U.S. patent application number 17/327122 was filed with the patent office on 2021-11-25 for ultraviolet disinfection device and uses thereof.
The applicant listed for this patent is OLYMPIA LIGHTING, INC.. Invention is credited to Ram Shalvi.
Application Number | 20210361816 17/327122 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005955158 |
Filed Date | 2021-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210361816 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shalvi; Ram |
November 25, 2021 |
ULTRAVIOLET DISINFECTION DEVICE AND USES THEREOF
Abstract
The present invention provides a device for generating
ultraviolet (UV) radiation whose wavelength is optimally tuned into
the range of 240 to 290 nm, with peak wavelength in the range of
260 to 270 nm, which attains a Peak Germicidal Disinfection
Effective Index of nearly 100%, superior to conventional UV lights
and lamps. This device comprises a light-emitting diode (LED)
matrix, a fan, an LED driver, a base and a motion sensor with
programmable sensitivity and time delay. It may further comprise
components for thermal protection and active air circulation. When
operating, the device emits visible UVA radiation and blue light.
With special considerations for user safety, the device effectively
protects users from exposure to UV hazards and is safe to use. With
the built-in thermal protection, this device may be used with
either open or enclosed fixtures.
Inventors: |
Shalvi; Ram; (Closter,
NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
OLYMPIA LIGHTING, INC. |
NORTHVALE |
NJ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005955158 |
Appl. No.: |
17/327122 |
Filed: |
May 21, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
63029378 |
May 22, 2020 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61L 2/10 20130101; A61L
2/24 20130101; F21V 29/61 20150115; H05B 45/50 20200101; A61L 9/20
20130101; F21Y 2113/10 20160801; F21V 23/0471 20130101; A61L 2/26
20130101; F21K 9/232 20160801; F21V 21/26 20130101; H05B 45/18
20200101 |
International
Class: |
A61L 9/20 20060101
A61L009/20; F21V 23/04 20060101 F21V023/04; F21V 29/61 20060101
F21V029/61; F21K 9/232 20060101 F21K009/232; F21V 21/26 20060101
F21V021/26; H05B 45/18 20060101 H05B045/18; H05B 45/50 20060101
H05B045/50; A61L 2/26 20060101 A61L002/26; A61L 2/24 20060101
A61L002/24; A61L 2/10 20060101 A61L002/10 |
Claims
1. A disinfection device comprising: a base; a plurality of light
sources arranged in a predetermined pattern to form a light array;
a housing having two ends, wherein one end is mounted on the base,
and the light array is mounted on the other end; a means for
thermal protection; and a controlling circuit enclosed in the
housing and configured to convert electrical power provided through
the base into power for the light array, and the means for thermal
protection, wherein the means for thermal protection comprises a
thermal sensor for detecting temperature of the device, wherein the
thermal sensor is coupled to the controlling circuit, once the
temperature reaches or is higher than a predetermined temperature,
the controlling circuit provides a signal to prevent the device
from overheating; and, after switching on, the light array emits
ultraviolet radiation that projects outwards and disinfects
surrounding surfaces and air.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the light sources are light
emitting diodes (LEDs).
3. The device of claim 1, further comprising a means for motion
detection enclosed in the housing, wherein said means for motion
detection comprises a motion sensor detecting motion of a person or
animal in proximity to the device; when motion of a human or animal
is detected, the motion sensor sends a signal to the circuit to
switch off the light array.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the signal provided by the
controlling circuit is to adjust the power for the light array,
turn on or adjust a cooling unit coupled to the controlling
circuit, or both, so as to prevent the device from overheating.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein the cooling unit is a fan
enclosed in the housing or base, or inside the light array.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuit is an integrated
circuit and works on universal voltage from 100 to 480 volts on an
AC power or 120V to 750 volts on a DC power.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the base, the light array and the
housing are mounted with their rotational axes aligned.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the light array is arranged as an
LED strip.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet radiation has a
wavelength in the range of 240 to 290 nm, and a peak wavelength in
the range of 260 nm to 270 nm.
10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a Surge Protection
Device (SPD), which is integrated into the base, protecting the
device from electrical surge during operation.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet radiation has a
peak wavelength in the range of 260 nm to 270 nm and each of the
light sources in the light array has a total optical power output
of at least 60 to 80 mW when operating at 500 mA, or at least 10 to
30 mW when operating at 100 mA.
12. The device of claim 1, wherein the light array has a
cylindrical shape with a diameter of 3 to 5 inches and a height of
5 to 10 inches, and the light array has an electric power of 30 to
150 W, a luminous flux of 10 to 90 .mu.W/cm.sup.2 at a distance of
1 meter, and a power of irradiation is 200 to 4,500 mW.
