Patent Description:
With the rapid expansion of biological pathogens, it has become increasingly important to find novel ways to eradicate pathogens in a manner that is safe for human exposure. Increasingly, chemicals have been implemented to disinfect surfaces in public places. However, the increased use in chemicals is presenting health hazards that are only beginning to manifest. In response to an increased need to eradicate biological pathogens, various forms of ultraviolet light have been developed to disinfect aerosol pathogens and surface pathogens.

The use of ultraviolet light has proven particularly effective for eradicating pathogens when ultraviolet-C (UVC) light is incorporated into an illumination device. UVC light emissions range between about <NUM> and <NUM>. While UVC light has proven quite effective in eradicating pathogens, it is known to exhibit unsafe attributes when exposed to human epidermis and eye tissue. Conventional UVC light has been proven to cause skin cancer and cataracts. Therefore, the use of UVC light is limited in scope to situations where no human exposure is permitted, and substantial precautions are required to prevent any human exposure.

A subset of UVC light, commonly referred to as far-UVC light, has recently gained some notoriety due to its ability for safely eradicating pathogens while potentially being safe for limited human exposure. When filtered, far-UVC light transmits UV light between about <NUM> to <NUM>. When unfiltered, UV light transmits above <NUM> a level at which it is believed adversely affects human epidermis by causing DNA damage. Whether filtered or not, far-UVC light presents peak irradiation at <NUM>.

While far-UVC light has shown promise for eradication of pathogens, its proposed uses have been for ceiling mounted systems within buildings for eradicating aerosol pathogens providing slow eradication on distant surfaces taking upwards of thirty minutes. This slow eradication on surfaces using ceiling mounted devices is problematic for high traffic or high use areas that cannot be made vacant for thirty or more minutes while waiting for a surface to be disinfected. When locating a lamp that generates far-UVC light in close proximity to a surface being disinfected, pathogens may be eradicated more rapidly, human exposure limits may be significantly reduced. <CIT> and <CIT> describe systems in high use areas, such as a car or an aircraft cabin, but require that they are not occupied. Therefore, there exists a need for a device capable of rapidly eradicating pathogens, while optimizing far-UVC irradiation time and limiting exposure to regulatory thresholds.

This need is fulfilled by the subject-matter of independent claim <NUM>. A passenger compartment with a system for eradicating pathogens is disclosed. A lamp is provided that emits a far-ultraviolet C (far-UVC) light generates an irradiation zone. A biometric sensor may determine whether an individual is present in the irradiation zone. A processor implementing a timer determines whether the individual has been exposed to a threshold limit of far-UVC light. The processor determines whether individual has been in the irradiation zone exceeds a threshold limit. If the individual has been in the irradiation zone a period of time that meets or exceeds the threshold, the lamp is deactivated. The system may include a pathogen detection sensor that provides user feedback of the existence or non-existence of pathogens and signals the processor to activate irradiation when presence of pathogens are detected or terminate irradiation or provide user feedback to terminate irradiation when no pathogens are detected. The system is included in a passenger compartment of a vehicle to eradicate pathogens on surfaces and aerosol. Threshold limits are included to allow eradication while the vehicle is occupied.

The problems identified in the prior art are associated with close proximity eradication of pathogens using UVC light or far-UVC when individuals are present either as a user or by way passive presence. While far-UVC light, and more specifically filtered far-UVC light have good indications of safe irradiation of human epidermis and even eyes, rigid safety standards remain in place prevented more than limited exposure by humans. The invention of the present application solves these problems by providing a system to limit human exposure, and even include these pathogen eradication systems in small compartments, such as passenger vehicles allowing more integrated use far-UVC light than prior art systems.

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when considered in connection with the accompanying drawing, wherein:.

Referring to <FIG>, a handheld light assembly of the present invention is generally shown at <NUM>. The assembly <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> that defines a lamp opening <NUM> as will be explained further herein below. A secondary light opening <NUM> is defined by the housing <NUM> approximate the lamp opening <NUM>. Both openings <NUM>,<NUM> are defined by a face side <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The purpose of the lamp opening <NUM> in the secondary light opening <NUM> will be explained further herein below.

Devices of this type are contemplated in <CIT>, HANDLHELD FAR-UVC DEVICE WITH LIDAR MEASUREMENT AND CLOSED LOOP FEEDBACK; <CIT> PORTABLE AND DISPOSABLE FAR-UVC DEVICE; <CIT>; PORTABLE AND DISPOSABLE FAR-UVC DEVICE; <CIT> filed January <NUM>, <NUM> PORTABLE AND DISPSABLE UV DEVICE; <CIT> PORTABLE AND DISPOSABLE FAR-UVC DEVICE;<CIT> PORTABLE AND DISPOSABLE FAR-UVC DEVICE; and<CIT> PORTABLE AND DISPOSABLE FAR-UVC DEVICE.

