FIELD

This relates to an automated apparatus, system and method for disinfecting products, in particular, but not exclusively, an apparatus, system and method for disinfecting items of apparel such as garments, footwear and the like.

BACKGROUND

In many industries, it is necessary or desirable to sanitise products by cleaning and/or disinfecting them to reduce or eliminate the presence of pathogenic agents such as bacteria, fungi and other microbes from their surfaces.

In the apparel industry, for example, items of apparel such as garments and footwear may be sanitised by cleaning and/or disinfecting them to ensure that they are safe to enter or re-enter the supply chain. This is particularly relevant in the garment return, refurbishment and/or rental sectors in which there is a strong emphasis on ensuring that items are clean and safe for recommerce.

However, current systems and techniques for disinfection of products are time and labour intensive. Moreover, given the high variability of the products in the apparel industry current systems and techniques for disinfection produce inconsistent results.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an automated apparatus, system and method for disinfecting products, in particular, but not exclusively, an automated apparatus, system and method for disinfecting items of apparel such as garments, footwear and the like.

According to a first aspect, there is provided an automated apparatus for disinfecting products, the apparatus comprising: a disinfection chamber configured to receive therein one or more products to be disinfected; a conveyor arrangement configured to convey the one or more products to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber; a gas generation arrangement configured to emit a disinfection gas into the disinfection chamber so as to disinfect the one or more products located within the disinfection chamber, wherein the apparatus comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system configured to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement and the disinfection chamber to facilitate the disinfection of the products.

In use, the products to be disinfected may be disposed on, e.g. hung from, the conveyor arrangement, which, under the control of the control system, conveys the products into the disinfection chamber where they are exposed to the disinfection gas emitted by the gas generation arrangement. The conveyor arrangement, under the control of the control system, then conveys the disinfected products out of the disinfection chamber.

As will be described further below, the apparatus may be coupled to or form part of a product conveyor system (“the main conveyor”) and the apparatus may be configured to receive the products to be disinfected from the main conveyor, e.g. in batches. The apparatus may also be configured to return the disinfected products to the main conveyor. Alternatively, the apparatus may be coupled to and/or form a distal end of the main conveyor.

Beneficially, the apparatus provides efficient disinfection of products, while reducing or obviating altogether the need for manual labour in the disinfection process. Moreover, and as will be described further below, the apparatus is adaptable to the variability of the products to be disinfected, thereby increasing the efficacy and/or consistency of the disinfection process.

As described above, the apparatus comprises a disinfection chamber configured to receive the one or more products to be disinfected.

The disinfection chamber may comprise or take the form of an enclosed or substantially enclosed chamber. The disinfection chamber may be formed within a housing. The disinfection chamber may be formed within a container, such as a shipping container. The disinfection chamber may be formed in a room of a building.

Beneficially, the provision of an enclosed or substantially enclosed disinfection chamber permits the disinfection chamber to retain the disinfection gas emitted by the gas generation arrangement. More particularly, the provision of a sealed or substantially enclosed disinfection chamber permits the disinfection chamber to retain the disinfection gas emitted by the gas generation arrangement for a predetermined treatment time interval.

The disinfection chamber may comprise an entry arrangement configured to facilitate ingress of the products to be disinfected into the disinfection chamber. The entry arrangement may comprise an opening in a wall of the disinfection chamber. The entry arrangement may comprise a door arrangement. The door arrangement may be configured to selectively open and close the opening in the wall of the disinfection chamber. The door arrangement may comprise one or more doors, e.g. one or two doors. In particular embodiments, the door arrangement may comprise a sliding door arrangement. The sliding door arrangement may comprise one or more sliding doors, e.g. one or two sliding doors. The one or more doors may slide in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. The one or more doors may slide in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

Alternatively or additionally, the door arrangement may comprise a pivoting door arrangement. The pivoting door arrangement may comprise one or more pivoting door, e.g. one or two pivoting doors. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

Alternatively or additionally, the entry arrangement may comprise a flap arrangement. The flap arrangement may comprise one or more flaps, e.g. one or two flaps. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

The entry arrangement may be configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The entry arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa. The entry arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system.

The disinfection chamber may comprise an exit arrangement configured to facilitate egress of the products from the disinfection chamber. The exit arrangement may comprise an opening in the wall of the disinfection chamber. The exit arrangement may comprise a door arrangement. The door arrangement may be configured to selectively open and close the opening in the wall of the disinfection chamber. The door arrangement may comprise one or more doors, e.g. one or two doors. In particular embodiments, the door arrangement may comprise a sliding door arrangement. The sliding door arrangement may comprise one or more sliding doors, e.g. one or two sliding doors. The one or more doors may slide in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. The one or more doors may slide in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

Alternatively or additionally, the door arrangement may comprise a pivoting door arrangement. The pivoting door arrangement may comprise one or more pivoting door, e.g. one or two pivoting doors. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, the one or more doors may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

Alternatively or additionally, the entry arrangement may comprise a flap arrangement. The flap arrangement may comprise one or more flaps, e.g. one or two flaps. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, the one or more flaps may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

The exit arrangement may be configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The exit arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa. The exit arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system.

The apparatus may comprise an actuator arrangement. The actuator arrangement may be configured to control operation of the entry arrangement between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The actuator arrangement may be configured to control reconfiguration of the exit arrangement between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The actuator arrangement may be operable under the control of the control system.

The actuator arrangement may comprise one or more actuators coupled to the one or more doors of the entry arrangement. The actuator arrangement may comprise one or more actuators coupled to the one or more doors of the exit arrangement.

One or more actuator of the actuator arrangement may comprise or take the form of an electro-mechanical actuator arrangement. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator arrangement may comprise or take the form of a fluid-powered actuator arrangement, e.g. a hydraulic actuator arrangement and/or pneumatic actuator arrangement.

The apparatus may be configured and/or operable under the control of the control system to selectively open and close the disinfection chamber to facilitate ingress of the products into and egress of the products out of the disinfection chamber. More particularly, the apparatus may be configured and/or operable under the control of the control system to selectively open and close the entry and exit arrangements facilitate ingress of the products into and egress of the products out of the disinfection chamber. The apparatus may be configured to operate the entry and exit arrangements according to a predetermined sequence.

The predetermined sequence may comprise the steps:

1. entry arrangement in closed configuration and exit arrangement in closed configuration;

2. entry arrangement in open configuration and exit arrangement in closed configuration;

3. entry arrangement in closed configuration and exit arrangement in closed configuration;

4. entry arrangement in closed configuration and exit arrangement in open configuration.

Step 1 may define an initial configuration of the apparatus. Step 2 may facilitate the ingress of the products to be disinfected into the chamber. Step 3 may define the treatment configuration. Step 4 may facilitate the egress of the products from the apparatus.

Alternatively, the predetermined sequence may comprise the steps:

1. entry arrangement in open configuration and exit arrangement in open configuration;

2. entry arrangement in closed configuration and exit arrangement in closed configuration;

3. entry arrangement in open configuration and exit arrangement in open configuration.

Step 1 may facilitate the ingress of the products to be disinfected into the chamber. Step 2 may define the treatment configuration. Step 3 may facilitate the egress of the products from the apparatus.

As described above, the apparatus comprises a conveyor arrangement configured to convey the one or more products to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber. The apparatus may be configured so that at least part of the conveyor arrangement is disposed in and/or through the disinfection chamber. For example, the apparatus may be configured so that the whole conveyor arrangement is disposed in and/or through the disinfection chamber. Alternatively, the apparatus may be configured so that part, e.g. one or more products carriers of the conveyor arrangement, are disposed in and/or through the disinfection chamber. The apparatus may be configured to permit the conveyor arrangement to move relative to the disinfection chamber regardless of the condition of the entry arrangement and/or the exit arrangement, i.e. the apparatus may be configured to permit the conveyor arrangement to move relative to the disinfection chamber when the entry arrangement and/or the exit arrangement are in the closed configuration.