13. The device of claim 1, wherein the device has a Peak Germicidal
Disinfection Effectiveness (PGDE) Index in a range of
85.0%-100%.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the device effectively reduces
COVID-19 Virus by 99.9% in air within a space irradiated by the
device.
15. The device of claim 1, wherein each light source in the light
array attains a viewing angle of 90 to 130 degrees, a forward
voltage between 5.0 and 9.0 V when operating at 100 to 500 mA, a
junction-to-case thermal resistance of 7.0.degree. C./W, and a
power dissipation ranging from 4.0 W to 4.5 W when operating at 500
mA or about 1 W at 100 to 150 mA.
16. The device of claim 1, wherein the light array tolerates a
continuous forward current of 100 to 700 mA, a reverse voltage of
no higher than 5 V, a case temperature in the range of -10 to
100.degree. C. when operating at 500 mA, a storage temperature of
-40 to 100.degree. C., and a junction temperature no higher than
115.degree. C.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the light array simultaneously
emits a UVC radiation with a wavelength in the range of 200 to 280
nm and a visible light to human eyes.
18. The device of claim 17, wherein the visible light is UVA rays
with a wavelength in the range of 390 to 430 nm, a blue light with
a wavelength higher than 410 nm, or both.
19. The device of claim 17, wherein the UVC radiation is emitted
from light sources inside of the device for air disinfection while
the visible light is emitted from light sources on outside of the
device for illumination.
20. The device of claim 3, wherein the motion sensor prevents the
device from being switched on until motion of a human or animal is
no longer detected after a preset time delay, and the sensitivity
of the motion sensor and the time delay are independently
adjustable.
21. A disinfection device comprising: a pair of bases; a plurality
of light sources arranged in a strip pattern to form a light array;
a housing with two ends and a surface accommodating the light
array, wherein the housing is mounted to the pair of bases via the
two ends; a means for thermal protection; and a controlling circuit
enclosed in the housing and configured to convert electrical power
provided through the bases or one of the bases into power for the
light array, and the means for thermal protection, wherein the
means for thermal protection comprises a thermal sensor for
detecting temperature of the device, wherein the thermal sensor is
coupled to the controlling circuit, once the temperature reaches or
is higher than a predetermined temperature, the controlling circuit
generates a signal to switch off or adjust the device to prevent
the device from overheating; and, after switching on, the light
array emits ultraviolet radiation that projects outwards and
disinfects surrounding surfaces and air.
22. The device of claim 21, further comprising a means for airflow
detection detecting airflow passing through or at the device,
wherein, when the airflow as detected is above a preset and tunable
threshold, the controlling circuit generates a signal to power on
or adjust the plurality of light sources in the light array.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefits of U.S. Ser. No.
63/029,378, filed May 22, 2020. The entire contents and disclosures
of the prior application are incorporated herein by reference into
this application.
[0002] Throughout this application, various references are referred
to and disclosures of these publications in their entireties are
hereby incorporated by reference into this application to more
fully describe the state of the art to which this invention
pertains.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to lighting devices that
include germicidal disinfection by ultraviolet radiation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be utilized for germicidal
disinfection. UV radiation is the electromagnetic radiation that
falls in the region of spectrum between visible light and x-rays.
UV radiation is invisible to the human eye and includes wavelength
in the spectral range of 100 to 400 nanometers (nm). This spectral
range can be subdivided into four regions: vacuum UV rays with
wavelength in the range of 100 to 200 nm, UVC rays with wavelength
range of 200 to 280 nm, UVB rays with wavelength range 280 to 315
nm, and UVA rays with wavelength range 315 nm to 400 nm. Because of
the spectral sensitivity of DNA and RNA in bacteria and viruses,
only the UVC region demonstrates significant germicidal
properties.
[0005] Conventional devices using UV radiation for disinfection,
such as low-pressure UV lights and/or UV lamps, may have present
problems with safety and effectiveness. Extensive and prolonged
exposure to UV radiation may be associated with occurrence of skin
cancers and may also cause problems to health of eyes. The
effectiveness index of a conventional UV lamp is typically around
80%, not having put the UVC region into most effective use. The
present invention solves foregoing issues with innovative designs
and optimal spectral tuning.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a disinfection device
comprising: a base; a plurality of ultraviolet light sources
arranged in a predetermined pattern to form an ultraviolet unit; a
bowl-shape housing having two ends, wherein one end is smaller than
the other end, wherein the smaller end of the housing is mounted on
the base, and the light array the ultraviolet unit are mounted on
the other end of the housing. The device also includes a means for
thermal protection; a means for motion detection; and a circuit to
convert commercial power provided through the base into power for
the light array and the ultraviolet unit, the means for thermal
protection, and the means for motion detection. The means for
thermal protection, the means for motion detection, and the circuit
are included within the housing. The means for thermal protection
maintains the device at an operating temperature that prevents
overheating. The means for motion detection detects motion of a
human in proximity to the device and switches off the ultraviolet
light source so as not to expose the subject to ultraviolet light
when the subject is in the vicinity of the ultraviolet light
source. When the person leaves the vicinity of the ultraviolet
light source, the motion sensor reactivates the ultraviolet light
source once again to generate ultraviolet radiation that projects
outwards and disinfects surrounding surfaces and air.
