Field of invention

The present invention relates to a method for upgrading an air condi- tioning system in a vehicle. The present invention also relates to an up- graded air conditioning system of a vehicle.

Prior art

It is known that air conditioning systems in vehicles over time tend to blow out air having a disagreeable smell. Therefore, various air purifiers for odour elimination in vehicle air conditioning systems have been de- veloped.

The problem is, however, not only linked to the nasty smell but also to the health risk associated to being exposed to molds, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air being blown into the passenger cabin by the air conditioning systems.

The closest prior art KR 20040095503 A (KIA MOTORS CORP) from

2004.11.15 discloses a method to improve air-conditioning system of a vehicle, where air-conditioning system comprises an air-guiding struc- ture, adapted to transport an air stream generated by the air- conditioning system, where said method comprises a step of UV light source placed in a position, where the light source illuminates the air flow and an inner part of the air guiding structure with UV light. This document does not disclose providing an access to an enclosed system by creating a hole, but the light source is presumably placed there dur- ing fabrication of said enclosed structure. This document further dis- closes testing if an air-conditioning is turned on, and in this case, to have the UV light source turned on for a certain predefined time period. CN 201361288 Y (DONGGUAN LAD ENVIRONMENTAL SCI [CN]) from

2009.12.16 and KR 20090007610U (HEUNG, C. K.) from 2009.07.28 discloses a similar invention. KR20090007610U further discloses that a UV light source can be mounted in a air-guiding structure by opening a hole corresponding to the lightsource, in the wall of the air-guiding structure. It is further disclosing that a fortifying structure can be at- tached to the part of air-guiding structure around the hole, where the fortification increases the stiffness of the part surrounding the hole. It appears that nuts are in contact with the inside of the air-guiding struc- ture, and a part is in contact with the outside of the air-guiding struc- ture.

None of these documents discloses air-tightening the assembly after creating a hole for UV light placement, as specified in the characterizing parts of claim 1 and 10. None of the cited documents discloses that UV light disinfection effect can be further enhanced by using a photocata- lytic coating, comprising for example titanium dioxide particles, on the inside of the air-guiding structures. None of these documents discloses that even if air-conditioning system is not turned on or off, the UV light source can be initiated for a certain period of time by detecting the event of turning on the engine of the vehicle, thus fighting microbe growth and organic substances inside the air-conditioning systems even when the climate conditions do not require to use the air-conditioning system.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a way to update an air conditioning system in a way that these disadvantages can be avoided. It would also be desirable to provide such upgraded air conditioning system.

It is an object of the invention to provide a method to update an air conditioning system in a way that the disadvantages of the prior art ve- hicle air conditioning systems can be avoided. It is also an object to provide an updated air conditioning system by which the disadvantages of the prior art vehicle air conditioning systems can be avoided.

Summary of the invention

The object of the present invention can be achieved by a method as defined in claim 1 and by a vehicle air conditioning system having the features as defined in claim 10. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent subclaims, explained in the following description and il- lustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The method according to the invention is a method for upgrading a ve- hicle air conditioning system for a vehicle having a motor, wherein the air conditioning system comprises an air guiding structure configured to guide an air flow generated by the air conditioning system, wherein the method comprises the step of arranging an ultraviolet (UV) light source in a position inside the air guiding structure, in which the light source irradiates the air flow and/or an inside portion of the air guiding struc- ture with UV light, and ensuring that the assembly is air-tight, by using a resilient sealing member.

By arranging the UV light source inside the air guiding structure, it is possible to irradiate the air flow inside the air guiding structure directly by using the UV light source.

The method according to the invention comprises the following step: arranging a resilient sealing member in the hole in such a manner that the resilient sealing member seals against the air guiding structure, wherein a through bore is provided in the sealing mem ber, wherein one or more electronic components extend through the through bore of the sealing member. Hereby, it is possible to avoid air flow leakage through the hole, through which the UV light source is inserted into the air guiding struc- ture.

Hereby, the UV light will kill molds, bacteria and viruses present in the air flow and/or in at least a portion of the air guiding structure. Accord- ingly, air having a disagreeable smell can be avoided. Furthermore, the health risk associated to the use of the air conditioning system is re- duced or even eliminated.

The method can be used to upgrade air conditioning systems in all kinds of motorised vehicles including, cars, lorries, busses and trains.

The air guiding structure configured to guide an air flow generated by the air conditioning system may have any suitable size and geometry.

It may be an advantage that the air guiding structure constitutes a tub- ular structure that may be sealed against the surroundings in order to avoid that the air treated by the air conditioning system is mixed with air from outside the air guiding structure.

The UV light source may be arranged in any suitable position, in which the light source irradiates the air flow with UV light and/or in at least a portion of the air guiding structure.

The UV light source may be any suitable type of UV light source. In one embodiment, the UV light source is a light-emitting diode (LED).

In a preferred embodiment, the UV light source comprise one or more LEDs in the UV-C band (100-280 nm).