At least part of the conveyor arrangement may be disposed through one or more openings in the disinfection chamber. For example, the one or more product carriers may be disposed through one or more openings in the disinfection chamber. One or more of the openings may be provided in the entry arrangement, e.g. in the doors or flaps of the entry arrangement. One or more of the openings may be provided in the exit arrangement, e.g. in the doors or flaps of the exit arrangement.

The apparatus may be configured so that the conveyor arrangement is disposed in and/or through the disinfection chamber while preventing or restricting the escape of the Ozone gas from the disinfection chamber during the disinfection treatment. The one or more opening may be configured, e.g. sized and/or shaped, to match the conveyor arrangement. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may comprise a seal arrangement for sealing between the conveyor arrangement and the entry arrangement and/or exit arrangement.

As described above, the apparatus comprises a gas generation arrangement configured to emit disinfection gas into the disinfection chamber so as to disinfect the one or more products located within the disinfection chamber.

The gas generation arrangement may be at least partially (i.e. partially or wholly) located in the disinfection chamber. Alternatively, the disinfection chamber may comprise a gas intake arrangement for receiving the disinfection gas emitted by the gas generation arrangement.

The gas intake arrangement may comprise or take the form of one or more ports, ducts or the like.

The apparatus may be configured so that the products to be disinfected directly enter the disinfection chamber.

Alternatively, and in particular embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a pre-treatment chamber.

In use, the pre-treatment chamber may define a waiting area for the products to be disinfected before entering the disinfection chamber.

Beneficially, the provision of a pre-treatment chamber may act as a gas-lock to prevent or restrict escape of the disinfection gas to the surrounding environment, e.g. during reconfiguration of the apparatus between open and closed configurations.

The pre-treatment chamber may comprise or take the form of an enclosed or substantially enclosed chamber. The pre-treatment chamber may be formed within a housing. The pre-treatment chamber may be formed within a container, such as a shipping container. The pre-treatment chamber may be formed in a room of a building.

The pre-treatment chamber may be coupled to or integrally formed with the disinfection chamber.

The pre-treatment chamber may comprise an entry arrangement. The entry arrangement may be configured to receive the products to be disinfected, e.g. from the main conveyor. The entry arrangement may comprise an opening in a wall of the pretreatment chamber. The entry arrangement may comprise a door arrangement. The door arrangement may be configured to selectively open and close the opening in the wall of the pre-treatment chamber. The door arrangement may comprise one or more doors, e.g. one or two doors. In particular embodiments, the door arrangement may comprise a sliding door arrangement. The sliding door arrangement may comprise one or more sliding doors, e.g. one or two sliding doors. The one or more doors may slide in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. The one or more doors may slide in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

Alternatively or additionally, the door arrangement may comprise a pivoting door arrangement. The pivoting door arrangement may comprise one or more pivoting door, e.g. one or two pivoting doors. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

Alternatively or additionally, the entry arrangement may comprise a flap arrangement. The flap arrangement may comprise one or more flaps, e.g. one or two flaps. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

The entry arrangement may be configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The entry arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa. The entry arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system.

The pre-treatment chamber may comprise an exit arrangement. Where the pretreatment chamber is integrally formed with the disinfection chamber, the entry arrangement of the disinfection chamber may form the exit arrangement of the pretreatment chamber.

Alternatively, the pre-treatment chamber may comprise a distinct exit arrangement separate from the entry arrangement of the disinfection chamber. The exit arrangement may comprise an opening in the wall of the pre-treatment chamber. The exit arrangement may comprise a door arrangement. The door arrangement may be configured to selectively open and close the opening in the wall of the pre-treatment chamber. The door arrangement may comprise one or more doors, e.g. one or two doors. In particular embodiments, the door arrangement may comprise a sliding door arrangement. The sliding door arrangement may comprise one or more sliding doors, e.g. one or two sliding doors. The one or more doors may slide in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. The one or more doors may slide in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

Alternatively or additionally, the door arrangement may comprise a pivoting door arrangement. The pivoting door arrangement may comprise one or more pivoting door, e.g. one or two pivoting doors. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, the one or more doors may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

Alternatively or additionally, the entry arrangement may comprise a flap arrangement. The flap arrangement may comprise one or more flaps, e.g. one or two flaps. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, the one or more flaps may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

The exit arrangement may be configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The exit arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa. The exit arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system.

As described above, the apparatus may comprise an actuator arrangement.

The actuator arrangement may be configured to control operation of the entry arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The actuator arrangement may be configured to control reconfiguration of the exit arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The actuator arrangement may be operable to control operation of the entry and/or exit arrangements of the pre-treatment chamber under the control of the control system.

The actuator arrangement may comprise one or more actuators coupled to the one or more doors or flaps of the entry arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber. The actuator arrangement may comprise one or more actuators coupled to the one or more doors or flaps of the exit arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber.

The apparatus may be configured so that the products to be disinfected directly exit the disinfection chamber.

Alternatively, and in particular embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a post-treatment chamber.

In use, the post-treatment chamber may define a waiting area for the products after exiting the disinfection chamber.

Beneficially, the provision of a post-treatment chamber may act as a gas-lock to prevent or restrict escape of the disinfection gas to the surrounding environment, e.g. during reconfiguration of the apparatus between open and closed configurations.

The post-treatment chamber may comprise or take the form of an enclosed or substantially enclosed chamber. The post-treatment chamber may be formed within a housing. The post-treatment chamber may be formed within a container, such as a shipping container. The post-treatment chamber may be formed in a room of a building.

The pre- post-treatment chamber may be coupled to or integrally formed with the disinfection chamber.

The post-treatment chamber may comprise an entry arrangement. The entry arrangement may be configured to receive the disinfected products from the disinfection chamber.

Where the post-treatment chamber is integrally formed with the disinfection chamber, the exit arrangement of the disinfection chamber may form the entry arrangement of the post-treatment chamber.

Alternatively, the post-treatment chamber may comprise a distinct entry arrangement separate from the exit arrangement of the disinfection chamber. The entry arrangement may comprise an opening in a wall of the post-treatment chamber. The entry arrangement may comprise a door arrangement. The door arrangement may be configured to selectively open and close the opening in the wall of the post-treatment chamber. The door arrangement may comprise one or more doors, e.g. one or two doors. In particular embodiments, the door arrangement may comprise a sliding door arrangement. The sliding door arrangement may comprise one or more sliding doors, e.g. one or two sliding doors. The one or more doors may slide in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. The one or more doors may slide in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

Alternatively or additionally, the door arrangement may comprise a pivoting door arrangement. The pivoting door arrangement may comprise one or more pivoting door, e.g. one or two pivoting doors. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

Alternatively or additionally, the entry arrangement may comprise a flap arrangement. The flap arrangement may comprise one or more flaps, e.g. one or two flaps. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

The entry arrangement may be configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The entry arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa. The entry arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system.

The post-treatment chamber may comprise an exit arrangement. The exit arrangement may comprise an opening in the wall of the post-treatment chamber. The exit arrangement may comprise a door arrangement. The door arrangement may be configured to selectively open and close the opening in the wall of the pre-treatment chamber. The door arrangement may comprise one or more doors, e.g. one or two doors. In particular embodiments, the door arrangement may comprise a sliding door arrangement. The sliding door arrangement may comprise one or more sliding doors, e.g. one or two sliding doors. The one or more doors may slide in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. The one or more doors may slide in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

Alternatively or additionally, the door arrangement may comprise a pivoting door arrangement. The pivoting door arrangement may comprise one or more pivoting door, e.g. one or two pivoting doors. The one or more doors may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, the one or more doors may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

Alternatively or additionally, the entry arrangement may comprise a flap arrangement. The flap arrangement may comprise one or more flaps, e.g. one or two flaps. The one or more flaps may be pivotable about a horizontal or substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, the one or more flaps may be pivotable about a vertical or substantially vertical axis.

The exit arrangement may be configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The exit arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa. The exit arrangement may be operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system.

As described above, the apparatus may comprise an actuator arrangement.

The actuator arrangement may be configured to control operation of the entry arrangement of the post-treatment chamber between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The actuator arrangement may be configured to control reconfiguration of the exit arrangement of the post-treatment chamber between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The actuator arrangement may be operable to control operation of the entry and/or exist arrangements of the posttreatment chamber under the control of the control system.

