U.S. patent application number 16/865104 was filed with the patent office on 2021-11-04 for household electric sanitizing device and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is Yuhong Hu, Terrance Mulgrew. Invention is credited to Yuhong Hu, Terrance Mulgrew.
Application Number | 20210339296 16/865104 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005910295 |
Filed Date | 2021-11-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210339296 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hu; Yuhong ; et al. |
November 4, 2021 |
HOUSEHOLD ELECTRIC SANITIZING DEVICE AND METHOD
Abstract
An electric sanitizing device and method for cleaning an item,
the electric sanitizing device comprising: a lid having an
ultraviolet lamp disposed above a transparent glass window, a spray
nozzle, and a vent housing an activated carbon filter; a body
attached below the lid, the body comprising a cleaning chamber
having a contact tank, a dispersion stone and a water inlet, a
retention plate, a filter plate sitting atop the retention plate, a
basket sitting atop the filter plate, and a control panel; and an
electronics compartment disposed below the body, the electronics
compartment comprising an ozone generator having an air pump, a
rotating motor adapted to rotate the basket, a water pump adapted
to pump water to the spray nozzle, and a controller adapted to
operate the ozone generator, the UV lamp, the rotating motor and
the water pump according to a user's commands entered via the
control panel.
Inventors: |
Hu; Yuhong; (Brea, CA)
; Mulgrew; Terrance; (Wexford, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hu; Yuhong
Mulgrew; Terrance |
Brea
Wexford |
CA
PA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005910295 |
Appl. No.: |
16/865104 |
Filed: |
May 1, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B08B 7/04 20130101; A23L
3/3445 20130101; B08B 3/02 20130101; A23L 3/28 20130101; A23V
2002/00 20130101; B08B 7/0057 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B08B 7/04 20060101
B08B007/04; B08B 7/00 20060101 B08B007/00; B08B 3/02 20060101
B08B003/02; A23L 3/28 20060101 A23L003/28; A23L 3/3445 20060101
A23L003/3445 |
Claims
1. An electric sanitizing device for cleaning an item, the electric
sanitizing device comprising: a lid having a top surface and a
bottom surface, the lid comprising: an ultraviolet (UV) lamp, the
UV lamp being positioned above a transparent glass window mounted
in the bottom surface, such that the UV lamp can emit UV light
through the glass window; a spray nozzle disposed in the bottom
surface; and a vent housing an activated carbon filter, the vent
extending between the bottom and the top surfaces; a body pivotally
attached to the lid, the body and the lid being adapted to engage
in a closed position, such that to form a seal, the body
comprising: a cleaning chamber within the body, wherein a bottom
portion of the cleaning chamber forms a contact tank; a dispersion
stone and a water inlet disposed in a bottom floor of the cleaning
chamber; a retention plate sitting atop the bottom floor and a
filter plate sitting atop the retention plate; a basket sitting
atop the filter plate, the basket being adapted to receive the
item, such that the UV lamp, the spray nozzle and the vent are
positioned over the item when the lid engages the body in the
closed position; and a control panel; and an electronics
compartment disposed below the body, the electronics compartment
being encased by a base, the electronics compartment comprising: an
ozone generator having an air pump, the ozone generator being in
fluid communication with the dispersion stone; a rotating motor
adapted to rotate the basket; a water pump being in fluid
communication with the spray nozzle and the contact tank; and a
controller in electrical communication with the control panel, the
controller being adapted to automatically operate the ozone
generator, the rotating motor, the water pump and the UV lamp,
according to a user's command entered via the control panel;
wherein the ozone generator is adapted to generate ozone gas and
the air pump is adapted to pump the ozone gas through the
dispersion stone into the contact tank; wherein, when water is
present in the contact tank, the ozone gas is caused to be mixed
with and dissolved within the water, such that the dissolved ozone
gas can be acted upon by the UV light in the cleaning chamber to
cause a creation of hydroxyl radicals for disinfecting the item and
further such that the UV light and the activated carbon filter can
convert undissolved ozone gas into oxygen before exiting via the
vent.
2. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, wherein the item is a
food item or a non-electric item.
3. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, wherein the lid
further comprises a transparent viewing portal disposed in the top
surface of the lid, the viewing portal being positioned above the
UV lamp and the transparent glass window.
4. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, further comprising: a
drain nozzle disposed in a side of the body, the drain nozzle being
connected to the contact tank; and a rotary knob disposed above the
drain nozzle, wherein a rotation of the rotary knob is adapted to
cause a release of any liquid in the contact tank out of the drain
nozzle.
5. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, wherein the basket
comprises: a plurality of slits disposed throughout a surface of
the basket; and an ice cover removably associated with the basket,
the ice cover fitting within the basket and having a plurality of
slits disposed throughout a surface of the ice cover.
6. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, further comprising a
water level view disposed in a side of the body, the water level
view being connected to the bottom floor of the cleaning chamber
via a tube.
7. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, wherein the water
pump is attached to the water inlet via a first tube, and wherein
the water pump is attached to the spray nozzle via a second tube,
such that the water pump is adapted to pump the water mixed with
the ozone from the cleaning chamber to the spray nozzle via the
first and the second tubes.
8. The electric sanitizing device of claim 1, wherein the retention
plate comprises: an inner lip disposed circularly about a center of
the retention plate; an outer lip disposed circularly along an
outer edge of the retention plate, the outer lip being adapted to
form a friction seal with a wall of the cleaning chamber, such that
to form the contact tank between the bottom floor of the cleaning
chamber and the retention plate; a plurality of inner passages
disposed around the inner lip, wherein each inner passage of the
plurality of inner passages has a first diameter and a first
length; and a plurality of outer passages arranged circularly
around the plurality of inner passages, wherein each outer passage
of the plurality of outer passages has a second diameter and a
second length; wherein the second diameter is larger than the first
diameter, and the second length is larger than the first length,
such that a pressure differential can be established within the
contact tank when water is present, and thus a release of
undissolved ozone gas via the plurality of inner passages can be
caused.
9. The electric sanitizing device of claim 8, wherein the device is
adapted to receive a volume of water of about 32-40 fluid ounces,
wherein the outer passages are configured to allow a flow rate of
the water from the cleaning chamber to the contact tank of about 10
ounces per minute, wherein the device is adapted to allow about 0.5
parts-per-million (ppm) in volume to be dissolved in the contact
tank, and wherein the UV lamp is adapted to emit the UV light at
about 254 nanometers (nm) in wavelength.
10. An electric sanitizing device for cleaning an item, the
electric sanitizing device comprising: a lid comprising: an
ultraviolet (UV) lamp, the UV lamp being positioned above a
transparent glass window mounted in a bottom surface of the lid,
such that the UV lamp can emit UV light through the glass window;
and a vent housing an activated carbon filter; a body pivotally
attached to the lid, the body and the lid being adapted to engage
in a closed position, such that to form a seal, the body
comprising: a cleaning chamber centrally within the body; a
dispersion stone disposed in a bottom floor of the cleaning
chamber; a dispersion plate sitting atop the bottom floor and a
filter plate sitting atop the dispersion plate; a basket sitting
atop the filter plate, the basket being adapted to receive the
item, such that the UV lamp and the vent are positioned over the
item when the lid engages the body in the closed position; and a
control panel; and an electronics compartment, the electronics
compartment comprising: an ozone generator having an air pump, the
ozone generator being in fluid communication with the dispersion
stone; a rotating motor adapted to rotate the basket; and a
controller in electrical communication with the control panel, the
controller being adapted to operate the ozone generator, the UV
lamp and the rotating motor according to a user's command entered
via the control panel; wherein the ozone generator is adapted to
generate ozone gas and the air pump is adapted to pump the ozone
gas through the dispersion stone into the cleaning chamber; wherein
the UV light and the ozone gas can cause a disinfecting of the
item.
11. The electric sanitizing device of claim 10, wherein the item is
a food item, a household item, or a handheld electronic item.
12. The electric sanitizing device of claim 10, wherein the lid
further comprises a transparent viewing portal disposed in the top
surface of the lid, the viewing portal being positioned above the
UV lamp and the transparent glass window.
13. The electric sanitizing device of claim 10, wherein the
rotating motor is adapted to rotate the basket at about 35
revolutions per minute (rpm).
14. The electric sanitizing device of claim 10, wherein the UV lamp
is adapted to emit the UV light at about 254 nm in wavelength.