In one embodiment, the UV light source is a UV fluorescent tube. It is preferred that the power of the light source is selected in such a manner that the light emitted by the light source effectively kills molds, bacteria and viruses present in the air flow and/or in at least a portion of the air guiding structure.

The power of the UV light source may depend on the size of the air con- ditioning system and/or the size of the vehicle.

In one embodiment, the power of the light source is in the range 0.1- 100 W. In another embodiment, the power of the light source is in the range 0.2-50 W. In a further embodiment, the power of the light source is in the range 0.3-25 W. In a preferred embodiment, the power of the light source is in the range 0.5-10 W. In a particularly preferred embod- iment, the power of the light source is in the range 1-5 W.

The method comprises the following step:

providing access into the inside of the air guiding structure by es- tablishing a hole in a wall portion of the air guiding structure.

Hereby, it is possible to upgrade all existing vehicle air conditioning sys- tems in a reliable and safe manner.

It may be an advantage that the through bore has a conical shape that narrows down towards the inside of the air guiding structure. Hereby, the sealing member will be self-locking in such a manner that the seal- ing member is radially expanded when a cable is inserted through the through bore.

It may be advantageous that the method comprises the step of arrang- ing the proximal portion of the UV light source less than 5 cm, prefera- bly less than 3 cm from the hole or the portion of the air guiding struc- ture that surrounds the hole. It may be an advantage that the hole is provided in the bottom portion of the air guiding structure.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of attaching a rein- forcement structure to a portion of the air guiding structure that sur- rounds the hole, wherein the reinforcement structure increases the overall stiffness of the portion surrounding the hole.

Hereby, the reinforcement structure prevents the structure to which the light source is attached from bending. Accordingly, a reliable and secure attachment of the light source can be achieved.

In one embodiment the length of the reinforcement structure equals or is larger than the width (e.g. diameter) of the hole.

In one embodiment the length of the reinforcement structure is smaller than the width (e.g. diameter) of the hole.

It may be advantageous that the reinforcement structure comprises: a) a first portion that is brought into contact with the inside surface of the air guiding structure and

b) a second portion that is brought into contact with the outside surface of the air guiding structure.

Hereby, the reinforcement structure can support both sides of the air guiding structure and thus provide a great support of the air guiding structure.

In one embodiment, the reinforcement structure is formed as a clamp that is configured to be clamped on the air guiding structure. Hereby, the attachment of the air reinforcement to the structure guiding struc- ture can be eased. In one embodiment, the air conditioning system comprises a blower, wherein the method comprises the step of arranging the UV light source in a distance from the blower, wherein the distance is less than 20 cm, preferably less than 10 cm.

Hereby, the UV light source irradiates the air flow in the beginning of its way through the air guiding structure. Accordingly, the air entering the later stages of the air guiding structure is clean so that contamination of the later stages of the air guiding structure can be avoided.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of providing a pro- tective layer or cover on one or more structures that are being irradiat- ed by the light source. The protective layer or cover may be a foil or sheet inserted to protect one or more structures against UV light. The protective layer or cover may be coating provided on at least a part of one or more structures that are being irradiated by the light source. Such coating may be sprayed on before the structures are inserted into the air guiding structure. In one embodiment, the sealing member is provided with a coating or foil prior to being inserted into the air guiding structure.

The protective layer or cover is UV-resistant. In one embodiment, the protective layer or cover is made of or comprises UV resistant polypro- pylene. In another embodiment, the protective layer or cover is made of or comprises glass. In one embodiment, the protective layer or cover is made of a reflective material.

In a further embodiment, the protective layer or cover is made of or comprises a UV resistant plastic. UV resistance of plastics can be made by adding UV stabilisers, black colouration (typically using carbon black) or protective surface coatings (such as paint, or metallization). Addition of carbon black provides a low cost and very effective way of creating UV resistant plastics. Fluorinated polymers such as polytetrafluoroeth ylene (PTFE) and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) demonstrate very good UV stability in their natural state.

In one embodiment, the light source is attached to a structure attached to the blower.

In one embodiment, the blower comprises a mounting plate and the method comprises the step of attaching the light source to the mount- ing plate. Hereby, it is possible to upgrade the air conditioning system when the blower is replaced or repaired.

In one embodiment, the blower comprises a mounting plate and the method comprises the step of attaching the light source to the rear side of the mounting plate.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of inserting the light assembly (comprising the light source) into the air guiding struc- ture through an existing opening through which there is access to the air guiding structure. This insertion step is carried out in the same manner as "keyhole surgery" and requires only limited size of the open- ing, through which the light source is inserted. The insertion of inserting the light assembly may be assisted by using a video-assisted approach.

In one embodiment, the light assembly (comprising the light source) comprises an energy storage (preferably a battery).

