Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION DISINFECTION OR SANITIZATION APPARATUS FOR
PERSONAL ITEMS, USES AND METHODS THEREOF
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present disclosure claims priority to US application No.
63/025,603, filed on May 15,
2020_ This application is hereby incorporated by reference in tis entirety_
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to disinfection or sanitization devices,
more specifically to
an ultraviolet radiation disinfection or sanitization apparatus for personal
items_
BACKGROUND
[0003] Humans are facing continuous treats of ham:Wail, and in some case
deadly, bacteriological
and viral infections. The most dangerous germs are the newly transmitted ones
for which no
antidote is known_ Such treats can lead to a pandemic, as experienced in the
past A pandemic can
potentially lead to dramatic consequences from the lack of appropriate methods
and technologies
to confme and eliminate the treat without significantly impacting the safety
of the population and
the activities of local businesses of all sectors. Furthermore, subsequent
waves of infections need
to be well managed to prevent or refrain further damage to the health and
wealth of the population_
[0004] Highly infectious viruses usually spread within a population by i)
breathing small droplets
in the air generated by an infected individi 'al or ii) touching any
contaminated surface_ Unless the
hands and any other succeeding touched surfaces are disinfected, the virus may
reach a vulnerable
entry area of the body, through the mouth, eyes or nose, and contamination
will spread_ Personal
items such as a smartphone, keys or credit cards may serve as an intermediate
to spread
contamination While the habit of washing hands is increasingly adopted by the
population and
hand washing stations (i.e. often a sink with soap) are available in all
private and public restroon-is,
there are no commercial equipment available on the market to disinfect
personal items in each
restroom that are safe, intuitive and affordable for any size of commercial
space_
[0005] This lack of available solution for restrooms or any other hand washing
stations, causes the
recontamination of an individual's freshly disinfected hands as soon as the
individual touches
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again their personal items, which will eventually contaminate other surfaces
and may contribute
to infect more peopl e_
[0006] In order to solve this problem, there is a need for an equipment that
could disinfect personal
items while washing hands. Ideally this device should be provided with any
hand washing stations
and should disinfect quickly and efficiently. Preferably, such a device will
not require
manipulation by the user to avoid further cross-contamination.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus that would overcome at
least one drawback
of current technologies.
100081 UNT-C radiations, which is typically within the spectral range of 200
to 280 urn, are known
for their disinfection properties and have been used for decades to disinfect
water, air and surfaces.
UV-C disinfection process is well documented and thoroughly tested and
verified scientifically.
Design compliance stani-brds exist for UV-C radiation devices. To ensure a
compact disinfection
device and to minimise the disinfection time, specialised UV-C radiation LEDs
may be used.
SUIVIIVIARY
[0009] It has been surprisingly discovered that UV-C radiation apparatus and
methods of the
present application provide a solution to the disinfection or sanitization of
personal items to avoid
self-contamination and subsequent contamination of other surfaces, which may
be touched by
other individi
[0010] Accordingly, the present application provides an apparatus for
disinfection or sanitization
of at least one object, the apparatus comprising: an enclosure including an
opening and a receiving
area for receiving the at least one object; a closing mechanism of the opening
operable between an
open position and a closed position; a UV- C radiation source within the
enclosure for irradiating
the at least one object in the receiving area; and a controller operatively
connected to the closing
mechanism and the UV-C radiation source.
[0011] The present application further includes an apparatus for disinfection
or sanitization of at
least one object, the apparatus comprising: an enclosure for receiving the at
least one object; a
closing mechanism of the enclosure operable between an open position and a
closed position; and
a UV-C radiation source within the enclosure for irradiating the at least one
object.
100121 The present application also includes an apparatus for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the apparatus comprising: a receiving area for receiving the at
least one object, the
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receiving area being configured for being accessible for a user without
contacting the apparatus
and for depositing the at least one object therein; a mechanism for isolating
the at least one object
from the user during the disinfection or sanitization; and a UV-C radiation
source for irradiating
the at least one object.
[0013] In an embodiment, the irradiation from the UV-C radiation source is
activated when the
closing mechanism is in the closed position. In another embodiment, the
closing mechanism is
actuated into the open position after irradiation from the UV-C radiation
source is completed_
[0014] In an embodiment, the irradiation from the UV-C radiation source is
activated when the at
least one object is isolated. In another embodiment, the mechanism is actuated
into an open
position after irradiation from the UV-C radiation source is completed for the
at least one object
to be accessible again for the user.