The housing <NUM>, as best shown in <FIG> includes a backside <NUM> that defines an indicator opening <NUM>. A removable grip <NUM> receives the backside <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and is removably retained by the complementary abutting surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>) respectively that each defines a convex shape providing an interference retention system. The removable grip <NUM> is cleanable by way of illumination with the assembly <NUM> as will become more evident herein below or is cleanable by alternative methods in a desired manner. When mated, the face side <NUM> and the backside <NUM> define a stand <NUM> so that the assembly <NUM> may stand upright, when desired, orienting the lamp <NUM> in a vertical direction.

An indicator <NUM> encloses the indicator opening <NUM>. The indicator <NUM> signals an operator whether a distance between a lamp <NUM> (<FIG>) and a surface being irradiated is within a predetermined distance to a pathogen to provide optimal eradication energy. For example, a first telltale <NUM> signals the operator if the distance is beyond a predetermined distance (or in some instances not spaced enough). In one embodiment, the telltale illuminates red or other color signaling the operator if the lamp is too far, or too close. The indicator <NUM> generate a second signal by way of 2nd telltale <NUM> indicating when the lamp is proximate the predetermined distance to the surface being irradiated. In one embodiment, the second telltale illuminates in yellow to signal the lamp <NUM> is proximate the predetermined distance to the surface <NUM> (<FIG>) being irradiated. When the lamp <NUM> is disposed at the predetermined distance to the surface being irradiated, a third telltale <NUM> illuminates in green to signal the operator the lamp is operating at optimal efficiency at the predetermined distance. Each telltale <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is illuminated by a corresponding light <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>) respectively, in this embodiment a corresponding light emitting diode.

It should be understood to those of ordinary skill in the art the different telltales or indicators may be used to signal an operator whether the assembly <NUM> is being used properly by way of distance from a surface being disinfected. These include, but are not limited to, blinking lights, sound or audible feedback cues, vibration or any indicator that would suffice to signal an operator the lamp <NUM> is disposed at the proper distance from a surface being irradiated for providing optimal eradication of pathogens. As described in further detail hereinbelow, these signals can be used to provide additional information to a user including, but not limited to indications of exposure limits; indication of existence or eradication of pathogens and the like.

While "surface" is used throughout the application, it should be understood that the invention of the present application provides for rapid eradication of pathogens not only on inanimate object, but also on epidermis including hands, legs arms, and even a face of an individual. As will be explained further herein below, disinfecting skin at a rapid pace is now possible without requiring the use of soap or chemicals. In a matter of seconds an individual's hands my disinfected with the handheld assembly <NUM> of the present invention. Furthermore, abrasions and wounds may also be rapidly disinfected in a safe and immediate manner while awaiting administered antibiotics to begin working. Even though illumination energy is quite high when the lamp <NUM> is disposed at close ranges to epidermis, such as, for example, one inch, the filtered far-UVC light will not penetrate the epidermis while rapidly eradicating a wide range of pathogens in seconds.

Referring now to <FIG>, the lamp <NUM> (<FIG>) is activated by depressing switch <NUM> that partially extends through opening 37a defined by the backside <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and an opening 37b defined the removable grip <NUM>, each of which are aligned when the removable grip <NUM> is disposed in place on the housing <NUM>. A switch cover <NUM> is disposed between the switch <NUM> and the backside <NUM> of the housing and conceals the switch <NUM> so that when depressed, an operator does not contact the switch <NUM> but contacts the switch cover <NUM>. A still further embodiment includes a protective barrier <NUM>(<FIG>) being affixed, either permanently or temporarily to the removal grip <NUM> over the grip opening 37b to prevent the switch cover <NUM> from becoming contaminated. In this manner the barrier <NUM> may also be disinfected with the grip <NUM> when removed from the housing <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the assembly <NUM> is supported in a vertical direction by the stand <NUM>, the switch <NUM> optionally activates the processor <NUM> to power the lamp <NUM> for a predetermined amount of time allowing a user to disinfect, for example his or her hands, the removable grip <NUM>, or any other object without continuously depressing the switch <NUM>, or even having to hold the device <NUM>. Because the illumination wavelength of the lamp <NUM> is filtered restricting transmission wavelength to below <NUM>, and not harmful to eyes and epidermis, the lamp <NUM> may be illumined while disposed in a vertical orientation while not requiring the use of safety equipment. Alternatively, because activating or deactivating the device <NUM> may contaminate the device <NUM> via human touch, optionally, the device <NUM> may also or otherwise be activated/deactivated through facial/eye recognition (as seen in some mobile devices) and/or through voice activation (similar to voice assistants on mobile devices). The device <NUM> may also or otherwise be activated/deactivated through specific movements (i.e., shaking it, moving it in a specific motion, etc.).