15. A method of cleaning an item, the method comprising the steps
of: receiving an electric sanitizing device, the electric
sanitizing device comprising a lid having an ultraviolet (UV) lamp,
a body having an interior cleaning chamber, and a base housing an
ozone generator; rinsing the item under tap water and loading the
item into a basket in the cleaning chamber; providing the cleaning
chamber with a water source; and operating the electric sanitizing
device via a control panel disposed in a side of the body, the
control panel being in electrical communication with a controller,
the controller being adapted to: activate the ozone generator, such
that an air pump within the ozone generator pumps ozone gas through
a dispersion stone in the cleaning chamber; simultaneously activate
a water pump disposed within the base, the water pump being in
fluid communication with the cleaning chamber and a spray nozzle in
the lid; simultaneously activate the UV lamp, such that UV light
rays are emitted onto the item; simultaneously activate a rotating
motor in the base, the rotating motor being attached to the basket
and being adapted to rotate the basket, such that the basket is
rotated at a first speed; the ozone gas dissolving in the water
source to form a mix in the cleaning chamber, the mix being pumped
to the spray nozzle by the water pump and being sprayed onto the
item, such that the UV light rays cause a creation of hydroxyl
radicals for disinfecting the item, such that the UV light rays and
an activated carbon filter in a vent in the lid cause a conversion
of undissolved ozone gas into oxygen, the oxygen escaping through
the vent; after a first period of time, deactivate the water pump
and the ozone generator; after a second period of time, deactivate
the air pump, the UV lamp and the rotating motor; and power down
the electric sanitizing device.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the water source is potable
water or ice.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein a volume of the potable water
is about 32-40 fluid ounces.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the first speed is 35
revolutions per minute.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein the item is a non-electric,
non-food, and non-paper item, the first period of time is 4
minutes, the second period of time is 5 minutes, and the UV light
rays are about 254 nanometers (nm) in wavelength.
20. The method of claim 15, wherein the item is a fresh food item,
the first period of time is 7 minutes, the second period of time is
5 minutes, and the UV light rays are about 254 nm in wavelength.
Description
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0001] The invention relates generally to the sterilization and
purification of food products, consumer items and certain
electronic devices, and more specifically to the use of an
electric, automated device to sanitize and purify food products,
consumer items and certain electronic devices.
2. Description of the Related Art
[0002] Currently, there is a lack of an efficient and effective
household method of reducing harmful bacteria and/or virus
contamination of food products and various consumer items. For
example, lettuce, a popular and important vegetable product grown
and sold in the U.S. by the millions of tons annually, can become
contaminated during growth with foodborne pathogens. As such,
lettuce, and similarly grown food products, can act as a carrier
for transmitting foodborne pathogens to humans. In 2011, the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an
outbreak of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in multiple states across
the country, which was found to be directly linked to romaine
lettuce. The CDC stated that pathogenic microorganisms like E. coli
could attach to fresh vegetables during farming and postharvest
storages. Thus, an effective washing method after harvest may be
necessary to prevent the wide spread of foodborne outbreaks by
increasing the purification of fresh produce.
[0003] Furthermore, as evidenced by the rapid spread of infectious
diseases like COVID-19, common household items like electronic
devices and consumer products can be carriers of transmittable
bacteria and viruses. Dangerous disease-causing viruses and/or
bacteria can live on a hard surface, such as the screen of a
cellphone, the mouth of a bottle, or on the top of a toy car for up
to hours on end. Once these viruses or bacteria get transferred
from the hard surface to an individual's body (by touching one's
face with contaminated hands, for example), that individual may be
likely to continue the spread by infecting other individuals. Thus,
there may be a need for an effective sanitation method to cleanse
common household items to reduce the spread of infectious
diseases.
[0004] Current methods may involve subjecting food products to
ozonated water in a treatment chamber to destroy organic
contaminants on the food products. Ozone, a naturally occurring
form of oxygen, is a powerful disinfectant capable of killing
microbial contaminants by rupturing the cellar membrane, making
reactivation of the cell of the microbial contaminants impossible.
Furthermore, ozone leaves no chemical residue on foods and does not
alter the food product characteristics. However, such known methods
may only be applicable in treating food items and dishes/utensils.
The use of ozonated water as described above to treat electronic
devices, for example, will damage and/or destroy the electronic
devices, rather than sanitize them. Furthermore, such known methods
may not be offered in a consumer product and may utilize higher
levels of ozone due to the current industrial applicability of the
methods. Further, ozone gas that is naturally released via
off-gassing may be toxic if released in the confined spaces of a
household.
[0005] Therefore, there is a need to solve the problems described
above by providing a household electric sanitizing device and
method for automated, non-thermal organic disinfecting and
sanitizing of food products, as well as various plastic articles
and certain electronic devices.
[0006] The aspects or the problems and the associated solutions
presented in this section could be or could have been pursued; they
are not necessarily approaches that have been previously conceived
or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, it should not be
assumed that any of the approaches presented in this section
qualify as prior art merely by virtue of their presence in this
section of the application.
BRIEF INVENTION SUMMARY
[0007] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify
key aspects or essential aspects of the claimed subject matter.
Moreover, this Summary is not intended for use as an aid in
determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0008] In an aspect, a household electric sanitizing device is
provided for improving food and household safety. The household
electric sanitizing device may be formed by a vertically integrated
compact design comprising: a lid compartment, a treatment zone and
an electronic compartment. The lid compartment may comprise an
ultraviolet lamp, a spray nozzle, a vent housing an activated
carbon filter, and a pushbutton. The treatment zone may comprise a
body, the body comprising: a cleaning chamber and a contact tank
within a bottom portion of the cleaning chamber, a dispersion stone
and a water inlet disposed in the bottom floor, a retention plate
sitting atop the bottom floor, a filter plate sitting atop the
retention plate, a basket sitting atop the filter plate and being
adapted to rotate, and a control panel having a display screen, the
control panel being adapted to receive a user's commands. The
electronics compartment may be disposed below the body in a base,
and may comprise: an ozone generator having an air pump, a rotating
motor adapted to rotate the basket, a water pump being in fluid
communication with the spray nozzle and the contact tank, and a
controller adapted to operate the ozone generator, the UV lamp, the
rotating motor and the water pump according to the user's commands.
Thus, an advantage is that the device can treat food items, various
household items and certain electronic devices to kill bacteria or
viruses. Another advantage is the availability of the device for
convenient use in the user's home. An additional advantage is the
reduction in the amount of off-gassing or evaporation in the liquid
used to treat the food items and consumer items. Another advantage
is the minimal and therefore efficient use of water as part of the
treatment process.
[0009] In another aspect, a two-stage off-gas destruct system is
provided with a UVC lamp and an activated carbon filter. The UVC
lamp may emit light rays at wavelengths about 254 nm in length. The
UVC light rays may cause ozone gas dissolved in water to form
hydroxyl radicals for disinfecting the surface of an item. The UVC
light rays and the activated carbon filter may also convert excess
ozone into oxygen for safe emission of the ozone gas into the air.
The two-stage off-gas destruct system is implemented into a
household electric sanitizing device. Thus, an advantage is that
food items, various household items and certain electronic devices
can be treated in a single device to kill bacteria or viruses. An
additional advantage is the reduction in the amount of off-gassing
or evaporation in the liquid used to treat the food items and
consumer items.
[0010] In another aspect, a method of operating a household
electric sanitizing device for improving food and household safety
is provided. The method may comprise the steps of: receiving an
electric sanitizing device, the electric sanitizing device
comprising a lid having a UV lamp, a body having an interior
cleaning chamber, and a base housing an ozone generator; rinsing
the item under tap water and loading the item into a basket in the
cleaning chamber; providing the cleaning chamber with potable water
or ice; and operating the electric sanitizing device via a control
panel disposed in a side of the body, the control panel being in
electrical communication with a controller in the base. The control
panel may comprise a display screen and may be provided with
buttons for a user to press to automatically or manually clean the
item in the basket. The user may remove the item from the electric
sanitizing device once the device indicates to the user that the
item has been cleaned. Thus, an advantage is that food items,
various household items and certain electronic devices can be
treated in a single device to kill bacteria or viruses. Another
advantage is the availability of the device for convenient use in
the user's home. An additional advantage of the method is the
reduction in the amount of off-gassing or evaporation in the liquid
used to treat the food items and consumer items. Another advantage
is the minimal and therefore efficient use of water as part of the
treatment process. Thus, an advantage is that the sanitizing device
may offer the user a straightforward, intuitive interface for
operating the device.
[0011] In another aspect, a method of cleaning an item for
improving food and household safety is provided with a household
electric sanitizing device. The household electric sanitizing
device may comprise a lid having: a UV lamp, a vent housing an
activated carbon filter, and a spray nozzle. The electric
sanitizing device may further comprise a body having: a cleaning
chamber, a dispersion stone and water inlet, a rotating basket, a
retention plate and a filter plate, and a control panel. The
electric sanitizing device may further comprise a base housing an
electronics compartment, the electronics compartment comprising: an
ozone generator with an air pump, a water pump, a rotating motor,
and a controller. The method may comprise the steps of: activating
the ozone generator, the water pump, the UV lamp, and the rotating
motor; after a first period of time, deactivating the water pump
and the ozone generator; after a second period of time,
deactivating the air pump, the UV lamp and the rotating motor; and
powering down the electric sanitizing device. Thus, an advantage is
that food items, various household items and certain electronic
devices can be treated in a single device to kill bacteria or
viruses. Another advantage is the availability of the device for
convenient use in the user's home. An additional advantage of the
method is the reduction in the amount of off-gassing or evaporation
in the liquid used to treat the food items and consumer items.
Another advantage is the minimal and therefore efficient use of
water as part of the treatment process.
[0012] The above aspects or examples and advantages, as well as
other aspects or examples and advantages, will become apparent from
the ensuing description and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] For exemplification purposes, and not for limitation
purposes, aspects, embodiments or examples of the invention are
illustrated in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an
electric sanitizing device, according to an aspect.
[0015] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate a front perspective view and a side
perspective view, respectively, of an electric sanitizing device in
a closed state, according to an aspect.
[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of an electric sanitizing
device in a closed state, according to an aspect.