The actuator arrangement may comprise one or more actuators coupled to the one or more doors or flaps of the entry arrangement of the post-treatment chamber. The actuator arrangement may comprise one or more actuators coupled to the one or more doors or flaps of the exit arrangement of the post- treatment chamber.

The pre-treatment chamber, disinfection chamber and/or post-treatment chamber may be arranged linearly.

Alternatively, the pre-treatment chamber and/or the post-treatment chamber may be arranged around the disinfection chamber, e.g. concentrically around the disinfection chamber.

The apparatus may be configured such that the pre-treatment chamber and the post-treatment chamber define a single chamber comprising a pre-treatment zone and a post-treatment zone. The pre-treatment zone and the post-treatment zone may be arranged around the disinfection chamber.

The apparatus may comprise an exhaust arrangement.

In use, the exhaust arrangement may be operable to remove the disinfection gas from the apparatus.

The exhaust arrangement may comprise or take the form of one or more ports, ducts or the like. The exhaust arrangement may comprise a pump or other device capable of forcibly removing the disinfection gas.

The exhaust arrangement may be at least partially disposed in, coupled to or operatively associated with one or more of: the disinfection chamber; the posttreatment chamber; and the pre-treatment chamber. In particular embodiments, the exhaust arrangement may be disposed in, coupled to or operatively associated with the pre-treatment chamber and the post-treatment chamber.

In use, e.g. before the apparatus is shut down, the entry and exit arrangements of the disinfection chamber may open and the exhaust arrangement extracts the gas from the pre-treatment chamber and the post-treatment chamber where it decomposes to oxygen. During this process, the entry arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber and the exit arrangement of the post-treatment chamber define their respective closed configurations.

The apparatus may comprise a gas handling system.

In use, the gas handling system may be operable to circulate the disinfection gas within the disinfection chamber during the disinfection process.

The gas handling system may comprise one or more fans. The gas handling system may comprise a pump or other device capable of forcibly circulating the gas.

The gas handling system may be at least partially disposed in, coupled to or operatively associated with one or more of: the disinfection chamber; the posttreatment chamber; and the pre-treatment chamber. In particular embodiments, the gas handling system may be disposed in, coupled to or operatively associated with the disinfection chamber.

The apparatus may comprise, may be coupled to or operatively associated with an air curtain arrangement.

Beneficially, the air curtain arrangement may be utilised to limit the escape of the gas from the disinfection chamber. This is turn mitigates against workers being exposed to the gas.

The air curtain arrangement may be disposed within the disinfection chamber.

The air curtain arrangement may be disposed outwith the disinfection chamber. The air curtain arrangement may be disposed in the pre-treatment chamber and/or the post-treatment chamber.

The air curtain arrangement may comprise one or more air curtain generators.

The air curtain arrangement may form part of the exhaust system.

The air curtain arrangement may form part of the gas handling system. The one or more air curtain generators may be associated with one or more of: the entry arrangement of the disinfection chamber; the exit arrangement of the disinfection chamber; the entry arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber; the exit arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber; the entry arrangement of the posttreatment chamber; and the exit arrangement of the post-treatment chamber.

As described above, the apparatus comprises a conveyor arrangement configured to convey the one or more products to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber.

Beneficially, the conveyor arrangement provides for a smooth transition of the products into the apparatus, between the parts of the apparatus and out from the apparatus.

The conveyor arrangement may comprise a conveyor. The conveyor may comprise or take the form of a hanging conveyor. The conveyor may comprise or take the form of an overhead conveyor.

The conveyor may comprise a drive arrangement. The drive arrangement may comprise a drive motor or the like. The drive arrangement may comprise a variable speed drive controller for varying the speed of the drive motor. The drive controller may be operable under the control of the control system.

The drive arrangement may comprise a drive chain.

The drive arrangement may comprise a transmission system for transmitting the drive force from the drive motor to the drive chain. The transmission system may comprise drive dogs or the like.

The conveyor may comprise one or more product carrier for carrying or supporting the products to be disinfected. The product carrier may comprise or take the form of a pendant or the like. The conveyor, or one or more portions of the conveyor, may define a linear path.

The conveyor, or one or more portions of the conveyor, may define a curved and/or circuitous path. For example, the conveyor, or one or more portions of the conveyor, may define an S-shaped path.

The conveyor may comprise a plurality of portions. The portions of the conveyor may be disposed in parallel. For example, the conveyor may define a laddershape.

The conveyor may comprise a track. The track may comprise or take the form of straight track sections and/or curved track sections.

The conveyor arrangement may comprise a coupling arrangement for coupling the conveyor to the main conveyor.

The conveyor arrangement may comprise a transition arrangement for moving or facilitating movement of the products into and/or out from the pre-treatment chamber, the disinfection chamber and/or the post-treatment chamber. The transition arrangement may be disposed through the entry arrangement and/or exit arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber, the disinfection chamber and/or the post-treatment chamber.

Beneficially, the provision of a transition arrangement permits passage of the products to be disinfected into and out from the pre-treatment chamber, the disinfection chamber and/or the post-treatment chamber without the need to pass the conveyor through the entry arrangement and/or exit arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber, the disinfection chamber and/or the post-treatment chamber.

The transition arrangement may be disposed between portions of the conveyor. The transition arrangement may be coupled between portions of the conveyor. The transition arrangement may be arranged to receive the products from a first conveyor portion and to convey the products onto a second conveyor portion. The transition arranged may comprise or take the form of one or more rails, poles, bars or ramps.

The transition arrangement may be gravity-induced. Alternatively or additionally, the transition arrangement may comprise one or more actuators.

As described above, the system comprises a gas generation arrangement configured to emit disinfection gas into the disinfection chamber.

The gas generation arrangement may be located at least partially within the disinfection chamber.

The disinfection gas may comprise or take the form of Ozone gas. The gas generation arrangement may comprise one or more Ozone gas generator. One or more of the Ozone gas generators may comprise or take the form of an ultraviolet (UV) Ozone gas generator. One or more of the Ozone gas generators may comprise or take the form of an electric Ozone gas generator.

The disinfection gas may comprise or take the form of Hydrogen Peroxide. The gas generation arrangement may comprise one or more Hydrogen Peroxide gas generator.

The apparatus may comprise, may be coupled to or operatively associated with a gas decomposition, e.g. an Ozone destruction system. The gas decomposition system may comprise or take the form of a catalytic decomposition system, e.g. Ozone destruction system.

Beneficially, the gas decomposition system, e.g. Ozone destruction system, ensures that gas concentrations are maintained at safe levels, e.g. at a concentration below the Worker Exposure Limit (WEL) in a given facility.

The apparatus may comprise a sensor arrangement.

The sensor arrangement may comprise one or more sensors configured to detect the presence and/or concentration of the disinfection gas in one or more of: the pre-treatment chamber; disinfection chamber; the post-treatment chamber; and the surrounding environment around the apparatus.

The sensor arrangement may form part of, may be coupled to or operatively associated with one or more of the disinfection gas generation arrangement and the gas decomposition system.

Beneficially, this ensures that gas concentrations are maintained at safe levels, e.g. at a concentration below the Worker Exposure Limit (WEL) in a given facility.

The sensor arrangement may form part of, may be coupled to or operatively associated with the control system. The sensor arrangement may be operable under the control of the control system.

The apparatus may comprise an ultraviolet (UV) light arrangement. The UV light arrangement may comprise or take the form of a UVC light arrangement.

In use, the UV light arrangement may provide additional disinfection of the products to be disinfected as they pass through the apparatus.

The UV light arrangement may be disposed in one or more of the pre-treatment chamber, disinfection chamber and the post-treatment chamber.

The UV light arrangement may comprise one or more UV light generators.

The apparatus may comprise, may be coupled to, or operatively associated with a control system.

The control system, or part of the control system, may form part of the apparatus.