Referring now to <FIG>, a cross sectional view through line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> is shown. The lamp <NUM> is disposed over the lamp opening <NUM> in a fixed location by lamp frame <NUM> for generating illumination through the lamp opening <NUM> onto a target surface <NUM>. The lamp <NUM> is adapted to use a variety of illumination techniques including krypton chloride tubes, light emitting diodes, or any other illumination system capable of transmitting light at a peak wavelength <NUM>. In one embodiment, the lamp <NUM> is filtered to eliminate light having a wavelength above about <NUM>. Therefore, disinfecting light is transmitted at a wavelength between about <NUM> and <NUM>. In one embodiment, fused silica protective cover <NUM>, or equivalent is placed over the lamp opening <NUM> to protect the lamp during use. Fused silica protective cover <NUM> is believed durable enough to withstand the energy generated by far-UVC light emissions without significant degradation while allowing light transmission without significantly reducing irradiation power of the lamp <NUM>. However, other cover compositions are within the scope of this invention, including, but not limited to quartz or any other material capable of allowing transmission of far-UVC light without becoming substantially degraded. It should also be understood that lens and cover are used interchangeably throughout this specification but that each refers to the element <NUM> disposed between the lamp <NUM> or tubes contained in the lamp and the surface <NUM> being irradiated so that the far-UVC light is transmitted through the lens <NUM>. Still further, the filter (not shown) that filters the far-UVC light to eliminate or substantially reduce wavelengths above <NUM> may be part of the lens <NUM>. It should be understood that alternative far-UVC light is within the scope of this invention including light emitting diodes or alternative sources that do not transmit light above about <NUM> but provide peak irradiation at or about <NUM> capable of eradicating pathogens while being substantially safe for humans.

The lamp <NUM> is powered via power pack <NUM>. The power pack <NUM> is rechargeable through plug-in charging port <NUM>. In one embodiment, the power pack <NUM> includes two lithium ion <NUM> PMI cells (not shown) providing about <NUM> volts each. Therefore, the power pack <NUM>, when charged, provides about <NUM> volts. Alternatively, the lamp <NUM> is powered by electrical current provided through the charging port <NUM>. The power pack <NUM> is received by a power pack support <NUM> that secures the power pack <NUM> to screw bosses located on an inner surface of the face side <NUM> of the housing <NUM> via fasteners (not shown) in a known manner. The fasteners are received through support apertures <NUM> defined by support legs <NUM> (<FIG>).

The support legs <NUM> allow the power pack support <NUM> to straddle an inverter <NUM> that is also secured to the face side <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The inverter <NUM> receives current from the power pack <NUM> at <NUM> volts and shapes the current wavelength in a known manner so it that may be received by the lamp <NUM>. The inverter <NUM> is disposed upon an inverter frame <NUM> that is secured to the face side <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by fasteners received through inverter frame apertures <NUM>.

A transformer <NUM> steps up the voltage from about <NUM> volts generated by the power pack <NUM> to about <NUM>,<NUM> volts to provide sufficient energy to power the lamp <NUM>. In one embodiment, the inverter <NUM> is a Stratheo inverter. However, it should be understood that any inverter/transformer combination capable of shaping the current wavelength and stepping up voltage to about <NUM>,<NUM> volts will suffice. The transformer <NUM> is also mounted on the inverter frame <NUM> to reduce overall size of the inverter <NUM> transformer <NUM> combination.

Referring now to <FIG>, a distance measuring device <NUM> is secured to a lamp frame <NUM> that also secures the lamp <NUM> to the face side <NUM> of the of the housing <NUM>. The lamp frame <NUM> is oriented so that the lamp <NUM> is disposed horizontally to a surface <NUM> being disinfected when the assembly <NUM> is in use as is best shown in <FIG>. The distance measuring device <NUM> is offset from the lamp <NUM> and disposed at an angle relative to the lamp <NUM>. In one embodiment, the distance measuring device <NUM> transmits a signal to a center portion <NUM> of an irradiation zone <NUM> on the surface <NUM> defined by the lamp <NUM>. The distance measuring device <NUM> includes a sensor <NUM> that receives reflected feedback of the signal from the center portion <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> provides the feedback data to the processor <NUM> to calculate a vertical distance from the lamp <NUM> to the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM>. Therefore, even though the distance measuring device <NUM> is offset from the lamp <NUM>, it measures a precise vertical distance between the lamp <NUM> and the surface <NUM> being irradiated at the location of the highest energy level, the purpose of which will become more evident as explained below.

In one embodiment, the distance measuring device <NUM> is a lidar system transmitting a laser beam <NUM> to the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM>. The laser beam <NUM> is either visible or invisible. When visible, the laser beam provides user feedback to the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM>. In another embodiment, the distance measuring device <NUM> takes the form of an infrared light that transmits to the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM> and the sensor <NUM> is an infrared sensor that detects reflected light from the center portion <NUM> for signaling the processor to calculate vertical distance from the center portion <NUM> to the lamp <NUM>. Other types of distance measuring devices are within the scope of this invention including radar, photogrammetry and the like so long as the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM> can be detected. It should also be understood that a time of flight determination between the light (or other signal) and sensor <NUM> detecting reflection has provided sufficient accuracy for the processor <NUM> to calculate vertical distance between the central portion <NUM>, or point as the case may be, and the lamp <NUM>.

As set forth above, the processor <NUM> signals the indicator <NUM> to signal if the lamp <NUM> is located at a predetermined distance from the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone. In one embodiment, the indicator <NUM> signals proper distance is maintained for rapid eradication of pathogens when the lamp <NUM> is disposed within a range of distances, such as, for example between one and two inches. Therefore, the user is provided feedback that the lamp <NUM> is maintained within in a proper range even when three dimensional surfaces are being irradiated for eradicating pathogens. It has been determined that distance is inversely proportional to the rate of energy that reaches the surface <NUM>. The less the distance the lamp <NUM> is to the surface <NUM> being irradiated, the higher the rate of ultraviolet energy transfer to the surface <NUM> is achieved for rapid eradication of surface pathogens.