[0017] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate right and left side sectional views,
respectively, of an electric sanitizing device in a closed state,
according to an aspect.
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the bottom base of
the lid compartment 465 shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an
aspect.
[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a top perspective view of a bottom floor
of the inner treatment zone of the electric sanitizing device body,
according to an aspect.
[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the filter plate 415 shown
in FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an aspect.
[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the retention/distribution
plate 429 shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an aspect.
[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of a bottom of the
retention/distribution plate 729 shown in FIG. 7, sitting inside
the electric sanitizing device, according to an aspect.
[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of the basket 427 shown in
FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an aspect.
[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the
electronic compartment housing an ozone generator, a rotary motor,
and a water pump, according to an aspect.
[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates a front view of the control panel 213
shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, according to an aspect.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] What follows is a description of various aspects,
embodiments and/or examples in which the invention may be
practiced. Reference will be made to the attached drawings, and the
information included in the drawings is part of this detailed
description. The aspects, embodiments and/or examples described
herein are presented for exemplification purposes, and not for
limitation purposes. It should be understood that structural and/or
logical modifications could be made by someone of ordinary skills
in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.
Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined by the
accompanying claims and their equivalents.
[0027] It should be understood that, for clarity of the drawings
and of the specification, some or all details about some structural
components or steps that are known in the art are not shown or
described if they are not necessary for the invention to be
understood by one of ordinary skills in the art.
[0028] "Logic" as used herein and throughout this disclosure,
refers to any information having the form of instruction signals
and/or data that may be applied to direct the operation of a
processor. Logic may be formed from signals stored in a device
memory. Software is one example of such logic. Logic may also be
comprised by digital and/or analog hardware circuits, for example,
hardware circuits comprising logical AND, OR, XOR, NAND, NOR, and
other logical operations. Logic may be formed from combinations of
software and hardware. On a network, logic may be programmed on a
server, or a complex of servers. A particular logic unit is not
limited to a single logical location on the network.
[0029] For the following description, it can be assumed that most
correspondingly labeled elements across the figures (e.g., 100 and
200, etc.) possess the same characteristics and are subject to the
same structure and function. If there is a difference between
correspondingly labeled elements that is not pointed out, and this
difference results in a non-corresponding structure or function of
an element for a particular embodiment, example or aspect, then the
conflicting description given for that particular embodiment,
example or aspect shall govern.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an
electric sanitizing device 100, according to an aspect. As shown in
FIG. 1, the electric sanitizing device ("electric sanitizing
device," "household electric sanitizing device," "sanitizing
device") 100 may comprise a plurality of exemplary components
101-144, as an example. As shown, the electric sanitizing device
100 may be provided with a lid compartment ("lid compartment,"
"lid") having a cover, the cover comprising a central lighting part
("central lighting part," "center part," "center light," "center
portion," "viewing portal") 101 and a top cover frame ("top cover
frame," "top cover," "cover frame) 102, as an example. The lid of
the sanitizing device 100 may further comprise a UV lamp 103
disposed beneath the central part 101. As will be discussed in
further detail later, the central part 101 may be made from
transparent material to allow the operating of the UV lamp 103 to
be visible by the user, as an example. The lid compartment of the
sanitizing device 100 may further comprise: a filter cover 123, two
seal rings 104, 105, a pushbutton 106, a body 124, a left torsional
spring 107, a third seal ring 108, an axle 125 for opening or
closing the cover, and a bracket 109 disposed at the base of the
cover. As will be discussed in more detail in this disclosure, each
of the above-mentioned exemplary components may form the cover of
the electric sanitizing device 100.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, the electric sanitizing device 100 may
further comprise a number of exemplary components that make up the
treatment zone of the device, as an example. As shown, the
treatment zone of the electric sanitizing device 100 may comprise:
an internal basket 127, a compression spring 110, a right torsional
spring 126, a handle 111 attaching to the basket 127, a plurality
of foot pads 128, a display board 112 and a control panel 113 in
electrical connection with the display board 112, an isolation
plate 114, a filter plate 115, a drain board 129, a buckle 116, a
first axle seat 130, a body housing ("body housing," "body") 117, a
first bracket 118, a water wave 119, a pipe joint 120, a drain
nozzle 121, a fixing bracket 122 for pumps, a rotary knob 131, a
coupling 132, and a second bracket 133. As mentioned previously,
each of the above-mentioned exemplary components may form the
treatment zone of the sanitizing device 100. The functionality,
importance and particular structural arrangement of the exemplary
components will be described in greater detail throughout this
disclosure.
[0032] As shown, the electric sanitizing device 100 may be provided
with an electronic compartment disposed below the body, as an
example. As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic compartment of the
sanitizing device 100 may comprise: a base housing ("base housing,"
"bottom base," "bottom") 135, a power cord fixing 134, an electric
control box 136, a power board 137, a spray pump 138, an air pump
139, a connection terminal 140, an ozone generator 141, a ballast
142 for the UV lamp 103, a power cord 143, and an inner connection
wire 144. As mentioned previously, each of the above-mentioned
exemplary components may form the bottom electronic component of
the electric sanitizing device 100. The functionality, importance
and particular structural arrangement of the exemplary components
will be discussed in more detail throughout this disclosure.
[0033] As will be described in greater detail throughout this
disclosure, the electric sanitizing device 100 may be adapted to
sanitize and purify various items such as food products, like
fruits and vegetables, consumer items, like toys, utensils, dishes,
and electronic devices, like cellphones and tablets. The electric
sanitizing device 100 is designed to operate efficiently in a
user's home, such as in the kitchen, and is a compact device that
may sit on a countertop, as an example. The electric sanitizing
device 100 may be provided with a treatment process that combines
water, germicidal UV light and activated oxygen that has been
approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United
States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and meets the USDA Organic
standards for contacting food products, including fruits and
vegetables, as an example. As is known in the art, super activated
water and germicidal UV light minimizes harmful bacteria, germ, and
pesticides by up to 99.99%. The CDC has estimated that
approximately 48 million Americans contract foodborne illnesses
from bacteria associated with fresh produce each year. As such,
there is a need for a household appliance that may be operated in a
consumer's home in the US.
[0034] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate a front perspective view and a side
perspective view, respectively, of an electric sanitizing device
200 in a closed state, according to an aspect. As shown in FIGS.
2A-2B, the electric sanitizing device 200 may be a compact device
that could sit on a countertop in a user's kitchen, as an example.
Thus, an advantage is that a user could conveniently purify and
treat food products and consumer items automatically in a single
device. As an example, the electric sanitizing device 200 may
comprise each of the exemplary components illustrated in FIG. 1
within the device 200, such that the exterior of the device appears
sleek and attractive to the user when the device rests in a closed
state, as shown.
[0035] As previously described when referring to FIG. 1, the
electric sanitizing device 200 may be provided with a top cover
202, a body 217 and a bottom base 235, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. As
shown as an example, the top cover 202 may be provided with a vent
245, a central light 201 and a top pushbutton 206. As will be
discussed in greater detail below, oxygen and residual heat may be
dissipated through the vent 245 following the cleansing and
purification processes, as an example. Light may be emitted from
the center light 201 to indicate operation of the device for the
user, and the pushbutton 206 may be actuated by the user to open
the top cover 202, as an example. The lid of the device 200 may be
attached to the body via an axle (shown by 125 in FIG. 1) or swivel
or any suitable pivotal means, such that the lid may be engaged or
locked into the body when the lid is properly closed, thus forming
an airtight seal between the lid and the body, as an example.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the body 217 of the sanitizing
device 200 may be provided with a control panel 213, as an example.
As will be discussed later in this disclosure, the control panel
213 may allow the user to operate the device 200 to clean various
items placed within the device, as an example. As will be discussed
below, the control panel 213 may also be provided with a display
screen and a plurality of buttons to allow the user and the device
to communicate, as an example. As shown in FIG. 2B, the bottom base
235 of the electric sanitizing device 200 may be provided with a
plurality of foot pads 228. As shown, the plurality of foot pads
228 may allow the sanitizing device 200 to sit flush atop a
surface, such as a countertop. The plurality of foot pads 228 may
each be made from a suitable material like silastic or other rubber
to allow the device to friction grip to the surface, such that the
device does not tip over accidentally, as an example.
[0037] It should be noted that the top cover 202, the body housing
217 and the bottom base 235 may each be manufactured from any
suitable plastic material like polypropylene (PP), as an example.
The cover center lighting 201 may be made from any tough
transparent material, such as transparent polycarbonates (PC), as
an example, to allow the user to view the inside of the device from
the top. The pushbutton 206 shown in FIGS. 2A-2B may be
manufactured from any suitable plastic material, such as
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or some other thermoplastic
polymer, as an example. As an example, the control panel 213 may be
manufactured from any suitable impact resistant material, such as
translucent PC. As an example, the sanitizing device 200 may be
designed such that the device may be sit on the surface without
appearing too large to the user, at about 14 inches wide, 16 inches
deep and 14 inches tall. Additionally, the sanitizing device may be
manufactured to have a light enough weight to make the device
easily transferrable from, for example, a shelf onto the
countertop, at about 12 pounds. Each of the above-mentioned
materials may be chosen to enable the electric sanitizing device to
be more cost-effective, reducing manufacturing costs, as an
advantage.