The control system, or part of the control system, may be coupled to or operatively associated with the apparatus. For example, the control system may be located at one or more remote location. The remote location may comprise or take the form of a control room. Alternatively or additionally, the remote location may comprise or take the form of a mobile device such as tablet, mobile phone or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the remote location may comprise or take the form of a data store, such as an online data store.

The control system may form part of the control system of the main conveyor. The control system may be coupled to or configured to communicate with the control system of the main conveyor.

The control system may comprise a controller, such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) or industrial computer.

The apparatus may comprise, may be coupled to or operatively associated with a monitoring system.

The monitoring system may form part of, may be coupled to, or may be operatively associated with the control system. The monitoring system may, for example, comprise a sensor arrangement. The sensor arrangement may comprise one or more sensors configured to measure one or more process conditions. The monitoring system may comprise at least one camera. The at least one camera may be arranged to provide for real-time visualisation of the apparatus.

The apparatus or part of the apparatus may comprise or may be formed within a housing. The housing may comprise or take the form of a container, such as a shipping container. The housing may comprise or take the form of a building. The housing may be thermally insulated.

The apparatus may comprise or may be provided in combination with a linking bridge. The linking bridge may be configured to link the housing to an existing facility, for example a building, container or unit.

The linking bridge may comprise a housing configured to house a portion of the conveyor arrangement. Accordingly, the linking bridge may facilitate transport of products to be disinfected from the existing facility to the disinfection chamber. The linking bridge may be configured to provide protection from the external environment. The linking bridge may be thermally insulated. The housing of the linking bridge may be thermally insulated.

The apparatus may comprise, may be coupled to operatively associated with a cooling system. Beneficially, the cooling system can provide for accurate temperature control during the disinfection process to maintain a desired ambient temperature within the apparatus.

The apparatus may comprise a shut-off switch. The shut-off switch may provide for emergency override of the control system and allow for the system to be switched off.

The housing may be provided with a walkway. The walkway may for example comprise or take the form of a gangway or the like. The walkway may be configured to allow an operator access to the control system. The walkway may be configured to allow an operator access to locations within the apparatus. The walkway may be configured to provide an operator access to the shut-off switch.

According to a second aspect, there is provided an automated system for disinfecting products, comprising one or more of the apparatus of the first aspect.

Beneficially, the system provides efficient disinfection of products, while reducing or obviating altogether the need for manual labour in the disinfection process. Moreover, and as will be described further below, the apparatus is adaptable to the variability of the products to be disinfected.

The system may comprise or take the form of an automated system for disinfecting products in the form of items of apparel such as garments and/or footwear. However, it will be understood that the system may be used to disinfect a wide range of products, including but not limited to food products, and products used in the pharmaceutical and/or medical device industries.

The system may comprise a plurality of the apparatus of the first aspect. Where the system comprises a plurality of the apparatus, two or more of the apparatus’ may be arranged in series.

Alternatively or additionally, where the system comprises a plurality of the apparatus, two or more of the apparatus may be arranged in parallel.

The system may comprise or take the form of a continuous system for disinfecting products.

The system may comprise, may be coupled to or operatively associated with a product conveyor system (“the main conveyor”). The main conveyor may comprise a conveyor. The conveyor may comprise or take the form of a continuous conveyor. The conveyor may comprise or take the form of a hanging conveyor. The conveyor may comprise or take the form of an overhead conveyor.

The apparatus may be configured to receive the products to be disinfected from the main conveyor. For example, a first, proximal, end of the conveyor arrangement may be coupled to the main conveyor.

The apparatus may be configured to return the disinfected products to the main conveyor. For example, a second, distal, end of the conveyor arrangement may be coupled to the main conveyor.

Alternatively, the apparatus may form part of or may be coupled to a distal end of the main conveyor.

In use, the system may be configured to receive the products to be disinfected from the main conveyor, e.g. in batches. The system may also be configured to return the disinfected products to the main conveyor or may form a distal end of the main conveyor.

The system may comprise, may be coupled to or operatively with a cleaning arrangement for cleaning the products.

Beneficially, when the system may thus be defined as a sanitisation system. According to a third aspect, there is provided a method for disinfecting garments, using the apparatus of the first aspect or the system of the second aspect.

The method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a predetermined concentration of the gas. The method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a predetermined concentration of the Ozone gas. The method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a predetermined concentration of the Hydrogen Peroxide gas.

The method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a 20 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas.

The method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a 10 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas.

The method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected for a predetermined treatment time.

The predetermined treatment time may be 4 minutes.

In particular embodiments, the method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a 20 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas for 4 minutes.

Beneficially, exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a 20 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas for a predetermined treatment time of 4 minutes has been found to ensure complete microbial destruction, while optimising the throughput of the products to be disinfected.

Alternatively, the method may comprise exposing the product(s) to be disinfected to a 10 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas for 16 minutes.

However, it will be understood that other predetermined times and concentrations may be utilised. The invention is defined by the appended claims. However, for the purposes of the present disclosure it will be understood that any of the features defined above or described below may be utilised in isolation or in combination. For example, features described above in relation to one of the above aspects or below in relation to the detailed description below may be utilised in any other aspect, or together form a new aspect.

According to another aspect, there is provided a processing system configured to implement one or more of the previous aspects.

The processing system may comprise at least one processor. The processing system may comprise and/or be configured to access at least one data store or memory. The data store or memory may comprise or be configured to receive operating instructions or a program specifying operations of the at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to process and implement the operating instructions or program.

The at least one data store may comprise, and/or comprise a reader, drive or other means configured to access, optical storage or disk such as a CD or DVD, flash drive, SD device, one or more memory chips such as DRAMs, a network attached drive (NAD), cloud storage, magnetic storage such as tape or magnetic disk or a hard-drive, and/or the like.

The processing system may comprise a network or interface module. The network or interface module may be connected or connectable to a network connection or data carrier, which may comprise a wired or wireless network connection or data carrier, such as a data cable, powerline data carrier, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, internet connection or other similar connection. The network interface may comprise a router, modem, gateway and/or the like. The system or processing system may be configured to transmit or otherwise provide the audio signal via the network or interface module, for example over the internet, intranet, network or cloud.

The processing system may comprise a processing apparatus or a plurality of processing apparatus. Each processing apparatus may comprise at least a processor and optionally a memory or data store and/or a network or interface module. The plurality of processing apparatus may communicate via respective network or interface modules. The plurality of processing apparatus may form, comprise or be comprised in a distributed or server/client based processing system.

According to another aspect, there is provided a computer program product configured such that when processed by a suitable processing system configures the processing system to implement one or more of the previous aspects.

The computer program product may be provided on or comprised in a carrier medium. The carrier medium may be transient or non-transient. The carrier medium may be tangible or non-tangible. The carrier medium may comprise a signal such as an electromagnetic or electronic signal. The carrier medium may comprise a physical medium, such as a disk, a memory card, a memory, and/or the like.

According to another aspect, there is provided a carrier medium, the carrier medium comprising a signal, the signal when processed by a suitable processing system causes the processing system to implement one or more of the previous aspects.

It will be well understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that whilst some embodiments may implement certain functionality by means of a computer program having computer-readable instructions that are executable to perform the method of the embodiments. The computer program functionality could be implemented in hardware (for example by means of a CPU or by one or more ASICs (application specific integrated circuits)) or by a mix of hardware and software.

Whilst particular pieces of apparatus have been described herein, in alternative embodiments, functionality of one or more of those pieces of apparatus can be provided by a single unit, processing resource or other component, or functionality provided by a single unit can be provided by two or more units or other components in combination. For example, one or more functions of the processing system may be performed by a single processing device, such as a personal computer or the like, or one or more or each function may be performed in a distributed manner by a plurality of processing devices, which may be locally connected or remotely distributed. It will be recognised that the automated apparatus, system and method of the present disclosure provide a number of significant benefits over conventional systems and techniques, which rely on manual loading and unloading before and after treatment and which can constitute a major process bottleneck.