The lamp <NUM> was tested at a range of distances to ascertain the amount of energy required to eradicate pathogens, both with the fused silica protective lens <NUM> and without the fused silica protective lens <NUM>. The results showed only a small decrease in the amount of far-UVC light energy when the fused silica lens <NUM> was employed. The results were measured in µWatts as is shown in Table <NUM>.

At a distance of about one inch from the surface <NUM> being irradiated, the lamp <NUM> provides <NUM>µW rate of energy transfer. Alternatively, a distance of about six inches from the surface <NUM> being irradiated, the lamp <NUM> provides <NUM>µW of ultraviolet energy transfer. The amount of energy transfer translates into the amount of time necessary to eradicate certain pathogens. The fused silica protective cover (or lens) <NUM> reduces to some extent the amount of irradiation energy at the surface <NUM> being irradiated. Surprisingly, the amount of reduction of irradiation by the fused silica lens <NUM> energy at the surface <NUM> decreases as distance increases. Therefore, the reduction of irradiation energy attributed to the protective fused silica lens <NUM> is inversely proportional to the distance between the lamp <NUM> and the surface.

Furthermore, the irradiation energy when the lamp <NUM> is spaced a distance of about one inch from the surface being irradiated is between about <NUM> and <NUM> (about a factor of <NUM>) times greater than when the distance between the lamp <NUM> and the surface <NUM> being irradiated is about two inches from the lamp <NUM>. The lamp <NUM> provides between about <NUM> and <NUM> (about a factor of five) times more surface energy when disposed about one inch from the surface <NUM> being irradiated than when the lamp <NUM> is disposed about four inches from the surface being irradiated. The lamp <NUM> provides between about <NUM> and <NUM> (about a factor of ten) times more surface energy when disposed at about one inch from the surface <NUM> being irradiate than when the lamp <NUM> is disposed at about six inches from the surface <NUM> being irradiated.

Test results show that Covid-<NUM> is eradicated by providing a 3Log reduction (<NUM>% eradication) in the pathogen in about one second when the lamp <NUM> is disposed at a distance of about one inch from the surface <NUM> being irradiated. Alternatively, Covid-<NUM> can be eradicated to a 3Log reduction in about <NUM> seconds when the lamp <NUM> is disposed at a distance of about six inches from the surface <NUM> being irradiated. It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that different pathogens require different doses of irradiation for full or 3Log reduction on any surface. While a virus may require only one second of irradiation when the lamp <NUM> is disposed at one inch from the surface <NUM> being irradiated, a bacteria or spore may require several seconds of irradiation at the same distance. Furthermore, a 2Log reduction providing <NUM>% eradication of Covid-<NUM> is achieved in about <NUM> seconds when the lamp <NUM> is spaced about one inch from the surface <NUM> being irradiated. Likewise, Covid-<NUM> can be eradicated to a 2Log reduction in about <NUM> seconds when the lamp <NUM> is disposed at a distance of about six inches from the surface <NUM> being irradiated. It should be apparent that determining an accurate distance of the lamp <NUM> from the surface <NUM> being irradiated is requisite when determining the level of a pathogen eradication being achieved.

<FIG> shows an alternative arrangement where the distance measuring device <NUM> transmits secondary light onto a measurement area <NUM> that intersects the irradiation zone <NUM> on the surface <NUM>. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the measurement area <NUM> intersects the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> detects the reflected light, radar, or the like from the irradiation zone <NUM> for signaling the processor <NUM> to calculate a vertical distance between the lamp <NUM> and at least the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM>.

It should also be understood that the distance measuring device <NUM> includes a transmitter <NUM> that transmits a signal to the surface <NUM> being irradiated by the lamp <NUM>. The transmitter <NUM> is contemplated to project any of a non-visible laser beam, a visible laser beam, infrared light, radar, or the like enabling the sensor <NUM> to detect a reflected signal from the surface <NUM> being irradiate so that the processor <NUM> can calculate vertical distance between the lamp <NUM> and at least the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone <NUM>.

Transmitted far-UVC light is largely in an invisible spectrum. Therefore, it is difficult for a user to fully identify a surface area in which the lamp <NUM> is achieving optimal irradiation. In addition, the lamp provides efficacy as the far-UVC light illumination on a surface extends radially outwardly from the central portion <NUM> (or area) of the irradiation zone <NUM>. However, the energy transfer to the surface <NUM> diminishes beyond the irradiation zone <NUM> on the surface <NUM>. While still providing efficacy, a secondary irradiation zone <NUM> located generally radially outwardly of the first irradiation zone <NUM> requires additional time in which to eradication pathogens. To assist the operator with identifying at least the irradiation zone <NUM>, and also, when desired, a secondary irradiation zone <NUM>, an identifier light source <NUM> projects a first ring <NUM> or equivalent around the primary irradiation zone <NUM> and second ring <NUM> or equivalent around the secondary irradiation zone <NUM> as is represented in <FIG>. The identifier light source <NUM> is a separate light from the secondary light that is part of the distance measurement device <NUM>.