[0015] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a motion sensor or
proximity sensor for
detecting the at least one object being placed in the enclosure, the motion
sensor or proximity
sensor being communicatively connected for actuating the closing mechanism in
the closed
position when the at least one object is detected_
[0016] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a motion sensor or
proximity sensor for
detecting the at least one object being received in the receiving area, the
motion sensor or proximity
sensor being communicatively connected for actuating the mechanism to isolate
the at least one
object when the at least one object is detected.
[0017] In an embodiment, the opening is defined be a first portion and a
second portion of the
enclosure being spaced apart in the open position, and the closing mechanism
is provided on at
least one the first portion and the second portion for moving the first
portion and the second portion
towards each other in the closed position.
[0018] In an embodiment, the enclosure comprises a first portion and a second
portion being
spaced apart in the open position, and the closing mechanism is provided on at
least one of the first
portion and the second portion for moving the first portion and the second
portion towards each
other in the closed position.
[0019] In an embodiment, the receiving area comprises a first portion and a
second portion being
spaced apart, and the mechanism is provided on at least one the first portion
and the second portion
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for moving at least one of the first portion and the second portion towards
each other for isolating
the at least one object
[0020] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises at least one closing
means movably
mounted to the enclosure. In another embodiment, the closing mechanism
operates the at least one
closing means between the open position and the closed position. In some
embodiments, the at
least one closing means is selected from a slidable door, a hinged door, a
pivot door, or a folding
door mechanism_ In some embodiments, the closing means maybe made of a single
door or
multiple doors.
[0021] In an embodiment, the mechanism for isolating the at least one object
comprises a slidable
door, a hinged door, a pivot door, or a folding door mechanism.
[0022] In some embodiments, the UV-C radiation source irradiates at a
wavelength between about
250 to about 280 tun In an embodiment, the UV-C radiation source is generated
by LED and/or a
bulb and/or a plasma gas tube.
[0023] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a controller
operatively connected to
the closing mechanism and the UV- C radiation source. In another embodiment,
the apparatus
further comprises a controller operatively connected to the mechanism and the
UV-C radiation
source. In some embodiments, the controller is a printed circuit board or a
man' al on/off device.
In an embodiment, the controller is wirelessly connected to an external
controller.
[0024] In an embodiment, the apparatus is mountable to a surface, a stand or
is self-standing.
[0025] In an embodiment, the at least one object is selected from a
smartphone, a cellphone, a key
or a set of keys, a wallet, money, an identification document, and a plastic
card such as an access
card, an ATM card, an ID card, a credit card.
[0026] The present application further includes the use of an apparatus of the
present application
for disinfection or sanitization of an object.
[0027] The present application also provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: placing the at least one object in an
apparatus, the apparatus
comprising an enclosure including an opening and a receiving area for
receiving the at least one
object; a closing mechanism of the opening operable between an open position
and a closed
position; a. UV-C radiation source within the enclosure for irradiating the at
least one object in the
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receiving area; a controller operatively connected to the closing mechanism
and the UV-C
radiation source; and irradiating the at least one object for disinfection or
sanitization_
[0028] The ph...sent application also provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: placing the at least one object in an
apparatus, the apparatus
comprising an enclosure for receiving the at least one object; a closing
mechanism of the enclosure
operable between an open position and a closed position; a UV-C radiation
source within the
enclosure for irradiating the at least one object; and irradiating the at
least one object for
disinfection or sanitization.
[0029] lhe present application further provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: isolating from a user the at least one
object to be disinfected
or sanitized within an apparatus for disinfection or sanitization so that the
user is isolated from
UV-C radiation emitted by the apparatus for disinfection or sanitization of
the at least one object;
and irradiating the at least one object km- disinfection or sa-ni ti zali on
[0030] The present application also provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: receiving the at least one object to be
disinfected or sanitized
within a receiving area of a disinfection or sanitization apparatus, the
receiving area being
configured for being accessible for a user without contacting the apparatus
and for depositing the
at least one object therein; isolating the at least one object to be
disinfected or sanitized within the
receiving area from the user so that the user is isolated from UV-C radiation
emitted by the
apparatus for disinfection or sanitization of the at least one object; and
irradiating the at least one
object for disinfection_
[0031] The present application also includes a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: inserting the at least one object to be
disinfected or sanitized
within a receiving area of a disinfection or sanitization apparatus without
contacting or touching
the apparatus, thereby causing isolation of the at least one object to be
disinfected or sanitized
within the receiving area of the disinfection or sanitization apparatus, and
activating a I JV-C
radiation emitted by the apparatus for disinfection or sanitization of the at
least one object.