For example, the present automated apparatus, system and method facilitates the use of higher concentrations of Ozone gas which research has shown results in improved efficacy of the treatment process in comparison to the lower concentrations used in conventional systems and techniques. Moreover, the present automated apparatus, system and method facilitates reduced contact time with Ozone gas than conventional systems and techniques, increasing overall throughput, and leading to faster fulfilment of customer orders

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 shows a diagrammatic front view of an automated apparatus for disinfecting products according to the present disclosure;

Figure 2 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 shows an enlarged view of the disinfection chamber of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the disinfection chamber of the apparatus of Figure 1 ;

Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of the pre-treatment chamber of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the pre-treatment chamber of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;

Figure 8 shows an enlarged view of the post-treatment chamber of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the post-treatment chamber of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;

Figures 10 to 18 show the conveyor arrangement of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 19 shows a front view of an alternative automated apparatus for disinfecting products according to the present disclosure;

Figure 20 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 19;

Figure 21 shows a front view of a further alternative automated apparatus for disinfecting products;

Figure 22 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 21 ;

Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the apparatus shown in Figure 22;

Figure 24 shows a front view of a further alternative automated apparatus for disinfecting products;

Figure 25 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 24;

Figure 26 shows a perspective view of the apparatus shown in Figure 24;

Figure 27 shows a front view of a further alternative automated apparatus for disinfecting products;

Figure 28 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 27; Figure 29 shows a front view of a further alternative automated apparatus for disinfecting products;

Figure 30 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 29;

Figure 31 shows a system for disinfecting products;

Figures 32a to 32d show graphs of % bacteria or % fungi removal vs exposure time for a number of Ozone concentrations;

Figures 33a shows a graph of Ozone gas removal from the apparatus;

Figure 33b shows a graph of the half life vs suction rate;

Figure 34 shows a perspective view of a further alternative automated apparatus for disinfecting products;

Figure 35 shows a plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 34; and

Figure 36 shows a front view of the apparatus shown in Figure 34.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring first to Figures 1 to 10 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown an automated apparatus 10 for disinfecting products P.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the products P to be disinfected take the form of items of apparel and more particularly garments. However, it will be understood that the apparatus 10 may be used to disinfect a wide range of products P, including but not limited to food products, and products used in the pharmaceutical and/or medical device industries.

As shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 10 comprises a disinfection chamber 12 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 14, comprising a conveyor 16 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 12, and a gas generation arrangement, generally denoted 18, configured to emit a disinfection gas into the disinfection chamber 12 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 12. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the gas generation arrangement 18 takes the form of an Ozone gas generation arrangement comprising Ozone gas generators 20 configured to emit Ozone gas into the disinfection chamber 12 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 12. The apparatus 10 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system C configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 14 and the disinfection chamber 12 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

In use, the products P to be disinfected are disposed on, in the illustrated apparatus 10 hung from, the conveyor 16, which, under the control of the control system C, conveys the products P into the disinfection chamber 12 where they are exposed to the Ozone gas emitted by the Ozone gas generation arrangement 18. The product(s) to be disinfected are exposed to a 20 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas for a predetermined treatment time of 4 minutes, which has been found to ensure complete microbial destruction. The Ozone gas generation arrangement 18 is operational prior to conveying of products P into the disinfection chamber 12. The concentration of ozone within the disinfection chamber 12 is increased and then maintained at a desired level throughout the process. As such, the products P are conveyed into a pre-existing ambience of ozone within the disinfection chamber 12 making the disinfection process a continuous process. The conveyor 16, under the control of the control system C, then conveys the disinfected products P out of the disinfection chamber 12.

Beneficially, the apparatus 10 provides efficient disinfection of the products P, while reducing or obviating altogether the need for manual labour in the disinfection process. Moreover, and as will be described further below, the apparatus 10 is adaptable to the variability of the products P to be disinfected, thereby increasing the efficacy and/or consistency of the disinfection process. This is particularly beneficial in the garment industry due to the high variability of the products P to be processed.

Figures 4 and 5 of the accompanying drawings show the disinfection chamber 12 shown in Figure 1. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the disinfection chamber 12 takes the form of an enclosed or substantially enclosed chamber. Beneficially, the provision of an enclosed or substantially enclosed disinfection chamber 12 permits the disinfection chamber 12 to retain the Ozone gas emitted by the Ozone gas generation arrangement 18 for a predetermined treatment time interval. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the disinfection chamber 12 comprises an entry arrangement, generally denoted 22, configured to facilitate ingress of the products P to be disinfected into the disinfection chamber 12. The entry arrangement 22 comprises an opening 24 in a wall 26 of the disinfection chamber 12 and a door arrangement, generally denoted 28. The door arrangement 28 is configured to selectively open and close the opening 24 in the wall 26 of the disinfection chamber 12 In the illustrated apparatus 10, the door arrangement 28 takes the form of a sliding door arrangement comprising a sliding door 30. However, it will be recognised that the entry arrangement 22 may take a variety of other suitable forms, including more than one sliding door, one of more pivoting doors and/or one or more flaps.

The entry arrangement 22 is configured to define a closed configuration in which access through the opening 24 is prevented and an open configuration in which access through the opening 24 is permitted. The entry arrangement 22 is operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system 20.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the disinfection chamber 12 further comprises an exit arrangement, generally denoted 32, configured to facilitate egress of the products P from the disinfection chamber 12. The exit arrangement 32 comprises an opening 34 in a wall 36 of the disinfection chamber 12 and a door arrangement, generally denoted 38. The door arrangement 38 is configured to selectively open and close the opening 36 in the wall 36 of the disinfection chamber 12. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the door arrangement 38 takes the form of a sliding door arrangement comprising a sliding door 40. However, it will be recognised that the exit arrangement 32 may take a variety of other suitable forms, including more than one sliding door, one of more pivoting doors and/or one or more flaps.

The exit arrangement 32 is configured to define a closed configuration and an open configuration. The exit arrangement 32 is operable to move between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and vice-versa, under the control of the control system C.

The apparatus 10 is configured and/or operable under the control of the control system C to selectively open and close the entry and exit arrangements 22,32 to facilitate ingress of the products P into and egress of the products P out of the disinfection chamber 12.

As described above, the apparatus 10 comprises a conveyor arrangement 14 comprising a conveyor 16 configured to convey the one or more products P to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber 12. The apparatus 10 is configured so that a portion 16a of the conveyor 16 of the conveyor arrangement 14 is disposed in the disinfection chamber 12.

As shown, the apparatus 10 further comprises an exhaust arrangement, generally denoted 72.

In use, the exhaust arrangement 72 is operable to remove the Ozone gas from the apparatus 10.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the exhaust arrangement 72 comprises one or more ports 74a in the ceiling of the disinfection chamber 12 and extraction fans 76a for forcibly removing the Ozone gas from the disinfection chamber 12.

As shown, the apparatus 10 further comprises a gas handling system, generally denoted 78.

In use, the gas handling system 78 is operable to circulate the Ozone gas within the disinfection chamber 12 during the disinfection process.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the gas handling system 78 comprises fans 80a disposed in, coupled to or operatively associated with the disinfection chamber 12.

Beneficially, the size and location of the ventilation system including the exhaust arrangements 72, and gas handling system 78 have been optimised using computational fluid dynamics simulations. The fans 80a are optimally positioned to homogenise ozone concentration in the disinfection chamber 12 and assist in achieving penetration into the products P while the products P are conveyed through the disinfection chamber 12. Referring again to Figure 1 and also now to Figures 6 and 7 of the accompanying drawings, in addition to the disinfection chamber 12 the apparatus 10 further comprises a pre-treatment chamber 48.

In use, the pre-treatment chamber 48 defines a waiting area for the products P to be disinfected before entering the disinfection chamber 12.

Beneficially, the provision of a pre-treatment chamber 48 acts as a gas-lock to prevent or restrict escape of the Ozone gas to the surrounding environment, e.g. during reconfiguration of the apparatus 10 between open and closed configurations.

The pre-treatment chamber 48 takes the form of an enclosed or substantially enclosed chamber.