In one embodiment, the light assembly (comprising the light source) comprises a fixation structure configured to be attached to a structure of the air guiding structure or a structure arranged therein. In one em bodiment, the fixation structure comprises an adhesive (e.g. a fast- hardening glue). In one embodiment, the fixation structure comprises a mechanical attachment structure. The mechanical attachment structure may comprise a protruding member and a corresponding receiving structure. In one embodiment, the mechanical attachment structure comprises a protruding member configured to be received by a corre- sponding receiving structure provided in a structure of the air guiding structure or a structure arranged therein. In another embodiment, the mechanical attachment structure comprises a receiving member config- ured to receive a corresponding protruding structure provided in a structure of the air guiding structure or a structure arranged therein.

In one embodiment the method comprises the step of providing (e.g. spraying) a component comprising titanium dioxide (T1O2) into an inside portion of the air guiding structure. Accordingly, a T1O2 coating is pro- vided on the inside surface of the air guiding structure. The T1O2 coating will exhibit photocatalytic activity under UV irradiation from the UC light source. This will cause formation of hydroxyl radicals, which has been found to mineralise and decompose undesirable compounds in the air. Accordingly, the use of T1O2 increases the ability of the air conditioning system to kill bacteria and virus in the air.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of detecting when the motor of the vehicle is running and turning on the light source as long time as the motor of the vehicle is running.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of detecting the time, at which the motor of the vehicle is turned on and turned off and turning on the light source for predefined time period after the motor has been turned off. In a preferred embodiment, the predefined time is within the range 15-120 min, preferably 20-60 min such as 25-45 min.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of detecting the time, at which the motor of the vehicle starts and turning on the light source for a predefined time period.

Hereby, it is possible to extend the lifetime of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods. In one embodiment, the method comprises the following steps:

detecting a temperature outside the vehicle;

calculating the time period, at which the light source must be turned on and based on the detected temperature;

turning on the light source for the time period.

Hereby, it is possible to extend the lifetime of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods.

It may be advantageous that the method comprises the following steps:

detecting a temperature inside the vehicle (preferably in the passenger cabin);

calculate the time period, at which the light source must be turned on and based on the detected temperature; turning on the light source for the time period.

Hereby, it is possible to extend the lifetime of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods.

It may be an advantage that the method comprises the step of arrang- ing :

a) a first light assembly comprising a UV light source in a first posi- tion, in which the light source emits UV light irradiates the air flow and/or a structure of the air guiding structure and

b) a second light assembly comprising a UV light source in a second position, in which the light source emits UV light irradiates the air flow and/or a structure of the air guiding structure.

Hereby, it is possible to increase the chances of killing all molds, bacte- ria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air being blown into the pas- senger cabin by the air conditioning systems and/or in the air guiding structure. The air conditioning system is an air conditioning system for a vehicle having a motor, wherein the air conditioning system comprises an air guiding structure configured to guide an air flow generated by the air conditioning system, wherein the air conditioning system comprises a light assembly comprising an UV light source in a position inside the air guiding structure, in which the light source emits UV light irradiates the air flow, wherein the light assembly extends through a hole provided in the air guiding structure.

Hereby, it is possible to provide an upgraded air conditioning system, in which the UV light will kill molds, bacteria and viruses present in the air flow and/or a structure of the air guiding structure. Accordingly, air having a disagreeable smell can be avoided. Furthermore, the health risk associated to the use of the air conditioning system is reduced or even eliminated.

The inventive air conditioning system comprises a resilient sealing member arranged in the hole in such a manner that the resilient sealing member seals against the air guiding structure, wherein a through bore is provided in the sealing member, wherein one or more electronic components of the light assembly extend through the through bore of the sealing member.

Hereby, leakage through the hole can be avoided.

Air-conditioning systems in all kinds of vehicles including, cars, lorries, busses and trains can be updated by using the method according to the invention.

It may be an advantage that the through bore has a conical shape that narrows down towards the inside of the air guiding structure. Hereby, the sealing member will be self-locking in such a manner that the sealing member is radially expanded when a cable is inserted through the through bore.

It may be advantageous that the air conditioning system comprises a reinforcement structure attached to a portion of the air guiding struc- ture that surrounds the hole, wherein the reinforcement structure in- creases the overall stiffness of the portion surrounding the hole.

Hereby, the reinforcement structure prevents the structure to which the light source is attached from bending. Accordingly, a reliable and secure attachment of the light source can be achieved.

In one embodiment, the reinforcement structure is made of metal. In one embodiment, the reinforcement structure is made of steel or alu- minium.

It may be beneficial that the air conditioning system comprises a blower and that the UV light source is arranged in a distance from the blower, wherein the distance is less than 20 cm, preferably less than 10 cm.

It may be beneficial that the air guiding structure comprises a portion that at least partly is covered by a layer of T1O2 into an inside portion of the air guiding structure.

The T1O2 coating will exhibit photocatalytic activity under UV irradiation from the UC light source. This will cause formation of hydroxyl radicals, which has been found to mineralise and decompose undesirable corn- pounds in the air. Accordingly, the use of T1O2 increases the ability of the air conditioning system to kill bacteria and virus in the air.

It may be advantageous that the air conditioning system comprises a control unit configured to detect the time, at which the motor of the vehicle starts, wherein the control unit is configured to turn on the UV light source for a predefined time period when the control unit has de- tected that the motor starts.