[0032] In some embodiments, the method further comprises actuating the
enclosure in the closed
position prior to irradiating the at least one object_ In other embodiments,
the method further
comprises actuating the enclosure in the open position after irradiating the
at least one object.
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[0033] In some embodiments, irradiating the at least one object is conducted
for a set time of
exposure_ In other embodiments, activating the UV-C radiation is conducted for
a set time of
exposure. In some embodiments, the set time of exposure is: 20 seconds, 30
seconds, I minute, 2
minutes, or other set time preprogrammed in the controller. In some
embodiments, the set time of
exposure may be selected through a user interface and/or an application
wirelessly connected to
the apparatus.
[0034] The present aqpplication also provides a kit comprising the apparatus
as defined in the
present application and instructions on how using same for disinfecting or
sanitizing at least one
object.
[0035] For example, the kit can further comprise a stand configured for
supporting the apparatus.
[0036] For example, the kit can further comprise a hand sanitizer distributor
or a hand disinfectant
distributor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described herein,
and to show more
clearly how these various embodiments may he carried into effect, reference
will be made, by way
of example, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one example
embodiment, and
which are now described. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of
the teachings
described herein.
[0038] In the following drawings, which represent by way of example only,
various embodiments
of the disclosure:
[0039] FIG_ 1 is an exploded view of the components of an apparatus according
to one
embodiment of the application;
[0040] FIG. 2 is a scheme showing stages of a method according to one
embodiment of the
application.
[0041] The skilled person in the art will understand that the drawings,
further described below,
are for illustration purposes only. The drawings are not intended to limit the
scope of the applicant's
teachings in any way. Also, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and
clarity of illustration,
elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale_ For
example, the
dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other
elements for clarity_
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Further aspects and features of the example embodiments described herein will
appear from the
following description taken together with the accompanying drawings_
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] To promote an understanding of the principles of the disclosure,
reference will now be
made to the features illustrated in the drawings and no limitation of the
scope of the disclosure is
hereby intended_ Any alterations and further modifications, and any further
applications of the
principles of the disclosure as described herein are contemplated as would
normally occur to one
skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. For the sake of clarity,
some features not relevant
to the present disclosure may not be shown in the drawings.
[0043] At the outset, for ease of reference, certain terms used in this
application and their meanings
as used in this context are set forth. To the extent a term used herein is not
defined below, it should
be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that
term as reflected in at
least one printed publication or issued patent. Further, the present
techniques are not limited by
the usage of the terms shown below, as all equivalents, synonyms, new
developments, and terms
or techniques that serve the same or a similar purpose are considered to be
within the scope of the
present cl aims_
[0011] As one of ordinary skill would appreciate, different persons may refer
to the same feature
or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish
between
components or features that differ in name only. In the following description
and in the claims,
the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended fashion, and
thus, should be
interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to.'
[0045] The articles "the,- "a÷ and "an" are not necessarily limited to mean
only one, but rather are
inclusive and open ended to include, optionally, multiple such elements.
