CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from United States Patent Application No. 63/293,063 filed December 22, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] This invention relates generally to disinfecting fluids, and more particularly, to a disinfection apparatus for disinfecting a fluid and a method for disinfecting a fluid using the disinfection apparatus.

[0003] It is known to use devices that apply ultraviolet (UV) light to fluids for disinfection. Fluids can include air, gases and liquids. Such devices may use UV light in the UV-C band between 100 and 280 nanometers (nm). It is known that UV light emitting lamps and tubes emit light at wavelengths around 254 nm. UV-C light emitting diodes (LED) are known to emit UV light in many wavelengths, but typically emit UV light in wavelengths between 270 and 285 nm. The effectiveness of applied UV light in eradicating pathogens like viruses and bacteria increases with both the intensity of radiation and time duration of UV-C irradiance. A shorter irradiance time requires a higher irradiance intensity to effectively eradicate pathogens in the fluid. Distance is also important because the shorter the distance between an UV irradiation source and a pathogen the more effective the applied radiation is at eradicating pathogens.

[0004] In many known devices, the transit time of the fluid through an irradiance zone of the device can be relatively short, for example, less than one second. As a result, it is necessary for such devices to use relatively high UV-C irradiance power levels. However, even such high- power levels may not be adequate to eradicate all pathogens in the fluid given such a short transmit time. Moreover, higher irradiance power levels consume more energy and thus increase the operating costs and decrease the efficiency of the device. Additionally, known devices operating on high power typically generate lots of heat which is wasted energy. Manufacturing and maintenance costs may also increase if more powerful UV irradiance sources are needed, or if the UV sources experience shortened useful lives due to the higher power levels. [0005] Ultraviolet lamps and tubes are typically used for fluid disinfection. However, such lamps and tubes frequently produce wider-spectrum UV irradiance including certain undesirable wavelengths not required for disinfection. Such wider-spectrum UV irradiance typically requires additional energy and may cause air to be irradiated with wavelengths in the “Vacuum UV” range below 200 nm, for example, 185 nm. Irradiation in such a range may produce ozone which can be unhealthy for people in concentrations as low as 0.1 parts per million (ppm). Conversely, some UV disinfection lamps also produce longer UV-B wavelengths above 280 nm, which can also be unhealthy due to their deeper skin penetration.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In view of the above, the present inventor has perceived a need for improvements in disinfecting apparatus, including for example improvements to achieve longer fluid transit times, or to reduce or eliminate negative health effects, or both.

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for disinfecting fluids including receiving fluid by a disinfection apparatus, and controlling the flow rate of the fluid in the disinfection apparatus to be in a desired range. The fluid includes pathogens and the disinfection apparatus includes at least one irradiating device. Moreover, the method includes controlling the intensity of the ultraviolet (UV) electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one irradiating device in accordance with the fluid flow rate, and irradiating the fluid with UV electromagnetic radiation using the at least one irradiating device to eradicate the pathogens. The disinfected fluid is discharged from the disinfection apparatus.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present disclosure the fluid flow rate and the intensity of the UV electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one irradiating device enable increasing the time the fluid is in the disinfection apparatus to ensure eradication of the pathogens.

[0009] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the fluid is a liquid, ambient air or a gas.

[0010] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure the step of controlling the fluid flow rate includes using rate sensors in the disinfection apparatus to monitor the fluid flow rate. Moreover, in response to receiving data from one of the rate sensors that the fluid flow rate is outside of the desired range, the method includes adjusting, by a controller, a fan to cause the fluid flow rate to be within the desired range.

[0011] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the step of controlling the intensity of the UV electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one irradiating device includes causing, using a controller, the at least one irradiating device to emit UV electromagnetic radiation at a greater intensity in response to increasing the fluid flow rate. Moreover, the method includes using the controller to cause the at least one irradiating device to emit UV electromagnetic radiation at a lower intensity in response to decreasing the fluid flow rate.

[0012] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the desired flow rate and corresponding emitted UV electromagnetic radiation are different for different pathogens.

[0013] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the at least one irradiating device is at least one of a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) positioned at locations within the disinfection apparatus to create a uniform UV irradiation field, and an UV light emitting lamp.

[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a fluid disinfection apparatus that includes a housing, a conduit to contain fluid flowing through said apparatus, and at least one irradiating device for emitting narrow-band UV-C electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength of, for example, 270 nm into the fluid to eradicate pathogens in the fluid. Moreover, the apparatus includes a controller for controlling the fluid flow rate and the intensity of UV-C electromagnetic radiation emitted from the at least one irradiating device to enable increasing the time the fluid is in the apparatus to ensure the pathogens are eradicated prior to discharging the fluid from the apparatus.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present disclosure the conduit receives the fluid into the disinfection apparatus, is arranged within the disinfection apparatus in a helical configuration, and discharges the fluid from the disinfection apparatus.