Hereby, it is possible to extend the lifetime of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods.

It may be an advantage that the air conditioning system comprises: a) a temperature detection member configured to detect a tempera- ture outside the vehicle;

calculate the time period, at which the must be turned on and based on the detected temperature,

wherein the control unit is configured to turn on the light source for the time periods.

Hereby, it is possible to extend the lifetime of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods.

It may be beneficial that the air conditioning system comprises:

a temperature detection member configured to detect the temperature inside the vehicle,

wherein the control unit is configured to calculate the time period, at which the UV light source must be turned on and based on the detected temperature, wherein the control unit is configured to turn on the light source for the calculated time period.

Hereby, it is possible to extend the lifetime of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods.

It may be an advantage that the air conditioning system comprises: a) a first light assembly comprising a UV light source in a first posi- tion, in which the light source emits UV light irradiates the air flow and/or a structure of the air guiding structure and b) a second light assembly comprising a UV light source in a second position, in which the light source emits UV light irradiates the air flow and/or a structure of the air guiding structure. Hereby, it is possible to increase the chances of killing all molds, bacte- ria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air being blown into the pas- senger cabin by the air conditioning systems.

Description of the Drawings

The invention will become more fully understood from the detailed de- scription given herein below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only, and thus, they are not limitative of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1A shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of an air guiding structure according to the invention;

Fig. IB shows how a hole is being made in the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 1A by means of a drilling machine;

Fig. 1C shows the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 1A provided with a hole and a sealing member arranged to be inserted into the hole;

Fig. ID shows the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 1C in a con- figuration, in which the sealing member has been inserted into the hole;

Fig. IE shows the air guiding structure shown in Fig. ID in a con- figuration, in which a light assembly has been attached to the air guiding structure;

Fig. 2A shows schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an upgraded air conditioning system according to the inven- tion;

Fig. 2B shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air condi- tioning system shown in Fig. 2A, in a configuration, in which the light assembly has been removed; Fig. 3A shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an upgraded air conditioning system according to the inven- tion comprising two light assemblies;

Fig. 3B shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of an air guiding structure provided with a hole and a reinforcement struc- ture being attached to the air guiding structure;

Fig. 3C shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 3B, wherein the reinforcement structure has been attached to the air guiding structure;

Fig. 3D shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 3C, wherein a sealing member is being attached to the reinforcements;

Fig. 3E shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 3D, wherein a light assembly has been attached to the reinforcement;

Fig. 4A shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioning system being updated;

Fig. 4B shows a graph showing the activity of a light source of an air conditioning system as function of time;

Fig. 4C shows another graph showing the activity of a light source of an air conditioning system as function of time;

Fig. 4D shows a further graph showing the activity of a light source of an air conditioning system as function of time;

Fig. 5A shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioning system, wherein a light source is being in- serted through a hole in the air guiding structure of the air conditioning system;

Fig. 5B shows the air conditioning system shown in Fig. 5A, where- in a sealing member is being attached to a cable arranged under the air guiding structure;

Fig. 5C shows the air conditioning system shown in Fig. 5B, where- in a sealing member is being attached to a cable arranged under the air guiding structure; Fig. 5D shows the air conditioning system shown in Fig. 5C, in a configuration, in which the cable has been attached to the light source;

Fig. 5E shows the air conditioning system shown in Fig. 5D, in a configuration, in which the sealing member has been at- tached to the air guiding structure;

Fig. 5F shows a close-up view of some of the structures shown in

Fig. 5B;

Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of an updated air conditioning sys- tem according to the invention;

Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of another updated air condition- ing system according to the invention;

Fig. 8A shows a vehicle comprising an updated air conditioning system according to the invention and

Fig. 8B shows a cross-sectional view of an updated air conditioning system according to the invention.

Detailed description of the invention

Referring now in detail to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention, the steps of a method according to the invention are illustrated in Fig. IA-Fig. IE.

Fig. 1A illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an air guiding structure 8 according to the invention. The portion of the air guiding structure 8 is plate-shaped and may be made in any suitable material. In one embodiment, the air guiding structure 8 is made in a plastic material. In another embodiment, the air guiding structure 8 is made in metal.

Fig. IB a grilling machine 16 provided with a drill 18 that is being used to make a hole in the air guiding structure 8. Fig. 1C illustrates the air guiding structure shown in Fig. 1A and Fig. IB provided with a hole 30 and a sealing member 6 arranged to be insert- ed into the hole 30. The sealing member 6 is made in a resilient materi- al such as rubber (e.g. a silicone rubber), preferably a heat and UV re- sistant rubber material.

The sealing member 6 comprises a centrally arranged through-going bore 24. The arranged through-going bore 24 has a conical shape that narrows down towards the inside of the air guiding structure 8. Accord- ingly, a cable (see Fig. IE) being inserted through the bore 24, will be kept into contact with the sealing member 6. Furthermore, when the cable is inserted into the bore 24, the sealing member 6 will be radially expanded, whereby the sealing member 6 will be firmly fixed to the air guiding structure 8.

