixture 102 emits a
maximum operational dosage and/or output (e.g., 100% intensity) or
a high operational intensity (e.g., between approximately 75% to
approximately 90% intensity) disinfecting energy 108 (e.g.,
scheduled amount of disinfecting energy). In other non-limiting
examples, controller 110 may control first disinfecting light
fixture 102 such that first disinfecting light fixture 102 emits a
smaller, predetermined operational intensity (e.g., between
approximately 10% to approximately 40% intensity) of disinfecting
energy 108. In either non-limiting example above, and regardless of
the operational intensity of disinfecting energy 108, controller
110 may control first disinfecting light fixture 102 such that
output from first disinfecting light fixture 102 is made up and/or
includes the remaining percentage of disinfecting energy 108. That
is, where controller 110 adjusts the output of illuminating light
106 to be minimal (e.g., disinfecting light fixture 102
output=approximately 10% illuminating light 106), controller 110
may control first disinfecting light fixture 102 such that output
from first disinfecting light fixture 102 is made up and/or
includes the remaining percentage of disinfecting energy 108 (e.g.,
disinfecting light fixture 102 output=approximately 90%
disinfecting energy 108).
[0066] Additionally in this example, controller 110 may adjust
illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 based on the
predetermined operational schedule provided by access control
component 126 to maintain appropriate illuminating light 106 when
first space 30 is in use, and maintain a minimum dosage of
disinfecting energy 108 with first space 30 (e.g., at night when
first space 30 is not being used) (e.g., scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy). Furthermore, by adjusting the amount of
disinfecting energy 108 when first space 30 is not occupied, an
average amount of disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., daily joule
dosage, 6 joules per day) can be maintained over a predetermined
period of time while also maintaining illuminating light 106 as
needed for use of first space 30 (e.g., scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy). Continuing the example above, controller 110
may control first disinfecting light fixture 102 during evening
hours such that first disinfecting light fixture 102 emits a
predetermined amount of disinfecting energy 108 at a specific
intensity during the evening hours to maintain a minimum dosage of
disinfecting energy 108 in first space 30. In the non-limiting
example, controller 110 may control first disinfecting light
fixture 102 to emit disinfecting energy 108 at a minimum of 10%
operational dosage intensity during the evening hours.
Additionally, or alternatively, controller 110 may control first
disinfecting light fixture 102 during evening hours such that first
disinfecting light fixture 102 emits a predetermined amount
disinfecting energy 108 at a specific or determined intensity
during the evening hours to maintain an amount of disinfecting
energy 108 over the predetermined amount of time. For example, the
amount of disinfecting energy 108 over the predetermined amount of
time is 6 joules per day. Additionally in the example, it may be
determined that during 18-usage hours for first space 30, first
disinfecting light fixture 102 may emit disinfecting energy 108 at
a 10% intensity to generate 3 joules of energy. As a result, and in
order to maintain the amount of disinfecting energy 108 over the
predetermined amount of time (e.g., 6 joules per day) for first
space 30, controller 110 may control first disinfecting light
fixture 102 to emit disinfecting energy 108 at a determined
intensity over the next or remaining 6 hours to meet the amount of
disinfecting energy 108 over the predetermined amount of time. That
is, controller 110 may control first disinfecting light fixture 102
to adjust the disinfecting energy 108, and specifically the
intensity of disinfecting energy 108 emitted to first space 30,
over the remaining 6 hours to ensure first space 30 receives 6
joules of energy within the day (e.g., amount of disinfecting
energy 108 over the predetermined amount of time). Since a 10%
operational intensity of disinfecting energy 108 over 18 hours
resulted in 3 joules of energy being provided to first space 30,
controller 110 may adjust the intensity of disinfecting energy 108
to approximately 30% operational intensity during the remaining 6
hours of the day to ensure first space 30 receives 6 joules of
energy within a day.
[0067] Although discussed in the example above as averaging the
operational intensity of the disinfecting energy 108 to meet the
amount of disinfecting energy 108 over the predetermined amount of
time (e.g., 10% for 18 hours+30% for 6 hours=6 joules per day),
controller 110 may also stagger the intensity to account for
potential or possible interruptions to the first space 30 and/or
first disinfecting light fixture 102. That is, in another
non-limiting example, controller 110 may control or adjust the
operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102 to meet the
amount of disinfecting energy 108 over the predetermined amount of
time before the predetermined amount of time has expired or past.
Continuing the example above, the amount of disinfecting energy 108
over the predetermined amount of time is 6 joules per day, and it
may be determined that during 18-usage hours for first space 30,
first disinfecting light fixture 102 may emit disinfecting energy
108 at a 10% intensity to generate 3 joules of energy. Rather than
providing the remaining disinfecting energy 108 at a determined
intensity over the remaining 6 hours (e.g., 30% intensity over 6
hours) to meet the amount of disinfecting energy 108 over the
predetermined amount of time, controller 110 may control or adjust
the operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102 over a
shorter period of time. For example, controller 110 may adjust the
intensity of disinfecting energy 108 to approximately 60%
operational intensity during 3 hours of the remaining 6 hours of
the day to ensure first space 30 receives 6 joules of energy within
a day. In this non-limiting example, controller 110 may adjust or
control the operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102 such
that first disinfecting light fixture 102 emits disinfecting energy
108 at approximately 60% operational intensity for 3 hours, and
approximately 0% operational intensity (e.g., no emitted
disinfecting energy 108) for the distinct 3 hours. Adjusting the
operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102 in this manner
may provide a fail-safe for meeting the amount of disinfecting
energy 108 over the predetermined amount of time, and/or may
compensate for unscheduled or unplanned interruptions to first
space 30 which may require a change in the operation of first
disinfecting light fixture 102 (e.g., janitor enters the room,
unscheduled/emergency maintenance during evening hours).
Additionally, and as discussed herein, controller 110 may learn,
adapt, and/or adjust data relating to first space 30. As a result,
and in the non-limiting example discussed herein, controller 110
may anticipate and/or determine a probability or likeliness that
first space 30 may experience an unscheduled or unplanned
interruption over time. As such, it may be beneficial for
controller 110 to utilize the learned or anticipated information
relating to the probability or likeliness that first space 30 may
experience an unscheduled or unplanned interruption, and control
the operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102 in the
fail-safe manner discussed herein to meet the amount of
disinfecting energy 108 over the predetermined amount of time.
[0068] In another example, the predetermined operational schedule
provided to controller 110 may be defined and/or created based on
schedule data that includes the cost of electricity for operating
first disinfecting light fixture 102. As such, controller 110 may
adjust illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108
provided to first space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture 102
based on when electricity consumption for operating first
disinfecting light fixture is at its highest (e.g., peak hours) and
its lowest (e.g., off-peak hours). Controller 110 may control
operation and/or adjust first disinfecting light fixture 102 to
operate (e.g., provide disinfecting energy 108) at minimal power
consumption when the electricity costs the most (e.g., peak hours),
followed by increased operation (e.g., disinfecting energy 108)
when electricity costs the least (e.g., off-peak hours), to
maintain an average amount of disinfecting energy 108 (e.g., daily
joule dosage) within free space 30. Specifically, first
disinfecting light fixture 102 may consume, and/or require more
energy to provide disinfecting energy 108 than illuminating light
106. As such, and especially during peak hours, it may be more
costly to provide disinfecting energy 108 to first space 30 than
illuminating light 106. As such, and based on the predetermined
operational schedule including costs associated with electrical
consumption periods (e.g., peak hours, off hours), control 110 may
control operation and/or adjust first disinfecting light fixture
102 to provide the majority of disinfecting energy 108 during
off-peak hours. Continuing the example above, evening hours (e.g.,
10:00 PM to 4:00 AM) may be considered off-peak hours for
electrical consumption. As a result, control 110 may control first
disinfecting light fixture 102 to provide the majority of
disinfecting energy 108 during evening hours to not only meet
and/or maintain a minimum dosage of disinfecting energy 108 in
first space 30, but also to meet and/or maintain an average amount
of disinfecting energy 108 over the predetermined amount of time.
This in turn may regulate disinfecting energy 108 provided to space
30, while also reducing the cost for operating disinfecting light
system 100, as discussed herein.
[0069] Although discussed herein as adjusting the operation of
first disinfecting light fixture 102 based on data and/or
information determined by each sensor 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C
and/or access control component 126, it is understood that
controller 110 of control system 109 may adjust the operation of
first disinfecting light fixture 102 based on a variety or
plurality of data and/or information. In the non-limiting example
shown in FIG. 1, and as similarly discussed herein, controller 110
may receive and process the measured amount of disinfecting energy
108 from first sensor 112 and a corresponding disinfecting energy
threshold, and the bacterial load for first space 30 sensed by
second sensor 118 and a corresponding bacterial load threshold.
Additionally, controller 110 may receive and process environmental
characteristic(s) (e.g., occupancy level, visible light, task(s),
and so on) detected by third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C and a
corresponding preferred amount of disinfecting energy for each of
the detected environmental characteristic(s). Furthermore,
controller 110 may receive and process schedule data and scheduled
amount of disinfecting energy associated with the schedule data
from access control component 126. Once controller 110 receives the
data and/or information from a plurality of sensors 112, 118, 120A,
120B, 120C and/or access control component 126, controller 110 may
analyze, and/or prioritize all of the data and/or information prior
to adjusting the operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102,
as discussed herein. That is, controller 110 may prioritize the
data and/or information based on the type of data and/or
information received and/or the type of sensors 112, 118, 120A,
120B, 120C, and/or access control component 126 included within
first space 30, and then may compare the prioritized data. For
example, controller 110 may prioritize the sensed bacterial load
and corresponding bacterial load threshold (e.g., second sensor
118) over or above the measured amount of disinfecting energy and
disinfecting energy threshold (e.g., first sensor 112),
environmental characteristic(s) and corresponding preferred amount
of disinfecting energy (e.g., third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C),
and/or schedule data and the scheduled amount of disinfecting
energy (e.g., access control component 126). In the non-limiting
example where controller 110 receives the plurality of data from
sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, and/or access control component
126, and prioritizes the data relating to the bacterial load sensed
by second sensor 118 and the corresponding bacterial load
threshold, controller 110 may adjust the operation of, and more
specifically the amount of disinfecting energy 108 emitted by,
first disinfecting light fixture 102 based solely on the sensed
bacterial load and the bacterial load threshold, as discussed
herein.