The illumination by the identifier light source <NUM>, in one embodiment, is modified by identifier light source lens <NUM> that focuses the light from the identifier light source <NUM> to focus the light so that the first ring <NUM> is disposed on the surface <NUM> immediately adjacent the broadest spatial boundary of the primary irradiation zone <NUM> and the second ring <NUM> is disposed immediately adjacent the broadest spatial boundary of the secondary irradiation zone <NUM>. A diameter of the first ring <NUM> and the second ring <NUM> increase proportionally with the vertical distance between the lamp <NUM> and the center portion <NUM> of the irradiation zone an equal amount to the broadest spatial boundary of the primary irradiation zone <NUM> and the secondary irradiation zone <NUM>. In this manner, the identifier light source lens <NUM> is configured in a correlated manner so that angular displacement of the refracted light generates rings <NUM>, <NUM> that increase in diameter at a same rate as does the far-UVC light in each of the first irradiation zone <NUM> and the second irradiation zone <NUM>. Furthermore, the rings <NUM>, <NUM> are transmitted on three dimensional surfaces providing identification that an object on a flat surface is within the irradiation zones <NUM>, <NUM>. The combination of the rings <NUM>, <NUM> and the distance measuring device <NUM> providing user feedback via the indicator <NUM> enables a user, for example, to ascertain the viability of pathogen eradication that is achieved when used on inanimate objects and even on hands or other parts of the human anatomy.

In a further embodiment, the device <NUM> may emit visible light in various formats and/or shapes. For example, the formats and/or shapes may include names (or any other words), initials, symbols and/or shapes (e.g., a bat signal, stars, a flag, etc.) and/or photos, depending on the particular application or selection made by the user. Optionally, the user may upload one or more images to the device <NUM> to use for the emitted visible light (whereby the uploaded image is backlit by the light source so that the image is projected onto the surface). Optionally, when the device <NUM> is at an appropriate height, the customized visible light or projected image or icon may be in focus so that the user knows where the device <NUM> is aiming and that the device <NUM> is at the proper effective height or distance to eradicate pathogens. In another example, the device <NUM> may emit visible light in the shape of an icon that the user targets or aims at the surface to be irradiated. When the device <NUM> has run as long as is necessary to be effective, the visible light may turn off and/or fade and/or the device <NUM> may communicate to the user that the visible light may be disabled and/or that the device <NUM> needs to be recharged and/or the entire far-UVC unit must be replaced (e.g., when lack of visible light indicates that the far-UVC device <NUM> is no longer eradicating pathogens).

In a still further embodiment, the device <NUM> may emit sound in lieu of or in addition to visible light. For example, whether for the visually impaired or just as an alternate means to target an area for a set period of time, the device <NUM> may use sound or sonic messaging to communicate an amount of time to the user. In this embodiment, the processor <NUM> also includes an audio transistor for providing sound output. The device <NUM> emits a sound indicating an appropriate distance from a surface to eradicate pathogens at a predetermined time, so as to inform the user that the device <NUM> is at the appropriate or optimal distance from the surface being irradiated. For example, in addition to or alternatively to emitting visible light, the device <NUM> may include a sound activated feature that activates when the user is at the right and/or wrong distance for eradicating pathogens. The processor via the sound transistor may also provide audible user feedback if the device <NUM> is moving too quickly over a surface <NUM> to provide adequate eradication of pathogens identifiable by way of accelerometer and/or surface distance measurement.

In a further embodiment, the device <NUM> emits sound that indicate when the device <NUM> is getting too close or too far away from a target surface (e.g., using ultrasonic sensors, lidar or other distance detection systems). Such sounds may be permanent and/or customizable (similar to ringtones on mobile phones). When the device <NUM> has run as long as is necessary to be effective (e.g., eradicate pathogens), the sound may turn off and/or fade and/or the device <NUM> may communicate to the user that the device <NUM> needs to be recharged and/or the entire far-UVC unit must be replaced (e.g., when the lack of sound indicates that the far-UVC device <NUM> is no longer eradicating pathogens because the lamp has exceeded use limits). Optionally, the sound may be customizable to the preference of the user (such as in a similar manner as a cell phone's ringtones and notification sounds are customizable).

In a still further embodiment, the device <NUM> emits a scent instead of or in addition to emitting visible light for stationary use. Whether for the visually or audibly impaired, the device <NUM> emits scents to denote when the device <NUM> is in use or when the device <NUM> needs to be replaced or recharged. Instead of visible light, or in combination with the visible light, the device <NUM> emits scents that emanate when the device <NUM> is activated by way of an attachable fragrance unit proving user feedback as to operational disposition of the device <NUM> as is disclosed throughout the present application.