[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of an electric sanitizing
device 300 in a closed state, according to an aspect. As shown in
FIG. 3, the vent 345, center light 301 and pushbutton 306 are all
visible in this view and form a part of the top cover 302, as an
example. As an example, an easy disconnect-type hinge can be
incorporated into the lid 302 having quick connects for electrical
and spray water connections. As an example, the rear of the
electric sanitizing device 300 may be provided with a connection
terminal protruding outwardly from the rear. As an example, the
connection terminal may transfer power to the electric sanitizing
device 300 via a power chord connected to a power socket.
[0039] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate right and left side sectional views,
respectively, of an electric sanitizing device 400 in a closed
state, according to an aspect. As mentioned previously throughout
the disclosure above, the electric sanitizing device 400 may
comprise three primary portions: a lid compartment 465, a treatment
zone 466 and an electronic compartment 467. Each
portion/compartment may comprise a plurality of exemplary
components to allow the device to cleanse and purify food and
consumer items of infectious bacteria and viruses. As shown in FIG.
4A, the electric sanitizing device 400 may be provided with a UV
lamp ("UV lamp," "UVC lamp") 403 disposed within a bottom portion
of the top center 401, as an example. The UV lamp may be adapted to
have a circular or straight-line tubular design, as an example. As
will be described in greater detail when referring to FIG. 5 below,
the UV lamp 403 emits ultraviolet light rays into an interior space
("interior space," "interior cavity," "inner treatment zone,"
"cleaning chamber") 417A of the sanitizing device 400 to aid in the
provided method of improving food and consumer item safety, as an
example. As shown, the lid compartment 465 sits flush atop the body
of the treatment zone 466, thus creating an airtight seal within
the device. The cleaning chamber 417A may comprise a bottom floor
417B, as shown in FIG. 4A.
[0040] As shown, the electric sanitizing device 400 may also be
provided with a display board ("display board," "display screen,"
"display") 412 forming a part of the control panel 413, shown
previously in FIGS. 2A-2B, for example. As will be discussed in
greater detail when referring to FIG. 11, the control panel 413 and
the display 412 may enable the user to control and interact with
the device 400. As shown in FIG. 4A, the interior 417A of the
device 400 may be provided with a basket 427, which may comprise an
isolation plate ("isolation plate," "ice cover") 414, as an
example. Before operation of the device, a user may place food
items (e.g., fresh produce), bottles, utensils, cellphones, etc. in
the basket 427. As will be described in greater detail later in
this disclosure, the basket 427 may rotate to aid in the provided
method of food and household item purification. As shown in FIG.
4A, the interior 417A may also be provided with a filter plate 415,
which may sit above a retention plate ("retention plate,"
"distribution plate," "pressure plate") 429, as an example. As
shown as an example, the retention/distribution plate 429 may be
provided with downward flow passages 470A and upward flow passages
471A, as well as a pair of inner and outer lips 472A, 472B, which
will be described in detail when referring to FIG. 9. As shown in
FIG. 4B, a bottom portion of the cleaning chamber 417A may form a
contact tank ("contact tank," "water tank") 417C, which occupies
the space between the bottom floor 417B and the
retention/distribution plate 429, as an example.
[0041] As shown as an example, the electric sanitizing device 400
may further comprise a rotary motor 436 disposed below the
treatment zone 417A. As shown in FIG. 4A, the rotary motor 436 may
be provided with a central pin 474 that extends upwardly into the
interior cavity 417A. An axle seat 430 may encase the central pin
474, such that the filter plate 415 and the drain board 429 are
secured centrally atop the axle seat 430, as shown in FIG. 4A. As
shown as an example, a distal end of the central pin 474 may attach
centrally to the bottom of the basket 427, such that when the
rotary motor 436 rotates the pin 474, the basket 427 may spin
axially about the pin axis. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4A, the
electric sanitizing device 400 may be provided with a power board
437, which acts as the control board assembly for the various
electrical components disposed in the base 435 of the device. As
shown, the base 435 may also encase a rotary knob 431 and a nozzle
421 positioned below the knob 431, as an example. As shown, both
the rotary knob 431 and the nozzle 421 may protrude outwardly from
the rear of the electric device 400. As will be discussed in
further detail later in this disclosure, the interior 417A may be
filled with water before operation of the device 400 by a user.
After completion of the cleaning process, the user may actuate the
rotary knob 431 to release the dirtied water out of the nozzle 421.
The nozzle 421 may be provided with a hose (not shown) to direct
the dirtied water into a sink, as an example.
[0042] As an example, the electric sanitizing device 400 may be
provided with a magnetic switch (not shown) installed between the
lid compartment 465 and the body 466. The magnetic switch may
operate as an auto shut-off feature for the device; the electrical
circuit is broken when the contacts of the magnetic switch are
separated (i.e., when the lid is open). As such, the sanitizing
device 400 will not power on and/or operate when the lid 465 is
open or not fully engaged with the body 466, as an example.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 4B, the bottom ("bottom," "base") 424 of
the lid may be provided with a filter cover 423. The filter cover
423 may encase an activated carbon filter or replaceable carbon
filter cartridge 423A and may reside within the vent (shown by 345
in FIG. 3). As will be described in further detail when referring
to FIG. 5, oxygen and heat released during the cleaning process may
pass out of the device through the activated carbon filter 423A and
the vent. The electric sanitizing device 400 may further comprise a
water level view 448 disposed in the body 417 of the device. As an
example, the water level view 448 may indicate proper water fill
levels inside the interior cavity 417A of the device. As shown in
FIG. 4B, the electric sanitizing device 400 may also be provided
with an ozone generator 441 within the base 435 of the device. As
an example, the ozone generator may be positioned next to the
controller power board 437 shown in FIG. 4A. As will be discussed
in greater detail when referring to FIG. 6, the ozone generator 441
supplies the interior 417A with ozone during the cleaning
process.
[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the bottom base 525
of the lid compartment 465 shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an
aspect. As discussed previously when referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, the
electric sanitizing device may be provided with the UV lamp 503 in
the bottom base 525 of the lid compartment 565. As previously
described, the viewing port 501 may be made of a transparent
material (e.g., transparent PC) to allow the user to look inside
the device from the top during operation, without being exposed to
UVC rays. As shown, the UV lamp 503 may be encased within a cavity
formed by the viewing port 501 and a bottom light screen ("light
screen," "light window," "glass window") 503A. As shown, the bottom
light screen 503A may be transparent and may be manufactured of
quartz glass, as an example, to allow ultraviolet rays to pass
through the screen 503A. As an example, the UV lamp 503 may emit
ultraviolet light rays at approximately 254 nm. As shown in FIG. 5,
the bottom 525 of the lid 565 may also comprise the vent 545. As
described above, the activated carbon filter (not shown) may be
disposed within the vent 545. As shown, the UVC lamp 503 may be
positioned in close proximity with the vent 545, the significance
of which will be described in detail below. As an example, the
distance 599 between a center of the UVC lamp compartment 503 and a
center of the vent 545 may be about 2-4 inches. Lastly, as shown,
the base 525 may further comprise a spray spout ("spray spout,"
"waterspout," "spray nozzle") 546, as an example. The spray spout
546 may eject water onto items placed within the sanitizing device
during operation, the purpose of which will be described below.
[0045] The UV lamp 503 and the activated carbon filter (within the
vent 545) form the two stages of a two-stage off-gas destruct
system, according to an aspect of the present invention. The UVC
lamp may produce an intensity of approximately 1200 micro watts per
centimeter squared at about 3 (three) inches away from the quartz
glass (501), which provides a protective covering for the UVC lamp
503, as an example. During the first stage of the two-stage off-gas
destruct system, the UVC lamp 503 incorporated in the lid 565
creates hydroxyl radicals, which will be discussed in more detail
when referring to FIG. 6 below.
[0046] FIG. 6 illustrates a top perspective view of a bottom floor
617B of the inner treatment zone 617A of the electric sanitizing
device body 617, according to an aspect. As shown in FIG. 6, the
bottom floor ("bottom floor," "bottom") 617B may be provided with a
dispersion stone 680, a water drain hole 681 and a water inlet 682
having a particulate filter, as an example. It should be understood
that the dispersion stone 680 is provided with a socket for
mounting purposes, as shown. As described previously when referring
to FIGS. 4A-4B, the electric sanitizing device may comprise the
rotary motor, wherein the central pin 674 of the rotary motor
extends into the internal space 617A. As shown, the axle seat 630
encapsulates the central pin 674 and encases the rotary motor. As
will be discussed when referring to FIGS. 7-8, the axle seat 630
also provides an engagement means 630A for the filter plate (shown
by 415 in FIG. 4A) and the retention/distribution plate (shown by
429 in FIG. 4A). The water drain hole 681 may be in fluid
communication with the water level view (shown by 448 in FIG. 4B),
as an example.