The sealing member 6 is provided with a recess 22 extending along the outside surface 20 of the sealing member 6. The sealing member 6 is provided with an annular groove 26 configured to receive the proximal portion of a light source (see Fig. IE).

Fig. ID illustrates the air guiding structure 8 shown in Fig. 1C in a con- figuration, in which the sealing member 6 has been inserted into the hole in the air guiding structure 8. The sealing member 6 provides a firm and reliable base for receiving a light assembly as the one shown in Fig. IE.

Fig. IE illustrates the air guiding structure 8 shown in Fig. ID in a con- figuration, in which a light assembly 2 has been attached to the air guiding structure 8. The proximal portion of the UV light source 4 is supported by the annular groove 26 of the sealing member 6. Accord- ingly, the sealing member 6 prevents the light assembly 2 from moving along the length of the air guiding structure 8. Fig. 2A illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an upgraded air conditioning system 40 according to the invention. The light assembly 2 is arranged in a distance D from a blower 28 that is arranged to generate an air flow 34 through the air guiding structure 8. In one embodiment, the distance D is 5 cm . In another embodiment, the distance D is 10 cm. In a further embodiment, the distance D is 15 cm. In another embodiment, the distance D is 20 cm.

The light assembly 2 comprises an UV light source 4 supported by a rubber sealing member 6 that is sealing attached to the air guiding structure 8. Hereby, the air guiding structure 8 is sealed so that the air flow 34 cannot leave the air guiding structure 8 through the hole in the air guiding structure 8.

The UV light source 4 may comprise one more LED arranged to emit UV light 36. The UV light source 4 emits UV light 36 into the air flow 34.

A cable 10 being attached and electrically connected to the UV light source 4, extends through the through bore in the sealing member 6. The cable 10 is electrically connected to a first electric connection member 12 that is electrically connected to a second first electric con- nection member 14. The second electric connection member 14 is con- figured to be controlled to a control unit (not shown) that delivers elec- tric power to the light source 4 and controls the activity of the light source 4.

The air guiding structure 8 comprises a portion constituting a tubular structure 32 configured to guide the air flow 34.

The UV light 36 is applied to improving the air quality due to its ability to kill molds, bacteria and viruses, and other pathogens inside the air guiding structure 8. By arraigning the light source 4 in the air flow 34, the UV light 36 will kill molds, bacteria and viruses present in the air flow 34. Fig. 2B illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air condition- ing system shown in Fig. 2A, in a configuration, in which the light as- sembly has been removed. A plug member 38 is arranged in the hole in the tubular structure 32 of the air guiding structure 8.

Fig. 3A illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an upgraded air conditioning system 40 according to the invention corn- prising a first light assembly 2 and a second light assembly 2' spaced from the first light assembly 2.

A blower 28 is arranged to generate an air flow 34 flowing along the air guiding structure 8. Both the first light assembly 2 and the second light assembly 2' generate UV light 26 that is emitted into the air flow 34.

Fig. 3B illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of an air guiding structure 8 provided with a hole 30 and a reinforcement structure 42 being attached to the air guiding structure 8. The reinforcement struc- ture 42 is configured to be arranged in a configuration, in which it has a basically U-shaped form (see Fig. 3C). However, in Fig. 3B, the distal portions of the first portion 44 and the second portion 44' of the rein- forcement structure 42 are brought into contact with each other and presses towards each other. The reinforcement structure 42 may be manufactured in a plastic material or a metal.

Fig. 3C illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air guiding structure 8 shown in Fig. 3B, wherein the reinforcement structure 42 has been attached to the air guiding structure 8. An additional rein- forcement structure 42 has been attached to the air guiding structure 8 (in the opposite side of the hole 30).

Fig. 3D illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air guiding structure 8 shown in Fig. 3C, wherein a sealing member 6 is being at- tached to the reinforcement structures 42. The sealing member 6 com- prises a recess 22 shaped to receive and hereby be sealingly attached to the reinforcement structure 42.

Fig. 3E illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of the air guiding structure 8 shown in Fig. 3D, wherein a light assembly 2 (like the one explained with reference to Fig. IE and Fig. 2A) has been attached to the reinforcement structure 42. The reinforcement structures 42 in- crease the stiffness of the air guiding structure 8 and thus makes it possible to keep the light assembly 2 firmly kept. Accordingly, the rein- forcement structures 42 prevent the light assembly 2 from moving sideways.

Fig. 4A illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioning system being updated. The air conditioning system comprises a blower 28 arranged to generate an air flow in the air guid- ing structure 8 of the air conditioning system.