In some instances, human exposure may be limited by regulations or standards that are based upon an UVC or far-UVC light energy for a predetermine time period such as over eight or twenty-four hours. As such, the device <NUM> of the present invention includes a biometric sensor <NUM> capable of determining presence of human epidermis. Referring again to <FIG>, the biometric sensor <NUM> is represented in schematics on the handheld light assembly <NUM> also includes a biometric sensor <NUM> for detecting and identify an individual that is present in the irradiation zone <NUM>. For example, the biometric sensor <NUM> detects the presence of human epidermis by identifying a heartbeat, body heat, skin recognition. Furthermore, the biometric sensor <NUM> detects the presence of skin and/or eyes through thermal or skin recognition, e.g., using backscatter or blue LED technology. Various types of biometric sensors are within the scope of this invention, including, but not limited to heart rhythm, vein pattern, fingerprints, hand geometry, DNA, voice pattern, iris pattern, and face detection. Adaptive biometric sensing is also within the scope of this invention. For example, the biometric sensor <NUM> and processor <NUM> are programmed to distinguish one user, or more importantly one individual exposed to far-UVC light from another using heartbeat, vein recognition or the like. As will be explained further hereinbelow, the device <NUM> will automatically terminate illumination when an individual has been exposed to the far-UVC light to a predetermined threshold or limit. The biometric sensor <NUM> distinguishes between multiple users deactivating the device <NUM> when a given use has met threshold limits but allowing activation for another use who has not yet met threshold limits. The biometric sensor <NUM> identifies if multiple users are within the irradiation zone of the device <NUM> and signals the processor <NUM> to tabulate the amount of time any given user is withing the irradiation zone thereby terminating illumination by the device <NUM>. It should be understood that the processor <NUM> is programmed to correlate distance from the device <NUM> to epidermis with amount of far-UVC light energy is being transferred to the epidermis for the purpose of identifying whether predetermine threshold limits have been met. Therefore, epidermis in close proximity to the device <NUM> will be allowed less time of exposure than epidermis that is more distant from the device <NUM>.

In some instances, it is also desirable to include an ability to detect pathogens that are either aerosol or disposed on a surface. As such, in another embodiment, the device <NUM> includes a pathogen sensor <NUM> for detecting and identifying any pathogens within the irradiation zone <NUM>. Microbial sensors provided by Nuwave Sensors and equivalents may be use for rapid detection of airborne microbes. When detecting presence of surface pathogens, it is believed that long-range surface plasmon-enhanced fluorescence spectroscopy provides for rapid detection. Surface plasmon resonance sensors are an optical platform capable of highly sensitive and specific measuring of biomolecular interactions in real-time that provide rapid user feedback as to whether surface pathogens have been eradicated. If a pathogen is detected within the irradiation zone <NUM>, the processor <NUM> maintains irradiation to ensure that the pathogen is eradicated. For example, the processor <NUM> maintains illumination by the lamp <NUM> until no further pathogens are detected, or until 2Log, 3Log or other eradication level has been achieved. Hospital settings may require 3Log or even 4Log reduction of pathogens while personal or other commercial uses may only require a 2Log reduction. The processor <NUM> is programmable to adapt the devicel0 for any of these desired eradication outcomes. In a still further embodiment, an audible indication or visible signal are generated to advise the operator no further pathogens have been detected so that the operator may at his or her discretion deactivate the device <NUM>.

Further uses of pathogen eradication are desirable in confined spaces, such as, for example, passenger vehicles, airplanes, and the like. <FIG> depict a further embodiment of a system <NUM> for safely eradicating pathogens that is implemented in a vehicle <NUM>. It should be understood that while a passenger vehicle is shown, the invention of the present application may be implement in any vehicle in which passengers ride, including, but not limited to, busses, cabs, rideshare vehicles, fully or autonomous vehicles and even airplanes. The vehicle <NUM> includes far-UVC lamps <NUM> integrated into the headliner <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> that operate in a similar manner as does the handheld assemblies <NUM> set forth above and may also be removable from the headliner <NUM> for handheld use. It should be understood that while headliners are referred to throughout the specification the lamp <NUM> may be integrated with any interior trim component, including, but not limited to seats, pillar covers, speaker grilles, door panels, steering wheels and columns, instrument panels and the like. The lamps <NUM> not only eradicate pathogens on the vehicle seats <NUM>, and other interior surfaces, but the lamps <NUM> also eradicate pathogens on any passengers seated within the vehicle <NUM> as well as the surrounding air within the vehicle <NUM>, as will be discussed further below. The lamps <NUM> are controlled by a processor <NUM> via electrical cables <NUM>, both of which are integrated into the headliner <NUM>. Alternatively, the processor <NUM> is placed anywhere within the vehicle <NUM>, integrated with the main vehicle processor; and may even communicate with the lamps <NUM> wirelessly. The processor <NUM> is programmed in the same manner as is the processor <NUM> disposed in the handheld device <NUM>. In this embodiment, the system <NUM> also includes fans or air circulation devices <NUM> integrated into the headliner <NUM> proximate to the lamps <NUM> or being integrated with the lamps <NUM>. The fans <NUM> assist the vehicle HVAC system to circulate air that has been eradicated of pathogens by the lamps <NUM>, and to direct air in the path of the lamp <NUM> irradiation zone as is identified in <FIG> with dashed lines to increase a probability that aerosol pathogens are directed into the irradiation zone of the lamp <NUM>.