[0016] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure the cross-sectional area of the conduit is circular, oval, rectangular, or square, and the at least one irradiating device includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) positioned proximate the conduit to create a uniform UV irradiation field incident upon the conduit. [0017] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the LEDs emit the same or different UV-C electromagnetic radiation intensities.

[0018] In another embodiment of the present disclosure each LED emits a narrow-band UV-C electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength of, for example, 270 nm.

[0019] In another embodiment of the present disclosure the disinfection apparatus includes rate sensors for monitoring the rate of fluid flow through the disinfection apparatus, and irradiating device sensors for monitoring performance of LEDs positioned in the disinfection apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure l is a perspective view of an example fluid disinfection apparatus for use in disinfecting fluids according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 2 is an exploded view of another example disinfection apparatus for use in disinfecting fluids according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 3 is an exploded view of yet another example disinfection apparatus for use in disinfecting fluids according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the example fluid disinfection apparatus shown in Figure 3 in an assembled state;

[0024] Figure 5 is a sectional view of the example fluid disinfection apparatus as shown in Figure 4;

[0025] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the sectional view of the example fluid disinfection apparatus as shown in Figure 5;

[0026] Figure 7 is a top view of the example fluid disinfection apparatus as shown in Figure 4;

[0027] Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example system controller for use in controlling a fluid flow rate and the intensity of ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation emitted from the irradiation devices;

[0028] Figure 9 is an example disinfection table according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and

[0029] Figure 10 is an example method and algorithm for disinfecting fluid. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The following detailed description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings and is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various example embodiments of the present disclosure. The following description includes various details to assist in that understanding, but these are to be regarded merely as examples and not for the purpose of limiting the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. The words and phrases used in the following description are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well- known structures, functions, and configurations may have been omitted for clarity and conciseness. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the example embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example fluid disinfection apparatus 10 for disinfecting fluids according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, the disinfection apparatus 10 includes a housing 12 with a conduit 14 positioned in an interior volume of the housing 12.

[0032] The housing 12 has a rectangular top 16, a rectangular bottom 18, and sides 20 extending between the top 16 and bottom 18. The housing 12 has a rectangular cross-sectional area. Alternatively, the housing 12 may have any other cross-sectional area such as, but not limited to, circular, oval, and square. The top 16 includes a first opening 22 and a second opening 24. The bottom 18 includes a third opening 26 and a fourth opening 28. The conduit 14 extends between the first 22 and third 26 openings and may have a circular cross-sectional area. The conduit 14 may alternatively have any cross-sectional area, for example, square, capable of enabling efficient fluid flow from the first opening 22, through the apparatus 10, and to the third opening 26. The conduit 14 may be made of material that is transparent to UV-C wavelengths particularly at wavelengths centered about, for example, 270 nm. Materials include, but are not limited to, specialized glass, quartz, plastic optical materials and liquid silicone rubbers.

[0033] Also positioned within the housing 12 is an ultraviolet lighting tube 30 that extends between the second 24 and fourth 28 openings. The UV tube 30 is proximate the conduit 14 inside the housing 12. Moreover, UV irradiation devices 32 may be located on the outside surface of the UV tube 30 to irradiate fluid flowing in the conduit 14. The UV irradiation devices 32 typically are not located outside of the housing 12.

[0034] Fluid enters the disinfection apparatus 10 through the opening 22, flows through the conduit 14, and discharges from the apparatus 10 through the third opening 26. Fluid can include, but is not limited to, ambient air, liquid and gas. As described herein, fluid is ambient air. Ambient air may contain pathogens, for example, COVID-19 that are harmful to people. Such pathogens may be eradicated and thus removed from fluid using UV radiation emitted from UV irradiation devices.

[0035] The UV irradiation devices 32 may be operated to irradiate fluid passing through the conduit 14 to eradicate pathogens in the fluid and thus remove the pathogens from the fluid. The greater the time required for fluid to flow through the conduit 14, the greater the likelihood that pathogens in the fluid will be eradicated by the radiation emitted by the UV irradiation devices 32. Thus, increasing the distance traveled by fluid through the conduit 14 should enhance pathogen eradication.

[0036] The straight-line distance between the first 22 and third 26 openings is not large enough to provide adequate time for adequately disinfecting fluid flowing through the conduit 14. Thus, the conduit 14 should have a travel length that is substantially longer than the straight- line distance between the first 22 and third 26 openings. In order to increase the length of the conduit 14 and thus the travel time for fluid flowing through the conduit 14, the conduit 14 may have a helical configuration. However, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the conduit may have any configuration that facilitates increasing the length of the conduit 14 and thus the travel time for fluid flowing through the conduit 14, and that enables irradiating the fluid with UV radiation for the minimum time required to adequately disinfect the fluid. Other such configurations include, but are not limited to, zig-zagging the conduit 14 between the first 22 and third 26 openings.