A dosing unit 46 configured to dose titanium dioxide (T1O2) is provided at the distal end of a tube 52, has been inserted into the inside of the air guiding structure 8, through the hole 30. The dosing unit 46 is used to generate a spray 48 of T1O2. Accordingly, a T1O2 coating is provided on the inside surface of the air guiding structure 8. T1O2 exhibits photo- catalytic activity under UV irradiation, leading to the formation of hy- droxyl radicals. This has been found to mineralise and decompose un- desirable compounds in the air. Accordingly, the use of T1O2 increases the ability of the air conditioning system to kill bacteria and virus in the air.

Fig. 4B illustrates a graph showing the level of activity 54 of a light source of an air conditioning system as function of time 56. The graph shows the level of activity 54 in an air conditioning system, in which the control unit of the air conditioning system detects that the motor of the vehicle starts at a time Ti. The control unit is configured to turn on the UV light source of the air conditioning system in a predefined time peri- od DT.

At the time T2, the UV light source is turned off. By applying a method, in which the activity of the UV light source is regulated on the basis of detection of the activity of the motor of the vehicle in which the air con- ditioning system is installed, it is possible to extend the life time of the UV light source, since the UV light source is only activated in predefined time periods.

In one embodiment according to the invention, the predefined time pe- riod DT is 30 minutes. In another embodiment according to the inven- tion, the predefined time period DT is 20 minutes. In a further embodi- ment according to the invention, the predefined time period DT is 40 minutes. In an even further embodiment according to the invention, the predefined time period DT is 60 minutes.

In one embodiment according to the invention, the predefined time pe- riod DT may be calculated based on one or more temperatures detected inside the vehicle and/or outside. In one embodiment, the UV light source is active when the air conditioning system is turned on.

Fig. 4C illustrates another graph showing the level of activity 54 of two light sources of an air conditioning system as function of time 56. An outside temperature Tempo of 30°C is detected at a time T3 by a tem- perature sensor of the vehicle, in which the air conditioning system is installed. One of the UV light sources of the air conditioning system is turned off at the time T ₄ . However, a single light source is maintained turned on until the time T5, in which both UV light sources are turned off.

The Table 1 shown below defines the relationship between the prede- fined time period DT and the outside temperature Tempo. Table 1

As it can be seen from the table, an outdoor temperature of 30°C means that the time period DT, in which the light source of the air con- ditioning system is active, is 45 minutes. By way of example, the prede- fined time period DT, in which the light source of the air conditioning system is turned on, is 30 minutes, if the outdoor temperature is 20°C.

Fig. 4D illustrates a graph showing the level of activity 54 of an UV light source of an air conditioning system as function of time 56. At a first time T 6, a temperature Tempi is detected in the cabinet of the vehicle, in which the air conditioning system is installed. Based on the detected temperature Tempi, a time period of activity is calculated. Accordingly, the UV light source is turned on until the time T7, at which the UV light source is turned off.

At a time Ts, a higher temperature Tempi- is detected in the cabinet of the vehicle. Based on the detected temperature Tempi-, a longer time period of activity is calculated. Accordingly, the UV light source is turned on until the time T9, at which the UV light source is turned off.

Fig. 5A-5E illustrates how a UV light source can be attached to an air guiding structure 8 of the air conditioning system 40 according to the invention.

Fig. 5A illustrates a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioning system 40, wherein an UV light source 4 is being in- serted through a hole 30 in the air guiding structure 8 of the air condi- tioning system 40. The hole 30 is provided close to a blower 28 being arranged to generate an air flow inside the air guiding structure 8. Fig. 5B illustrates the air conditioning system 40 shown in Fig. 5A, wherein a sealing member 6 is being attached to a cable 10 arranged under the air guiding structure 8. The UV light source 4 rests against the air guiding structure 8. The proximal portion of the UV light source 4 is provided with electric connection structures 62 configured to re- ceive and hereby be electrically connected to corresponding electric connection structures 60 provided at the distal end of the cable 10.

Protruding structures 64 are provided at the outside surface of the cable 10. Corresponding receiving portions 66 are provided at the inside sur- face of the through-going bore provided in the sealing member 6. These receiving portions 66 are configured to receive the protruding structures 64.

Fig. 5C illustrates the air conditioning system 40 shown in Fig. 5B, wherein a sealing member 6 is being attached to the cable 10 arranged under the air guiding structure 8.

Fig. 5D illustrates the air conditioning system 40 shown in Fig. 5C, in a configuration, in which the cable 10 has been attached to the UV light source 4. It can be seen that the electric connection structures provided at the distal end of the cable 10 have been received by and hereby been electrically connected to the corresponding electric connection structures of the UV light source 4.

Fig. 5E illustrates the air conditioning system 40 shown in Fig. 5D, in a configuration, in which the sealing member 6 has been attached to the air guiding structure 8 by bring the sealing member 6 into a position, in which the protruding structures of the cable 10 are brought into en- gagement with the corresponding receiving portions of the sealing member 6. When the sealing member 6 is attached to the air guiding structure 8 like shown in Fig. 5E, the UV light source is firmly attached to the air guiding structure 8 by means of the sealing member 6 and the cable 10.