[0047] As mentioned previously above, the electric sanitizing
device may comprise the ozone generator (shown by 441 in FIG. 4B),
which supplies ozone to the internal cavity 617A through the
dispersion stone 680. As an example, the dispersion stone 680 may
be provided with a tube connected to the ozone generator. The ozone
generator may be provided with a built-in air pump and delayed pump
shut off, as an example. During operation, the built-in air pump
may pump air at approximately 1-2 liters per minute (lpm) through
the ozone generator, which may produce ozone at approximately 100
milligrams per hour (mg/hr). The ozone entrained air may then flow
through the dispersion stone 680 into the contact tank (shown by
417C in FIG. 4) and up to the inner treatment zone 617A. As
mentioned previously above, the contact tank may be filled with
water, prior to operation of the device, of a volume of
approximately 4 cups or 32-40 fluid ounces. The dispersion stone
680 may create micro bubbles in the water as the ozone exits
micro-sized pores in the stone's surface. Thus, the amount of
dissolved ozone in the water may approximately be 0.5 parts per
million (ppm). Thus, an advantage is the reduction in water
consumption due to the efficient use of only about 32 ounces of
water per cleaning cycle.
[0048] The water inlet 682 may be connected to a water pump (shown
by 1138 in FIG. 11), which supplies the ozonated water in the
interior 617A to the spray nozzle (shown by 546 in FIG. 5) in the
lid (shown by 565 in FIG. 5). The spray nozzle may then apply the
ozonated water to the items placed in the basket (shown by 427 in
FIG. 4A) at approximately 10 ounces per minute (oz/min), as an
example. As will be discussed later when referring to FIG. 10, the
basket may be attached centrally to the pin 674, which may rotate
the basket at approximately 35 revolutions per minute (rpm) during
cleaning. During the cleaning process, the ozone concentration in
the treatment zone may thus exceed 20 ppm, as an example.
[0049] In an aspect of the current invention, the electric
sanitizing device may be provided with methods of treating and
purifying food items and various consumer products. According to
the example above, during the first stage of the cleaning process
("cleaning process," "UV ozone process," "advanced oxidation
process," "off-gas destruct process"), the treatment zone develops
a pressure above atmosphere that is dependent on the rate of
airflow produced by the air pump and the sizing and packing of the
activated carbon filter (discussed when referring to FIG. 5) within
the lid compartment. In the UV ozone process, as an example,
photons in the UVC spectrum (.about.254 nm) sourced by the UVC lamp
(shown by 503 in FIG. 5) convert ozone O.sub.3 in the presence of
water H.sub.2O to oxygen O.sub.2 and hydrogen peroxide. The
hydrogen peroxide H.sub.2O.sub.2 then reacts with the ozone O.sub.3
to form the hydroxyl radical .OH (discussed when referring to FIG.
5). A simplified reaction sequence is shown below:
[0050] In the presence of UV light:
O.sub.3+H.sub.2O.fwdarw.O.sub.2+H.sub.2O.sub.2, then
2O.sub.3+H.sub.2O.sub.2.fwdarw.2.OH+3O.sub.2
[0051] Approximately 20 to 30% of the ozone is converted to oxygen
and hydrogen peroxide, as indicated above. The hydrogen peroxide
then reacts with the ozone that has not converted to oxygen and
hydrogen peroxide to form the hydroxyl radical. As indicated by the
above reaction sequence, organic oxidation occurs due to the
reaction with hydroxyl radicals, molecular ozone, and direct
photolysis, as an example. The use of ozone and a light water spray
or high humidity levels enhances the sanitation of products placed
within the electric sanitizing device. The water film applied by
the spray nozzle acts in the manner of an impedance transformer,
whereby only a small amount of the ozone's molecular energy is
required to pass through the bacterial membrane. As an example, the
synergistic effect of UV and ozonated water treatment is due to the
combination of ozonated water and ozone gas released from the
ozonated water, which can access the inner portions of a food item
(e.g., the inner folds of romaine lettuce), where UV light alone
cannot reach. In addition, the UV light can stimulate the opening
of the stomata of food items, for example, and allow ozonated water
and/or ozone gas to inactivate bacteria that may be internalized in
the stomata. Thus, an advantage is that the germicidal UV light
reduces internalization of bacteria. Another advantage is that the
electric sanitizing device may operate a chemical-free automated
process, thus leaving behind no residual or harmful chemical
byproducts.
[0052] An oxidizing agent, as is known in the art, is a substance
that has the ability to oxidize other substances, such as in the
exemplary reaction sequence above. The electron oxidizing potential
(EOP) of the hydroxyl radical produced via the process above,
compared with ozone and other oxidizing agents, can be found in
Table 1 below.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Potentials of various oxidizing agents
Oxidizing Agent EOP Hydroxyl radical 2.80 Ozone 2.08 Peracetic acid
1.81 Hydrogen peroxide 1.78 Hypochlorite 1.49 Chlorine 1.36
Chlorine dioxide 1.27
[0053] As an example, the potential of the hydroxyl radical is 0.72
higher than ozone, as shown above. Thus, the hydroxyl radical may
be among the most powerful disinfectant agents. Thus, an advantage
is the natural removal of germs and bacteria and the significant
reduction in the presence of pesticides.
[0054] During operation of the second stage of the off-gas destruct
system, the activated carbon filter converts any residual ozone to
oxygen, maintaining ozone concentrations greater than 20 ppm in the
interior 617A, as an example. The activated carbon may chemically
react with the ozone to decompose or destruct it, as an example.
The air pump within the ozone generator continues to pump air once
the ozone generator stops generating ozone. As such, the ozone
within the cavity 617A that has been converted to oxygen is pushed
out through the vent in the lid. Thus, the UV light and the air
pump operate for an additional time after the UV ozone process to
purge residual ozone in the inner treatment zone 617A, causing the
converted oxygen to be released through the vent and the activated
carbon filter. Any residual harmful particles in the air exiting
the device may also be trapped by the activated carbon filter, as
an example. A portion of the heat generated from the UVC lamp may
also be dissipated through the vent, which may be an additional
purpose for positioning the UVC lamp and the vent in close
proximity (as seen in FIG. 5, for example). Thus, an advantage is
the improvement in safety for the user, since there may be
virtually no ozone left in the device upon completion of the
cleaning process.
[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the filter plate 415 shown
in FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an aspect. As mentioned previously
when referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, the electric sanitizing device may
be provided with the filter plate 715 placed within the cleaning
chamber (shown by 617A in FIG. 6). As was shown in FIG. 4A, the
filter plate 715 may be placed atop the retention/distribution
plate (429). As shown in FIG. 7, the filter plate 715 may comprise
a circular shape to coincide with the shape of the cleaning
chamber, as an example. As shown, the filter plate 715 may be
provided with a plurality of screens 777 arranged in a circular
pattern around a central portal 776. As described previously above,
the filter plate 715 may be secured to the axle seat (630) shown in
FIG. 6 via the tabs 776A disposed in the central portal 776, as
shown as an example.
[0056] As an example, the filter plate 715 may function as a filter
or net to trap any debris or particulates that may be residing on
food and/or household items being placed in the cleaning chamber.
Before operation, as the water is poured into the cleaning chamber
and over the items to be cleaned (e.g., vegetables), the debris or
particulates may be caught by the plurality of screens 777, as an
example. Furthermore, during operation, while the spray nozzle is
on and spraying ozonated water onto the items, debris or
particulates removed via the basket rotation may also be caught by
the plurality of screens 777. Due to the compact nature of the
device and the easily removeable nature of each component in the
interior cavity (e.g., filter plate, basket, distribution/retention
plate), a user may clean away any caught debris on the filter plate
715 after the cleaning process has completed, as an example.
[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the retention/distribution
plate 429 shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an aspect. As
mentioned previously when referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, the
retention/distribution plate 829 may sit below the filter plate
within the cleaning chamber, as an example. As shown in FIG. 8, the
drain board or retention plate 829 may comprise a plurality of hole
openings disposed in a circular arrangement throughout the surface
of the plate 829. As shown, the plurality of hole openings may be
divided into ozone holes 871 and water holes 870. As an example,
the retention plate 829 may be provided with three ozone holes 871,
which may each comprise a diameter that is smaller than a diameter
of each of the surrounding water holes 870, as shown. As shown, the
retention plate 829 may also comprise a center hole 875 having tabs
875A for securing the plate 829 onto the axle seat, which will be
discussed later when referring to FIG. 9.
[0058] As an example, the diameters of the ozone holes 871 and the
water holes 870 may be particularly calculated, such that the
diameters and the number of each hole 870, 871 ensures a particular
ratio of ozone to water inside the cleaning chamber. As an example,
each of the ozone 871 and water holes 870 may comprise a flow
passage (shown by 470A, 471A in FIG. 4A), such that when water is
applied into the device, the water may flow over the contents of
the basket, onto the filter plate, into the hole openings 871, 870,
through the downward flow passages and into the contact tank in a
controlled manner.
[0059] FIG. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of a bottom 929B
of the retention/distribution plate 729 shown in FIG. 7, sitting
inside the electric sanitizing device, according to an aspect. As
described previously above, the retention plate 929 may be placed
within the cleaning chamber 917A and secured to the axle seat 930,
as an example. As shown, the tabs 975A of the center hole 975 may
fit into the notches 930A of the axle seat 930 to maintain the
retention/distribution plate 929 within the chamber 917A. As an
example, the axle seat 930 may be threaded, such that when the tabs
975A are inserted into the notches 930A and rotated along the
threads of the axle seat 930, the retention/distribution plate 929
may be securely fixed to the axle seat 930. It should be understood
that the filter plate (shown by 715 in FIG. 7) sits atop the
retention/distribution plate 929 and may be secured to the axle
seat 930 in the same manner (via tabs 776A).