[0070] Additionally, or alternatively, once controller 110
prioritizes the data and/or information from a plurality of sensors
112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C and/or access control component 126,
controller 110 may compare the data and/or information. In a
non-limiting example, the prioritized bacterial load threshold, and
specifically the predetermined, preferred, or required disinfecting
energy associated with the bacterial load threshold (e.g., second
sensor 118), may be compared to the disinfecting energy threshold
(e.g., first sensor 112), the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the environmental characteristic(s) (e.g.,
third sensor 120A, 120B, 120C), and/or the scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the schedule data (e.g., access
control component 126). In comparing the plurality of data and/or
information, controller 110 may determine how to adjust the
operation, and more specifically adjust disinfecting energy 108, of
first disinfecting light fixture 102. For example, the
predetermined, preferred, or required disinfecting energy
associated with the prioritized bacterial load threshold may be
greater than the disinfecting energy threshold, the preferred
amount of disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic(s), and/or the scheduled amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the schedule data. In this non-limiting
example, controller 110 may adjust disinfecting energy 108 provided
to first space 30 by first disinfecting light fixture 102 to equal
and/or meet the predetermined, preferred, or required disinfecting
energy associated with the prioritized bacterial load threshold. By
adjusting disinfecting energy 108 emitted by first disinfecting
light fixture 102 to equal and/or meet the predetermined,
preferred, or required disinfecting energy associated with the
prioritized bacterial load threshold, which may be greater than the
remaining disinfecting energies associated with the received data
and/or information, it may ensure that the other disinfecting
energy 108 requirements are also met.
[0071] In another non-limiting example, the predetermined,
preferred, or required disinfecting energy associated with the
prioritized bacterial load threshold may be less than the
disinfecting energy threshold, the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the environmental characteristic(s), and/or
the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
schedule data. In this non-limiting example, controller 110 may
adjust disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 to equal and/or meet the
predetermined, preferred, or required disinfecting energy
associated with the prioritized bacterial load threshold regardless
of the other, greater disinfecting energies associated with the
received data and/or information. Alternatively, controller 110 may
adjust disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 to equal and/or meet the
disinfecting energy threshold, the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the environmental characteristic(s), and/or
the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
schedule data, rather than the disinfecting energy associated with
the prioritized bacterial load threshold. Controller 110 may do
this, even though the disinfecting energy associated with the
prioritized bacterial load threshold is prioritized over the other
associated disinfecting energies. By adjusting disinfecting energy
108 emitted by first disinfecting light fixture 102 to equal and/or
meet the disinfecting energy threshold, the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic(s), and/or the scheduled amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the schedule data, it may ensure that both
the disinfecting energy associated with the prioritized bacterial
load threshold, as well as at least one additional, associated
disinfecting energy is met.
[0072] Although discussed herein as being prioritized, and
consequently adjusted, based on the bacterial load and associated
disinfecting energy, it is understood that controller 110 may also
consider additional information when prioritizing data and/or
information for disinfecting light system 100. For example, in
addition to prioritizing the data and/or information based on
bacterial load and associated disinfecting energy, controller 110
may also consider energy consumption and/or cost associated with
electrical consumption periods when prioritizing the data and/or
information. In another non-limiting example, controller 110 may
also consider illumination quality and/or lumen output by first
disinfecting light fixture 102, in addition to bacterial load and
associated disinfecting energy, when prioritizing the data and/or
information received by controller 110 relating to disinfecting
light system 100.
[0073] Furthermore, controller 110 configured to control and/or
adjust the operation of first disinfecting light fixture 102 (e.g.,
adjust illuminating light 106, disinfecting energy 108) may also be
configured to store past data and/or information relating to first
space 30, sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, and/or access control
component 126. Specifically, controller 110 may store past data,
learn/adapt/compare past data, and adjust data relating to first
space 30 based on the learned/adapted/compared past data. For
example, and as discussed herein, controller 110 may utilize the
learned or anticipated information relating to the probability or
likeliness that first space 30 may experience an unscheduled or
unplanned interruption, and may control the operation of first
disinfecting light fixture 102 in the fail-safe manner discussed
herein to meet the amount of disinfecting energy 108 over the
predetermined amount of time. In another non-limiting example,
controller 110 over time may identify or learn that a previously
identified task by third sensor 120C may require more disinfecting
energy 108 than the preferred amount of disinfecting energy
originally associated with the identified task. Controller 110 may
learn this over time by constantly determining that when the task
is identified and the disinfecting energy 108 of first disinfecting
light fixture 102 is adjusted to the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the identified task, the sensed
bacterial load is still above the bacterial load threshold.
Alternatively, controller 110 may learn that the preferred amount
of disinfecting energy originally associated with the identified
task is inadequate as a result of the user(s) performing the
identified task in first space 30 consistently adjusting (e.g.,
increasing) the amount of disinfecting energy 108 using access
control component 126. In non-limiting examples, controller 110 may
learn, as discussed herein, using various feedback loop
possibilities including, but not limited to, proportional control
algorithms, or a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) feedback
loop.
[0074] Although discussed herein with respect to first space 30,
and the sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C of control system 109
positioned within first space 30, it is understood that the
components of disinfecting light system 100 may function and/or
operate substantially similar within second space 32. That is, and
as shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1, second space 32 may
include second disinfecting light fixture 104 which may be
configured to provide illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting
energy 108 to second space 32, and more specifically workstation 26
included within second space 32. Additionally, second disinfecting
light fixture 104 may be operably coupled to controller 110 of
control system 109. As similarly discussed herein with respect to
first disinfecting light fixture 102 and first space 30, controller
110 may receive data from fourth sensor 122 and fifth sensor 124
included within second space 32 (e.g., positioned on workstation
26), and adjust illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy
108 provided to second space 32 by second disinfecting light
fixture 104. Fourth sensor 122 and fifth sensor 124 positioned
within second space 32 may be substantially similar to first sensor
112 and second sensor 118, respectively, positioned within first
space 30. That is, fourth sensor 122 may be any suitable sensor
capable of measuring an amount of disinfecting energy 108 provided
to second space 32 by second disinfecting light fixture 104 of
disinfecting light system 100. Additionally, fifth sensor 124 may
be any suitable sensor capable of sensing bacterial load,
bioburden, and/or microbial load within second space 32 of
environment 10. Redundant explanation of these components has been
omitted for clarity.
[0075] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 1, second space 32
may not include any third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C configured as
environmental characteristic sensors, and/or may be sensors
configured to measure or detect environmental characteristics of
second space 32 of environment 10. However, because second space 32
is included within first space 30, controller 110, configured to
adjust illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108
provided to second space 32 by second disinfecting light fixture
104, may utilize environmental characteristic data measured,
obtained, sensed, and/or identified by third sensors 120A, 120B,
120C positioned within first space 30. That is, the information
obtained by third sensors 120A, 120B, 120C and provided to
controller 110 for adjusting illuminating light 106 and/or
disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 may also be utilized to by
controller 110 to adjust illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting
energy 108 provided to second space 32 by second disinfecting light
fixture 104. This may be because environmental characteristics that
apply to first space 30 (e.g., occupancy level) may also affect
and/or be the same for second space 32. In another non-limiting
example (not shown), second space 32 may include at least one
additional sixth sensor that is substantially similar to third
sensors 120A, 120B, 120C of first space 30. That is, the sixth
sensor(s) included within second space 32 may be configured as
environmental characteristic sensors, and/or may be sensors
configured to measure or detect environmental characteristics of
second space 32 of environment 10.
[0076] FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram illustrating non-limiting
example processes of regulating disinfecting energy 108 generated
by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32 of
environment 10. These processes can be performed, e.g., by at least
one controller 110 of control system 109 for disinfecting light
system 100 (see, FIG. 1), as described herein. In other cases,
these processes can be performed according to a
computer-implemented method of regulating disinfecting energy 108
generated by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32
of environment 10. In still other embodiments, these processes can
be performed by executing computer program code on a computing
device(s), causing the computing device(s), and specifically
controller 110, to regulate disinfecting energy 108 generated by a
disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32 of environment
10. The processes shown in the flow diagram of FIG. 2 are discussed
in detail below.
[0077] In process P1, an amount of disinfecting energy in a space
of an environment may be measured. Specifically, an amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space of the environment by a
disinfecting light fixture of a disinfecting light system may be
measured, sensed, detected and/or determined. The measured amount
of energy provided to the space of the environment by the
disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting light system may be
measured by at least one sensor positioned within the space
receiving the disinfecting energy. In another non-limiting example,
the measured amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space of
the environment by the disinfecting light fixture of the
disinfecting light system may be measured, sensed, provided, and/or
determined by the disinfecting light fixture itself. That is, the
disinfecting light fixture may sense, provide, and/or determine the
amount of disinfecting energy it emits or provides to the
space.
[0078] In process P2, the measured amount of disinfecting energy
provided to the space of the environment may be compared to a
predetermined disinfecting energy threshold to determine if the
measured amount of disinfecting energy meets the disinfecting
energy threshold. Specifically, it may be determined if the
measured amount of disinfecting energy, provided to the space by
the disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting light system and
measured or determined (e.g., sensor(s), disinfecting light
fixture) within the space, meets the disinfecting energy threshold.
The predetermined disinfecting energy threshold may be a
predetermined or desired amount, level, minimum, and/or range of
disinfecting energy to be provided to the space. That is, the
predetermined disinfecting energy threshold may be based on
maintaining the predetermined or desired amount, level, minimum,
and/or range of disinfecting energy to be provided to the space.
The predetermined or desired amount, level, minimum, and/or range
of disinfecting energy to be provided to the space may be an
instant or real-time desired amount of disinfecting energy, or
alternatively, may be a desired amount of disinfecting energy
provided over a predetermined period of time (e.g., daily dosage).
In another non-limiting example, the predetermined disinfecting
energy threshold may be configured to maintain a predetermined
average disinfection amount, level and/or range of the disinfecting
energy provided to space over a predetermined time.
[0079] In a non-limiting example, the measured amount of
disinfecting energy meets the disinfecting energy threshold when it
is equal to or within the range of the desired, disinfecting energy
to be provided to the space. The controller of the control system
for the disinfecting light system may determine if the measured
amount of disinfecting energy meets the disinfecting energy
threshold. If it is determined that the measured amount of
disinfecting energy does not meet the disinfecting energy threshold
(e.g., "NO" at process P2), the processes may proceed to process
P3. Conversely, if it is determined that the measured amount of
disinfecting energy does meet the disinfecting energy threshold
(e.g., "YES" at process P2), the processes may proceed to process
P4.