[0046] As used herein, the terms "approximately,- -about," "substantially,"
and similar terms are
intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage
by those of
ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure
pertains. It should be
understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these
terms are intended to
allow a description of certain features described and claimed without
restricting the scope of these
features to the precise numeral ranges provided_ Accordingly, these terms
should be interpreted
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as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or
alterations of the subject matter
described and are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure_
[0047] "At least one, in reference to a list of one or more entities should be
understood to mean
at least one entity selected from any one or more of the entity in the list of
entities, but not
necessarily including at least one of each and every entity specifically
listed within the list of
entities and not excluding any combinations of entities in the list of
entities_ 'This definition also
allows that entities may optionally be present other than the entities
specifically identified within
the list of entities to which the phrase "at least one" iefet s, whether
related or unrelated to those
entities specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least
one of A and B" (or,
equivalently, "at least one of A or B," or, equivalently "at least one of A
and/or B') may refer, to
at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and
optionally including
entities other than B); to at least one, optionally including more than one,
B, with no A present
(and optionally including entities other than A); to at least one, optionally
including more than
one, A. and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and
optionally including other
entities). In other words, the phrases "at least one," "one or more," and
"and/or" are open-ended
expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation_ For
example, each of the
expressions -at least one of A. B and C," "at least one of A. B. or C," "one
or more of A. B, and
C," "one or more of A, B, or C" and "A, B, and/or C" may mean A alone. B
alone, C alone, A and
B together, A and C together, B and C together, A, B and C together, and
optionally any of the
above in combination with at least one other entity.
[0048] As used herein, the phrases "for example," as an example," and/or
simply the terms
"example" or "exemplary," when used with reference to one or more components,
features, details,
structures, methods and/or figures according to the present disclosure, are
intended to convey that
the described component, feature, detail, structure, method and/or figure is
an illustrative, non-
exclusive example of components, features, details, structures, methods and/or
figures according
to the present disclosure. Thus, the described component, feature, detail,
structure, method and/or
figure is not intended to be limiting, required, or exclusive/exhaustive; and
other components,
t1INI(.19ENf,'&0N,-t2.01L141-M,IcTatiallaYiLOVA1/19EL.fierAc,
within the scope of the present disclosure. Any embodiment or aspect described
herein as
"exemplary- is not to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other
embodiments.
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[004-9] The term "disinfection" or -disinfecting" and the expression "to
disinfect" as used herein
refers, for example, to the inactivation and/or destruction of the pathogen of
at least 3 log of the at
least one type of pathogen. A three log reduction indicates Class A
disinfection with respect to
viruses, bacteria and helminth eggs (Blanker et al., 1992). An about a three
log reduction means
about a 99.9% reduction.
[0050] The expression "high level of disinfection" or the expression "to
disinfect- as used herein
refers, for example, to destroy pathogens by at least 5 log, for example where
a majority of the
members of the at least one type of pathogen are killed.
[0051] The term -sanitization" or the expression "to sanitize- as used herein
means, for example,
to inactivate or destroy the at least one type of pathogen at more than about
5 log, where, for
example, almost all of the meinbers of the at least one type of pathogen are
killed.
[0052] The term "inactivating" or "inactivation- or the expression "to
inactivate" as used herein
refers, for example, to render the at least one type of pathogen unable to
grow/replicate.
[0053] The term -destroy" or "destruction" as used herein refers, for example,
to kill the at least
one type of pathogen.
[0054] Herein, an apparatus for disinfection of personal items is described_
Uses of the apparatus
and methods for disinfecting personal items are also described.
[0055] Accordingly, the present application provides an apparatus for
disinfection or sanitization
of at least one object, the apparatus comprising: an enclosure including an
opening and a receiving
area for receiving the at least one object; a closing mechanism of the opening
operable between an
open position and a closed position; a UV-C radiation source within the
enclosure for irradiating
the at least one object in the receiving area; and a controller operatively
connected to the closing
mechanism and the UV-C radiation source.
[0056] The present application also includes an apparatus for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the apparatus comprising: an enclosure for receiving the at least
one object; a closing
mechanism of the enclosure operable between an open position and a closed
position; and a UV-
C radiation source within the enclosure for irradiating the at least one
object.
[0057] The present application also provides an apparatus for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the apparatus conti.Kising: a receiving area for receiving the at
least one object, the
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receiving area being configured for being accessible for a user without
contacting the apparatus
and for depositing the at least one object therein; a mechanism for isolating
the at least one object
from the user during the disinfection; and a UV-C radiation source for
irradiating the at least one
object.
[0058] The enclosure or receiving area may be of any shape suitable for
receiving contemplated
objects to be disinfected. The enclosure may comprise an opening or any foini
of access to allow
a user to place the object within the enclosure. In some embodiments, the
opening may be defined
by two parts of the enclosure being spaced apart. The closing of such an
opening operates from
moving one part, or both parts, towards each other such that the opening
operates from an open to
a close position. In one embodiment, the upper part moves downwardly towards
the lower part to
close the enclosure. Alternatively, the opening may be defined in the
enclosure and be closable via
a moving part, such as at least one sliding door, hinged door, a pivot door, a
folding door
mechanism and may consists of a single door or multiple doors_ The enclosure
may further
comprise a lock in the close position, so that it may not be opened while
irradiation is undergoing.