[0060] As mentioned previously above, the bottom 929B may also be
provided with a pair of lips 972A, 972B each extending upwardly and
forming a circular shape in the bottom of the plate 929B. As shown,
a first lip 972A may be provided around the center 975 of the plate
929 and a second lip 972B may be provided around the edges of the
plate. As an example, the lips 972 may be about 1/2 inches in
height from the bottom 929B. As an example, the lips 972 may
support the bottom of the plate 929 when the plate sits atop the
bottom floor of the cleaning chamber. Additionally, the outer lip
972B may form a friction seal with the walls of the interior cavity
917A. As shown previously in FIGS. 4A-4B, the interior cavity may
be conically shaped, thus forming the friction seal with the outer
lip 972B, which forces water to travel only through the downward
flow passages 970a, which will be discussed below. It should be
understood that the lips need not be flush with the bottom floor of
the cleaning chamber, so long as the lips form a friction seal with
the walls of the cleaning chamber.
[0061] It should be understood that FIG. 9 illustrates the bottom
of the retention plate 929, which faces downwardly, when the
retention plate is properly attached to the axle seat 930.
Additionally, as mentioned throughout this disclosure, when the
retention plate 929 is secured to the axle seat 930 and forms a
friction seal with the cleaning chamber walls 917A, the space
between the bottom floor of the cleaning chamber and the plate 929
forms the contact tank. When the water is initially poured into the
cleaning chamber, the water flows downward and situates within the
contact tank at the bottom portion of the cleaning chamber, as an
example.
[0062] As described previously above, each ozone and water hole of
the drain board may be provided with a flow passage. As shown in
FIG. 9, the downward flow passages 970A of the water holes and the
upward flow passages 971A of the ozone holes may extend upwardly
from the bottom 929B. The downward flow passages 970A may help
direct water flowing from the basket through the filter plate, and
downward to the contact tank below the retention plate 929, as an
example. The upward flow passages 971A may direct off-gassing of
any excess ozone dissolved in the water. As mentioned previously
above, the ozone and water holes may have a specific diameter to
help maintain 0.5 ppm of dissolved ozone in the water. The downward
flow passages may be maintained in a flooded condition, such that
water poured into the device flows down to the contact tank as
quickly as possible. The flow rate of the water (e.g., 10 oz/min)
may determine the size and number of downward flow passages 970A.
The downward flow passages thus help evenly mix the ozone gas and
the water. The size and number of upward flow passages 971A may be
determined by the volume of off gassing from the water in the
contact tank (e.g., 20 ppm).
[0063] As an example, the lips 972 and the downward flow passages
970A may be different heights so that when the plate rests at the
bottom of the cleaning chamber, the water flowing downward from the
top of the chamber may fill the contact tank. As an example, the
downward flow passages 970A may be about 1/8 inches shorter than
the lips 972. Due to the particular configuration of the flow
passages, ozone off-gassing may escape only through the upward flow
passages 971A. As an example, when the contact tank is filled with
water, a difference in pressure exists between the contact areas of
the downward flow passages and the upward flow passages. The
downward flow passages 970A extend deeper into the water when the
contact tank is full, and the ozone gas therefore experiences
greater pressure at those points (i.e., due to the water depth).
The upward flow passages 971A are much shorter in length, and thus
less pressure is exhibited at those contact points. Thus, the ozone
gas may take the path of least resistance and the ozone off-gassing
occurs at the upward flow passages 971A. As the excess ozone gas
rises upwardly through the cleaning chamber, the ozone gas may
further facilitate cleaning of the item before being purged by the
two-stage off-gas destruct system, as an example.
[0064] It should be noted that although a plurality of downward
flow passages is illustrated, the retention/distribution plate may
be adapted to have more passages, or as few as one. The length of
the passage(s) and the size of the corresponding hole(s) need only
be recalculated to ensure the preferable ratio of ozone to water in
the contact tank after mixing.
[0065] FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of the basket 427 shown in
FIGS. 4A-4B, according to an aspect. As described previously
throughout this disclosure, the basket 1027 may be placed within
the cleaning chamber and may hold the various items to be
sanitized, as an example. As mentioned above, the basket 1027 may
be fixed to the central pin of the rotating motor and may sit atop
the filter plate, as an example. It should be understood that the
rotating motor may rotate the basket while the filter plate and the
retention/distribution plate remain stationary inside the cleaning
chamber.
[0066] As shown as an example, the basket 1027 may also be provided
with an ice cover 1014 at the inside base of the basket 1027 for
filling the treatment chamber with ice. As an example, a user may
remove the ice cover 1014, place ice at the inside base of the
basket 1027 and then place the ice cover 1014 over the ice. The
food or household items to be cleaned may then be placed on top of
the ice cover 1014 as an example. The ice may be used with the
electric sanitizing device as an alternative for filling the
contact tank with water, as an example. It may be preferable for
the user to use ice rather than water for improved cleaning within
the device. The ice may be melted by the UVC lamp and the melted
ice may then flow down to the contact tank, as an example. However,
it should be understood that it is possible for both ice and water
to be used with the device for the sanitization of food products
and non-electronic consumer items.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 10, the basket 1027 and the ice cover 1014
may comprise a plurality of vertical slits 1069A and horizontal
slits 1069B across the entire surface of the basket 1027 and the
ice cover 1014. As an example, the number of slits 1069A, 1069B and
the spacing between each slit 1069A, 1069B is designed to maximize
the turbulence that the contents of the basket are exposed to. As
has been described throughout this disclosure, the basket may be
rotated or spun by the rotating motor at approximately 35 rpm.
Rotating of the basket 1027 exposes the contents to a gentle spray
of ozone entrained water and germicidal UV light and vapor that may
cover the entire surface of each of the contents in the basket. As
an example, spinning the basket 1027 may ensure that the water may
seep into all the nooks and crevices of nonuniformly shaped
produce, such as raspberries and romaine lettuce. The water may
then simply drain away from the contents after application due to
the centripetal force applied by the rotating motor, carrying away
any debris with it. Thus, an advantage is that the produce shelf
life of fresh foods may be extended.
[0068] As an example, the basket 1027 may be provided with
additional racks (not shown) for stacking multiple produce for
cleaning. In addition, portions of or the entirety of the basket
1027, as well as the racks, may be coated with a mirror finish or
gloss to provide the surfaces of the basket and the racks with a
reflectance greater than 60%, as an example, to provide a more even
UVC coverage inside the cleaning chamber. As an example, the
cleaning chamber and the basket may also be coated with titanium
dioxide that forms additional hydroxyl radicals when exposed to UV
light energy. As another example, the basket 1027 may be
manufactured from PP and may be about 10 inches wide and about 6
inches deep, such that the basket support 8 liters. As another
example, the basket may be provided with a disposable cupping
filter or pouch (not shown) for the sanitizing of small grains that
may easily fall between the slits of the basket.
[0069] As an example, the electric sanitizing device may be
provided with stabilization rollers (not shown) mounted in the
housing around the basket 1027. The stabilization rollers may allow
the basket to freely spin within the cleaning chamber with minimal
friction, as an example.
[0070] FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the
electronic compartment 1167 housing an ozone generator 1141, a
rotating motor 1136, and a water pump 1138, according to an aspect.
As previously described throughout this disclosure, the ozone
generator 1141 may pump ozone into the contact tank of the
treatment chamber, the water pump 1138 may pump ozonated water from
the contact tank up to the spray nozzle, and the rotary motor 1136
may rotate the basket to treat products in the basket with ozonated
water. As an example, the ozone generator may be a corona discharge
type ozone generator. As shown in FIG. 11, the electronic
compartment may comprise a plurality of tubes that connect to each
of the major electronic pump components. As indicated by FIG. 11,
the electrical components are completely separated from any water
and/or moisture present in the treatment chamber to meet UL
(Underwriters Laboratories) safety requirements. Thus, an advantage
is the improved electrical safety for the user during operation of
the device. Each of the above-mentioned electronic components in
the electronic compartment may be electrically connected to, and
controlled by, a controller mounted on the power board (shown by
437 in FIG. 4A).
[0071] As described above, each of the major electrical pump
components in the electronic compartment 1167 may be provided with
a tube that is in fluid communication with other parts of the
sanitizing device, as an example. As shown in FIG. 11, the ozone
generator 1141 may be provided with a first tube 1149A that extends
into the contact tank. The air pump built into the ozone generator
1141 may pump ozone into the contact tank through the dispersion
stone (shown by 680 in FIG. 6) via the first tube 1149A. As shown,
the first tube 1149A may be provided with a valve 1147 to prevent
any back flow of water from reaching and potentially destroying the
ozone generator, as an example. As shown, the water pump 1138 may
be provided with a second tube 1149B that extends up into the lid
compartment and connects to the spray nozzle. The water pump 1138
may also be provided with a third tube 1149C that extends into the
contact tank, as an example. Water in the contact tank that has
been treated with ozone may be sucked into the water inlet (shown
by 682 in FIG. 6) and through the third tube 1149C by the water
pump 1138. The water pump 1138 may then pump the ozonated water up
to the spray nozzle through the second tube 1149B, as an
example.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 11, a fourth tube 1149D may also be
provided in the electronic compartment 1167. The fourth tube 1146D
may extend between the water drain hole (shown by 681 in FIG. 6)
and the water level view (shown by 448 in FIG. 4). As an example,
the fourth tube 1146D may fill with water originating from the
contact tank to indicate to the user the proper filling level (via
the water level view). Finally, as shown previously in FIG. 4, the
electronic compartment 1167 may be provided with the drain nozzle
1121, as shown. As described previously when referring to FIG. 4,
the user may engage the rotary knob (not shown) to empty out the
dirtied water of the contact tank through the drain nozzle
1121.