Fig. 5F illustrates a close-up view of some of the structures shown in Fig. 5B. The sealing member 6 is configured to be sealingly attached to the air guiding structure 8. The UV light source 4 rests against an inside portion of the air guiding structure 8. The UV light source 4 is provided with electric connection structures 62 configured to receive and hereby be electrically connected to corresponding electric connection structures 60 provided at the distal end of the cable 10. Protruding structures 64 are provided at the outside surface of the cable 10. Corresponding re- ceiving portions 66 are provided at the inside surface of the through- going bore provided in the sealing member 6. These receiving portions 66 are configured to receive the protruding structures 64.

Fig. 6 illustrates a schematic view of an updated air conditioning system 40 according to the invention. The updated air conditioning system 40 comprises an inlet section 112, in which a blower 28 is arranged to generate an air flow 34 towards an evaporator 92. Outside air 68 can enter the inlet section 112 through an inlet 110, in which a filter 88 is arranged. Likewise, recirculated air 70 from the passenger cabin can enter the inlet section 112 through another inlet 110'. A door 82 (rotat- ably mounted by means of a pivot 90), is provided in the inlet section 112 in a position, in which the door 82 can close either of the inlets 110, 110'. When the air flow 34 passes the evaporator 92, the air flow 34 is cooled down since the evaporation that takes place in the evapo- rator 92 is an endothermic process, in which the evaporator 92 absorbs energy from its surroundings.

A light assembly 2 provided with an UV light source 4 is arranged in a position, in which the UV light source 4 can emit UV light towards and into the air flow 34 and hereby sterilise the air flow 34. The air conditioning system 40 comprises a heater configured to heat the air if desired. A light assembly 2' provided with an UV light source 4 is arranged in a position, in which the UV light source 4 can emit UV light towards and into the air flow 34' and hereby sterilise the air flow 34'. Another light assembly 2" provided with an UV light source 4 is ar- ranged in a position, in which the UV light source 4 can emit UV light towards and into the air flow 34" leaving the heater 116. Hereby, the light assembly 2" can sterilise the air flow 34". The light assemblies 2, 2', 2" extend through the air guiding structure 8 of the air conditioning system 40 and may be provided with sealing members like the ones explained with reference to Fig. 1C, Fig. ID, Fig. IE, Fig. 2A, Fig. 3D and Fig. 3E.

In one embodiment, the evaporator 92 and the heater 116 may be pro- vided a single housing or component.

The air flow 34" can now be directed into either:

a) a first outlet 114 in the form of air 74 towards the passenger cabin; b) a second outlet 114' in the form of air 72 towards the floor or c) a third outlet 114" in the form of defrost air 76 towards the front window of the vehicle.

A first door 82' rotatably mounted by means of a pivot 90 and a second door 82" rotatably mounted by means of a pivot 90 are arranged and configured to open and close the outlets 114, 114', 114" and hereby select through which of the outlets 114, 114', 114" the outlet air 72, 74, 76 should flow. The doors 82, 82', 82" may be manually operated. In one embodiment, the doors 82, 82', 82" are driven by electric actua- tors.

The air conditioning system 40 comprises a control unit 80 that is elec- trically connected to the first light assembly 2 by means of a first wired connection 78, to a second light assembly 2' by means of a second wired connection 78' and to a third light assembly 2" by means of a third wired connection 78".

The control unit 80 is configured to activate the light sources 4 of the light assemblies 2, 2', 2". In one embodiment, the control unit 80 is configured to activate the light sources 4 of the light assemblies 2, 2', 2" based on one or more temperature measurements provided by one or more temperature sensors.

Fig. 7 illustrates schematic view of an updated air conditioning system 40 according to the invention. The updated air conditioning system 40 comprises an inlet section, in which a blower 28 is arranged to generate an air flow towards an evaporator 92. Outside air 68 enters the inlet section through an inlet 110. Recirculated air 70 from the passenger cabin enters the inlet section through an inlet 110'.

A door 82 that is rotatably mounted by means of a pivot 90 is provided in the inlet section. The door 82 can close either of the inlets 110, 110'. When the air flow passes the evaporator 92, the air is cooled down by the evaporator 92.

A first light assembly 2 provided with an UV light source 4 is arranged in a position, in which the UV light source 4 can emit UV light towards and into the air flow and hereby sterilise the air and the inside struc- tures of the air guiding structure 8.

The air conditioning system 40 comprises a heater 116, however this heater 116 may be integrated into the same housing as the evaporator 92. A second light assembly 2' provided with an UV light source 4 is ar- ranged in a position, in which the UV light source 4 can emit UV light towards and into the air that has passed the evaporator 92. The light assemblies 2, 2' extend through the air guiding structure 8 of the air conditioning system 40 and may comprise sealing members like the ones explained with reference to Fig. 1C, Fig. ID, Fig. IE, Fig. 2A, Fig. 3D and Fig. 3E.

In one embodiment, the evaporator 92 and the heater 116 may be pro- vided a single housing or component.

The air flow can be directed into either:

a) a first outlet 114 in the form of air 74 towards the passenger cabin; b) a second outlet 114' in the form of air 72 towards the floor or c) a third outlet 114" in the form of defrost air 76 towards the front window.