[0080] In response to determining the measured amount of
disinfecting energy does not meet the disinfecting energy threshold
(e.g., "NO" at process P2), the amount of disinfecting energy in
the space may be adjusted in process P3. That is, in process P3,
the amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting light system may be
adjusted, changed, and/or altered. The amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space may be adjusted by altering the
operation of the disinfecting light fixture to one of increase or
decrease the amount of disinfecting energy generated by the
disinfecting light fixture and provided to the space. In a
non-limiting example, the controller of the control system for the
disinfecting light system may be operably coupled to the
disinfecting light fixture and may be configured to control the
operation of disinfecting light fixture to adjust (e.g., increase,
decrease) the amount of disinfecting energy generated by the
disinfecting light fixture. The controller of the control system
may adjust the amount of disinfecting energy generated by the
disinfecting light fixture independent of the amount of
illuminating light provided to the space by the disinfecting light
fixture. That is, the amount of disinfecting energy generated by
the disinfecting light fixture may be adjusted, while the amount of
illuminating light provided to the space by the disinfecting light
fixture remains substantially the same. The amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space may be adjusted by the controller of
the control system to maintain a predetermined or desired amount,
level, minimum, and/or range of disinfecting energy to be provided
to the space over a predetermined period of time. Additionally, or
alternatively, adjusting the amount of disinfecting energy provided
to the space may include maintaining a predetermined average
disinfection amount, level, and/or range of the disinfecting energy
provided to space over a predetermined time. Furthermore, the
amount of disinfecting energy generated by the disinfecting light
fixture can be altered or adjusted by increasing or decreasing the
brightness or dynamically changing the violet content of the
illuminating light provided to the space by the disinfecting light
fixture. That is, in another non-limiting example, the amount of
disinfecting energy generated by the disinfecting light fixture may
be adjusted by adjusting and/or changing the amount of illuminating
light generated by the disinfecting light fixture.
[0081] In a non-limiting example where the measured amount of
disinfecting energy is less than the disinfecting energy threshold,
the controller may increase the amount of disinfecting energy
provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture until the
measured amount of disinfecting energy meets the disinfecting
energy threshold. Additionally in a non-limiting example where the
measured amount of disinfecting energy is greater than the
disinfecting energy threshold, the controller may decrease or
maintain the amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by
the disinfecting light fixture until the measured amount of
disinfecting energy meets the disinfecting energy threshold.
Alternatively in the non-limiting example where the measured amount
of disinfecting energy is greater than the disinfecting energy
threshold, the controller may stop the disinfecting light fixture
from generating and providing disinfecting energy to the space
until the measured amount of disinfecting energy meets the
disinfecting energy threshold. As discussed herein, the amount of
disinfecting energy generated by the disinfecting light fixture may
be adjusted and/or changed independent of the amount of
illuminating light provided to the space by the disinfecting light
fixture.
[0082] In response to determining the measured amount of
disinfecting energy meets the disinfecting energy threshold (e.g.,
"YES" at process P2), a bacterial load of the space may be sensed
in process P4. Specifically, a bacterial load of the space of the
environment may be sensed, measured, detected, and/or determined.
The sensed bacterial load of the space of the environment may be
sensed and/or detected by at least one sensor positioned within the
space. In another non-limiting example, the sensed bacterial load
of the space of the environment may be determined and/or calculated
using a correlated measurement.
[0083] In process P5, the sensed bacterial load of the space may be
compared to a bacterial load threshold to determine if the sensed
bacterial load meets the bacterial load threshold. Specifically, it
may be determined if the sensed bacterial load for the space, as
detected or sensed by the sensor(s) within the space, meets the
predetermined bacterial load threshold. The predetermined,
bacterial load threshold may be a predetermined or desired amount,
level, maximum, and/or range for an acceptable bacterial load of
the space. That is, the predetermined bacterial load threshold for
the space may be based on maintaining the predetermined or desired
amount, level, maximum, and/or range of bacterial load within the
space. In another non-limiting example, the predetermined bacterial
threshold may be based on maintaining a predetermined average
bacterial load amount, level, and/or range of the space over a
predetermined time.
[0084] In a non-limiting example, the sensed bacterial load meets
the predetermined bacterial load threshold when it is equal to or
within the range of the desired, bacterial load for the space. The
controller of the control system for the disinfecting light system
may determine if the sensed bacterial load meets the bacterial load
threshold. If it is determined that the sensed bacterial load does
not meet the bacterial load threshold (e.g., "NO" at process P5),
the processes may proceed to process P3. Conversely, if it is
determined that the sensed bacterial load does meet the bacterial
load threshold (e.g., "YES" at process P5), the processes may
proceed to process P6.
[0085] In response to determining the sensed bacterial load does
not meet the bacterial load threshold (e.g., "NO" at process P5),
the amount of disinfecting energy in the space may be adjusted in
process P3. That is, in process P3, the amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture of
the disinfecting light system may be adjusted, changed, and/or
altered. As similarly discussed herein, the controller of the
control system for the disinfecting light system may be operably
coupled to the disinfecting light fixture and may be configured to
control the operation of disinfecting light fixture to adjust
(e.g., increase, decrease) the amount of disinfecting energy
generated by the disinfecting light fixture and provided to the
space. As discussed herein, the disinfecting energy generated by
the disinfecting light fixture may alter, adjust, and/or control
the bacterial load, bioburden, and/or microbial load within the
space receiving the disinfecting energy. In a non-limiting example
where the sensed bacterial load is greater than the bacterial load
threshold, the controller may increase the amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture
until the sensed bacterial load meets the bacterial load threshold.
Additionally in a non-limiting example where the sensed bacterial
load is less than the bacterial load threshold, the controller may
decrease or maintain the amount of disinfecting energy provided to
the space by the disinfecting light fixture until the sensed
bacterial load meets the bacterial load threshold. Alternatively in
the non-limiting example where the sensed bacterial load is less
than the bacterial load threshold, the controller may stop the
disinfecting light fixture from generating the disinfecting energy
until the sensed bacterial load meets the bacterial load threshold.
The amount of disinfecting energy generated by the disinfecting
light fixture may be adjusted and/or changed independent of the
amount of illuminating light provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture.
[0086] In response to determining the sensed bacterial load meets
the bacterial load threshold (e.g., "YES" at process P5), an
environmental characteristic(s) of the space may be detected in
process P6. Specifically in process P6, an environmental
characteristic(s) related to and/or associated with the space
including the disinfecting light system may be detected. The
environmental characteristic(s) of the space may be sensed and/or
detected by at least one sensor positioned within the space. In
another non-limiting example, the environmental characteristic(s)
of the space may be sensed and/or detected by additional components
included within the environment and/or the control system
including, but not limited to, an access control component. In an
additional non-limiting example, the environmental
characteristic(s) of the space may be determined and/or provided by
a manual input provided by a user(s) of the space in the
environment. The detected environmental characteristic may include
and/or be based upon an occupancy level of the space (e.g., if the
space is occupied, the number of users that may occupy the space, a
change in user-occupancy for the space) being provided the
disinfecting energy by the disinfecting light fixture. In another
non-limiting example, the detected environmental characteristic may
include and/or be based upon an amount of natural light in the
space, and/or a predetermined amount of natural disinfecting energy
associated with and/or included within or provided with the natural
light. In an additional non-limiting example, the detected
environmental characteristic may include and/or be based upon at
least one task being carried out in the space.
[0087] In addition to detecting the environmental characteristic(s)
in process P6, a preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated
with the detected environmental characteristic(s) may be
identified. That is, detecting the environmental characteristic(s)
in process P6 may also include identifying a preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with detected environmental
characteristics that may be provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting light system. The
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected environmental characteristic(s) may be predefined and/or
predetermined based on the environmental characteristic(s) and/or
characteristics of the space provided the disinfecting energy. In
non-limiting examples, the preferred amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the detected environmental characteristic(s) may be
stored on the controller of the control system, or may be provided
to the controller from an external source (e.g., storage device),
such that when the detected environmental characteristic(s) is
provided to the controller of the control system, the preferred
amount of disinfecting energy associated with detected
environmental characteristics may also be provided to and/or
recognized by the controller.
[0088] The preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with
detected environmental characteristics may be based on, related to,
and/or associated with the space provided the disinfecting light.
For example, the preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated
with the detected occupancy level of the space may include various
preferred amounts of disinfecting energy based upon distinct
occupancy levels of the space. In another non-limiting example, the
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected natural light in the space and/or the amount of natural
disinfecting energy associated with the natural light, may include
various preferred amounts of disinfecting energy based upon the
amount of natural light and/or natural disinfecting energy in the
space. In an additional non-limiting example, the preferred amount
of disinfecting energy associated with the detected task carried
out in the space may include various preferred amounts of
disinfecting energy based upon various tasks being carried out in
the space.
[0089] In process P7, it may be determined if the measured amount
of disinfecting energy provided to the space by the disinfecting
light system meets the preferred amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the detected, environmental characteristic(s).
Specifically, it may be determined if the measured amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light
system (e.g., process P1) meets the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the detected, environmental
characteristic(s) (e.g., process P6). In a non-limiting example,
the measured amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by
the disinfecting light system meets the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the detected, environmental
characteristic(s) when it is equal to or within the range of the
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected, environmental characteristic. The controller of the
control system for the disinfecting light system may determine if
the measured amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by
the disinfecting light system meets the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the detected, environmental
characteristic(s). If it is determined that the measured amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space does not meet the
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected, environmental characteristic(s) (e.g., "NO" at process
P7), the processes may proceed to process P3. Conversely, if it is
determined that the measured amount of disinfecting energy provided
to the space does meet the preferred amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the detected, environmental characteristic(s)
(e.g., "YES" at process P7), the processes repeat and/or may
proceed back to process P1 and may begin again.
[0090] In response to determining the measured amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space does not meet the
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected, environmental characteristic(s) (e.g., "NO" at process
P6), the amount of disinfecting energy in the space may be adjusted
in process P3. That is, in process P3, the amount of disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture of
the disinfecting light system may be adjusted, changed, and/or
altered. The amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space
may be adjusted by altering the operation of the disinfecting light
fixture to one of increase or decrease the amount of disinfecting
energy generated by the disinfecting light fixture and provided to
the space. In a non-limiting example, the controller of the control
system for the disinfecting light system may be operably coupled to
the disinfecting light fixture and may be configured to control the
operation of disinfecting light fixture to adjust (e.g., increase,
decrease) the amount of disinfecting energy generated by the
disinfecting light fixture. In a non-limiting example where the
measured amount of disinfecting energy is less than the preferred
amount of disinfecting energy associated with the detected,
environmental characteristic(s) (e.g., occupancy level, natural
light, natural disinfecting energy, task(s)), the controller may
increase the amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by
the disinfecting light fixture until the measured amount of
disinfecting energy meets the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy. Additionally in a non-limiting example where the measured
amount of disinfecting energy is greater than the preferred amount
of disinfecting energy associated with the detected, environmental
characteristic(s) (e.g., occupancy level, natural light, natural
disinfecting energy, task(s)), the controller may decrease or
maintain the amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by
the disinfecting light fixture until the measured amount of
disinfecting energy meets the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy. Alternatively in the non-limiting example where the
measured amount of disinfecting energy is greater than the
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
detected, environmental characteristic(s), the controller may stop
the disinfecting light fixture from generating and providing
disinfecting energy to the space until the measured amount of
disinfecting energy meets the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy. The amount of disinfecting energy generated by the
disinfecting light fixture may be adjusted and/or changed
independent of the amount of illuminating light provided to the
space by the disinfecting light fixture.