[0007] In one embodiment, the UV radiation generated by the light
sources (e.g., LEDs including ultraviolet LEDs) is in the
wavelength range of 200 nm to 400 nm. In one embodiment, the UV
radiation generated by the light sources (e.g., LEDs including
ultraviolet LEDs) is in the wavelength range of 240 nm to 290 nm.
In another embodiment, the UV radiation generated by the light
sources (e.g., LEDs including ultraviolet LEDs) has peak wavelength
range of 260 nm to 270 nm. In one embodiment, the UV radiation
kills germs including bacteria and viruses and disinfects
surrounding air and surfaces.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0008] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
disinfection device of the present invention.
[0009] FIG. 1B is a front view of the disinfection device shown in
FIG. 1A.
[0010] FIG. 1C is an end view of the disinfection device shown in
FIG. 1A.
[0011] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the disinfection device in
one embodiment of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2B is a side view of the disinfection device shown in
FIG. 2A.
[0013] FIG. 2C is an end view of the disinfection device shown in
FIG. 2A.
[0014] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the disinfection device
shown in FIG. 2A, viewed from a different perspective angle.
[0015] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the disinfection device in
one embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 3B is a side view of the disinfection device shown in
FIG. 3A.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a front view of the disinfection device in one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 5A is a spectrum diagram of conventional low-pressure
UV lights/lamps, showing Peak Germicidal Disinfection Effectiveness
as measured by peak relative intensity approximately 80%.
[0019] FIG. 5B is a spectrum diagram of the disinfection device of
present invention, showing a wavelength range of 250 nm to 300 nm
and Peak Germicidal Disinfection Effectiveness close to 100%.
[0020] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an LED in one embodiment of
the present invention including a back panel comprising the
cathode, the anode, and the thermal plates.
[0021] FIG. 6B is a top view of the LED back panel shown in FIG.
6A.
[0022] FIG. 6C is a top view of the LED back panel shown in FIG.
6A.
[0023] FIG. 6D is a top view of the LED back panel shown in FIG.
6A.
[0024] FIG. 6E is a side view of the LED shown in FIG. 6A.
[0025] FIG. 6F is an illustration of the solder pattern for the
back panels shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D.
[0026] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the device's circuitry in one
embodiment of the present invention, illustrating electrically
conductive connections among the circuit (e.g., the LED Driver),
the cooling unit in the means for thermal protection (e.g., a fan),
and the light array (e.g., the LED matrix).
[0027] FIG. 8 is a temperature profile of a light source (e.g., an
LED) in one embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 9 illustrates the device components in one embodiment
of the present invention, including light array (e.g., the LED
matrix), the cooling unit in the means for thermal protection
(e.g., a fan), the circuit (e.g., the LED driver) and the base.
[0029] FIG. 10 is a cut-out sketch of the base showing the circuit
and electrically conducted connections in the base, wherein 201 is
a protective sheet (isolation sheet), 202 is a metal shell (e.g.,
an Edison Lamp Base Metal Shell), 203 is a metal oxide varistor
(MOV) in an SPD, 204 is an SPD Printed Circuit Board (PCB), 205 is
a fuse for the SPD, 206 is a Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) or "Arrester"
in the SPD, 207 is a common wire (neutral) soldered to 202, 208 is
a hot wire (phase) soldered to 209, 209 is a center contact, (e.g.,
an Edison Lamp Base Center Contact).
[0030] FIG. 11 illustrates an air duct with the device of the
present invention equipped therewith for disinfection. Mounted onto
the bottom panel of the duct are the light sources that are capable
of emitting disinfecting ultraviolet radiation.
[0031] FIG. 12 illustrates an air duct with the device of the
present invention equipped therewith for disinfection. Mounted onto
the bottom panel of the duct are the light sources that are capable
of emitting disinfecting ultraviolet radiation.
[0032] FIG. 13A shows an LED strip comprising the light sources
used in the device of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 13B shows a magnetic strip for mounting the LED strip
in FIG. 13A.