The pre-treatment chamber 48 comprises an entry arrangement, generally denoted 50, configured to receive the products P to be disinfected. The entry arrangement 50 comprises an opening 52 in a wall 54 of the pre-treatment chamber 48 and a door arrangement, generally denoted 56. The door arrangement is configured to selectively open and close the opening 52 in the wall 54 of the pre-treatment chamber 48. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the door arrangement 56 takes the form of a sliding door arrangement comprising a sliding door 58.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the pre-treatment chamber 48 is integrally formed with the disinfection chamber 12, the entry arrangement 22 of the disinfection chamber 12 forming the exit arrangement of the pre-treatment chamber 48.

As described above, the apparatus 10 comprises a conveyor arrangement 14 comprising a conveyor 16 configured to convey the one or more products P to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber 12. The apparatus 10 is configured so that a portion 16b of the conveyor 16 of the conveyor arrangement 14 is disposed in the pre-treatment chamber 12. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the exhaust arrangement 72 comprises one or more ports 74b in the ceiling of the pre-treatment chamber 48 and extraction fans 76b for forcibly removing the Ozone gas from the pre-treatment chamber 48.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the gas handling system 78 comprises a fan 80b disposed in, coupled to or operatively associated with the pre-treatment chamber 48.

Referring again to Figure 1 and also now to Figures 8 and 9 of the accompanying drawings, in addition to the disinfection chamber 12 the apparatus 10 further comprises a post-treatment chamber 60.

In use, the post-treatment chamber 60 defines a waiting area for the products P after exiting the disinfection chamber 12.

Beneficially, the provision of a post-treatment chamber 60 acts as a gas-lock to prevent or restrict escape of the Ozone gas to the surrounding environment, e.g. during reconfiguration of the apparatus 10 between open and closed configurations.

The post-treatment chamber 60 takes the form of an enclosed or substantially enclosed chamber.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the post-treatment chamber 60 is integrally formed with the disinfection chamber 12, the exit arrangement 32 of the disinfection chamber 12 forming the entry arrangement of the post-treatment chamber 60.

The post-treatment chamber 60 comprises an exit arrangement, generally denoted 62, configured to receive the products P to be disinfected. The exit arrangement 62 comprises an opening 64 in a wall 66 of the pre-treatment chamber 60 and a door arrangement, generally denoted 68. The door arrangement 68 is configured to selectively open and close the opening 64 in the wall 66 of the posttreatment chamber 60. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the door arrangement 68 takes the form of a sliding door arrangement comprising a sliding door 70.

As described above, the apparatus 10 comprises a conveyor arrangement 14 comprising a conveyor 16 configured to convey the one or more products P to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber 12. The apparatus 10 is configured so that a portion 16c of the conveyor 16 of the conveyor arrangement 14 is disposed in the post-treatment chamber 12.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the exhaust arrangement 72 comprises one or more ports 74c in the ceiling of the post-treatment chamber 60 and extraction fans 76c for forcibly removing the Ozone gas.

In use, e.g. before the apparatus 10 is shut down/powered down at the end of a shift, the entry and exit arrangements of the disinfection chamber 12 open and the exhaust arrangement 72 extracts the gas from the pre-treatment chamber 48 and the post-treatment chamber 60 where it decomposes to oxygen. During this process, the entry arrangement 50 of the pre-treatment chamber 48 and the exit arrangement 62 of the post-treatment chamber 60 define their closed configurations.

As described above, in the illustrated apparatus 10 the exhaust arrangement 72 comprises one or more ports 74a in the ceiling of the disinfection chamber 12 and extraction fans 76a for forcibly removing the Ozone gas from the disinfection chamber 12. Beneficially, this facilitates more rapid exhaust of the Ozone gas and its rapid breakdown to oxygen e.g. as part of an emergency procedure.

As shown most clearly in Figures 1 and 4, the apparatus 10 further comprises an air curtain arrangement, generally denoted 82.

Beneficially, the air curtain arrangement 82 is utilised to limit the escape of the gas from the disinfection chamber 12, which in turn mitigates against workers being exposed to the gas.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the air curtain arrangement 82 is disposed within the disinfection chamber 12 and comprises two air curtain generators 84. A first of the air curtain generators 84 is disposed above the entry arrangement 22 of the disinfection chamber 12 while a second of the air curtain generators 84 is disposed above the exit arrangement 32 of the disinfection chamber 12. As shown in Figure 2, the apparatus 10 further comprises an ultraviolet (UV) light arrangement, generally denoted 86.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the UV light arrangement 86 comprises a plurality of UVC light generators 88 in the form of UV lamps disposed in the posttreatment chamber 60.

In use, the UV light arrangement 86 provides additional disinfection of the products to be disinfected as they pass through the apparatus 10. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the UV light generators 88 are installed vertically and are arranged such that at least two sides of the product P are directly exposed to UV light as the product P is conveyed through the post-treatment chamber 60. The conveying of the products P from the disinfection chamber 12 to the post-treatment chamber 60 also creates a current of Ozone from the disinfection chamber 12 to the post-treatment chamber 60. Therefore, the concentration of Ozone in the post-treatment chamber 60 is higher than the concentration of Ozone in the pre-treatment chamber 48. The provision of UVC light generators 88 in the post-treatment chamber 60 also facilitates the conversion of Ozone to oxygen which in co-operation with extraction fans 76c leads to rapid Ozone removal within the post-treatment chamber 60.

As described above, and referring now to Figure 10 of the accompanying drawings, the apparatus 10 comprises a conveyor arrangement 14 comprising conveyor 16 for conveying the one or more products P to be disinfected into and out of the disinfection chamber 12. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the conveyor 16 takes the form of a track.

Beneficially, the conveyor arrangement 14 provides for a smooth transition of the products P into the apparatus 10, between the parts of the apparatus 10 and out from the apparatus 10.

As shown in Figure 10, the conveyor arrangement 14 takes the form of a hanging conveyor. The conveyor arrangement 14 can be provided with both pin and clip conveyors. The conveyor arrangement 14 allows for automatic selection of the spacing between products P. The conveyor arrangement 14 can automatically clip or attach to products P.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the conveyor 16 comprises curved portions, and defines a circuitous or S-shaped path.

The conveyor arrangement 14 comprises a drive arrangement, generally denoted 90, including a drive motor 92 and a drive chain 94. The drive arrangement 90 comprises a transmission system 96 for transmitting the drive force from the drive motor 92 to the drive chain 94. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the transmission system 96 comprises drive dogs or the like. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the transmission system 96 comprises a variable speed drive.

The conveyor arrangement 14 further comprises one or more product carriers 98 for carrying or supporting the products P to be disinfected. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the product carrier 98 takes the form of a pendant or the like.

As shown in Figures 11 to 16 of the accompanying drawings, the conveyor arrangement 14 comprises a transition arrangement, generally denoted 100, for moving or facilitating movement of the products P into and/or out from the pretreatment chamber 48, the disinfection chamber 12 and/or the post-treatment chamber 60.

Beneficially, the transition arrangement 100 permits passage of the products P to be disinfected into and out from the pre-treatment chamber 48, the disinfection chamber 12 and/or the post-treatment chamber 60 without the need to pass the conveyor 16 through the entry arrangements and/or exit arrangements of the pretreatment chamber 48, the disinfection chamber 12 and/or the post-treatment chamber 60.

Figures 11 and 12 show part of the transition arrangement 100 formed at the entry to the disinfection chamber 12. As shown, the transition arrangement 100 comprises a rod 104a disposed through the opening 24 of the entry arrangement 22. A sealing arrangement 106a, which in the illustrated apparatus 10 takes the form of an inflatable sealing arrangement, is disposed between the door 30 and the wall 26. Figures 13 and 14 show part of the transition arrangement 100 formed at the exit to the disinfection chamber 12. As shown, the transition arrangement 100 comprises a rod 104b disposed through the opening 34 of the exit arrangement 32. A sealing arrangement 106b, which in the illustrated apparatus 10 takes the form of an inflatable sealing arrangement, is disposed between the door 40 and the wall 36.

Figures 15 and 16 show part of the transition arrangement 100 formed at the entry to the pre-treatment chamber 12. As shown, the transition arrangement 100 comprises a rod 104c disposed through the opening 52 of the entry arrangement 56. A sealing arrangement 106c, which in the illustrated apparatus 10 takes the form of an inflatable sealing arrangement, is disposed between the door 58 and the wall 54.