[0037] It should be understood that the distance traveled by the fluid through the conduit should be much longer than the straight-line distance between the first 22 and third 26 openings, so the fluid can be retained in the conduit 14 for a sufficiently long time to ensure disinfection. [0038] As described herein, the UV irradiance devices 32 may be ultraviolet light emitting diodes (LED) that emit ultraviolet light at a UV-C wavelength. The LEDs 32 can have a narrow output bandwidth centered about, for example, 270 nanometers (nm). LEDs are energy efficient because energy generated by LEDs is generated at wavelengths that are effective for eradicating pathogens. As a result, LEDs are more energy efficient than other UV technologies used for disinfecting fluids. Moreover, the bandwidth of the LED irradiance spectrum does not include any wavelengths associated with ozone production, nor any appreciable intensities at UV-B wavelengths associated with other human health risks.

[0039] It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the LEDs 32 are to be positioned with respect to the conduit 14 to maximize the uniformity of an irradiation field created by the LEDs 32 that is incident upon the helically configured conduit 14. In this example embodiment, the helical conduit 14 includes six complete spiral rotations, the tube 30 is centrally located within the helical conduit 14 and extends along a longitudinal axis of the helical conduit 14, and seven LEDs 32 are positioned on the tube 30 at spaced-apart locations. Each of the LEDs has a continuously adjustable output intensity, that can be adjusted by changing the electrical current supplied to the LED.

[0040] Although the example embodiment includes seven LEDs, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that greater than or less than seven LEDs 32 may be used. The number and positioning of the LEDs 32 should maximize the uniformity of the UV irradiance field incident upon the conduit 14.

[0041] Although the irradiation devices 32 are described herein as LEDs mounted on the tube 30, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that any UV emitting irradiation device may alternatively be used. For example, a single UV-C lamp may be used instead of the tube 30 and LEDs 32. The lamp may be positioned centrally and longitudinally within the helical conduit 14. Typically, UV lamps produce a spectrum of UV radiation centered about, for example, 254 nm.

[0042] The housing 12 is opaque to any UV radiation generated by the irradiation devices 32, and an inner surface 34 of the housing 12 reflects such UV radiation. Such reflected UV radiation is incident upon the helical conduit.

[0043] Figure 2 is an exploded view of another example disinfection apparatus 36 for use in disinfecting fluids according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, the disinfection apparatus 36 includes a housing made of a first section 38 and a second section 40, and an UV irradiance device 42. Each of the first 38 and second 40 sections has an interior portion that defines a series of grooves 44 arranged in a helical configuration along a length of the sections 38, 40. The grooves 44 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the sections 38, 40. The sections 38, 40 can be made from materials including, but not limited to, metal. An example metal is aluminum.

[0044] The UV irradiance device 42 is cylindrical, has a circular cross-sectional area, a smooth outer surface 46, a top end 48 and a bottom end 50. A bore 52 concentrically oriented within the UV irradiation device 42 extends longitudinally from the top end 48 to the bottom end 50. A tube 54 may be concentrically located within the bore with LEDs attached thereto. Alternatively, a UV lamp may be longitudinally disposed in the bore 52. The UV irradiance device 42 may be made of material that is transparent to UV-C wavelengths particularly at wavelengths centered about, for example, 270 nm. Materials include, but are not limited to, specialized glass, quartz, plastic optical materials, and liquid silicone rubbers.

[0045] To assemble the disinfection apparatus 36, the first 38 and second 40 sections can be positioned about the UV irradiance device 42. The sections 38 and 40 can be releasably attached and sealed to each other to surround the UV irradiance device 42, thus forming the disinfection apparatus 36. It should be understood that the grooves 44 in the first 38 and second 40 sections, together with the smooth outer surface 46 form a helically configured conduit. The sections 38, 40 are to be tightly sealed so fluid cannot leak between out of the conduit. Alternatively, a tube may be inserted into the thus formed conduit.

[0046] The conduits in the assembled disinfection apparatus 36 have substantially the same features as the conduits 14 described herein with respect to Figure 1, and function in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to Figure 1. Fluid enters the conduit at the top end 48, flows through the conduit, and discharges from the bottom 50. The LEDs, or alternatively a UV lamp, may be operated to irradiate fluid passing through the conduit to eradicate pathogens in the air and thus remove the pathogens from ambient air. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the LEDs are to be positioned with respect to the conduit to maximize the uniformity of an irradiation field created by the LEDs that is incident upon the helically configured conduit. Alternatively, the interior surface of the sections 38, 40 can be smooth and the outer surface 46 can have the helical apertures formed therein. The inner surface of the sections 38, 40 reflect UV radiation which is incident upon the helically configured conduit.