[0034] FIG. 13C shows an LED strip comprising a light array
arranged in a strip pattern, a housing, a pair of bases, and a unit
for mechanically mounting the housing.
[0035] FIGS. 13D and 13E show the LEDs arranged in a typical LED
strip.
[0036] FIG. 13F is a typical UV LED PCB electrical diagram in an
air purifier.
[0037] FIG. 14 illustrates an air circulation design that combines
the device of the present invention with active air convection for
breaking down and killing infectious organisms such as bacteria,
viruses, and other pathogens.
[0038] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
disinfection device of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 16 is an exploded view of a representative device with
UVC LEDs inside and visible light LEDs on the outside of the
device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0040] The present invention provides a disinfection device (100)
comprising a base (101); a plurality of light sources (103)
arranged in a predetermined pattern to form a light array (102); an
ultraviolet light source (103); a bowl-shaped housing (104) having
two ends, wherein one end is smaller than the other end, wherein
the smaller end of the housing (104) is mounted on the base (101),
and the ultraviolet unit is mounted on the other end of the housing
(104); a means for thermal protection (105); a means for motion
detection (106); and a circuit (107) configured to convert
commercial power provided through the base (101) into power for the
light array (102), the means for thermal protection (105), and the
means for motion detection (106). The means for thermal protection
(105), the means for motion detection (106), and the circuit (107)
are enclosed within the housing (104). The means for thermal
protection (105) maintains the device (100) at an operating
temperature that will prevent overheating. The means for motion
detection (106) detects motions of a human or animal in proximity
to the device (100). After switching on, the light sources (103)
emit ultraviolet radiation that projects outwards and disinfects
surrounding surfaces and air.
[0041] The following terms shall be used to describe the present
invention. In the absence of a specific definition set forth
herein, the terms used to describe the present invention shall be
given their common meaning as understood by those of ordinary skill
in the art.
[0042] The base (101) is used to receive electrical power. It can
be a standard light bulb base (101), also known as an Edison base
(101), having a foot electrical contact at the bottom end and a
base electrical contact on the side surface with optional screw
thread, or any base (101) that is adapted to fit into a standard
bulb socket. The base can be unmovably mounted, e.g., by gluing or
soldering, onto one typically smaller end of two ends of the
housing (104). Two contacts of the base (101) are electrically
connected to the circuit (107) so as to provide power to the
latter.
[0043] The light array (102) comprises a plurality of light sources
(103), such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) (103), chosen to emit
the desired optical wavelengths from visible to ultraviolet
spectrum. When using LEDs as light sources (103), the light array
(102) is also termed an LED Matrix (102). The light array (102) may
have any shape, such as a cube, a cuboid, a cylinder, a sphere, a
disk, or other shape. The light sources (e.g., LEDs) (103) are
located on the external surface of the light array (102) and may
cover a part or all of the surface. The light sources (e.g., LEDs)
(103) are arranged in a predetermined pattern, usually with a fixed
spacing for uniform illumination. The light sources (e.g., LEDs)
(103) may be chosen to emit ultraviolet rays and visible light
simultaneously, and they may mimic daylight, incandescent or
fluorescent bulb, and/or provide a particular color tone desired
for a practical application. When powered on, the light sources
(103) emit light that projects outwards, illuminating and
disinfecting surrounding area.
[0044] In one embodiment, the ultraviolet source included in the
light sources (e.g., LEDs) (103) have peak wavelengths in the range
of 260 to 270 nm and total optical power output of at least 60 to
80 mW when operating at 500 mA (see Table 1 below).
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 PEAK WAVELENGTH AND TOTAL OPTICAL POWER
OUTPUT Peak Wavelength Minimal Total Optical Power No. (nm) output
in mW at 500 mA 1 260 to 270 80 2 260 to 270 70 3 260 to 270 60
[0045] In another embodiment, each light source (e.g., an LED)
(103) may attain a viewing angle of 130 degrees, a forward voltage
between 5.0 and 9.0 V when operating at 500 mA, a junction-to-case
thermal resistance of 7.0.degree. C./W, and a power dissipation of
4.0 W or no greater than 4.5 W when operating at 500 mA (see Table
2 below).
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LED MATRIX
Characteristic Unit Minimum Typical Maximum Viewing Angle degree
130 Forward Voltage at 500 mA V 5.0 9.0 Thermal Resistance
(junction .degree. C./W 7.0 to case) Power Dissipation at 500 mA w
4.0 4.5
[0046] In one embodiment, the light array (102) can tolerate a
continuous forward current of 100 to 700 mA or of 500 mA, a reverse
voltage of no higher than about 5 V, a case temperature in the
range of -10 to 80.degree. C. when operating at 500 mA, a storage
temperature of -40 to 100.degree. C., and a junction temperature no
higher than 115.degree. C. (see Table 3 below).