[0091] Although shown in succession, it is understood that some of
the processes illustrated in FIG. 2 for regulating the disinfecting
energy generated by the disinfecting light system may be performed
concurrently. For example, processes P1 and P4 may be performed
concurrently, and subsequent processes P2 and P5 may also be
performed concurrently after performing processes P1 and P4.
Additionally, it is understood that the order in which at least
some of the processes of FIG. 2 for regulating the disinfecting
energy are performed is illustrative. As such, some of the
processes may be performed in a distinct order than that shown in
the non-limiting example of FIG. 2. For example, processes P4 and
P5 may be performed prior to performing processes P1 and P2.
Additionally, or alternatively, processes P6 and P7 may be
performed prior to performing processes P4 and P5.
[0092] Additionally, the processes for regulating the disinfecting
energy generated by the disinfecting light system may be performed
independent of the operation and/or adjustment of the illuminating
light generated by the disinfecting light system. That is,
regulating the disinfecting energy by adjusting the amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light
fixture may be performed independent of adjusting the amount of the
illuminating light. The controller of the control system may adjust
the amount of the illuminating light provided to space by the
disinfecting light fixture based on the preferred amount of
illuminating light that may be associated with the detected,
environmental characteristics of the space and/or manually provided
to the control system.
[0093] FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram illustrating additional
non-limiting example processes of regulating disinfecting energy
108 generated by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s)
30, 32 of environment 10. Specifically, FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram
illustrating processes P8 and P9, which may be performed with
process P1-P7 discussed herein with respect to FIG. 2. These
processes can be performed, e.g., by at least one controller 110 of
control system 109 for disinfecting light system 100 (see, FIG. 1),
as described herein. In other cases, these processes can be
performed according to a computer-implemented method of regulating
disinfecting energy 108 generated by a disinfecting light system
100 within space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10. In still other
embodiments, these processes can be performed by executing computer
program code on a computing device(s), causing the computing
device(s), and specifically controller 110, to regulate
disinfecting energy 108 generated by a disinfecting light system
100 within space(s) 30, 32 of environment 10. The processes shown
in the flow diagram of FIG. 3 are discussed in detail below.
[0094] In response to the controller receiving and/or obtaining a
variety or plurality of data and/or information from various
sensors and/or components of the disinfecting light system,
additionally processes may be performed before adjusting the amount
of disinfecting energy provided to the space by the disinfecting
light fixture. Specifically, and continuing from the non-limiting
examples of processes P1-P7, the controller may receive and process
the measured amount of the disinfecting energy from the first
sensor, and the corresponding disinfecting energy threshold (e.g.,
processes P1 and P2), and the bacterial load for the space sensed
by the second sensor and a corresponding bacterial load threshold
(e.g., processes P4 and P5). Additionally, the controller may
receive and process environmental characteristic(s) (e.g.,
occupancy level, visible light, task(s), and so on) detected by
third sensor(s) and a corresponding preferred amount of
disinfecting energy for each of the detected environmental
characteristic(s). In this non-limiting example, and as shown in
FIG. 3, process P8 may be performed before adjusting the amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space in process P3.
[0095] In process P8, the variety or plurality of data and/or
information relating to the space may be prioritized. That is, the
variety or plurality of data and/or information from various
sensors and/or components of the disinfecting light system relating
to the space may be prioritized, ordered, weighted, arranged,
and/or ranked in process P8. In a non-limiting example, the
controller may prioritize the data and/or information based on the
type of data and/or information received and/or the type of
sensors, and/or the component(s) included within the space 30,
and/or by the importance of the data and/or information with
respect to the disinfecting light system. For example, the
controller may prioritize the sensed bacterial load and
corresponding bacterial load threshold (e.g., processes P4 and P5)
over, higher than, and/or above the measured amount of disinfecting
energy and disinfecting energy threshold (e.g., processes P1 and
P2), and/or the environmental characteristic(s) and corresponding
preferred amount of disinfecting energy (e.g., processes P6 and
P7). In a non-limiting example, once the controller prioritizes the
data relating to the bacterial load and the corresponding bacterial
load threshold above the other data and/or information relating to
the space, the controller may adjust the amount of disinfecting
energy as discussed herein with respect to process P3.
[0096] In process P9 (shown in phantom as optional), the
prioritized variety or plurality of data and/or information
relating to the space may be compared. That is, the prioritized
variety or plurality of data and/or information from various
sensors and/or components of the disinfecting light system relating
to the space may be compared in one another in process P9 to
determine if the prioritized data and/or information meets the
other data and/or information. For example, the prioritized
bacterial load threshold, and specifically the predetermined,
preferred, or required disinfecting energy associated with the
bacterial load threshold prioritized in process P8, may be compared
to the disinfecting energy threshold and/or, the preferred amount
of disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic(s). In comparing the plurality of data and/or
information, it may be determined how to adjust the disinfecting
energy provided to the space in process P3. In a non-limiting
example, the disinfecting energy associated with the prioritized
bacterial load threshold may be greater than the disinfecting
energy threshold, and/or the preferred amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the environmental characteristic(s). In this
non-limiting example, the disinfecting energy provided to the space
by the disinfecting light fixture may be adjusted to equal and/or
meet the disinfecting energy associated with the prioritized
bacterial load threshold.
[0097] In another non-limiting example, the disinfecting energy
associated with the prioritized bacterial load threshold may be
less than the disinfecting energy threshold, and/or the preferred
amount of disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic(s). In this non-limiting example, the disinfecting
energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture may
be adjusted to equal and/or meet the disinfecting energy associated
with the prioritized bacterial load threshold regardless of the
other, greater disinfecting energies associated with the received
data and/or information. Alternatively in this non-limiting
example, the disinfecting energy provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture may be adjusted to equal and/or meet the
disinfecting energy threshold, and/or the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic(s), rather than the disinfecting energy associated
with the prioritized bacterial load threshold. The amount of
disinfecting energy may be adjusted in this manner, even though the
disinfecting energy associated with the prioritized bacterial load
threshold is prioritized over the disinfecting energy threshold,
and/or the preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with
the environmental characteristic(s). By adjusting the disinfecting
energy emitted by the disinfecting light fixture to equal and/or
meet the disinfecting energy threshold, and/or the preferred amount
of disinfecting energy associated with the environmental
characteristic(s), it may ensure that both the disinfecting energy
associated with the prioritized bacterial load threshold, as well
as at least one additional, associated disinfecting energy is
met.
[0098] FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating non-limiting
example processes of regulating illuminating light 106 generated by
a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32 of
environment 10 (see, FIG. 1). These processes can be performed,
e.g., by at least one controller 110 of control system 109 for
disinfecting light system 100 (see, FIG. 1), as described herein.
In other cases, these processes can be performed according to a
computer-implemented method of regulating illuminating light 106
generated by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32
of environment 10. In still other embodiments, these processes can
be performed by executing computer program code on a computing
device(s), causing the computing device(s), and specifically
controller 110, to regulate illuminating light 106 generated by a
disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32 of environment
10.
[0099] In process P10, an amount of illuminating light in a space
of an environment may be determined. Specifically, an amount of
illuminating light provided to the space of the environment by a
disinfecting light fixture of a disinfecting light system (and/or
natural light) may be measured, sensed, detected, and/or
determined. The measured amount of illuminating light provided to
the space of the environment by the disinfecting light fixture of
the disinfecting light system may be measured by at least one
sensor positioned within the space receiving the illuminating
light. In another non-limiting example, the measured amount of
illuminating light provided to the space of the environment by the
disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting light system may be
measured, sensed, provided, and/or determined by the disinfecting
light fixture itself. That is, the disinfecting light fixture may
sense, provide, and/or determine the amount of illuminating light
it emits or provides to the space. Additionally, and where
applicable, determining the amount of illuminating light in the
space of the environment may include determining how much of a
total visible light provided to the space is illuminating light
provided by the disinfecting light fixture, and how of the total
visible light is natural light provided to the space.
[0100] In addition to determining the amount of illuminating light
in process P10, a preferred amount of illuminating light may be
identified. That is, determining the amount of illuminating light
provided to the space in process P10 may also include identifying a
preferred amount of illuminating light. The preferred illuminating
light may be based on sensed or measured characteristics of the
space (e.g., occupancy level, amount of natural light/natural
disinfecting light, task(s), and so on), characteristics and/or
properties of the space, predetermined information (e.g., scheduled
outputs) for space, and/or information or input manually provided
by a user of the disinfecting light system. For example, detecting
the environmental characteristic(s) in process P6 may also include
identifying a preferred amount of illuminating light associated
with detected environmental characteristics that may be provided to
the space by the disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting
light system. The preferred amount of illuminating light associated
with the detected environmental characteristic(s) may be predefined
and/or predetermined based on the environmental characteristic(s)
and/or characteristics of the space provided the illuminating
light. In non-limiting examples, the preferred amount of
illuminating light associated with the detected environmental
characteristic(s) may be stored on the controller of the control
system, or may be provided to the controller from an external
source (e.g., storage device), such that when the detected
environmental characteristic(s) is provided to the controller of
the control system, the preferred amount of illuminating light
associated with detected environmental characteristics may also be
provided to and/or recognized by the controller.
[0101] The preferred amount of illuminating light associated with
detected environmental characteristics may be based on, related to,
and/or associated with the space provided the illuminating light.
For example, the preferred amount of illuminating light associated
with the detected natural light, natural disinfecting energy,
illuminating light, and/or total visible light in the space, may
include various preferred amounts of illuminating light based upon
the amount of natural light, natural disinfecting energy, and
current illuminating light being provided to the space. In an
additional non-limiting example, the preferred amount of
illuminating light associated with the detected task carried out in
the space may include various preferred amounts of illuminating
light based upon various tasks being carried out in the space.