[0047] Figure 3 is an exploded view of yet another example disinfection apparatus 56 for use in disinfecting fluids according to yet another embodiment of the disclosure. More specifically, the disinfection apparatus 56 includes an outer casing 58, a shaft 60, several printed circuit boards (PCB) 62, vertical interior members 64, an upper fluid port (or fance) 66, a fan 68, and a lower fluid port (or fance) 70.

[0048] The outer casing 58 is an elongated conduit having a circular cross-sectional area, a smooth interior 72 surface and an exterior 74 surface. The outer casing 58 may also be referred to as a box. The outer casing 58 is made of a material that is opaque to any UV radiation. Such materials include metals, for example, aluminum.

[0049] The shaft 60 has a smooth interior surface and an exterior surface. The exterior surface includes a series of grooves 76 arranged in a helical configuration along a length of the shaft 60. The grooves 76 have a semicircular cross-sectional area. Alternatively, the cross- sectional area of the grooves 76 may be any shape that enables efficient fluid flow from entry into the conduit, through the conduit, and out of the conduit. Such shapes include, but are not limited to, rectangular and square.

[0050] The shaft 60 may be made of material that is transparent to UV-C wavelengths, for example, wavelengths centered about, for example, 270 nm. Such materials include, but are not limited to, specialized glass, quartz, plastic optical materials, and liquid silicone rubbers. The shaft 60 has a circular cross-sectional area and is positioned within the outer casing 58 such that the interior surface 72 of the casing 58 is flush against the exterior surface of the shaft 60. Thus positioned, the interior surface 72 and the grooves 76 together define a conduit that extends helically along the exterior surface of the shaft 60 and the interior surface 72 for the length of the shaft 60. The thus formed conduit has a semicircular cross-sectional area.

[0051] Alternatively, the inner surface 72 of the casing 58 may not be smooth. Instead, the inner surface 72 may have grooves formed therein arranged in a helical configuration along a length of the outer casing 58, similar to the grooves 76 in the shaft 60. When the shaft 60 is positioned within the outer casing 58, the grooves of the inner surface 72 mate with the grooves 76 to form a conduit having a circular cross-sectional area.

[0052] The conduit should have a travel length that is substantially longer than the straight-line distance between the top end 80 and the bottom end 82. The conduit has a helical configuration to increase the travel time of fluid flowing through the conduit. However, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the conduit may have any configuration that facilitates increasing the travel time for fluid flowing through the conduit, and that enables irradiating the fluid with UV radiation for the minimum time required to adequately disinfect the fluid. Other such configurations include, but are not limited to, zig-zagging the conduit 14 between the first 22 and third 26 openings.

[0053] Several PCBs 62 are positioned inside the shaft 60 and extend longitudinally along the shaft 60. Irradiation devices 78 are mounted on each PCB 62. The irradiation devices 78 are mounted to be spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the respective PCB 62. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the PCBs 62 are positioned within the shaft 60 such that the irradiation devices 78 are positioned with respect to the conduit to maximize the uniformity of an irradiation field created by the irradiation devices 78 that is incident upon the helically configured conduit. The PCBs 62 are positioned adjacent each other about the circumference of the interior surface 72 of the shaft 62 and may form a hexagon, octagon, or decagon depending on the size of the PCBs 62. Alternatively, the PCBs may be arranged to form any other geometric configuration, for example, a square that facilitates the disinfection apparatus 56 to function as described herein. The PCBs 62 are typically the same size.

[0054] Each PCB 62 can include one or more rate sensors and one or more irradiation device sensors. The rate sensors monitor the flow rate of fluid flowing through the conduit as well as the fluid’s velocity, and the irradiation device sensors monitor performance of the irradiation devices 78. That is, whether one or more of the irradiation devices 78 is emitting radiation within a desired range of intensities or is otherwise malfunctioning. The sensors communicate monitoring data to, and otherwise communicate with, a controller. Rate sensors include, but are not limited, to fluid flow rate sensors and velocity sensors.

[0055] As described herein, the UV irradiation devices 78 may be ultraviolet light emitting diodes (LED) that emit ultraviolet light at a UV-C wavelength. The LEDs can have a narrow output bandwidth centered about, for example, 270 nanometers (nm). LEDs are energy efficient because energy generated by LEDs is generated at wavelengths that are effective for eradicating pathogens. As a result, LEDs are more energy efficient than other UV technologies used for disinfecting fluids. Moreover, the bandwidth of the LED irradiance spectrum does not include any wavelengths associated with ozone production, nor any appreciable intensities at UV-B wavelengths associated with other human health risks. Although the irradiance devices 78 are described herein as LEDs, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the irradiance devices 78 may alternatively any other type of UV light source such as UV Florescent or discharge lamp.