The vehicle-based system <NUM> further includes a biometric sensor <NUM> for detecting the presence of a passenger within the vehicle <NUM>. Similar to the biometric sensor <NUM> included with the handheld device <NUM>, biometric sensor <NUM> may include a heartrate monitor or a fingerprint detector, or it may detect the presence of skin and/or eyes through thermal or skin recognition, e.g., using backscatter or blue LED technology as is described in the earlier embodiment hereinabove. The system also may include HVAC far-UVC lamps <NUM> within the HVAC system of the vehicle <NUM> to eradicate air that is circulated within the vehicle <NUM> from the ventilation system. As best represented in <FIG>, a far-UVC lamp <NUM> is also locatable on or in an instrument panel <NUM> proximate an HVAC vent used to direct air throughout the vehicle <NUM> passenger compartment. In this manner, aerosolized pathogens are eradicated prior to air being circulated throughout the passenger compartment.

It is within the scope of this invention that the system <NUM> and the device <NUM> of the prior embodiment communicate via wireless transmission or over the internet so that multiple devices toll exposure of any user as a further safety precaution. Further, multiple devices, even integrate with a cellular phone app are provided wireless communication through Bluetooth or cellular services to toll exposure of a given user.

Still further, the vehicle-based system <NUM> optionally includes a pathogen sensor <NUM> for sensing aerosol or surface pathogens in the same manner as that described the earlier embodiment hereinabove. The system provides user or passenger input when pathogens are detected or even not detected. A passenger entering the vehicle is scanned by the pathogen sensor <NUM> for pathogens causing the system <NUM> to activate the lamps <NUM> when pathogens are detected. Alternatively, the doors of the vehicle <NUM> remain locked preventing a passenger from entering if pathogens are detected.

Scent may also be circulated within the vehicle <NUM> (instead of or in addition to the visible light) being indicative of pathogens or the lack thereof operating much like an air freshener. The scent may be customizable to the preferences of the user. The system <NUM> may indicate, when the scent fades, that the scent either needs to be replaced, and/or that the device needs to be recharged and/or the entire far-UVC system <NUM> needs to be replaced (e.g., when the lack of scent will indicate that the far-UVC lamp <NUM> is no longer eradicating pathogens in the air within the interior of the automobile). or just for stationary use when portably attached to, for example, a passenger vehicle air vent, the system <NUM> emits scents to denote when the lamps <NUM> are activated or when a lamp <NUM> needs to be replaced or recharged. For example, the system <NUM> may include an odor producing attachment that attaches within the interior of, or proximate to, a passenger vehicle ventilation system.

<FIG> shows an exemplary method for operating the handheld light device <NUM>. When the device <NUM> is activated (step <NUM>), the sensor <NUM> determines whether an individual is within the irradiation zone <NUM> (step <NUM>). If the sensor <NUM> determines that an individual has entered the irradiation zone <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> identifies the specific individual (step <NUM>) in order to track the amount of far-UVC light exposure the individual receives from the device <NUM>. It is important to track the amount of far-UVC light exposure each individual receives because regulations governed by various non-government agencies limit the maximum duration of exposure to far-UVC light that a person may receive within a given exposure period. For example, under current regulations, an individual must limit the amount of exposure he or she has to far-UVC light to predetermined threshold limits. To ensure that the specific individual within the irradiation zone <NUM> does not exceed the recommended limits, the processor <NUM> tracks the amount of time that the specific individual is exposed to the far-UVC light by implementing a timer or counter. If the device <NUM> is still activated (step <NUM>), the processor <NUM> determines whether the specific individual may be exposed with far-UVC light from the device <NUM> (step <NUM>). In other words, the processor <NUM> determines if the specific individual has already reached his or her maximum duration under the regulations. If the processor <NUM> determines that the specific individual has met threshold limits for exposure to far-UVC light from the device <NUM>, the processor <NUM> remains in the loop (steps <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>) until either the individual leaves the irradiation zone <NUM> at step <NUM>, or the device is inactivated at step <NUM>. Because the regulations are periodically updated, the present invention updates the maximum duration that an individual may be exposed to far-UVC light from the device <NUM> via a website, or via mobile pairing with the device <NUM> to update the software and/or code.

If at step <NUM>, the processor <NUM> determines that the specific individual is allowed to be exposed to far-UVC light from the device <NUM>, the processor <NUM> turns on the lamp <NUM> and starts the timer for the specific individual to keep track of the amount of time the specific individual is exposed to far-UVC light from the device <NUM> (step <NUM>). The sensor <NUM> continues to monitor whether the specific individual remains within the irradiation zone <NUM> (step <NUM>), and the processor <NUM> monitors the time the individual remains within the irradiation zone <NUM> to ensure that he or she does not exceed the maximum duration (step <NUM>) while the device <NUM> is still activated (step <NUM>). If at step <NUM>, the processor <NUM> determines that the specific individual has reached his or her maximum duration and is no longer allowed to be exposed to far-UVC light from the device <NUM>, the processor <NUM> turns off the lamp <NUM> (step <NUM>), turns off the specific individual's timer and records the time as the individual's last exposure to far-UVC light (step <NUM>). The system then returns to the loop <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and waits for the individual to leave the irradiation zone <NUM>.