[0059] The operation between the open and the close position may be provided
by a closing
mechanism. In an embodiment, the closing mechanism mechanically moves the
moving parts,
such as a part of the enclosure or a door, between the open and the close
position. In another
embodiment, the closing mechanism is programmed to operate upon certain
situation. For
example, the closing mechanism may be connected with a motion sensor or a
proximity sensor.
The motion or proximity sensor may detect the object present in the enclosure,
or movement of a
user placing an object in the enclosure_ Once detected, operating of the
enclosure towards the
closed position may be triggered. Alternatively, operating the enclosure to
the close position may
be done manually by the user. Furthermore, the closing mechanism may be
programmed to operate
to the open position once disinfection is completed, for example after a fixed
time of exposure.
The automatic opening of the enclosure allows the user to avoid touching the
apparatus after
disinfection. In an embodiment, the mechanism is provided for isolating the
object from the user
during disinfection. Isolation of the object may comprise the above operations
or any suitable
means to properly isolating the object so that the user is not subjected to
the UV-C radiation during
disinfection.
[0060] The radiation source is a UV-C radiation source. For example, the
radiation source may be
a specifically designed by LED, a bulb, a plasma gas tube, or any suitable UV-
C radiation source.
Typically, known radiation sources usually comprise a protecting glass, but
the glass should not
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prevent most of the LTV-C radiation from reaching the surface of the personal
items aimed to be
disinfected_ In one embodiment, the LTV-C radiation source irradiates at a
wavelength between 250
urn to 280 um. The intensity and time of exposure of the UV-C radiation,
expressed in rnT/cm2,
should be sufficient to disinfect or sanitize by killing at least 98%, at
least 99%, at least 99.0%, or
at least 99_99% of germs on the surface of the object. For example, it can be
sufficient to disinfect
or sanitize by killing about 98% to about 99% or about 98_0 % to about 99.0%,
or about 98.0 %
to about 99_99% of germs on the surface of the object. The time of exposure
may be, for example
20 seconds, 30 seconds, I minute, 2 minutes, or other set time preprogrammed
in the controller.
For example, the time of exposure may be, about 5 seconds to about 120
seconds, about 10 seconds
to about 60 seconds or about 20 seconds to about 60 seconds or other set time
preprogrammed in
the controller In some embodiments, the set time of exposure may be selected
through a user
interface on the apparatus and/or an application wirelessly connected to the
apparatus. In some
embodiments, the radiation source is activated only when the enclosure is in
the closed position
for health and safety purposes so that a user or surrounding people are not
subjected to irradiation.
0061] The closing mechanism or mechanism and the radiation source may be
controlled by a
controller_ For example, the controller may be a printed circuit board, or a
manual on/off device_
The controller may be programmed at the manufacturing facilities, or the
settings may be changed
manually on the apparatus or wirelessly through connection via an external
controller, for example
a computer, a tablet, a smartphone, or the like. In some embodiments, the
controller may coordinate
the sequence of actions for operation of the apparatus and should be as
resilient as possible to
human behavior and partial or fatal failure_ The controller may co
___________________ imunicate to the user and/or
maintenance staff if any failure occurs_ The controller may be linked to a
user interface_ The user
interface may indicate to the user what to do to operate and trigger the
apparatus' sequence of
actions. It may also indicate when the sequence has been successfully
completed or not. The user
interface may be one or multiple visual indicators, sensors and buttons
interacting with and
controlling the apparatus. The controller may collect, store, process,
transform, analyse and
communicate information through the user interface, additional sensors and
components. The
controller may be mechanical or electrical.
[0062] The moving parts and electronics may be powered through electrical
connections. In an
embodiment, the apparatus is provided with at least one of these two
electrical connections:
electrical wires accessible from the back to be connected directly to a wall
junction box design for
wall mounted apparatuses; and/or AC power quick connector mounted on the
apparatus as an
alternative power supply for use with a standard wall outlet or extension
cable_
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[0063] In one embodiment, a communication connector besides the AC power quick
connector
may be provided_ This communication connector may be used to have a direct
plug-in connexion
with the controller for maintenance operations or changing device's settings.