[0056] Vertical interior members 64 are positioned within the PCBs 62 and extend in the longitudinal direction of the shaft 60. The vertical interior members 64 facilitate fixing the PCBs 62 in place and accommodate batteries for use in powering the disinfection apparatus 56. Thus, the disinfection apparatus 56 is battery powered. The disinfection apparatus 56 may also be powered via an electrical cord plugged into an electrical outlet. Thus, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the apparatus 56 may function on battery power alone or on electrical power provided from an inlet in the same manner as a laptop computer functions on battery power or electrical power provided by an electrical outlet.

[0057] The upper fluid port 66 is a ring-shaped member that fits on and covers a top 80 end of the assembled outer casing 58, shaft 60, PCBs 62, and vertical interior member 64. The fluid port 66 is a metal mesh style filter for preventing dust from entering the apparatus 56 and can be permanent or disposable. Moreover, the fluid port 66 has an opening 67. The upper fluid port 66 includes a controller that communicates with the rate sensors and irradiation device sensors to facilitate eradicating pathogens included in fluid flowing though the conduit.

[0058] The fan 68 is positioned at a bottom end 82 of the assembled outer casing 58, shaft 60, PCBs 62, and vertical interior members 64 and is for facilitating fluid flow through the conduit. The fan 68 can be a hollow bore motor having propellers or impellers. The fan 68 is operated by the controller. For example, when the rate sensor data indicates the fluid flow rate is slow the controller causes the fan 68 to operate at a higher speed to increase the fluid flow rate. When the rate sensor data indicates the fluid flow is too fast, the controller causes the fan 68 to operate at a lower speed to decrease the fluid flow rate. [0059] The lower fluid port 70 is a ring-shaped member having a bottom 84, an inside wall 86 extending away from the bottom 84, and an outside wall 88 extending in the same direction away from the bottom 84 as the inside wall 86. The bottom 84, inside wall 86, and outside wall 88 form a U-shaped channel that extends about the circumference of the lower fluid port 70. The inner wall 86 can be a mesh material that facilitates discharging fluid from the disinfection apparatus 56. The fan 68 is positioned in the U-shaped channel, and the fan 68 and the lower fluid port 70 are fitted to the bottom end 82 of the assembled outer casing 58, shaft 60, PCBs 62, and vertical members 64.

[0060] In an alternative embodiment, a second fan (not shown) may be fitted to the top end 80 of the disinfection apparatus 56. In such an embodiment, the upper fluid port 66 might be configured similar to the lower fluid port 70 as described herein such that the second fan may be fitted in the upper fluid port 66. The second fan would be controlled by the controller similar to the fan 68. Although the fans are described as being controlled in response to data received by a controller from the rate sensor, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the fan 68 and the second fan may alternatively be manually controlled and/or operated.

[0061] During operation, the fan 68 facilitates blowing fluid out of the bottom 82 of the apparatus 56 and sucking fluid into the apparatus 56 via the upper fluid port 66. Thus, the upper fluid port 66 facilitates fluid intake. Fluid within three-hundred-sixty degrees of the fluid port 66 flows into the apparatus 56. The fluid may be ambient air, gas, or liquid. As described herein the fluid is ambient air. The fluid may contain harmful pathogens, for example, COVID-19. Fluid enters the apparatus via the upper fluid port 66, flows through the helical conduit, is irradiated while flowing through the conduit, and discharges from the bottom 82 of the disinfection apparatus 56. Alternatively, the fluid may similarly enter the apparatus 56 via the lower fluid port 70 and discharge via the upper fluid port 66.

[0062] It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the upper fluid port 66, the lower fluid port 70, or both may alternatively be located and integrated into the disinfection apparatus 56 between the top end 80 and the bottom end 82. Thus positioned, the fluid could enter the apparatus 56 from the top end 80, the bottom end 82, and the middle of the apparatus via the upper 66 and/or lower 70 fluid ports. The upper 66 and lower 70 fluid ports should be located to enhance eradication of pathogens in the fluid. Fluid within three-hundred- sixty degrees of the upper fluid port 66, the lower fluid port 70, the top end 80, and the bottom end 82 can flow into the apparatus 56. Likewise, fluid could be discharged in three-hundred sixty degrees from the upper fluid port 66, the lower fluid port 70, the top end 80, and the bottom end 82.

[0063] It should be understood that the fluid flow rate and the intensity of the UV radiation emitted by the irradiation devices 78 are variable and are calibrated with respect to each other to ensure eradication of pathogens in the fluid. The intensity of the UV radiation emitted by the irradiation device 78 is directly related to the fluid flow rate and to the distance between the irradiation devices and the conduit. Moreover, it should be understood that the helical configuration of the conduit, the fluid flow rate, and the intensity of the of the UV radiation emitted by the irradiation devices 78 enable lengthening the time fluid is in the disinfection apparatus 56 to facilitate ensuring pathogens in the fluid are eradicated.