A first door 82' rotatably mounted by means of a pivot 90 and a second door 82" rotatably mounted by means of a pivot 90 are arranged and configured to regulate the air flow. The doors 82, 82', 82" may be man ually operated. In one embodiment, the doors 82, 82', 82" are driven by electric actuators. Additional doors (not shown) may be provided to achieve a desired air flow configuration.

Fig. 8 illustrates a vehicle 58 comprising an updated air conditioning system 40 according to the invention. The air conditioning system 40 comprises a condenser 84 arranged in the front of the vehicle 58.

A condenser blower 28 is arranged to generate an air flow towards the condenser 84. The condenser 84 is in fluid communication with a com- pressor 86 that is driven by a compressor belt 94 connected to motor 106 of the vehicle 58.

The air conditioning system 40 comprises an evaporator and heater member 100 comprising an evaporator and a heater. The evaporator is arranged to cool down outside air 68 sucked into the evaporator and heater member 100 by means of a blower 28'. Hereby, the evaporator and heater member 100 generates an air flow 34 that has a desired temperature. If the temperature inside the passenger cabin is high (e.g. in the summertime), the evaporator cools down the outside air 68 so that the air flow 34 that enters the passenger cabin is cold. In the win- tertime, however, the heater can increase the temperature of the out- side air 68 so that the air flow 34 that enters the passenger cabin is hot. A first UV light source 4 is arranged inside the evaporator and heater member 100 in a position, in which the air is irradiated by the light source 4 before passing the evaporator and the heater. A second UV light source 4' is arranged inside the evaporator and heater member 100 in a position, in which the air is irradiated by the light source 4' af- ter having passed the evaporator and the heater. The air flow 34, 34' is purified by UV light emitted by the UV light sources 4, 4'. The UV light sources 4 are arranged in the distal end of light assemblies that extend through the air guiding structure 8 (the wall of the evaporator and heater member 100). In one embodiment, one of the UV light sources 4, 4' is omitted.

A first pipe 102 extends from the evaporator and heater member 100 to a dryer (receiver) 108 that is in fluid communication with the condenser 84. A second pipe 104 extends from the evaporator and heater member 100 to compressor 86. A first service valve 98 is connected to the first pipe 102. A second service valve 98' is connected to the second pipe 102. A condenser drain tube 96 protrudes from the bottom portion of the evaporator and heater member 100. Hereby, condensed water can be drained from the evaporator and heater member 100.

Fig. 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an updated vehicle air condi- tioning system 40 according to the invention. The air conditioning sys- tem 40 comprises an inlet 110 through which outside air 68 enters the air conditioning system 40. The outside air 68 passes a filter 88 before entering the air guiding structure 8 that houses a blower 28 and an evaporator and heater member 100. The blower 28 generates an air flow 34 that can either be cooled down by the evaporator of the evapo- rator and heater member 100 or be heated by the heater of the evapo- rator and heater member 100.

A light assembly 2 provided with an UV light source 4 is arranged in a position, in which the UV light source 4 can emit UV light towards and into the air flow 34 and hereby sterilise the air flow 34 and the inside structure of the air guiding structure 8.

The air conditioning system 40 comprises guiding structures configured to guide the air flow 34 into either:

a) a first outlet 114 in the form of air 74 towards the passenger cabin; b) a second outlet 114' in the form of air 72 towards the floor or c) a third outlet 114" in the form of defrost air 76 towards the front windows of the vehicle.

List of reference numerals

2, 2', 2" Light assembly

4 Light source

6 Sealing member

8 Air guiding structure

10 Cable

12, 14 Electric connection member 16 Drilling machine

18 Drill

20 Outside surface

22 Recess

24 Through bore

26 Groove

28, 28' Blower

30 Hole

32 Tubular structure

34, 34', 34" Air flow

36 UV light

38 Plug member

40 Air conditioning system 42 Reinforcement structure 44 First portion

44' Second portion

46 Dosing unit

48 Spray

50 Coating

52 Tube

54 Level of activity

56 Time

58 Vehicle

Ti, T2, T3, T _4, T5, T6 Time

T ₇ , Te, T ₉ Time 58 Vehicle

60 Electric connection structure

62 Electric connection structure

64 Protruding structure

66 Receiving portion

D Distance

DTi, DT2, DT3 Time period

Tempi, Tempi·, Tempo Temperature

68 Outside air

70 Recirculated air

72 Air towards the floor

74 Air towards the passenger cabin 76 Defrost air

78, 78', 78" Wired connection

80 Control unit

82, 82', 82", 82'" Door

84 Condenser

86 Compressor

88 Filter

90 Pivot

92 Evaporator

94 Compressor belt

96 Condenser drain tube

98, 98' Valve

100 Evaporator and heater member

102, 104 Pipe

106 Motor

108 Dryer (receiver)

110, 110' Inlet

112 Inlet section

114, 114', 114" Outlet

116 Heater