A wireless
communication features to access the system from proximity may also be
provided, without any
communication connector, using a personal PC device, for instance a tablet,
phone or laptop. In
some embodiments, there is provided a wireless connexion capability to access
Internet and be
monitored through a secured web application interface_
[0064] As will be appreciated, a light indicator may be provided, informing
the user of the different
modes of the apparatus: stand-by, in use, sterilizing, etc. Alternatively, a
screen showing current
progress or an audible signal may be included_ Any indicator within the
purview of the skilled
person may be included on an apparatus of the present application.
[0065] The apparatus of the present application may be mountable such that it
may be hanged in
designated places, or it may be sel 1-standing so that it may be put on a
surface_ In some
embodiment, the apparatus is mounted or placed in a public space, such as in a
lavatory,
washrooms, at a checkout counter, at a service counter such as building
entrances, public
transportation entrances, airport gates, security gates, customs gates, stores
and commercial
entrances, elevator lobby or the like. In another embodiment, the apparatus is
mountable on a stand.
In some embodiments, the apparatus may be provided with a hand sanitizer
distributor or a hand
disinfecter distributor_
[0066] Accordingly, the apparatus of the present application may be used for
disinfection or
sanitization of personal items_ In an embodiment, the apparatus may be mounted
to the wall of a
public washroom, next to a sink. A user may place their personal items in the
apparatus, which
will get disinfected while washing their hands. Once done, the user may take
the disinfected items
back without touching the apparatus, and thus avoid cross-contamination. In
another embodiment,
an apparatus is put on a counter at a store checkout_ Upon payment, the client
may put their
payment card or money into the disinfection apparatus and the cashier may
collect the item from
the apparatus after disinfection. This may provide greater security to workers
dealing with an
important number of customers each thy, and also lower the risk of widely
spreading gernis. This
includes cashiers, but the same may be used at hotel counter, airports
security and customs, or any
other service counter. The apparatus of the present application may also be
used as an household
device, for example it may be mounted on a wall or put on a vanity in the
bathroom or the kitchen.
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[0067] The present application further provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: placing the at least one object in an
apparatus, the apparatus
comprising an enclosure including an opening and a receiving area for
receiving the at least one
object; a closing mechanism of the opening operable between an open position
and a closed
position; a UV-C radiation source within the enclosure for irradiating the at
least one object in the
receiving area; a controller operatively connected to the closing mechanism
and the UV-C
radiation source; and irradiating the at least one object for disinfection_
[0068] The present application also includes a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: placing the at least one object in an
apparatus, the apparatus
comprising an enclosure for receiving the at least one object; a closing
mechanism of the enclosure
operable between an open position and a closed position; a UV-C radiation
source within the
enclosure for irradiating the at least one object; and irradiating the at
least one object for
disinfection.
[0069] In some embodiments of the methods ofthe present application, a user
may place a personal
item into the enclosure in the open position, which may then operate to the
close position either
manually or automatically. The personal item is submitted to UV-C radiation
for a fixed period of
time for disinfection. Once the fixed period is elapsed, the enclosure may go
back to the open
position so that the user may pick-up the disinfected item.
[0070] The present application further provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: isolating from a user the at least one
object to be disinfected
within an apparatus for disinfection so that the user is isolated from UV-C
radiation emitted by the
apparatus for disinfection of the at least cme object; and irradiating the at
least one object for
disinfection.
[0071] The present application also provides a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: receiving the at least one object to be
disinfected within a
receiving area of a disinfection apparatus, the receiving area being
configured for being accessible
for a user without contacting the apparatus and for depositing the at least
one object therein;
isolating the at least one object to be disinfected within the receiving area
from the user so that the
user is isolated from UV-C radiation emitted by the apparatus for disinfection
of the at least one
object; and irradiating the at least one object for disinfection.
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[0072] The present application also includes a method for disinfection or
sanitization of at least
one object, the method comprising: inserting the at least one object to be
disinfected within a
receiving area of a disinfection apparatus without contacting or touching the
apparatus, thereby
causing isolation of the at least one object to be disinfected within the
receiving area of the
disinfection apparatus, and activating a UV-C radiation emitted by the
apparatus for disinfection
of the at least one object.