[0102] In another non-limiting example where the preferred amount
of illuminating light is based on a predetermined operational
schedule, various preferred amounts of illuminating light may be
provided based on a variety of information pertaining to the
predetermined operational schedule. That is, various preferred
amounts of illuminating light may be provided, and may be based on
and/or associated with predetermined times of the day (e.g.,
evening hours), days of the week (e.g., weekends), and/or
electrical consumption periods (e.g., peak hours, off-peak
hours).
[0103] In process P11, it may be determined if the determined
amount of illuminating light provided to the space by the
disinfecting light system meets the preferred amount of
illuminating light. Specifically, it may be determined if the
determined amount of illuminating light provided to the space by
the disinfecting light system (e.g., process P10) meets the
preferred amount of illuminating light associated with, for
example, the detected, environmental characteristic(s) and/or the
predetermined operational schedule (e.g., process P6). In a
non-limiting example, the determined amount of illuminating light
provided to the space by the disinfecting light system meets the
preferred amount of illuminating light when the determined amount
of illuminating light is equal to or within the range of the
preferred amount of illuminating light. The controller of the
control system for the disinfecting light system may determine if
the determined amount of illuminating light provided to the space
by the disinfecting light system meets the preferred amount of
illuminating light (e.g., predetermined or desired amount, level,
minimum, and/or range of illuminating light to be provided to the
space (real-time/predetermined period of time), average
illuminating light amount, level and/or range provided to space
over predetermined time). If it is determined that the determined
amount of illuminating light provided to the space does not meet
the preferred amount of illuminating light (e.g., "NO" at process
P11), the processes may proceed to process P12. Conversely, if it
is determined that the determined amount of illuminating light
provided to the space does meet the preferred amount of
illuminating light (e.g., "YES" at process P11), the processes may
repeat and/or may proceed back to process P10 and may begin
again.
[0104] In response to determining the determined amount of
illuminating light provided to the space does not meet the
preferred amount of illuminating light (e.g., "NO" at process P11),
the amount of illuminating light in the space may be adjusted in
process P12. That is, in process P12, the amount of illuminating
light provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture of
the disinfecting light system may be adjusted, changed, and/or
altered. The amount of illuminating light provided to the space may
be adjusted by altering the operation of the disinfecting light
fixture to one of increase or decrease the amount of illuminating
light generated by the disinfecting light fixture and provided to
the space. In a non-limiting example, the controller of the control
system for the disinfecting light system may be operably coupled to
the disinfecting light fixture and may be configured to control the
operation of disinfecting light fixture to adjust (e.g., increase,
decrease) the amount of illuminating light generated by the
disinfecting light fixture. In a non-limiting example where the
determined amount of illuminating light is less than the preferred
amount of illuminating light, the controller may increase the
amount of illuminating light provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture until the determined amount of
illuminating light meets the preferred amount of illuminating
light. Additionally in a non-limiting example where the measured
amount of illuminating light is greater than the preferred amount
of illuminating light, the controller may decrease or maintain the
amount of illuminating light provided to the space by the
disinfecting light fixture until the measured amount of
illuminating light meets the preferred amount of illuminating
light. The amount of illuminating light generated by the
disinfecting light fixture may be adjusted and/or changed
independent of the amount of disinfecting energy provided to the
space by the disinfecting light fixture.
[0105] As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 4, the
processes of regulating the illuminating light emitted by the
disinfecting light fixture may be performed in succession with
and/or after processes P1-P9 for regulating the disinfecting energy
emitted by the disinfecting light fixture. Although shown in
succession, it is understood that some of the processes illustrated
in FIG. 4 for regulating the illuminating light generated by the
disinfecting light system may be performed concurrently with the
processes for regulating the disinfecting energy. For example,
processes P10-P12 may be performed concurrently with processes
P1-P9 discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3.
Alternatively, the processes for regulating the illuminating light
generated by the disinfecting light fixtures of the disinfecting
light system (e.g., processes P10-P12) may be performed in a
separate and/or distinct flow process or procedure than the
processes for regulating the disinfecting energy (e.g., processes
P1-P9).
[0106] FIG. 5 shows a flow diagram illustrating additional,
non-limiting example processes of regulating disinfecting energy
108 generated by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s)
30, 32 of environment 10 (see, FIG. 1). These processes can be
performed, e.g., by at least one controller 110 of control system
109 for disinfecting light system 100 (see, FIG. 1), as described
herein. In other cases, these processes can be performed according
to a computer-implemented method of regulating disinfecting energy
108 generated by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s)
30, 32 of environment 10. In still other embodiments, these
processes can be performed by executing computer program code on a
computing device(s), causing the computing device(s), and
specifically controller 110, to regulate disinfecting energy 108
generated by a disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32
of environment 10.
[0107] Subsequent to measuring the amount of disinfecting energy
provided to and/or within the space in process P1, and possibly
performing processes P2 and P4-P12), real-time schedule data may be
determined in process P13. That is, in process P13 the real-time
schedule data may be determined, detected, and/or sensed. The
real-time schedule data may relate to data and/or information
associated with or pertaining to an operational schedule. That is,
the determined real-time schedule data may be based on, associated
with, and/or may include a determined time of the day (e.g., 10:00
PM), a determined day of the week (e.g., Saturday), and/or a
determined electrical consumption period (e.g., peak hours,
off-peak hours). The real-time schedule data may be determined,
detected, and/or sensed by a component included within the
environment and/or a component in communication with the control
system of the disinfecting light system. In a non-limiting example,
the real-time schedule data may be determined by an access control
component positioned within the environment and in communication
with the controller of the control system. In another non-limiting
example, the real-time schedule data may be determined by an
additional component and/or system utilized by and/or within the
environment including, but not limited to, a surveillance system, a
security system, an information technology (IT) system, and/or a
building management system (BMS)/building automation system (BAS)
controlling additional components or systems (e.g., heat,
ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems) of the
environment. In an additional non-limiting example, the real-time
schedule data may be determined and/or provided by a manual input
provided by a user(s) of the space in the environment.
[0108] In addition to determining the real-time schedule data in
process P13, a scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated
with the real-time schedule data may be identified. That is,
determining the real-time schedule data in process P13 may also
include identifying a scheduled amount of disinfecting energy,
associated with the determined real-time schedule data, which may
be provided to the space by the disinfecting light fixture of the
disinfecting light system. The scheduled amount of disinfecting
energy associated with the determined real-time schedule data may
be predefined and/or predetermined based on the predetermined
operational schedule (e.g., time of day, day of week, electrical
consumption periods, and the like). In a non-limiting example,
where the determined real-time schedule data relates to a
determined time of day, the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the real-time schedule data may include various
scheduled amounts of disinfecting energy based upon distinct times
of the day. In another non-limiting example, where the determined
real-time schedule data relates to a determined day of the week,
the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
real-time schedule data may include various scheduled amounts of
disinfecting energy based upon each day of the week. In an
additional non-limiting example, where the determined real-time
schedule data relates to an electrical consumption period, the
scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
real-time schedule data may include a first scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy corresponding to peak hours, and a second
scheduled amount of disinfecting energy corresponding to off-peak
hours. Additionally, it is understood that the scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the real-time schedule data may
include and/or be based on two (or more) determined data points
(e.g., time of day, as well as, day of the week). The scheduled
amount of disinfecting energy associated with the determined
real-time schedule data may be stored on the controller of the
control system, or may be provided to the controller from an
external source (e.g., storage device). As such, when the
determined real-time schedule data is provided to the controller of
the control system, the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the real-time schedule data may also be provided to
and/or recognized by the controller.
[0109] In process P14, it may be determined if the measured amount
of disinfecting energy provided to the space by the disinfecting
light system meets the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the determined real-time schedule data.
Specifically, it may be determined if the measured amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space by the disinfecting light
system (e.g., process P1) meets the scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the determined real-time
schedule data (e.g., process P13). In a non-limiting example, the
measured amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by the
disinfecting light system meets the scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the determined real-time
schedule data when it is equal to or within the range of the
scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
determined real-time schedule data. The controller of the control
system for the disinfecting light system may determine if the
measured amount of disinfecting energy provided to the space by the
disinfecting light system meets the scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the determined real-time
schedule data. If it is determined that the measured amount of
disinfecting energy provided to the space does not meet the
scheduled amount of disinfecting energy associated with the
determined real-time schedule data (e.g., "NO" at process P14), the
processes may proceed to process P3. Conversely, if it is
determined that the measured amount of disinfecting energy provided
to the space does meet the scheduled amount of disinfecting energy
associated with the determined real-time schedule data (e.g., "YES"
at process P14), the processes repeat and/or may proceed back to
process P1 and may begin again.
[0110] In response to determining the measured amount of
disinfecting energy does not meet the scheduled amount of
disinfecting energy associated with the determined real-time
schedule data (e.g., "NO" at process P14), the amount of
disinfecting energy in the space may be adjusted in process P3.
That is, in process P3, the amount of disinfecting energy provided
to the space by the disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting
light system may be adjusted, changed, and/or altered. The amount
of disinfecting energy in the space may be adjusted in process P3
shown in FIG. 5 in a similar manner and/or fashion as discussed
herein with respect to process P3 of FIG. 2. Redundant explanation
of this process has been omitted for brevity.
[0111] As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 5, the
additional, non-limiting processes of regulating the disinfecting
energy emitted by the disinfecting light fixture may be performed
in succession with and/or after processes P1-P9. Although shown in
succession, it is understood that some of the processes illustrated
in FIG. 5 for regulating the disinfecting energy generated by the
disinfecting light system may be performed concurrently with the
processes P2 and P4-P7. That is for example, after performing
process P1, processes P2 and P13 may be performed concurrently
and/or simultaneously. Additionally as shown in FIG. 5, processes
P2 and P4-P7 are shown in phantom as optional. In the non-limiting
example discussed herein, processes P13 and P14 may be performed
subsequent to and/or concurrently with processes P2 and P4-P7 to
regulate the disinfecting energy emitted by the disinfecting light
fixture of the disinfecting light system. In another non-limiting
example, processes P2 and P4-P7 may be omitted, and the
disinfecting energy emitted by the disinfecting light fixture may
be regulated by only performing processes P1, P13, P14, and P3, in
that order.
[0112] Additionally, although shown in three distinct flow charts,
the processes P1-P14 shown and discussed herein with respect to
FIGS. 2-5 may be performed to regulate the operation of the
disinfecting light fixture of the disinfecting light system, as
discussed herein. That is, the various processes discussed herein
(e.g., processes P1-P14) may be performed as single
continuous/successive processes, or alternatively simultaneous
processes, for regulating the operation of the disinfecting light
fixture of the disinfecting light system, as discussed herein.