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS OF THE DEVICE
Characteristic Unit Minimum Typical Maximum Forward Current
(continuous) mA 100 500 700 Reverse Voltage V -5 Operating Case
Temperature .degree. C. -10 80 Range at 500 mA Storage Temperature
.degree. C. -40 100 Junction Temperature .degree. C. 115
[0047] In one embodiment, the light array (102) has a preheat or
soak temperature between 150 (T.sub.smin) and 200.degree. C.
(T.sub.smax) and transitions between the limit temperatures within
60 to 120 seconds. The light array (102) has a liquidous
temperature (T.sub.L) of approximately 217.degree. C., a maximum
peak package body temperature (T.sub.P) of 260.degree. C., a
maximum ramp-up rate of 3.degree. C./s from, and a time maintained
above T.sub.L of 60 to 150 seconds (t.sub.L). The light array (102)
has a maximum ramp-down rate of 6.degree. C./s from T.sub.P to
T.sub.L and a maximum time of approximately 8 minutes from
25.degree. C. to T.sub.P (see Table 4 below).
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 PROFILE FEATURE AND PARAMETERS Parameter
Value Preheat/Soak Minimum Temperature (T.sub.smin) 150.degree. C.
Preheat/Soak Maximum Temperature (T.sub.smax) 200.degree. C.
Maximum Time (t.sub.s) from T.sub.smin to T.sub.smax 60-120 seconds
Maximum Ramp-up Rate (T.sub.L to T.sub.P) 3.degree. C./second
Liquidous Temperature (T.sub.L) 217.degree. C. Time (t.sub.L)
maintained above T.sub.L 60-150 seconds Maximum Peak Package Body
Temperature (T.sub.P) 260.degree. C. Time (t.sub.P) within
5.degree. C. of the Specified Temperature 30 seconds (T.sub.C)
Maximum Ramp-down Rate (T.sub.P to T.sub.L) 6.degree. C./second
Maximum Time 25.degree. C. to Peak Temperature 8 minutes
[0048] In one embodiment, the light array (102) may have a
cylindrical shape with a diameter of 3.5 to 4.5 inches and a height
of 61/8 to 9.5 inches. The light array (102) can have a power of 30
to 150 W, a flux of 10 to 90 .mu.W/cm.sup.2, and an irradiation of
216 to 1,500 mW (see Table 5 below).
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 PRODUCT SIZE, POWER, FLUX AND IRRADIATION
Diameter Height Power Flux Irradiation No. (inch) (inch) (W)
(.mu.W/cm.sup.2) (mW) 1 3.5 61/8 30 10 216 2 4.5 7 30 15 288 3 4.5
9.5 100 60 1,000 4 4.5 9.5 150 90 1,500
[0049] In one embodiment, for enhanced safety of using the device,
the ultraviolet light source (103) is not only capable of emitting
ultraviolet radiation in the UVC spectrum, it can also emit UVA
rays with wavelength in the range of 390 to 410 nm. UVA rays in
this range is visible to the human eye, and a subject or a user can
thus be aware of the operating status of the device (100) so that
the subject or user may avoid elongated exposure to the ultraviolet
radiation.
[0050] In one embodiment, for enhanced safety of using the device
and avoiding exposing a subject/user to the ultraviolet radiation,
the ultraviolet light source (103) may simultaneously emit
ultraviolet radiation in the UVC spectrum with wavelength in the
range of 240 to 290 nm, in the UVA spectrum with wavelength in the
range of 390 to 410 nm, and in the visible light spectrum with
wavelength longer than 410 nm such as the blue light. Both the UVA
rays and the blue light are visible to the human eye. A subject or
a user may thus be able to avoid exposure to the UVC rays, when it
perceives the UVA rays and/or the blue light.
[0051] The circuit (107), also known as an LED driver (107) when
driving the LED matrix (102), is an integrated circuit (107)
enclosed within the housing (104). The circuit (107) receives power
as provided through the base (101) and is configured to convert it
into power for the light array (102), the means for thermal
protection (105), the means for motion detection (106), and any
other component of the device (100) that requires electrical power.
The circuit (107) receives sensory signal from the means for motion
detection (106), the means for thermal protection (105), and any
other sensors equipped with the device (100). Based on sensory
signals, the circuit (107) computes and sends control signals. In
one embodiment, the circuit (107) sends a control signal to switch
the light array (102) off, when it receives sensory signal from the
means for motion detection (106) indicating motion of a human in
the proximity of the device (100). In one embodiment, the circuit
(107) sends a control signal to power up the means for thermal
protection (105) when it receives sensory signal indicating that
the device (100) is overheated.