[0073] In some embodiments, a user may place a personal item into the
receiving area of an
apparatus of the present application such that user is isolated from UV-C
radiation emitted by the
apparatus for disinfection. In some embodiments, the user does not contact the
apparatus when
deposing the item_ The personal item is submitted to UV-C radiation for a
fixed period of time for
disinfection_ Once the fixed period is elapsed, the item may become accessible
so that the user
may pick-up the disinfected item.
[0074] In the apparatuses, uses and methods of the present application, the
object -n-ray be any
personal item, including a smartphone, a cellphone, a key or a set of keys, a
wallet, money, an
identification document, a plastic card such as a payment card, an access card
or an ID card. For
example, the identification document may be a passport and the payment card
may be a credit card,
an ATM card, or a gift card. The dimensions of the personal items should not
exceed the
disinfection area available within the enclosure, or restrain the closure of
the enclosure. However,
manufacturing of apparatuses having different sizes of disinfection area is
also contemplated, to
allow for disinfection of larger items, such as a computer, a handbag, a
briefcase, a wallet,
keyboard and mouse, shoes, glasses, a hat, a belt, a watch, a bracelet and
other jewelry, and this is
within the purview of a skilled person in the art_
[0075] Referring now to FIG.1 illustrating parts of an apparatus according to
an embodiment of
the present application, component P1 illustrates an ultraviolet LED chips
used as the source of
UV-C radiation responsible for the disinfection of the personal items inserted
in the apparatus by
the user_ Component P2 illustrates a printed circuit board (PCB) used to
solder P1 units together_
In some embodiments, there is at least lx unit P2 in the bottom section and at
least lx unit P2 in
the top section of the enclosure.
[0076] Component P3 illustrates a custom array of LET) chips on board that can
change colors.
This light source is controlled by P5 and backlit the lens P20. Component P4
illustrates a custom
array of LED chips on board that can change colors. This light source is
controlled by P5 and
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backlit the lens of the logo of the apparatus, P19. Component P5 illustrates
the LED controller for
all backlit modules, i.e. P3 and P4_ P5 is connected to the main controller P6
or be directly merged
to P6 as a single PCB.
[0077] Component P6 illustrates the main controller for all electrical and
electronic convonents.
P6 also have embedded wireless antennas and communication interfaces for ease
of programming,
maintenance and mon i tori ng_
[0078] Component P7 illustrates IR sensors, which may be mounted on the sides
of P29 plate
or/and P2 and P33. At least 2 sensors may be needed. These proximity sensors
are used to detect
objects, and may serve: to confinn that the enclosure is completely closed, to
detect the presence
of personal items on the bottom glass P17, to detect the presence of the hand
of a user inside the
enclosure, if fully automated (if equipped with the automatic closing of the
enclosure), to trigger
a wave signal from the user to start the linear actuator P16 if fully
automated.
[0079] Component PS illustrates relays that arc connected and powered by the
main controller P6.
These relays change the status position of the solenoid lock P9, change the
status position of the
linear actuators P16 if fully automated., turn ON/OFF other couvonents of the
system, turn
ON/OFF the UV LF:Ds P1.
[0080] Component P9 illustrates a solenoid lock, which are mounted on each
side of P29 and
penetrate the plate P24 to restrict the top part of the enclosure from moving.
P9 is connected and
controlled by P6.
[0081] Component P10 illustrates an AC power supply used to power the UV-C
LEDs Pl. Power
capacity should be enough to P1 designed power needs. Power factor should be
higher than 90%.
Conconent Pll illustrates an AC power supply used to power all the electronic
components of
the apparatus except UV-C LEDs PL
[0082] Component P12 illustrates a communication connector, for instance a USB
connector,
which is connected to the main controller P6. This communication connector is
used to have a
direct plug-in connexion with the main controller for maintenance operations
or changing device's
settings.
[0083] Component P13 illustrates an AC power connector mounted on the bottom
plate P32,
which is connected to the AC power supplies P10 and P11. P13 should be caped
for additional
protecti on if not in use_
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[0084] Component P14 illustrates a minimum of 2x units metal rods attached at
each ends the
anchor plates P25 and P30_ These metal rods are specifically designed as a
slide rail kit with the
slider P15. This kit ensures both top and bottom sections are connected
strongly together, and the
linear motion is smooth and stable. C,oirvonent P15 illustrates a minimum of
2x units metal slider
which is part of the sliding rail kit P14. P15 is fixed to the back plate P26.