[0064] The information shown in Figures 4 to 7 include much of the same information shown in Figure 3 as described in more detail below. As such, features illustrated in Figures 4 to 7 that are identical to features illustrated in Figure 3 are identified using the same reference numerals used in Figure 3.

[0065] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the disinfection apparatus 56 shown in Figure 3 in an assembled state. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the assembled disinfection apparatus 56 can be exposed to water or any other type of liquid without adversely impacting its functionality. As a result, dropping the disinfection apparatus 56 in liquid or spilling liquid on the apparatus 56 does not adversely affect functionality of the apparatus 56. After being subjected to liquid, the apparatus 56 can be washed and function normally without any adverse effects. Thus, the apparatus 56 is washable. As a result, the apparatus 56 can be used in ways that conventional disinfection devices cannot. For example, when operating on battery power, the disinfection apparatus 56 may be placed in the middle of a restaurant table without concern regarding spills or the inconvenience of an electrical cord.

[0066] Figure 5 is a sectional view of the disinfection apparatus 56 shown in Figure 4, illustrating the conduit 90. In the assembled state, the interior surface 72 of the outer casing 58 is flush against the exterior surface of the shaft 60. Thus, the interior surface 72 of the outer casing 58 and the grooves 76 of the shaft 60 together define a conduit 90 that extends helically along the exterior surface of the shaft 60 and the interior surface 72 of the outer casing 58. The interior surface 72 and the exterior surface of the shaft 60 are sealed together so fluid does not escape from the conduit 90 while flowing through the apparatus 56.

[0067] The outer casing 58 is opaque to any UV radiation generated by the irradiation devices 78, and the inner surface 72 of the outer casing 58 reflects such UV radiation. Such reflected UV radiation is incident upon the helical conduit 90.

[0068] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the sectional view of the disinfection apparatus 56 as shown in Figure 5 illustrating the lack of any moving or otherwise functional parts in the center of the apparatus 56. The center of the apparatus 56 lacks any moving or otherwise functional parts in order to facilitate dispensing heat generated by the irradiation devices 78 during operation. That is, the center of the disinfection apparatus 56 may operate as a heat sink or a heat dissipation system.

[0069] Figure 7 is a top view of the example disinfection apparatus 56 as shown in Figure 4.

[0070] Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example system controller 92 for use in controlling the fluid flow rate and the intensity of ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation emitted from the irradiation devices 78. The controller 92 includes components such as, but not limited to, one or more processors 94, a memory 96, a display 98, a bus 100, a user interface 102, and a communications interface 104. General communication between the components in the controller 92 is provided via the bus 100.

[0071] The processor 94 executes software instructions, or computer programs, stored in the memory 96. As used herein, the term processor is not limited to just those integrated circuits referred to in the art as a processor, but broadly refers to a computer, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller, an application specific integrated circuit, and any other programmable circuit capable of executing at least a portion of the functions and/or methods described herein. The above examples are not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term “processor.”

[0072] The memory 96 may be any non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. Non-transitory computer-readable recording media may be any tangible computer-based device implemented in any method or technology for short-term and long-term storage of information or data. Moreover, the non-transitory computer-readable recording media may be implemented using any appropriate combination of alterable, volatile or non-volatile memory or non-alterable, or fixed, memory. The alterable memory, whether volatile or non-volatile, can be implemented using any one or more of static or dynamic RAM (Random Access Memory), a floppy disc and disc drive, a writeable or re-writeable optical disc and disc drive, a hard drive, flash memory or the like. Similarly, the non-alterable or fixed memory can be implemented using any one or more of ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and disc drive or the like. Furthermore, the non-transitory computer- readable recording media may be implemented as smart cards, SIMs, any type of physical and/or virtual storage, or any other digital source such as a network or the Internet from which computer programs, applications or executable instructions can be read.

[0073] The memory 96 may be used to store any type of data including, but not limited to, predetermined data for ultraviolet (UV) electromagnetic radiation intensities to be emitted for given fluid flow rates, predetermined data for fluid flow rates for different pathogens and conduit cross-sectional areas, fluid flow rate monitoring data, and irradiation device monitoring data.

[0074] Additionally, the memory 96 can be used to store any type of software. As used herein, the term “software” is intended to encompass an executable computer program that exists permanently or temporarily on any non-transitory computer-readable recordable medium that causes the controller 92 to perform at least a portion of the functions, methods, and/or algorithms described herein. Software includes, but is not limited to, operating systems, Internet browser applications, instructions for adjusting the fan to control the fluid flow rate, instructions for adjusting the intensity of UV electromagnetic radiation emitted by irradiating devices, instructions to replace a malfunctioning irradiation device, and any other software and/or any type of instructions associated with algorithms, processes, or operations for controlling the general functions and operations of the controller 92. The software may also include computer programs that implement buffers and use RAM to store temporary data.