If at step <NUM>, the processor <NUM> determines that the device <NUM> is no longer active, the processor <NUM> turns off the lamp <NUM>, turns off the individual's timer and records the end time as the individual's last exposure to far-UVC light (step <NUM>). Threshold limits are based upon an eight or twenty-four-hour period after which the processor <NUM> resets the timer for each individual allowing additional exposure.

If at step <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> does not detect an individual within the irradiation zone <NUM>, the processor <NUM> turns on the lamp <NUM> (step <NUM>). The sensor <NUM> continues to monitor whether an individual enters the irradiation zone <NUM> (step <NUM>). If the sensor <NUM> determines that an individual has entered the irradiation zone <NUM>, the processor <NUM> moves to step <NUM> to determine whether the specific individual may be exposed with far-UVC light from the device <NUM>. If at step <NUM> the sensor does not detect an individual in the irradiation zone <NUM>, the processor <NUM> remains in loop <NUM>, <NUM> until it determines that the device <NUM> has been deactivated (step <NUM>), at which point, the processor <NUM> turns off the lamp <NUM> (step <NUM>). If at step <NUM> the specific individual leaves the irradiation zone <NUM>, the processor <NUM> turns off the individual's timer and records the end time as the individual's last exposure to far-UVC light (step <NUM>). The method then returns to step <NUM>. As long as the device <NUM> is activated (step <NUM>), the lamp <NUM> remains on until another individual is detected within the irradiation zone <NUM> (step <NUM>). The use of biometric sensors for identifying individuals at which time the individuals are expose to the far-UVC light provides the failsafe ability for use of the device <NUM> while verifying threshold limits are not exceeded.

<FIG> shows an exemplary method for operating the eradication system <NUM> in passenger compartments and on passenger seats <NUM> within the vehicle <NUM> depicted in <FIG>. When the system <NUM> is activated (step <NUM>), the processor <NUM> turns the lamps <NUM> on (step <NUM>) and starts a timer (step <NUM>) to control the duration of the time that the lamps <NUM> are activated. The biometric sensor <NUM> determines whether a passenger is in the vehicle seat <NUM> (step <NUM>). If the biometric sensor <NUM> does not detect a passenger in the vehicle seat <NUM>, the processor verifies the system is still activated (step <NUM>). If the system is still activated, the processor <NUM> determines if the first threshold time period is reached (step <NUM>). The first threshold time period is the duration of time that the lamps <NUM> are activated when no passengers are detected within the vehicle seat <NUM>. If the first threshold has been reached, the processor turns off the lamps <NUM> (step <NUM>) and turns off the timer (step <NUM>). At this point, the vehicle seat <NUM> and other surfaces have been eradicated of pathogens, and the system <NUM> waits for the entry of a passenger (step <NUM>). After the entry of the passenger <NUM>, the processer <NUM> turns on the lamps <NUM> (step <NUM>) and starts the timer (step <NUM>). The processor <NUM> determines if the timer has reached the second threshold, which is the maximum amount of time a passenger may be safely exposed to the far-UVC light or that enough time has lapsed that the pathogens have been eradicated.

If the second threshold is not reached, the system <NUM> continues to irradiate the passenger in the vehicle seat <NUM> until either the second time threshold is reached (step <NUM>) or the passenger leaves the vehicle (step <NUM>). If the processor determines that the second time threshold has been reached, the processor <NUM> turns off the lamps <NUM> (step <NUM>) and turns off the timer (step <NUM>).

If the driver would like to eradicate any pathogens on himself or herself, the driver may activate the lamp <NUM> above the driver seat. The process would follow the steps <NUM>-<NUM> provided in <FIG>. Alternatively, the process may follow steps <NUM>-<NUM> provided for device <NUM>.

The device <NUM> and/or the system <NUM> may also include a pathogen detecting sensor to target the time and intensity of the far-UVC light applied to target the specific pathogen.

Claim 1:
A passenger compartment of the vehicle (<NUM>), comprising
a system (<NUM>) for eradicating pathogens inside the passenger compartment, comprising:
a lamp (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) transmitting far ultraviolet C, far-UVC, light thereby generating an irradiation zone (<NUM>, <NUM>) within the passenger compartment of the vehicle (<NUM>);
an interior trim component disposed within said passenger compartment having said lamp (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) integrated therewith and configured to direct the irradiation zone (<NUM>, <NUM>) toward vehicle seats (<NUM>) located within the passenger compartment;
an air circulation system for circulating air through said irradiation zone (<NUM>, <NUM>) of said lamp thereby eradicating aerosol pathogens disposed within the passenger compartment;
said lamp (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to direct on at least one of the passengers occupying said passenger compartment and surfaces of the interior of the vehicle (<NUM>); and
at least one of a sensor (<NUM>) for identifying a passenger is occupying said passenger compartment and a processor implementing a timer for terminating irradiation of the passenger for preventing a passenger exposure threshold from being reached.