Component P16
illustrates a minimum of 2x units tubular gas spring with enough stroke range
to open and close
entirely the enclosure of the apparatus_ P16 are attached to the top and
bottom anchor plates P25
and P30.
[0085] Component P17 illustrates a bottom glass compatible for UV applications
with an optical
UV-C radiation efficiency of 85% or higher. Component P18 illustrates a top
glass compatible for
UV applications with an optical UV-C radiation efficiency of 85% or higher.
The glasses P17 and
P18 may be shock resistant and sealed to reach 1P66 as a minimum_
[0086] Component P19 illustrates acrylic, PVC or equivalent translucid
material lens specifically
molded for display of a logo. Component P20 illustrates acrylic. PVC or
equivalent translucid
material lens specifically molded for a front status indicator lighting_
Lenses P19 and P20 may be
sealed to reach 1P66 as a minimum
[0087] Components P21, P22, P23, P24, P25, P26, P27, P28, P30, P31, P32, P34
each illustrate a
plate made of aluminum grade AL6063 or equivalent which may or not be coated
with a germicide_
Surfaces may be available in different colours or anodised with different
finishes.
[0088] P21 is the top cover plate of the top section_ P22 is the bottom cover
plate of the top section.
Top glass P18 is sealed to this plate_ P23 is the plate used to support the
LED PCB P33 of the top
section as well as the backlit LEDs on the opposite side of the plate. P24 is
the front cover plate of
the top section which serves as a block screen of UV-C radiation_ P25 is an
anchor plate of the top
section which is fixed to the cover P21. P26 is the back plate of the bottom
section, which is fixed
to P29, P16, P27, P31. P27 is the top plate of the bottom section which is
fixed to P26. Bottom
glass P17 is sealed to this plate. P28 is the support plate of the bottom LED
PCB part P2. P28 is
an optional plate for additional support. P30 is anchor plate of the bottom
section which is fixed
to the cover P32. P31 is the bottom side plate of the bottom section, which is
fixed to P34, P30,
P32 and P26. P32 is the bottom plate of the bottom section which is fixed to
P34. This bottom
plate may have electronic components attached or not. P34 is a retainer to
connect all bottom
section plates together: P31, P30, P32 and P26.
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[0089] Component P29 illustrates the back plate of the apparatus to isolate
the personal item
within the boundary of the disinfection radiation beam of the apparatus_ P29
may also serve to
protect the opening and closing mechanism of the apparatus. P29 is attached to
P27. ..
[0090] Component P33 illustrates a glass retainer to support and seal each top
and bottom glass
plates P17 and P18.
[0091] Referring now to FIG.2, a method according to one embodiment of the
present application
is illustrated. On the images of this exemplary method, a light indicator is
provided, informing the
user of the different modes of the apparatus: stand-by, in use, sterilizing,
etc_ Image 1 shows an
apparatus of the present application being mounted on the wall of a bathroom,
the enclosure being
in the open position, in a stand-by mode indicated by a blue light indicator_
Image 2 shows an item,
a srnartphone, being placed in the enclosure. Image 3 shows the upper part of
the enclosure moving
downward towards the lower portion. Image 4 shows the enclosure in the closed
position, and the
light indicator turning to red. Image 5 shows the irradiation in progress, the
light indicator may
change color proportionally indicating the progress of the disinfection. Image
6 shows the
disinfection being completed, as indicated by the light indicator being
completely turned to green_
Image 7 shows the upper part of the enclosure moving upward away from the
lower portion. Image
8 the enclosure in the open position and disinfected item has been picked-up,
triggering the initial
stand-by mode indicated in blue.
[0092] While the applicant's teachings described herein are in conjunction
with various
embodiments for illustrative purposes, it is not intended that the applicant's
teachings be limited
to such embodiments as the embodiments described herein are intended to be
examples. On the
contrary, the applicant's teachings described and illustrated herein encompass
various alternatives,
modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments
described herein, the
general scope of which is defined in the appended claims.
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