Figures 17 and 18 show part of the transition arrangement 100 formed at the exit to the post-treatment chamber 60. As shown, the transition arrangement 100 comprises a rod 104d disposed through the opening 64 of the exit arrangement 62. A sealing arrangement 106d, which in the illustrated apparatus 10 takes the form of an inflatable sealing arrangement, is disposed between the door 70 and the wall 66.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the transition arrangement 100 is gravity- induced. Alternatively or additionally, the transition arrangement 100 may comprise one or more actuators.

Various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

For example, Figures 19 and 20 of the accompanying drawings show an alternative automated apparatus 110 for disinfecting products P.

As in the apparatus 10, in the illustrated apparatus 110 the products P to be disinfected take the form of items of apparel and more particularly garments. However, it will be understood that the apparatus 110 may be used to disinfect a wide range of products P, including but not limited to food products, and products used in the pharmaceutical and/or medical device industries. As shown in Figure 19, the apparatus 110 comprises a disinfection chamber 112 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 114, comprising a conveyor 116 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 112, and an Ozone gas generation arrangement 118 configured to emit Ozone gas into the disinfection chamber 112 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 112.

The apparatus 110 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system 120 configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 114 and the disinfection chamber 112 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

In use, the products P to be disinfected are disposed on, in the illustrated apparatus 110 hung from, the conveyor 116, which, under the control of the control system 120, conveys the products P into the disinfection chamber 112 where they are exposed to the Ozone gas emitted by the Ozone gas generation arrangement 118. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the product(s) to be disinfected are exposed to a 20 ppm concentration of the Ozone gas for a predetermined treatment time of 4 minutes, which has been found to ensure complete microbial destruction. The conveyor 116, under the control of the control system 20, then conveys the disinfected products P out of the disinfection chamber 112.

Beneficially, the apparatus 110 provides efficient disinfection of the products P, while reducing or obviating altogether the need for manual labour in the disinfection process. Moreover, and as will be described further below, the apparatus 110 is adaptable to the variability of the products P to be disinfected, thereby increasing the efficacy and/or consistency of the disinfection process. This is particularly beneficial in the garment industry due to the high variability of the products P to be processed.

The apparatus 110 is similar to the apparatus 10, with the exception that the conveyor 116 includes a number of straight portions arranged in parallel.

A further alternative apparatus 210 for disinfecting products P is shown in Figures 21, 22 and 23 of the accompanying drawings. As shown, the apparatus 210 comprises a disinfection chamber 212 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 214, comprising a conveyor 216 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 212, and an Ozone gas generation arrangement 218 configured to emit Ozone gas into the disinfection chamber 212 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 212

The apparatus 210 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system C configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 214 and the disinfection chamber 212 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

As shown, as in the apparatus 10, the apparatus 210 comprises a pre-treatment chamber 248 and a post-treatment chamber 260. The apparatus 210 is similar to the apparatus 10. The apparatus 210 differs from the apparatus 10 in that it the conveyor 116 is arranged to define a generally circular or oval pathway.

It will be recognised that the apparatus 210 has a reduced footprint in comparison to the apparatus’ 10,110 and may be particularly beneficial where space is restricted and/or where smaller capacity/throughput is needed. Therefore, there is flexibility in the design of the apparatus 210 which can allow for the location of the exit and entry points, and the footprint to be selected and optimised as desired.

A further alternative apparatus 310 for disinfecting products P is shown in Figures 24, 25 and 26 of the accompanying drawings.

As shown in Figures 24, 25 and 26 of the accompanying drawings, the apparatus 310 comprises a disinfection chamber 312 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 314, comprising a conveyor 316 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 312, and an Ozone gas generation arrangement 318 configured to emit Ozone gas into the disinfection chamber 312 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 312 The apparatus 310 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system C configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 314 and the disinfection chamber 312 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

The apparatus 310 is similar to the apparatus 10. As shown, the apparatus 310 differs from the apparatus 10 in that it comprises a disinfection chamber 312 having a conveyor 316 arranged in a circuitous path. The apparatus 310 comprises a pretreatment chamber 348 and a post-treatment chamber 360. As shown, the chambers 348,360 are arranged around, e.g. concentrically around, the disinfection chamber 312.

It will be recognised that the apparatus 310 has a reduced footprint in comparison to the apparatus’ 10,110 and may be particularly beneficial where space is restricted and/or where smaller capacity/throughput is needed.

A further alternative apparatus 410 for disinfecting products P is shown in Figures 27 and 28 of the accompanying drawings.

As shown in Figures 27 and 28 of the accompanying drawings, the apparatus 410 comprises a disinfection chamber 412 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 414, comprising a conveyor 416 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 412, and an Ozone gas generation arrangement 418 configured to emit Ozone gas into the disinfection chamber 412 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 412.

The apparatus 410 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system C configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 414 and the disinfection chamber 412 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

As shown, the apparatus 410 differs from the apparatus 10 in that the conveyor 414 comprises a conveyor belt 416. While the apparatus 10 is configured to treat products in the form of garments, the apparatus 410 is particularly beneficial for other types of products such as medical equipment.

Figures 29 and 30 of the accompanying drawings show a further alternative automated apparatus 510 for disinfecting products P.

As in the apparatus 10, in the illustrated apparatus 510, the products P to be disinfected take the form of items of apparel and more particularly garments. However, it will be understood that the apparatus 510 may be used to disinfect a wide range of products P, including but not limited to food products, and products used in the pharmaceutical and/or medical device industries.

The apparatus 510 comprises a disinfection chamber 512 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 514, comprising a conveyor 516 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 512. In the apparatus 510, however, gas generation arrangement 518 takes the form of a Hydrogen Peroxide gas generation arrangement comprising Hydrogen Peroxide gas generators 520 configured to emit Hydrogen Peroxide gas into the disinfection chamber 512 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 512.

The apparatus 510 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system 520 configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 514 and the disinfection chamber 512 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

In use, the products P to be disinfected are disposed on, in the illustrated apparatus 510 hung from, the conveyor 516, which, under the control of the control system C, conveys the products P into the disinfection chamber 512 where they are exposed to the Hydrogen Peroxide gas emitted by the Hydrogen Peroxide gas generation arrangement 518. The conveyor 516, under the control of the control system C, then conveys the disinfected products P out of the disinfection chamber 512. As described above, other aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system for disinfecting products and referring to Figure 31 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a system 1000 for disinfecting products. The illustrated system 1000 comprises a plurality of the apparatus 10 arranged in parallel. However, it will be understood that the system 1000 may alternatively or additionally comprise one or more of the apparatus’ 110,210,310,410,510, 610.

Figures 32a to 32d show graphs of % bacteria or % fungi removal vs exposure time for a number of Ozone concentrations. Figure 27a shows bacteria removal vs exposure time for Escherichia coli bacteria. Figure 27b shows bacteria removal vs exposure time for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Figure 27c shows bacteria removal vs exposure time for Candida albicans fungus. . Figure 27d shows bacteria removal vs exposure time for Aspergillus fumigatus fungus.

Figures 33a shows a graph of Ozone gas removal from the apparatus. Figure 33b shows a graph of the half life vs suction rate.

Besides determining the optimum ozone concentration and exposure duration (as shown in the previous results), the novel automated system has also been developed by utilizing experimental results on ozone extraction and decomposition. Despite the presence of air curtains, the extraction fans will facilitate the removal of any escaped gas from the disinfection chamber into the pre-treatment and post-treatment chambers, during garment transfer through the doors.

As shown in Figure 33a, at point ‘A’: the ozone generating lamps in the test chamber are switched on. At point ‘B’: the lamps are switched off, and ozone begins to naturally decompose at a very slow rate. At point ‘C’: the extraction fan in the chamber is switched on and made to operate at different rates. ‘ND’: represents natural decomposition.