[0052] The means for motion detection (106) can be a motion sensor
(106) normally used in a surveillance apparatus such as a
miniaturized security camera. The camera receives electrical power
from the circuit (107). The sensory input can be image-based, and
the motion sensor (106) can include a camera system that supports
normal camera functionality such as capturing visual images. The
sensory input can also be infrared ray-based, and the motion sensor
(106) can include a sensor unit with predetermined field of
view.
[0053] The motion sensor (106) transmits sensory signals to the
circuit (107), indicating whether motion of a human is detected
within a range, e.g., 3 to 5 meters, that is tunable during
manufacturing process. In one embodiment, the motion sensor (106)
outputs one of two states, i.e., either motion of a human is
detected (STATE 1) or no longer detected (STATE 0). As a means for
preventing false signals due to noises in surrounding environment,
the motion sensor (106) has a built-in sensitivity threshold, such
that it only determines that a motion is detected (STATE 1) if the
detection signal is above the threshold. The motion sensor (106)
also has a built-in time delay, e.g., 3 to 5 seconds, for enhanced
safety of use, and the sensory signal may not switch from STATE 1
to STATE 0 before such a time delay has elapsed. The time delay is
adjustable during manufacturing process and is sufficiently long
for a human user to move to a certain distance away from the device
(100) to avoid exposure to UV radiations.
[0054] The means for thermal protection (105) is enclosed within
the housing (104) and can be a fan (105) that is propelled by a
small AC or DC electric motor. The fan (105) may have 6 to 8 blades
as shown in the Figures.
[0055] In one embodiment, the housing (104) is a bowl-shaped shell
(104) providing enclosed components protection and two ends for
mounting the base (101) and the light array (102). The housing
(104) encloses the circuit (107), the means for thermal protection
(105), the means for motion detection (106), and any other
component other than the base (101) and the light array (102). The
housing (104) has two opened ends, with one end smaller than the
other end. The base (101) is mounted onto the smaller end, and the
light array (102) is mounted onto the other end. In another
embodiment, the housing is a cylinder-shaped. In one embodiment,
the housing has two ends and a surface accommodating the light
array, wherein the two ends are mounted to the base. In one
embodiment, the housing and the base, by "collaborating" with each
other, not necessarily as separate components, provide a mechanism
to mount the light array in a predetermined pattern while
maintaining the functions of the other components.
[0056] Conventional UV lights and/or lamps rely on UVC radiation at
a wavelength of approximately 254 nm and may only achieve Peak
Germicidal Disinfection Effectiveness (PGDE) Index of approximately
80%. Compared to those conventional UV lights and/or lamps, the
device (100) of the present invention optimally tunes the
wavelength of UVC radiation in the range of 250 to 300 nm and
achieves a PGDE Index of almost 100%. In one embodiment, the device
achieves a PGDE Index in a range of 85% to 100%. In one embodiment,
the device effectively reduces COVID-19 Virus in air duct within
the device by 99.9%.
[0057] Compared to conventional UV lights/lamps, the disinfection
device (100) of the present invention f provides safety protection
from UV hazard. Exposure to UV radiation is dangerous and
associated with damage to eyesight and incidence of skin cancers,
and users of UV lights/lamps should be protected from direct
exposure of UV radiation. When operating and emitting UVC
radiation, the device (100) of the present invention simultaneously
emits UVA radiation and blue light. Both the UVA radiation and blue
light are visible to human eyes, such that a user is warned of the
device (100) being in operation and avoiding exposure.
[0058] The device (100) of the present invention is further
equipped with a motion sensor (106) that detect a user's motion.
With the device (100) in operation, if the motion sensor (106)
detects a user's motion in the proximity of the device (100), it
automatically shuts the device (100) down. When a user turns on the
device (100), the device (100) can only be turned on when the
motion sensor (106) no longer senses the user's motion in proximity
of the device (100). The sensitivity of the motion sensor (106) is
programmable. A time delay is built in the motion sensor (106), so
that after the user turns on the device (100), the device (100)
comes into operation only after the time delay lapses, which
ensures that the user can be sufficiently far away so that the user
is not exposed to the UV radiation.
[0059] As another means for improved safety, the device (100) of
the present invention may comprise a built-in surge protection
device, protecting the device (100) from electrical surge during
operation. In one embodiment, the surge protection device is
integrated into the base of the device.