[0113] Additionally in other non-limiting examples, the controller
of the control system for the disinfecting light system may receive
and process a variety of data and/or information from various
sources (e.g., sensors, storage devices, and the like) before
regulating the disinfecting energy. That is, the controller may
receive and process a variety of distinct data and/or information,
from various sources, before adjusting the amount of disinfecting
energy generated by the disinfecting light fixture. Turning to FIG.
6, a non-limiting schematic view of disinfecting light system 100
including control system 109 is shown. Specifically, FIG. 6 shows a
schematic view of disinfecting light system 100 including control
system 109, and a flow process of data and/or information through
the various components of disinfecting light system 100 and/or
control system 109. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or
named components may function in a substantially similar fashion.
Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for
clarity.
[0114] In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of
sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B of control system 109 may provide
sensor output and/or data to controller 110 for aiding in the
control of the operation of disinfecting light fixture 102 of
disinfecting light system 100. In the non-limiting example, and as
discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1, first sensor 112 may
provide data and/or information relating to a measured amount of
disinfecting energy 108 provided to a space, for example first
space 30, to controller 110. Additionally, second sensor 118 may
provide data and/or information relating to a sensed bacterial load
of first space 30, third sensor 120A may provide data and/or
information relating to a detected occupancy level of first space
30, and third sensor 120B may provide data and/or information
relating to an amount of natural light 20 and/or amount of natural
disinfecting energy 40 (see, FIG. 1) provided to first space
30.
[0115] Additionally, controller 110 may receive additional
information and/or data from external sources and/or components,
such as external storage devices, to aid in the control aiding in
the control of the operation of disinfecting light fixture 102 of
disinfecting light system 100. For example, and as shown in FIG. 6,
a disinfecting energy target component 128 may provide data and/or
information which aids controller 110 in determining if
disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 needs to be adjusted. That is,
disinfecting energy target component 128 may provide data and/or
information to determine if the amount of disinfecting energy 108
provided to first space 30, and measured by first sensor 112, is
equal to or within the range of a predetermined or desired amount,
level, minimum, and/or range of disinfecting energy 108 to be
provided to first space 30, as discussed herein. In one
non-limiting example, disinfecting energy target component 128 may
include data or information relating to the predetermined
disinfecting energy threshold, similarly discussed herein with
respect to processes P1 and P2 of FIG. 2. Additionally in another
non-limiting example, disinfecting energy target component 128 may
include data or information relating to the preferred amount of
disinfecting energy associated with detected environmental
characteristics detected in first space 30 (e.g., occupancy level,
amount of natural light, amount of natural disinfecting energy,
task(s)), similarly discussed herein with respect to processes P6
and P7 of FIG. 2. Additionally, disinfecting energy target
component 128 may also be configured to prompt controller 110 to
determine if a dosage target for disinfecting energy 108 is met.
That is, disinfecting energy target component 128 may also be
configured to prompt controller 110 to determine if the amount of
disinfecting energy 108 provided to first space 30, and measured by
first sensor 112, is equal to or within the range of a
predetermined or desired amount, level, minimum, and/or range of
disinfecting energy 108 to be provided to first space 30.
[0116] Also shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 6, an
illuminating light target component 130 may provide data and/or
information which aids controller 110 in determining if
illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 by first
disinfecting light fixture 102 needs to be adjusted. In one
non-limiting example, illuminating light target component 130 may
include data or information relating to a predetermined
illuminating light threshold, which may be based on the range of a
predetermined or desired amount, level, minimum, and/or range of
illuminating light 106 to be provided to first space 30.
Additionally in another non-limiting example, illuminating light
target component 130 may include data or information relating to
the preferred amount of illuminating light associated with detected
environmental characteristics detected in first space 30 (e.g.,
occupancy level, amount of natural light, natural disinfecting
energy, task(s)), similarly discussed herein with respect to third
sensors 120A, 120B, 120C of FIG. 1. As such, illuminating light
target component 130 may provide data and/or information to
controller 110 to determine if the amount of illuminating light 106
provided to first space 30 is equal to or within the range of the
predetermined amount or range of illuminating light 106, or
alternatively the preferred amount of illuminating light, to be
provided to first space 30, as discussed herein. Additionally,
illuminating light target component 130 may also be configured to
prompt controller 110 to determine if white light illumination
(e.g., illuminating light 106) is needed within first space 30.
That is, illuminating light target component 130 may also be
configured to prompt controller 110 to determine if the amount of
illuminating light 106 provided to first space 30 is equal to or
within the range of the predetermined amount or range of
illuminating light, or preferred amount of illuminating light
associated with detected environmental characteristics, to be
provided to first space 30.
[0117] Illuminating light target component 130 may also be in
communication with and/or may receive data from an additional
source or component before providing data and/or prompting
controller 110, as discussed herein. For example, and as shown in
FIG. 6, an electrical cost storage device 132 may be operably
coupled to and/or in communication with illuminating light target
component 130. Electrical cost storage device 132 may include data
and/or information relating to the cost of electricity for
operating first disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting
light system 100 (e.g., peak hours, off-peak hours). As such, when
prompting controller 110 to determine if white light illumination
(e.g., illuminating light 106) is needed within first space 30,
illuminating light target component 130 may also provide and/or
consider information relating the cost of electricity for operating
first disinfecting light fixture 102 provided by electrical cost
storage device 132. Although shown as being operably coupled to
and/or in communication with illuminating light target component
130, it is understood that electrical cost storage device 132 may
also be operably coupled to and/or in communication with
disinfecting energy target component 128. In this non-limiting
example, when prompting controller 110 to determine if a dosage
target for disinfecting energy 108 is met, disinfecting energy
target component 128 may also provide and/or consider information
relating the cost of electricity for operating first disinfecting
light fixture 102 provided by electrical cost storage device
132.
[0118] Additionally in the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 6,
after controller 110 determines that the amount of illuminating
light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 provided to space 30 may
require adjustment, controller 110 may provide input (e.g., a
signal) to a light configuration data component 133, which may aid
controller 110. That is, light configuration data component 133 may
include data and/or information relating to the operation and/or
function of first disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting
light system 100. As such, when controller 110 determines that the
amount of illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108
provided to space 30 requires adjustment, controller 110 may
utilize light configuration data component 133, including data
and/or information relating to the operation and/or function of
first disinfecting light fixture 102, to control the operation of
first disinfecting light fixture 102. Controller 110 may utilize
light configuration data component 133 to ensure that the amount of
illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 is adjusted,
such that the amount of illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting
energy 108 is equal to or within the range of the desired (e.g.,
predetermined or preferred) amount of illuminating light 106 and/or
disinfecting energy 108, as discussed herein.
[0119] FIG. 7 depicts a schematic view of control system 109, and
the various components included within control system 109. In the
non-limiting example shown in FIG. 7, control system 109 may
include at least one controller 110 that may be configured to aid
in regulating disinfecting energy 108 generated by disinfecting
light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32 by performing the processes
P1-P9 discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3. Controller(s)
110 shown in FIG. 7 may be substantially similar to controller 110
discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 1 and/or 4. It is understood
that similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a
substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these
components has been omitted for clarity.
[0120] It is understood that controller(s) 110 may be implemented
as a computer program product stored on a computer readable storage
medium. The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible
device that can retain and store instructions for use by an
instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium
may be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage
device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an
electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or
any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of
more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium
includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk,
a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable
programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static
random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only
memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a
floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or
raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon,
and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable
storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being
transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely
propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves
propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g.,
light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical
signals transmitted through a wire.
[0121] Computer readable program instructions described herein can
be downloaded to respective computing/processing devices from a
computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or
external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a
local area network, a wide area network and/or a wireless network.
The network may comprise copper transmission cables, optical
transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls,
switches, gateway computers and/or edge servers. A network adapter
card or network interface in each computing/processing device
receives computer readable program instructions from the network
and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage
in a computer readable storage medium within the respective
computing/processing device.
[0122] Computer readable program instructions for carrying out
operations of the present invention may be assembler instructions,
instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine
instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware
instructions, state-setting data, or either source code or object
code written in any combination of one or more programming
languages, including an object oriented programming language such
as Java, Python, Smalltalk, C++ or the like, and conventional
procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming
language or similar programming languages. The computer readable
program instructions may execute entirely on the user's computer,
partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package,
partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or
entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario,
the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through
any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide
area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external
computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet
Service Provider). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry
including, for example, programmable logic circuitry,
field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays
(PLA) may execute the computer readable program instructions by
utilizing state information of the computer readable program
instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to
perform aspects of the present invention.
[0123] Aspects of the present invention are described herein with
reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of
methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products
according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood
that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block
diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations
and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable
program instructions.
[0124] These computer readable program instructions may be provided
to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose
computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to
produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via
the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing
apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts
specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
These computer readable program instructions may also be stored in
a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a
programmable data processing apparatus, and/or other devices to
function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable
storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an
article of manufacture including instructions which implement
aspects of the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block
diagram block or blocks.
[0125] The computer readable program instructions may also be
loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing
apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps
to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or
other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that
the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable
apparatus, or other device implement the functions/acts specified
in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
[0126] The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate
the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible
implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products
according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this
regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent
a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one
or more executable instructions for implementing the specified
logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the
functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in
the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in
fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may
sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the
functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of
the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations
of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can
be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that
perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations
of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
[0127] Control system 109 may include any type of controller(s)
110, which may include, for example, at least one processor 134,
storage component 136, input/output (I/O) component(s) 138
(including users electronic devices discussed herein), and a
communications pathway 140. In general, processor(s) 134 execute
program code which is at least partially fixed in storage component
136. While executing program code, processor(s) 134 can process
data, which can result in reading and/or writing transformed data
from/to storage component 136 and/or I/O component(s) 138 for
further processing. The pathway 140 provides a communications link
between each of the components in controller(s) 110. I/O component
138 can comprise one or more human I/O devices, which enables
user(s) 142 to interact with controller(s) 110. Controller(s) 110
may also be implemented in a distributed manner such that different
components reside in different physical locations.