Without the application of a gas extraction/decom position mechanism, ozone gas will naturally decompose to oxygen; however; this is a very slow process, as observed. The use of an extraction fan at different rates, enables continuous monitoring of Ozone gas removal from the chamber (as shown in Figure 33a), and its half life (as shown in Figure 33b). The duration of this extraction is being designed to be significantly lower than the 4 mins required for ozonation in the main middle chamber. This ensures continuity of operation of the automated system, without delays; thus, yielding high throughputs. This experimental information will facilitate optimal selection & sizing of the centrifugal fans to be installed in the main automated system.

A further alternative apparatus 610 for disinfecting products P is shown in Figures 34, 35 and 36 of the accompanying drawings.

As shown, the apparatus 610 comprises a disinfection chamber 612 configured to receive therein the one or more products P to be disinfected, a conveyor arrangement, generally denoted 614, comprising a conveyor 616 configured to convey the one or more products P into and out of the disinfection chamber 612, and an Ozone gas generation arrangement 618 configured to emit Ozone gas into the disinfection chamber 612 so as to disinfect the one or more products P located within the disinfection chamber 612

The apparatus 610 comprises, is coupled to or operatively associated with a control system C configured amongst other things to automatically control operation of the conveyor arrangement 614 and the disinfection chamber 612 to facilitate the disinfection of the products P.

As in the apparatus 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 and 150, the apparatus 610 comprises a pre-treatment chamber 648 and a post-treatment chamber 660 which in the apparatus 610, these chambers 648 and 660 comprise a single chamber with pretreatment 648 and post-treatment 648 zones.

The apparatus 610 differs from the apparatus 10, 110, 310, 410, 510 in that the apparatus 610 may be contained within a housing 611 which is linked to an existing facility 700, such as a building by way of a linking bridge 702. The conveyor arrangement 614 is arranged to convey products P from the existing facility 700 to be disinfected and then back to the existing facility 700 post disinfection. The linking bridge 702 is configured to shield the products P from the external environment (for example, adverse weather) while the products P are conveyed to and from the disinfection chamber 612. The apparatus 610 is provided with a walkway 704 within the housing 611 which enables an operator W access to the control system C or areas of the apparatus 610 as required. The walkway 704 comprises an entry and exit arrangement 705 for access to the walkway 704. The walkway 704 is configured to be shielded from Ozone exposure allowing for access while the disinfection process is ongoing. The walkway 704 is provided with an emergency shut-off switch 613 which will override the control system C to shut down operations. The housing 611 and chambers therein 612, 648, 660 are thermally insulated and comprise a cooling system CS to allow for temperature control. The cooling system is controlled via the control system C.

The conveyor arrangement 614 is arranged to convey the products P to the pretreatment chamber 648, through the disinfection chamber 612 and the post-treatment chamber 660 before returning the products P to the existing facility 700. In Figures 34 and 35, the conveyor arrangement 614 comprises a circuitous path with the pretreatment chamber 648 and post-treatment chamber 660 arranged as zones around, e.g. concentrically, the disinfection chamber 612.

As shown in Figure 34, 35 and 36, the conveyor arrangement 614 under the control of control system C re-orientate the products P in the post-treatment chamber 660 such that the products P are parallel to the conveyor arrangement 614. The products P are conveyed through a UV light arrangement 686 which comprises a plurality of UVC light generators 688 disposed in the post-treatment chamber 660. Reorientating the products P prior to conveying through the UV light arrangement 686 can improve the exposure of the products P to the UVC light. The products P are then reorientated perpendicularly to the conveyor arrangement 614 at point P2 after passing through the UV light arrangement 686.

The entry arrangement 622 and exit arrangement 632 of the disinfection chamber 612 are provided with baffles 625. The baffles 625 mitigate against ozone escape into the pre-treatment chamber 648 and post-treatment chamber 660. The baffles 625 also improve the performance of the air curtains 682 which are provided at the entry and exit arrangements 622, 632 of the disinfection chamber 612. An air curtain 682 is also provided at the entry and exit arrangement 650 of the pre-treatment and post treatment chambers 648, 660. The apparatus 610 comprises Ozone gas generators 618 within the disinfection chamber 612. Ozone sensors 619 are provided to allow for measurement of Ozone concentration within the disinfection chamber 612. The Ozone sensors 619 form part of a system monitoring apparatus M. The apparatus 610 is provided with controllable pressure equalisation ports 615 which in combination with the ventilation system prevent pressure build-up within the apparatus 610. The apparatus 610 also comprises humidifiers 617 which operate at ambient temperature, and can increase the effectiveness of the Ozone exposure to the products P.

Similarly to apparatus 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, the apparatus 610 is provided with an exhaust arrangement 672. In use, the exhaust arrangement 672 is operable to remove the Ozone gas from the apparatus 610. Extraction fans 676a for forcibly removing the Ozone gas from the disinfection chamber 612. Extractions fans 676b forcibly remove the Ozone gas from the pre-treatment 648 and post-treatment 660 zones. The apparatus 610 also comprises a gas handling system 678 comprising fans operable to circulate the Ozone gas within the disinfection chamber 12 during the disinfection process. Beneficially, the size and location of the ventilation system including the exhaust arrangements 672, and gas handling system 678 have been optimized using computational fluid dynamics simulations. The fans are optimally positioned to homogenize ozone concentration in the disinfection chamber 612 and assist in achieving penetration into the products P while the products P are conveyed through the disinfection chamber 612.

The apparatus 610 is provided with a virtual monitoring system M which alongside the control system C provides for real-time monitoring of the system. The monitoring system M allows for visualisation of the disinfection process through the use of cameras within the apparatus 610. The monitoring system M can count and display the number of products being processed by the apparatus 610 in real-time. The monitoring system M and the control system C connect to a Human-Machine-Interface 800 which allows for the visualisation of all the process parameters (for example, including but not limited to temperature, relative humidity, and Ozone concentration) at different locations within the apparatus 610. The control system C is configured to provide simultaneous control of Ozone concentration, Ozone exposure duration, temperature, relative humidity, UV exposure (by controlling either or both duration of exposure and UVC light intensity) and Ozone decomposition rate. It should also be appreciated that the apparatus 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 and 510 could also be arranged as described in apparatus 610 to be contained within a housing which is linked to an existing facility, such as a building by way of a linking bridge 702.

The apparatus 610 can allow for continuous batch disinfection of products P. An example operating procedure is as follows:

• Start-up: Ozone generators 618 are switched on for 10 minutes or for a required time to achieve an ambient concentration of 20 to 50 ppm Ozone within the disinfection chamber 612.

• A first batch of 200 products P is conveyed into the pre-treatment chamber 648. Entry arrangement 650 to the pre-treatment chamber is closed. A second batch of 200 products P is held within the linking bridge 702.

• The first batch of products P is conveyed to the disinfection chamber 612 through entry arrangement 622. Entry arrangement is 622 is closed and the products P are exposed to Ozone at a concentration of 20 ppm for 4 minutes.

• While the first batch of products P is within the disinfection chamber 612, the second batch of products P is conveyed from the bridge 702 to the pre-treatment chamber 648. The fans 676b are operational during the transition of products P to and from the bridge 702 to the pretreatment chamber 648 and from the post treatment chamber 660 to prevent Ozone from escaping into the bridge 702.

• The first batch of products P are then conveyed through exit arrangement 632 to the post-treatment chamber 660, while the second batch of products P are simultaneously conveyed through the entry arrangement 622 to the disinfection chamber 612.

• The first batch of products P are exposed to UV treatment prior to returning to the existing facility 700 via the linking bridge 702. The first batch of product P are returned to the linking bridge 702 simultaneously with a third batch of products P being conveyed to the pre-treatment chamber 648.

• The process continues as such, with a further batch admitted to the pretreatment chamber 648 while the batch of products P are undergoing treatment in the disinfection chamber 612. The UVC light generators can be located in the pre-treatment chamber 648 instead of, or in addition to the post-treatment chamber 660. For example, in Figure 34, the direction of travel of the conveyor 614 can be reversed such that garments enter zone 660 first before proceeding to the disinfection chamber 612. In this arrangement, the products P can have a longer exposure time to the UVC lamps while the batch of products wait in zone 660 prior to entering the disinfection chamber 612. This contributes to improved disinfection efficiency.