[0075] The communications interface 104 may include various network cards, and circuitry implemented in software and/or hardware to enable wired and/or wireless communications with the flow rate sensors 106 and the irradiating device sensors 108 and other electronic devices (not shown). Examples of other electronic devices (not shown) include, but are not limited to, a smart phone, any type of smart device, a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a phablet computer, a laptop computer, a personal computer (PC), and any type of hand-held consumer electronic device having wired or wireless networking capabilities capable of performing the functions, methods, and/or algorithms described herein.

[0076] Communications include, for example, accessing the Internet over a network, for example, the Internet. By way of example, the communications interface 104 may be a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or modem, an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, a cable modem, or a telephone modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the communications interface 104 may be a local area network (LAN) card (e.g., for Ethemet.TM. or an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) network) to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. As yet another example, the communications interface 104 may be a wire or a cable connecting the controller 92 with a LAN, or with accessories such as, but not limited to, other electronic devices. Further, the communications interface 104 may include peripheral interface devices, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) interface, and the like.

[0077] The communications interface 104 also allows the exchange of information across networks, for example, the Internet. The exchange of information may involve the transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals through an antenna (not shown).

[0078] The user interface 102 and the display 98 allow interaction between a user and the controller 92. The display 98 may include a visual display or monitor that displays information. For example, the display 98 may be a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an active matrix display, plasma display, or cathode ray tube (CRT). The user interface 102 may include a keypad, a keyboard, a mouse, an illuminator, a signal emitter, a microphone, and/or speakers.

[0079] Moreover, the user interface 102 and the display 98 may be integrated into a touch screen display. Accordingly, the display may also be used to show a graphical user interface, which can display various data and provide “forms” that include fields that allow for the entry of information by the user. Touching the screen at locations corresponding to the display of a graphical user interface allows the person to interact with the controller 92 to enter data, change settings, control functions, etc. Consequently, when the touch screen is touched, the user interface 102 communicates this change to the processor 94, and settings can be changed or user entered information can be captured and stored in the memory 96.

[0080] The communications interface may include Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) components or systems for receiving information from other electronic devices (not shown) and for transmitting information to other electronic devices (not shown). The communications interface may alternatively, or additionally, include components with Bluetooth, Zigbee, Near Field Communication (NFC), infrared, or other similar capabilities. Communications between the controller 92 and other electronic devices (not shown) may occur via NFC, RFID, Zigbee, Bluetooth or the like.

[0081] As described herein, the processor 94 can determine the best combination of fluid flow rate and intensity of UV radiation emitted by the irradiation device 78 to eradicate pathogens from fluid while flowing in the conduit 90. Additionally, the processor 94 can compare the fluid flow rate data received from the rate sensors 106 against a range of desired flow rates. If the received fluid flow rate data indicates that the fluid flow rate is outside the desired range, the processor 94 can execute instructions that cause the controller 92 to transmit instructions to the fan 68 to adjust the fluid flow rate to be within the desired range. The processor 94 can also compare the irradiation sensor data received from the irradiating device sensors 108 against a range of desired intensities. If the irradiation sensor data received by the controller indicates that one or more irradiation devices 78 are not emitting the desired intensity of UV radiation, the processor 94 can execute instructions that cause the controller 92 to transmit instructions to the one or more irradiation devices 78 to adjust the intensity to be within the desired range. The distance of the irradiation device 78 from the conduit 90 is also considered in determining the intensity of UV radiation to be emitted by the irradiation device 78.

[0082] Figure 9 is an example disinfection table 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The table 110 may be stored in the memory 96 of the controller 92 and includes a list 112 of pathogens, a UV-C dosage for 90% disinfection 114 of a respective pathogen, and a disinfection time 116.

[0083] The list 112 of pathogens includes influenza A, HIV-1, and escherichia coli. Although three pathogens are included in the list 112, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that any number of pathogens may be included in the list 112 including fewer than three and greater than three. As described herein, a pathogen is a type of biological agent and includes, but is not limited to, any type of virus, any type of bacteria, and any type of fungus.

[0084] A UV-C dosage (uW sec/cm ² ) for disinfection and eradication can be applied to fluids containing any of the listed pathogens. For example, applying a UV-C dosage (uW sec/cm ² ) of 1,900 for a disinfection time 116 of fifteen (15) seconds eradicates the influenza A from a fluid; applying a UV-C dosage (uW sec/cm ² ) of 28,000 for a disinfection time of two- hundred twenty (220) seconds eradicates HIV-1 from a fluid; and, applying a UV-C dosage (uW sec/cm ² ) of 2,000 for a disinfection time of twenty (20) seconds eradicates escherichia coli from a fluid. As described herein the fluid is ambient air. The intensity of UV-C irradiation applied to eradicate different pathogens is typically different. The intensity of radiation applied by the irradiation devices 78 may be increased or decreased depending on the different type of pathogen being eradicated because, as illustrated in table 110, different pathogens require different disinfection irradiation intensities 114 and different disinfection irradiation times 116.