[0073] FIG. 12 illustrates a front view of the control panel 213
shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, according to an aspect. As described
previously when referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, the electric sanitizing
device may be provided with the control panel 1213 for operation of
the device by the user, as an example. As shown in FIG. 12, the
control panel 1213 may comprise a display screen 1212 and a
plurality of surrounding buttons for controlling the various
settings of the device, as an example.
[0074] As an example, the electric sanitizing device may operate in
automatic mode or in manual mode, depending on the preference of
the user. As shown in FIG. 12, the auto modes of the sanitizing
device may be set by the buttons indicated by the brackets at 1260,
and the manual modes may be set by the buttons indicated by 1261.
As will be discussed in detail hereinafter, the auto mode buttons
1260 and the manual mode buttons 1261 may enable a user to operate
the electric sanitizing device to treat and purify food items and
various household items that could potentially be carrying harmful
bacteria or viruses. As shown as an example, the auto mode buttons
1260 may comprise four buttons for cleansing baby bottles and toys
(indicated by 1258), fruits and vegetables (indicated by 1257),
daily necessities (indicated by 1250), and electronics (indicated
by 1251). As shown, each button 1250, 1251, 1257, 1258 may contain
an illustration to indicate to the user the appropriate button to
press for washing of a particular item (e.g., button 1250 to clean
mail). Thus, an advantage is that the sanitizing device may offer
the user a straightforward, intuitive interface for automatically
operating the device.
[0075] It should be understood that although each button may be
provided with a particular illustration, the electric sanitizing
device may clean more than just the illustrated item. As an
example, the user may clean numerous plastic articles using the
mode set by the baby button 1258. Additionally, as an example, each
button may be colored or the control panel may be color-coded to
indicate, for example, dry cleaning versus wet cleaning. The baby
button 1258, the fruits and vegetables button 1257 may be blue, for
example, to indicate the use of water. The color coding may thus
help reduce occurrences of accidental wet cleaning of electronic
devices, for example, which could destroy the device.
[0076] As mentioned above, the electric sanitizing device may also
operate in manual mode, as an example, indicated by the manual mode
buttons at 1261. The manual functions are designed to be used
independently or in combination for a variety of items. As shown as
an example, the manual functions 1261 may comprise four buttons:
washing sanitization 1256, dry sanitization 1255, basket spin
on/off 1253, and timer button 1254. As shown, each button 1253-1256
may contain an illustration to indicate to the user the appropriate
button to press for performing a washing of a particular function
(e.g., button 1253 to rotate the basket). The washing sanitization
button 1256 may also be colored blue to indicate to the user that
the mode uses water, as an example. Thus, an advantage is that the
sanitizing device may offer the user a straightforward, intuitive
interface for manually operating the device.
[0077] In accordance with an aspect of the current invention,
methods of automatically operating the electric sanitizing device
may be provided for treating and purifying food items and various
household products. The methods may be adapted for wet cleaning or
dry cleaning the food and household items. As an example, a method
of cleaning plastic articles like baby bottles and toys is
provided. First, the user may rinse an item (e.g., baby bottle)
under tap water before loading the item into the electric
sanitizing device. For best results, the baby bottle should be
placed on its side with the open end of the bottle pointed
outwardly to prevent water from accumulating in the bottle, as an
example. Then, the user may load the basket inside the sanitizing
device with the item/items spaciously arranged (if more than one
item). The user may then add about 3 cups of potable water into the
device (anywhere in the cleaning chamber) and close the lid firmly,
such that the lid is locked into the body. Then, the user may press
the power button 1252 to turn on the electric sanitizing device and
may push the baby button 1258 to begin the cleaning process.
[0078] During the cleaning process actuated by the baby button
1258, the air pump, water spray pump and ozone generator operate
for about 4 minutes (according to the method outlined when
referring to FIG. 6), with the basket rotating, and the UV lamp
emitting UV light, simultaneously to uniformly wash the item. After
the 4 minutes, the water pump and the ozone generator are closed.
The UV lamp and the air pump continue to operate, and the basket
continues to rotate, for about 5 minutes. After the 5 minutes, the
UV lamp, the air pump and the basket rotating motor are turned off
and the electric sanitizing device emits an audible sound to signal
to the user that cleaning is complete. The device then completely
shuts down and the user may open the lid to remove the now cleansed
item from the basket.
[0079] It should be understood that the preceding operations, as
well as each of the operations to follow, of controlling the
various electronic components may be performed by a microcontroller
or microprocessor housed in the electronic compartment (e.g., as a
part of the controller on the power board 437). The microcontroller
or microprocessor may be programmed to respond to commands entered
via the control panel (via the buttons).
[0080] As another example, a method of cleaning fresh produce like
fruits and vegetables is provided. First, the user may rinse a food
item (e.g., fruit) under tap water before loading the item into the
electric sanitizing device. Then, the user may load the basket
inside the sanitizing device with the food item/items spaciously
arranged (if more than one food item). The user may then add about
4 cups or 32 fl. oz of potable water into the device (over the
items in the basket) and close the lid firmly, such that the lid is
locked into the body. Then, the user may press the power button
1252 to turn on the electric sanitizing device and may push the
fruit/vegetable button 1257 to begin the cleaning process.
[0081] During the cleaning process actuated by the fruit/vegetable
button 1257, the air pump, water spray pump and ozone generator
operate for about 4 minutes (according to the method outlined when
referring to FIG. 6), with the basket rotating, and the UV lamp
emitting UV light, simultaneously to uniformly wash the item. After
the 4 minutes, the water pump and the ozone generator are closed.
The UV lamp and the air pump continue to operate, and the basket
continues to rotate, for about 5 minutes. After the 5 minutes, the
UV lamp, the air pump and the basket rotating motor are turned off
and the electric sanitizing device emits an audible sound to signal
to the user that cleaning is complete. The device then completely
shuts down and the user may open the lid to remove the now cleansed
food item from the basket.
[0082] It should be understood that for each of the methods
described above, the water poured into the electric sanitizing
device may be reused for additional cleaning sessions of a similar
item. As an example, the water used during the cleaning of a batch
of apples could be used immediately after to wash a head of
lettuce. As such, the water may be reused several times for the
same product group. Thus, an advantage is the reduction of water
used.
[0083] In another exemplary embodiment of the provided method, a
method of cleaning daily necessities like mail and car keys is
provided. First, the user may load the basket inside the sanitizing
device with the mail spaciously arranged (if more than piece of
mail). The user may then close the lid firmly, such that the lid is
locked into the body. Then, the user may press the power button
1252 to turn on the electric sanitizing device and may push the
daily necessities button 1250 to begin the dry-cleaning
process.
[0084] During the dry-cleaning process actuated by the daily
necessities button 1250, the air pump and the ozone generator
operate for about 5 minutes, with the basket rotating, and the UV
lamp emitting UV light, simultaneously to uniformly disinfect the
dry good. After the 5 minutes, the ozone generator is closed. The
UV lamp continues to operate, and the basket continues to rotate,
for about 5 minutes. After the second 5 minutes, the UV lamp, the
air pump and the basket rotating motor are turned off and the
electric sanitizing device emits an audible sound to signal to the
user that cleaning is complete. The device then completely shuts
down and the user may open the lid to remove the now disinfected
mail from the basket, for example.
[0085] Although no water was used in the previously described
method of dry cleaning, it should be noted that ozone may still be
used, even without the presence of water in the cleaning chamber.
As an example, during dry cleaning, with ozone traveling throughout
the cleaning chamber, the air pump naturally brings moisture into
the cleaning chamber, such that a high humidity level is created.
The humidity allows for the UV+ozone+water synergy that produces
the strong hydroxyl radical described herein previously. It should
also be understood that numerous other household items (e.g.,
bottles, utensils, gloves, cloth facemasks), not solely handheld
electronic devices, can be sterilized via the dry-cleaning
process.
[0086] In another exemplary embodiment of the provided method, a
method of cleaning electronics like cellphones is provided. First,
the user may load the basket inside the sanitizing device with a
handheld electronic device (e.g., cellphone), such that the
electronic device/devices is/are spaciously arranged (if more than
one device). The user may then close the lid of the electric
sanitizing device firmly, such that the lid is locked into the
body. Then, the user may press the power button 1252 to turn on the
electric sanitizing device and may push the electronics button 1251
to begin the dry-cleaning process.
[0087] During the dry-cleaning process actuated by the electronics
button 1251, the UVC lamp operates for about 7 minutes, with the
basket rotating simultaneously to uniformly sterilize the
electronic device. After the 7 minutes, the UV lamp and the basket
rotating motor are turned off and the electric sanitizing device
emits an audible sound to signal to the user that sterilizing is
complete. The device then completely shuts down and the user may
open the lid to remove the now sterilized handheld electronic
device from the basket.