[0060] The device (100) of the present invention is equipped with a
thermal protection (105), e.g., a fan (105) operating on direct
current, to lower the device's (100) operating temperature.
[0061] The device (100) of the present invention disinfects
surrounding surfaces and air circulated through the device (100).
Disinfection takes place when air naturally circulates through the
device (100). In addition, the device (100) may cooperate with,
e.g., external fans and ventilation apparatus for active air
circulation.
[0062] The device (100) of the present invention may disinfect
surfaces and air within a distance of 3 to 5 meters and achieve the
almost 100% PGDE Index after a continuous use of 10 to 30
minutes.
[0063] The device (100) of the present invention can be equipped in
an air duct for disinfecting air circulation inside an HVAC system,
air filtering or purification system.
[0064] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a solution
for surface disinfection through UVC irradiation that can only
occur with a line of sight between the UVC Source and the
Surface.
[0065] In one embodiment, the device (100) aims at surface and air
disinfection for airborne viruses.
[0066] In one embodiment, the light sources (103) have visible
light LEDs on the outside for illumination and UVC LEDs hidden
inside for air disinfection. Both the visible light LEDs for
illumination and the UVC LEDs for air disinfection can be on
simultaneously. Alternatively, when the visible light LEDs for
illumination are turned off, the UVC LEDs can stay on and keep
disinfecting the air.
[0067] In one embodiment, FIG. 16 shows an exploded view of a
representative device (100) with UVC LEDs inside and visible light
LEDs on the outside of the device (100).
[0068] In one embodiment, the present device (100) has one or more
thermal sensors (thermistors) (105) coupled to switches integrated
into the LED Driver (107) that senses the critical component's
temperature and manages the lamp power to protect it from
overheating.
[0069] In one embodiment, the present invention illustrates a Surge
Protection Device (SPD) built into the base (101) to protect the
device (100) from electrical surge. In one embodiment, the SPD
comprises an SPD PCB (204) connected to a fuse (205), a metal oxide
varistor (MOV) (203), and a GDT or arrester (206) according to a
typical configuration in FIG. 10.
[0070] In one embodiment, the device (100) of the present invention
can be instantly turned on or off. In one embodiment, the
wavelength of the UV radiation can be tuned from 250 nm to 285
nm.
[0071] In one embodiment, the device (100) has a longer lifetime,
approximately 30,000 hours, superior to Quartz UV Tubes and Lamps,
which is usually around 8,000 hours.
[0072] In one embodiment, the device (100) monitors the airflow
inside the air ducts and activates strong enough UVC light (103) to
deactivate microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and mold.
[0073] In one embodiment, the device (100) has a built-in detection
of airflow and automatic activation of the UVC light (103). In one
embodiment, the device (100) may optionally send fan current in the
air handling unit and activate the UVC light (103).
[0074] In one embodiment, the instant activation of UVC light (103)
only when airflow is being detected may increase the device life by
2 to 3 times or more.
[0075] In one embodiment, the device (100) has a built-in wide
voltage range 100-480V LED driver (107) for quick and simple
installation.
[0076] In one embodiment, the device (100) has magnets or clamps
mounts.
[0077] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a
disinfection device comprising: [0078] a base; [0079] a plurality
of light sources arranged in a predetermined pattern to form a
light array; [0080] a housing having two ends, wherein one end is
mounted on the base, and the light array is mounted on the other
end; [0081] a means for thermal protection; and [0082] a
controlling circuit enclosed in the housing and configured to
convert electrical power provided through the base into power for
the light array, and the means for thermal protection,
[0083] In one embodiment, the means for thermal protection
comprises a thermal sensor for detecting temperature of the device,
wherein the thermal sensor is coupled to the controlling circuit,
once the temperature reaches or is higher than a predetermined
temperature, the controlling circuit provides a signal to prevent
the device from overheating; and, after switching on, the light
array emits ultraviolet radiation that projects outwards and
disinfects surrounding surfaces and air.
[0084] In one embodiment, the light sources are light emitting
diodes (LEDs).
[0085] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a means for
motion detection enclosed in the housing, wherein said means for
motion detection comprises a motion sensor detecting motion of a
person or animal in proximity to the device; when motion of a human
or animal is detected, the motion sensor sends a signal to the
circuit to switch off the light array.
[0086] In one embodiment, the signal provided by the controlling
circuit is to adjust the power for the light array, turn on or
adjust a cooling unit coupled to the controlling circuit, or both,
so as to prevent the device from overheating.
[0087] In one embodiment, the cooling unit is a fan enclosed in the
housing or base, or inside the light array.
[0088] In one embodiment, the circuit is an integrated circuit and
works on universal voltage from 100 to 480 volts on an AC power or
120V to 750 volts on a DC power.