[0085] The UV-C dosages 114 and disinfection times 116 for a pathogen, coupled with the distance of the irradiation devices 78 from the conduit 90, can be used to calculate the optimal combination of fluid flow rate and irradiation intensity for eradicating a pathogen from a fluid. As described herein, the irradiation intensity may also be referred to as the dosage.

[0086] It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the fluid flow rate and the applied irradiation can be adjusted to achieve the same disinfection rate. For example, for a fluid flow rate that allows influenza A particles to remain in the apparatus 56 for eight (8) seconds instead of fifteen (15) seconds, the UV-C radiation emitted by the irradiation devices 78 would increase. For example, the emitted UV-C radiation might increase to 3,800 uW sec/cm ² or any other intensity compatible with the fluid flow rate that would facilitate eradicating pathogens from the fluid. For a fluid flow rate that allows influenza A particles to remain in the apparatus 56 for thirty (30) seconds instead of fifteen (15) seconds, the UV-C radiation emitted by the irradiation devices 78 would decrease. For example, the emitted UV-C radiation might decrease to 950 uW sec/cm ² or any other intensity that would facilitate eradicating pathogens from the fluid.

[0087] Thus, it can be seen that the fluid flow rate and the irradiation applied by the devices 78 can be adjusted to provide UV-C radiation to eradicate a pathogen from a fluid. As a result, costs of disinfecting fluids are facilitated to be reduced, the useful life of irradiating devices 78 is facilitated to be increased, and harmful effects of UV radiation are facilitated to be reduced.

[0088] Figure 10 is an example method and algorithm for disinfecting fluids. Figure 10 illustrates example operations performed when the processor 94 executes software stored in the memory 96 for disinfecting fluids.

[0089] In step SI, the software executed by the processor 94 causes the fan 68 to operate which causes fluid to be received by the disinfection apparatus 56. The fluid flows into the apparatus 56 via the fluid port 66 and then through the helical conduit 90. While in the conduit 90, the fluid is irradiated by the irradiating devices 78 in accordance with instructions from the controller 92. In step S2, the software executed by the processor 94 causes the communication interface to receive data from the rate sensors 106 and monitor the fluid flow rate data to determine if the fluid flow rate is outside a desired range.

[0090] Next, in step S3, if the received fluid flow rate data indicates the fluid flow rate is outside the desired range, the software executed by the processor 94 causes the controller 92 to transmit instructions to the fan 68 to adjust its speed to control the fluid flow rate to be in the desired range. However, if the fluid flow rate is in the desired range, in step S5, the software executed by the processor 94 causes the controller 92 to calculate the intensity of UV radiation to be emitted by the irradiating devices 78 required to eradicate pathogens in the fluid. The distance of the irradiation device 78 from the conduit 90 is also considered in determining the intensity of UV radiation to be emitted by the irradiation device 78. The controller 92 transmits instructions to the irradiating devices 78 to emit the calculated intensity.

[0091] In step S6, the software executed by the processor 94 causes the controller 92 to monitor data received from the irradiation device sensors 108 to determine if any of the irradiation devices 78 is emitting UV radiation outside a calculated range of intensities, or is otherwise malfunctioning. In step S7, if an irradiation device 78 is determined to be emitting UV radiation at an intensity outside the calculated range, in step S8, the software executed by the processor 94 causes the controller 92 to transmit instructions to the errant irradiation device 78 to adjust the intensity to be within the calculated range. In step S7, if an irradiation device 78 is otherwise malfunctioning, in step S8, the software executed by the processor causes the controller 92 to display a message on the display 98 or cause a light in the user interface 102 to blink so the irradiating device 78 can be replaced. Alternatively, the controller 92 may indicate the malfunction in any manner.

[0092] In step S7, if the irradiation devices 78 are all emitting UV radiation within the calculated intensity range and none of the device 78 is otherwise malfunctioning, in step S9, the disinfected fluid is discharged from the disinfection apparatus 56.

[0093] Each disinfecting apparatus described herein and the method for disinfecting fluids as described herein, facilitate decreasing costs of disinfecting fluids, increasing the useful life of irradiating devices and thus reducing associated costs, and reducing harmful effects of UV radiation. Moreover, each disinfecting apparatus and the method described herein may be used in public areas to reduce the pathogenic load of the ambient air. For example, the disinfection apparatuses described herein may be used in restaurants, offices, warehouses and any other area where transmission of pathogens is a concern.

[0094] The above description provides examples, and is not limiting of the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention as defined by the claims. Changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements discussed without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Various embodiments may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, features described with respect to certain embodiments may be combined in other embodiments. The following claims define the subjectmatter of the invention for which an exclusive privilege or property is claimed.