[0088] In accordance with an aspect of the current invention,
methods of manually operating the electric sanitizing device may be
provided for treating and purifying food items and various
household products. The methods may be adapted for wet cleaning or
dry cleaning the food and household items. Operating the electric
sanitizing device via the manual modes 1261 may enable a user to
individualize and personalize the cleaning process according to the
user's preferences. As an example, some manual modes require about
3 cups of potable water to be in the basket for operation. In an
exemplary embodiment of the provided method, the user may place the
desired item into the basket of the cleaning chamber and close the
lid firmly to lock it in place. The user may then press the power
button 1252 and select the desired manual mode(s) 1261.
[0089] As an example, the washing sanitization mode, actuated by
button 1256, utilizes oxygen molecules pumped by the ozone
generator, UVC light, basket rotation and potable water to help
clean raw foods (e.g., fruits and vegetables). The washing
sanitization mode may operate for a default time of 6 minutes. The
user may press the timer button 1254 to increase the length of
operation up to 30 minutes, as an example. During the washing
sanitization function of the device, the water pump, the air pump,
the ozone generator, the UV lamp and the rotary motor operate. Let
total time be the amount of time set by the user (e.g., 6
minutes+amount of time extended via the timer button 1254); if the
operation time is not extended, total time=6 minutes (default).
After the washing sanitization operation runs for (total time-5
minutes), the ozone generator is closed. After another 5 minutes,
the spray pump, the air pump, the UV lamp and the rotating motor
are turned off. The electric sanitizing device then emits an
audible sound indicating that sanitization is complete, and the
device will completely shut down.
[0090] As another example, the dry sanitization mode, actuated by
button 1255, solely utilizes the air pump, the ozone generator,
basket rotation and the UVC lamp. This mode may be desirable when
dry-cleaning, such as for disinfecting mail or car keys. The dry
sanitization mode may operate for a default time of 6 minutes and
can be extended up to 30 minutes by pressing the timer button 1254.
It should be understood that the dry sanitization mode cannot work
with the wet sanitization mode. During the dry sanitization
function of the device, the air pump, the ozone generator, the UV
lamp and the rotary motor operate. Let total time be the amount of
time set by the user (e.g., 6 minutes+amount of time extended via
the timer button 1254); if the operation time is not extended,
total time=6 minutes (default). After the dry sanitization
operation runs for [(total time-5 minutes)/2], the ozone generator
is closed. After another 5 minutes, the air pump, the UV lamp and
the rotating motor are turned off. The electric sanitizing device
then emits an audible sound indicating that sanitization is
complete, and the device will completely shut down.
[0091] As another example of manual operation, the basket spin
on/off function, actuated by button 1253, turns on/off the basket
rotation function. As an example, the basket spin on/off function
may be paired with either of the preceding manual modes. Although
both sanitization modes automatically turn on the basket spin
function, the user may desire for the basket spin function to be
turned off, as an example. As such, the user may press the basket
spin button 1253 to stop the rotation of the basket during the
sanitization operation. Additionally, the basket spin on/off
function may be used separately for spin drying dishes or
disinfecting electronics, as an example. If the basket spin on/off
function runs separately, the operation runs for a default time of
3 minutes but can be extended up to 30 minutes via the timer button
1254. The basket mode will run the air pump, the UV lamp and the
rotary motor to spin the basket for the desired amount of time.
After the operation completes, the air pump, the UV lamp and the
rotating motor are turned off. The electric sanitizing device then
emits an audible sound indicating that sanitization is complete,
and the device will completely shut down.
[0092] As previously discussed, the timer button 1254 powers each
of the manual operations up to 30 minutes. As previously mentioned,
the user may select the desired manual function (e.g., washing
sanitization 1256) and may press the timer button 1254 to increase
the duration of the function continuously up to 30 minutes maximum.
During countdown, the timer button 1254 may also be pressed to
increase the time. As an example, if the amount of time of an
operation is set less than 10 minutes, engagement of the timer
button 1254 will extend the time in 2-minute intervals. If the set
amount of time is between 10 minutes and 30 minutes (e.g., 15
minutes), engagement of the timer button 1254 will extend the time
in 5-minute intervals up to 30 minutes total maximum. As an
example, if the timer is set at 26/27/28/29 minutes, engagement of
the timer button 1254 will extend the operation time to 30 minutes.
The timer button cannot operate separately from the other manual
functions.
[0093] As an example, the electric sanitizing device may be
provided with a room-wide sterilization operation. The room-wide
sterilization operation utilizes oxygen molecules and UV light
originating from the sanitizing device to disinfect a room. As an
example, the room-wide sterilization operation may eliminate
bacteria, viruses, molds, smoke, and toxic gases from the room. To
put the electric sanitizing device in the room-wide sterilization
mode, the user may turn on the device and then open the lid, such
that the UVC lamp faces upward. Then, the user may press and hold
the basket spin button 1253 for 5 seconds to initiate the room-wide
sterilization operation. The ozone generator and air pump start
immediately, and the UV lamp may start 2 minutes later to enable
the user to leave the room. After 30 minutes, the ozone generator
and the UV light turn off, and the machine will emit an audible
sound to signal to the user that the sterilization process has been
completed. The device will then automatically shut down. Thus, an
advantage is that various acute illnesses caused by airborne molds
or toxic gases may be prevented.
[0094] It should be understood that each operation taken in the
above methods may be reflected in the display 1212, as an example.
As shown in FIG. 12, the display 1212 may be a screen (e.g., LCD
screen) comprising illustrations that may be lit up by a built-in
LED, as an example. As shown, each illustration on the display 1212
may correspond to an illustration on the buttons, to indicate
proper response by the device to the user's commands. As an
example, when the user actuates the electronics button 1251, the
electronics illustration 1251A may light up on the display.
Additionally, the digits 1259 may light up on the display 1212 to
indicate to the user the amount of time left (e.g., 07) during any
given operation, as an example.
[0095] It should be understood that the electric sanitizing device
disclosed herein may be adapted to respond to the user's commands
by means other than the buttons. As an example, a mobile
application may be connected wirelessly to the device for operation
of the device via a cellphone. Additionally, the control panel may
be adapted to be touchscreen. Furthermore, the arrangement,
illustrations, and style of the control panel and display screen
are shown as examples and should not be interpreted as being
limiting.
[0096] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain
words and phrases used in this patent document. The term "couple"
and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication
between two or more elements, whether or not those elements are in
physical contact with one another. The term "or" is inclusive,
meaning and/or. The phrases "associated with" and "associated
therewith," as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be
included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within,
connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with,
cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to
or with, have, have a property of, or the like.
[0097] It should be understood that although the term "plastic" has
been used throughout this disclosure to refer generally to consumer
and household items made of plastic, the plastic must be O.sub.3
acceptable to ensure compatibility with the provided cleaning
methods. It should be understood that the "contact tank" refers to
the bottom portion of the interior of the treatment zone. The
"cleaning chamber" refers to the upper portion of the treatment
zone, where the basket is located.
[0098] Further, as used in this application, "plurality" means two
or more. A "set" of items may include one or more of such items.
Whether in the written description or the claims, the terms
"comprising," "including," "carrying," "having," "containing,"
"involving," and the like are to be understood to be open-ended,
i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional
phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of,"
respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases with
respect to claims.
[0099] If present, use of ordinal terms such as "first," "second,"
"third," etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by
itself connote any priority, precedence or order of one claim
element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a
method are performed. These terms are used merely as labels to
distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another
element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to
distinguish the claim elements. As used in this application,
"and/or" means that the listed items are alternatives, but the
alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.
[0100] Throughout this description, the aspects, embodiments or
examples shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than
limitations on the apparatus or procedures disclosed or claimed.
Although some of the examples may involve specific combinations of
method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those
acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish
the same objectives.
[0101] Acts, elements and features discussed only in connection
with one aspect, embodiment or example are not intended to be
excluded from a similar role(s) in other aspects, embodiments or
examples.
[0102] Aspects, embodiments or examples of the invention may be
described as processes, which are usually depicted using a
flowchart, a flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram.
Although a flowchart may depict the operations as a sequential
process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or
concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be
re-arranged. With regard to flowcharts, it should be understood
that additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the steps as
shown may be combined or further refined to achieve the described
methods.
[0103] If means-plus-function limitations are recited in the
claims, the means are not intended to be limited to the means
disclosed in this application for performing the recited function,
but are intended to cover in scope any equivalent means, known now
or later developed, for performing the recited function.
[0104] Claim limitations should be construed as means-plus-function
limitations only if the claim recites the term "means" in
association with a recited function.
[0105] If any presented, the claims directed to a method and/or
process should not be limited to the performance of their steps in
the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily
appreciate that the sequences may be varied and still remain within
the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0106] Although aspects, embodiments and/or examples have been
illustrated and described herein, someone of ordinary skills in the
art will easily detect alternate of the same and/or equivalent
variations, which may be capable of achieving the same results, and
which may be substituted for the aspects, embodiments and/or
examples illustrated and described herein, without departing from
the scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of this
application is intended to cover such alternate aspects,
embodiments and/or examples. Hence, the scope of the invention is
defined by the accompanying claims and their equivalents. Further,
each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the
specification.
* * * * *