[0089] In one embodiment, the base, the light array and the housing
are mounted with their rotational axes aligned.
[0090] In one embodiment, the light array is arranged as an LED
strip.
[0091] In one embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation has a
wavelength in the range of 240 to 290 nm, and a peak wavelength in
the range of 260 nm to 270 nm.
[0092] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a Surge
Protection Device (SPD), which is integrated into the base,
protecting the device from electrical surge during operation.
[0093] In one embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation has a peak
wavelength in the range of 260 nm to 270 nm and each of the light
sources in the light array has a total optical power output of at
least 60 to 80 mW when operating at 500 mA, or at least 10 to 30 mW
when operating at 100 mA.
[0094] In one embodiment, the light array has a cylindrical shape
with a diameter of 3 to 5 inches and a height of 5 to 10 inches,
and the light array has an electric power of 30 to 150 W, a
luminous flux of 10 to 90 .mu.W/cm2 at a distance of 1 meter, and a
power of irradiation is 200 to 4,500 mW.
[0095] In one embodiment, the device has a Peak Germicidal
Disinfection Effectiveness (PGDE) Index in a range of
85.0%-100%.
[0096] In one embodiment, the device effectively reduces COVID-19
Virus by 99.9% in air within a space irradiated by the device.
[0097] In one embodiment, each light source in the light array
attains a viewing angle of 90 to 130 degrees, a forward voltage
between 5.0 and 9.0 V when operating at 100 to 500 mA, a
junction-to-case thermal resistance of 7.0.degree. C./W, and a
power dissipation ranging from 4.0 W to 4.5 W when operating at 500
mA or about 1 W at 100 to 150 mA.
[0098] In one embodiment, the light array tolerates a continuous
forward current of 100 to 700 mA, a reverse voltage of no higher
than 5 V, a case temperature in the range of -10 to 100.degree. C.
when operating at 500 mA, a storage temperature of -40 to
100.degree. C., and a junction temperature no higher than
115.degree. C.
[0099] In one embodiment, the light array simultaneously emits a
UVC radiation with a wavelength in the range of 200 to 280 nm and a
visible light to human eyes.
[0100] In one embodiment, the visible light is UVA rays with a
wavelength in the range of 390 to 430 nm, a blue light with a
wavelength higher than 410 nm, or both.
[0101] In one embodiment, the UVC radiation is emitted from light
sources inside of the device for air disinfection while the visible
light is emitted from light sources on outside of the device for
illumination.
[0102] In one embodiment, the motion sensor prevents the device
from being switched on until motion of a human or animal is no
longer detected after a preset time delay.
[0103] In one embodiment, the sensitivity of the motion sensor and
the time delay are independently adjustable.
[0104] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a
disinfection device comprising: [0105] a pair of bases; [0106] a
plurality of light sources arranged in a strip pattern to form a
light array; [0107] a housing with two ends and a surface
accommodating the light array, wherein the housing is mounted to
the pair of bases via the two ends; [0108] a means for thermal
protection; and [0109] a controlling circuit enclosed in the
housing and configured to convert electrical power provided through
the bases or one of the bases into power for the light array, and
the means for thermal protection.
[0110] In one embodiment, the means for thermal protection
comprises a thermal sensor for detecting temperature of the device,
wherein the thermal sensor is coupled to the controlling circuit,
once the temperature reaches or is higher than a predetermined
temperature, the controlling circuit generates a signal to switch
off or adjust the device to prevent the device from overheating;
and, after switching on, the light array emits ultraviolet
radiation that projects outwards and disinfects surrounding
surfaces and air.
[0111] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a means for
airflow detection detecting airflow passing through or at the
device, when the airflow as detected is above a preset and tunable
threshold, the controlling circuit generates a signal to power on
or adjust the plurality of light sources in the light array.
[0112] In one embodiment, the light array arranged in a strip
pattern is used in an HVAC system to disinfect air. In one
embodiment, the pair of bases comprise a base functioning as a
fixing mechanism to mount the light array while the other base, in
addition to the fixing mechanism, provides the electrical power for
the light array, means for thermal protection, and means for
airflow detection. In one embodiment, each base, independently or
collaboratively with the other, provides the electrical power for
the light array, means for thermal protection, and means for
airflow detection.
[0113] Throughout this application, various references or
publications are cited. Disclosures of these references or
publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by
reference into the application in order to more fully describe the
state of the art to which this invention pertains. It is to be
noted that the transitional term "comprising", which is synonymous
with "including", "containing" or "characterized by", is inclusive
or open-ended, and does not exclude additional, un-recited elements
or method steps.
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