[0128] Storage component 136 may also include modules, data and/or
electronic information relating to various other aspects of control
system 109. Specifically, operational modules, information, and/or
data relating to disinfecting light system data 144, disinfecting
energy data 146, bacterial load data 148, environmental
characteristic data 150, space data 152, task data 154, and
schedule data 156. The operational modules and/or data may include
the required information and/or may allow control system 109, and
specifically controller 110, to perform the processes discussed
herein for regulating disinfecting energy 108 generated by
disinfecting light system 100 within space(s) 30, 32. Additionally,
sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124 may in communication
with control system 109, and more specifically controller 110 of
control system 109, to transmit measured, sensed, and/or detected
data (e.g., sensed bacterial load, measure amount of disinfecting
light in space(s) 30, 32, and the like) to controller 110.
Furthermore, controller 110 may utilize the transmitted data from
sensors 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C, 122, 124, and the operational
modules, information, and/or data stored on storage component 136
(e.g., disinfecting light system data 144, disinfecting energy data
146, bacterial load data 148, and so on) to regulate disinfecting
energy 108 generated by disinfecting light system 100 within
space(s) 30, 32, as discussed herein.
[0129] Control system 109, and specifically controller 110 of
control system 109, may also be in communication with an external
storage component 158. External storage component 158 may be
configured to store various modules, data and/or electronic
information relating to various other aspects of control system
109, similar to storage component 136 of controller(s) 110.
Additionally, external storage component 158 may be configured to
share (e.g., send and receive) data and/or electronic information
with controller(s) 110 of control system 109. In the non-limiting
example shown in FIG. 7, external storage component 158 may include
any or all of the operational modules and/or data shown to be
stored on storage component 136 (e.g., data 144-156). In a
non-limiting example, external storage component 158 may be a
cloud-based storage component or system.
[0130] Furthermore, it is understood that controller(s) 110 of
control system 109 or relevant components thereof (such as an API
component, agents, etc.) may also be automatically or
semi-automatically deployed into a computer system by sending the
components to a central server or a group of central servers. The
components are then downloaded into a target computer that will
execute the components. The components are then either detached to
a directory or loaded into a directory that executes a program that
detaches the components into a directory. Another alternative is to
send the components directly to a directory on a client computer
hard drive. When there are proxy servers, the process will select
the proxy server code, determine on which computers to place the
proxy servers' code, transmit the proxy server code, and then
install the proxy server code on the proxy computer. The components
will be transmitted to the proxy server and then it will be stored
on the proxy server.
[0131] FIG. 8 shows another non-limiting example of environment 10
including disinfecting light system 100. As shown in the
non-limiting example of FIG. 8, environment 10 may include multiple
spaces 30, 32, and disinfecting light system 100 may include
control system 109, as similarly discussed herein with respect to
FIG. 1. Control system 109, and more specifically controller 110,
may be configured to regulate the operation of disinfecting light
fixtures 102, 104, as discussed herein. It is understood that
similarly numbered and/or named components may function in a
substantially similar fashion. Redundant explanation of these
components has been omitted for clarity.
[0132] However, distinct from the non-limiting example discussed
herein with respect to FIG. 1, control system 109 shown in FIG. 8
may not include a single sensor (e.g., sensors 112, 118, 120A,
120B, 120C). That is, control system 109 of disinfecting light
system 100 shown in FIG. 8 may include controller 110, but may not
include a sensor(s) positioned within environment 10 and/or
spaces(s) 30, 32. Rather in this non-limiting example, data,
information, and/or characteristics relating to environment 10 may
be detected and/or determined by other components of environment 10
and subsequently provided to controller 110 for regulating the
operation of disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104. For example,
disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104 of disinfecting light system
100 may be configured to provide data and/or information relating
to an amount of illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy
108 to controller 110 in place of first sensor 112 and/or third
sensor 120A. That is, in place of sensors 112, 120A, disinfecting
light fixtures 102, 104, in communication with controller 110 of
control system 109, may be configured to determined and/or detect
an amount of illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108
being provided within environment 10 by disinfecting light fixtures
102, 104, and may transmits that information to controller 110 to
aid in regulating the operation of disinfecting light fixtures 102,
104, as discussed herein. In this non-limiting example, controller
110 may adjust illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy
108 provided to first spaces 30, 32 based on, at least in part, the
data and/or information provided to controller 110 directly from
first disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104.
[0133] Additionally as shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 8,
environment 10 may also include a camera 159 positioned therein.
For example, camera 159 may be positioned on, and/or adjacent to
ceiling 34 of environment 10. In a non-limiting example shown in
FIG. 8, camera 159 may be operably coupled to and/or in
communication with controller 110 of control system 109 for
disinfecting light system 100, and may provide visual data and/or
information (e.g., real-time video data) for environment 10, and
more specifically spaces 30, 32 of environment 10. In another
non-limiting example, camera 159 may be part of a video
surveillance system for environment 10, and may be configured to
provide visual data and/or information (e.g., real-time video
recording) for environment 10, and more specifically spaces 30, 32
of environment 10 to the video surveillance system, which in turn
may provide the data to controller 110. For example, camera 159
(and video surveillance system) may obtain data relating to
environmental characteristic(s) of environment 10 and/or space 30,
32. Specifically, camera 159 may be utilized to obtain data and/or
information relating to an occupancy level of spaces 30, 32 and/or
task(s) being performed within space(s) 30, 32, and may provide the
data and/or information to controller 110 to aid in the regulation
of disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104 of disinfecting light
system 100, as discussed herein. In this non-limiting example,
camera 159 (and video surveillance system) may replace sensors
120B, 120C previously included in the non-limiting example
discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1.
[0134] Furthermore, and as shown in the non-limiting example of
FIG. 8, environment 10, and more specifically first space 30, may
or may not include access control component 126. That is, access
control component 126 is shown in phantom as optional. Access
control component 126 may aid controller 110 in the regulation of
disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104 of disinfecting light system
100 by providing operational schedule information and/or allowing a
user of environment 10 to manually input information for regulating
and/or adjusting the operation of disinfecting light fixtures 102,
104.
[0135] FIG. 9 shows an additional non-limiting example of
environment 10 including and/or illuminated by disinfecting light
system 100. As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 9,
environment 10 may include multiple spaces 30, 32, and disinfecting
light system 100 may include control system 109, as similarly
discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1. However distinct from the
non-limiting example discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1,
control system 109 shown in FIG. 9 may only include a single sensor
112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C. That is, control system 109 may include
a single sensor 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C configured to obtain
data, information, and/or characteristics relating to environment
10 (e.g., disinfecting energy, bacterial load, environmental
characteristics, and so on), and subsequently provide the data,
information, and/or characteristics to controller 110 for
regulating the operation of disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104.
In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 9, the single sensor 112,
118, 120A, 120B, 120C of control system 109 for disinfecting light
system 100 may be positioned on, and/or coupled to ceiling 34. The
data, information, and/or characteristics obtained by the single
sensor 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C of control system 109 may be
dependent on the type or configuration of sensor 112, 118, 120A,
120B, 120C included within environment 10. For example, when the
single sensor of control system 109 is configured or formed as
first sensor 112, the single sensor of control system 109 may
measure an amount of disinfecting energy provided to environment
10, and more specifically spaces 30, 32, as previously discussed
herein. The single sensor 112, 118, 120A, 120B, 120C of control
system 109 may aid controller 110 in regulating the operation of
disinfecting light fixtures 102, 104 as similarly discussed with
respect to FIGS. 1-5. Redundant explanation of the regulating
processes has been omitted for brevity.
[0136] FIGS. 10 and 11 show additional non-limiting examples of
environment 10 including and/or illuminated by disinfecting light
system 100. Environment 10 including and/or illuminated by
disinfecting light system 100, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, may
show substantially the same space 30/environment 10 under distinct
conditions (e.g., amount of natural light 20, natural disinfecting
energy 40, disinfecting energy 108), as discussed herein. In the
non-limiting example, environment 10 of FIGS. 10 and 11 may only
include a single space (e.g., first space 30), a single
disinfecting light fixture 102, and may have items removed (e.g.,
door 22, chair 24, workstation 26, and so on). These items are
removed from environment 10 and/or first space 30 for the sake of
clarity of the figures. However, it is understood that these items
may be included within environment 10 as previously discussed
herein.
[0137] Controller 110 may regulate and/or adjust the operation of
disinfecting light fixture 102 based on data relating to
environment 10 and/or first space 30. That is, controller 110 may
regulate and/or adjust the operation of disinfecting light fixture
102 (e.g., emitted illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting
energy 108) based on obtained data, information, and/or
characteristics relating to environment 10 (e.g., disinfecting
energy, bacterial load, environmental characteristics, and so on).
For example, and as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, controller 110 may
regulate and/or adjust the operation of disinfecting light fixture
102 based on obtained, sensed, measured, and/or determined data
relating to natural light 20A, 20B and/or natural disinfecting
energy 40A, 40B provided to first space 30 via window 12. As shown
in FIGS. 10 and 11, and similarly discussed herein with respect to
FIG. 1, the single sensor of control system 109 may be formed as
third sensor 120B, which may be configured to detect, determine,
and/or measure an amount of natural light 20A, 20B, and natural
disinfecting energy 40A, 40B. In additional non-limiting examples,
single sensor 120B of control system 109 may be configured to
detect, determine, and/or measure an amount of disinfecting energy
108 emitted by disinfecting light fixture 102, or alternatively,
disinfecting light fixture 102 itself may be configured to provide
the amount of disinfecting energy 108 to controller 110.
[0138] As shown in the non-limiting examples of FIGS. 10 and 11,
the intensity for natural light 20A, 20B and natural disinfecting
energy 40A, 40B may vary. That is, a first intensity of natural
light 20A and a first intensity of natural disinfecting energy 40A,
as shown in FIG. 10, may vary and/or be distinct from a second
intensity of natural light 20B and a second intensity of natural
disinfecting energy 40B shown in FIG. 11. In the non-limiting
example shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first intensity for natural
light 20A may be greater than the second intensity for natural
light 20B, and the first intensity for natural disinfecting energy
40A may be greater than the second intensity for natural
disinfecting energy 40B. The change in intensity in the natural
light 20A, 20B and natural disinfecting energy 40A, 40B may be a
result of, for example, a change in the time of day (e.g., 12:00 PM
(FIG. 10) to 5:00 PM (FIG. 11)), a change in weather (e.g., cloud
coverage), or the (partial) covering of the window with a blind
(not shown).
[0139] As a result of the change in intensity of natural light 20A,
20B and natural disinfecting energy 40A, 40B in first space 30 of
environment 10, controller 110 may regulate and/or adjust the
operation of disinfecting light fixture 102. That is, and as
discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 1-5, because of the change
in intensity of natural light 20A, 20B and natural disinfecting
energy 40A, 40B in first space 30 controller 110 may adjust the
operational dosage intensity of illuminating light 106A, 106B and
disinfecting energy 108A, 108B provided to first space 30 by
disinfecting light fixture 102. In the non-limiting examples shown
in FIGS. 10 and 11, disinfecting light fixture 102 may emit
illuminating light 106A, 106B and disinfecting energy 108A, 108B at
two different operational dosage intensities. Specifically in FIG.
10, disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting light system 100
may emit illuminating light 106A at a first operational dosage
intensity for illuminating light, and may emit disinfecting energy
108A at a first operational dosage intensity for disinfecting
energy. Conversely as shown in FIG. 11, and with comparison to FIG.
10, disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting light system 100
may emit illuminating light 106B at a second operational dosage
intensity for illuminating light, and may emit disinfecting energy
108B at a second operational dosage intensity for disinfecting
energy. The first operational dosage intensity for illuminating
light (e.g., illuminating light 106A) may be distinct from the
second operational dosage intensity for illuminating light (e.g.,
illuminating light 106B). Similarly, the first operational dosage
intensity for disinfecting energy (e.g., disinfecting energy 108A)
may be distinct from the second operational dosage intensity for
disinfecting energy (e.g., disinfecting energy 108B).
[0140] In the non-limiting example shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the
first operational dosage intensity for illuminating light (e.g.,
illuminating light 106A) may be less than the second operational
dosage intensity for illuminating light (e.g., illuminating light
106B), and the first operational dosage intensity for disinfecting
energy (e.g., disinfecting energy 108A) may be less than the second
operational dosage intensity for disinfecting energy (e.g.,
disinfecting energy 108B). The difference in operational dosage
intensities for illuminating light 106A, 106B and disinfecting
energy 108A, 108B may be dependent on the change in intensity of
natural light 20A, 20B and natural disinfecting energy 40A, 40B, as
discussed herein. For example, when the intensity of natural light
20A, 20B and natural disinfecting energy 40A, 40B decreases, the
operational dosage intensity for illuminating light 106A, 106B, and
the operational dosage intensity for disinfecting energy 108A, 108B
may increase. Specifically, when controller 110 determines that the
intensity of natural light 20A, 20B and natural disinfecting energy
40A, 40B decreases, based on data or information determined by
sensor 120B, controller 110 may increase the operational dosage
intensity for illuminating light 106A, 106B, and disinfecting
energy 108A, 108B, respectively, by regulating and/or adjusting the
operation of disinfecting light fixture 102.
[0141] FIGS. 12 and 13 show further non-limiting examples of
environment 10 including disinfecting light system 100. Similar to
the non-limiting examples shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, environment 10
shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 may show substantially the same space
30/environment 10 under distinct conditions (e.g., amount of
natural light 20, natural disinfecting energy 40, disinfecting
energy 108), as discussed herein. Additionally, the non-limiting
examples shown in FIGS. 12 and 12 may include substantially similar
features and/or components as the non-limiting examples shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11. It is understood that similarly numbered and/or
named components may function in a substantially similar fashion.
Redundant explanation of these components has been omitted for
clarity.
[0142] In the non-limiting examples shown in FIGS. 12 and 13,
controller 110 may regulate and/or adjust the operation of
disinfecting light fixture 102 based on obtained, sensed, measured,
and/or determined data relating to an occupancy level of first
space 30. Additionally in the non-limiting example shown in FIGS.
12 and 13, and similarly discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1,
the single sensor of control system 109 may be formed as third
sensor 120A, which may be configured to detect, determine, and/or
measure an occupancy level of first space 30, and provide the data
relating to the occupancy level of first space 30 to controller
110. When comparing FIGS. 12 and 13, occupancy level of first space
30 may change. That is, third sensor 120A may determine that the
occupancy level for first space 30 initially includes one user 142,
as shown in FIG. 12, and may subsequently determine that the
occupancy level for first space 30 includes a plurality of users
142 at a later time, as shown in FIG. 13. In addition to receiving
data or information relating to the change in the occupancy level
of first space 30, controller 110 may also be provided with a
preferred amount of disinfecting energy associated with each of the
detected occupancy levels of first space 30 (e.g., single user 142
in FIG. 12, plurality of users 142 in FIG. 13).
[0143] As a result of the change in the occupancy level of first
space 30 of environment 10, controller 110 may regulate and/or
adjust the operation of disinfecting light fixture 102. That is,
and as discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 1-5, because of the
change in occupancy level for first space 30, controller 110 may
adjust the operational dosage intensity of illuminating light 106A,
106B and/or disinfecting energy 108A, 108B provided to first space
30 by disinfecting light fixture 102. In the non-limiting examples
shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, and distinct from the non-limiting
example discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11,
disinfecting light fixture 102 may emit illuminating light 106A at
a single operational dosage intensity. That is, regardless of the
detected change in occupancy level for first space 30, as detected
by third sensor 120A, controller 110 may not adjust the operation
of disinfecting light fixture 102, and disinfecting light fixture
102 may emit illuminating light 106A at a constant operational
dosage intensity.
[0144] However as shown in the non-limiting examples of FIGS. 12
and 13, and similar to FIGS. 10 and 11, disinfecting light fixture
102 may emit disinfecting energy 108A, 108B at two different
operational dosage intensities. Specifically in FIG. 12,
disinfecting light fixture 102 of disinfecting light system 100 may
emit disinfecting energy 108A at a first operational dosage
intensity for disinfecting energy. Conversely as shown in FIG. 13,
and with comparison to FIG. 12, disinfecting light fixture 102 of
disinfecting light system 100 may emit disinfecting energy 108B at
a second operational dosage intensity for disinfecting energy. The
first operational dosage intensity for disinfecting energy (e.g.,
disinfecting energy 108A) may be distinct from the second
operational dosage intensity for disinfecting energy (e.g.,
disinfecting energy 108B). For example, the first operational
dosage intensity for disinfecting energy (e.g., disinfecting energy
108A) may be less than the second operational dosage intensity for
disinfecting energy (e.g., disinfecting energy 108B). The
difference in operational dosage intensities for disinfecting
energy 108A, 108B may be dependent on the change in occupancy level
for first space 30, as discussed herein. For example, when the
number of users 142 located within first space 30 increases (e.g.,
change in occupancy levels), the operational dosage intensity for
disinfecting energy 108A, 108B may also increase. Specifically,
when controller 110 determines that the number of users 142 located
within first space 30 increases, based on the occupancy level
detected by sensor 120A, controller 110 may increase the
operational dosage intensity for disinfecting energy 108A, 108B, by
regulating and/or adjusting the operation of disinfecting light
fixture 102. In this non-limiting example, the operational dosage
for disinfecting energy 108A, 108B may be adjusted, changed, and/or
varied (e.g., increased) independent of the operation and/or
operational dosage of illuminating light 106A provided to first
space 30.
[0145] FIGS. 14 and 15 show additional, non-limiting examples of
environment 10 including a plurality of spaces defined therein.
Specifically in the non-limiting examples of FIGS. 14 and 15,
environment 10 may include three distinct spaces 30, 32, 44. Each
space 30, 32, 44 may include and/or may be defined by disinfecting
light fixture(s) 102, 104, 160, 162 of disinfecting light system
100. For example, first space 30 may include, be defined by, and/or
may be provided with illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting
energy 108 from first disinfecting light fixture 102. Additionally,
second space 32 may include, be defined by, and/or may be provided
with illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 from
second disinfecting light fixture 104. Furthermore, third space 44
may include, be defined by, and/or may be provided with
illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 from third
disinfecting light fixture 160 and fourth disinfecting light
fixture 162, respectively. Additionally as shown in the
non-limiting examples of FIGS. 14 and 15, each of the distinct
spaces 30, 32, 44 may include at least one sensor 112, 118, 120A,
120B, 120C (not all shown) of control system 109 for disinfecting
light system 100. Each of the distinct spaces 30, 32, 44 may be
provided illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting energy 108 from
the corresponding disinfecting light fixture 102, 104, 160, 162,
and controller 110 of control system 109 may regulate and/or adjust
the operation of each disinfecting light fixture 102, 104, 160,
162.
[0146] In FIG. 14, environment 10 may include a single room,
similar to the example discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1. As
such, each space 30, 32, 44 may be a portion of the single room
forming environment 10. In the example shown in FIG. 14,
environment 10 may also include at least one access control
component 126A, 126B. Specifically, environment 10 may include
access control component 126A positioned within first space 30,
adjacent door 22. In one example, access control component 126A may
be configured to aid controller 110 in regulating and/or adjusting
the operation of each disinfecting light fixture 102, 104, 160, 162
included within spaces 30, 32, 44 of environment 10. Additionally,
environment 10 may include a second access control component 126B.
For example, a second, distinct access control component 126B
(shown in phantom) may be positioned within third space 44. In one
example, environment 10 may include a second, distinct access
control component 126B in third space 44 because of its size and/or
the increased number of disinfecting light fixtures (e.g., third
disinfecting light fixture 160, fourth disinfecting light fixture
162) that may provide illuminating light 106 and/or disinfecting
energy 108 to third space 44. In this example, access control
component 126A may be configured to aid controller 110 in
regulating and/or adjusting the operation of each disinfecting
light fixture 102, 104 included within spaces 30, 32, and second
access control component 126B may be configured to aid controller
110 in regulating and/or adjusting the operation of each
disinfecting light fixture 160, 162 included within space 44.
[0147] Distinct from the example shown in FIG. 14, environment 10
shown in FIG. 15 may include a plurality of distinct rooms. That
is, and as shown in FIG. 15, second space 32 may be completely
separate from first space 30 and third space 44, respectively.
Additionally, third space 44 may be substantially separated from
first space 30 by the walls dividing first space 30, second space
32, and third space 44, respectively. However, third space 44 may
be accessible from first space 30 via an opening and/or breezeway
46. Because of the separation and/or divide between the spaces 30,
32, 44 of environment 10 (e.g., distinct rooms), environment 10 may
include a plurality of access control component 126A, 126B, 126C.
That is, a first access control component 126A may be positioned
within first space 30, adjacent door 22A, and a second access
control component 126B (shown in phantom) may be positioned within
third space 44. Additionally, and because second space 32 is
completely separate from and/or inaccessible from first space 30
and/or third space 44, a third access control component 126C may be
positioned within second space 32, adjacent door 22B.
[0148] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the disclosure. 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 "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude
the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
"Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described
event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the
description includes instances where the event occurs and instances
where it does not.
[0149] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the
specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative
representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a
change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a
value modified by a term or terms, such as "about," "approximately"
and "substantially," are not to be limited to the precise value
specified. In at least some instances, the approxi