Patent Description:
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to sanitizing systems, such as may be used to sanitize structures and areas within vehicles, such as commercial aircraft.

Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between various locations. Systems are currently being developed to disinfect or otherwise sanitize surfaces within aircraft, for example, that use ultraviolet (UV) light.

In order to sanitize a surface of a structure, a known UV light sterilization method emits a broad spectrum UVC light onto the structure. However, UVC light typically takes a significant amount of time (for example, three minutes) to kill various microbes. Further, various microbes may not be vulnerable to UVC light. That is, such microbes may be able to withstand exposure to UVC light.

Disinfection is a function of radiation energy per area imparted to the target surface. The disinfection irradiance depends on both the proximity of the UV light source to the target surface and the time of illumination. Disinfection effectiveness decreases with increased range or distance between the UV light source and the target surface beyond a certain threshold range. If the UV light source is too far from the target surface the dose of energy provided to a certain area of the target surface may be lower than required to kill a targeted pathogen or microbe. Typically, a user manipulating the UV light source estimates the proper range between the light source and the target surface, but this technique is likely to be inaccurate and inconsistent, especially if the light source is located a significant distance from the user. As a result, the sanitization process may be ineffective at providing consistent disinfection across a large area. A physical spacer could be used that extends a predetermined distance from the light source to the target surface to maintain the desired proximity range, but the inherent physical contact with the target surface could potentially spread pathogens and could also obstruct the UV light from reaching the target.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states a handheld portable device for sanitizing a surface or air surrounding a surface. The handheld portable device includes a body that comprises a user input and a far-UVC illumination source disposed at the body. The handheld portable device also includes a power source for providing power to the far-UVC illumination source. Responsive to actuating the user input, such as by a user holding the handheld portable device, the far-UVC illumination source emits far-UVC illumination to sanitize the surface or the air surrounding the surface of pathogens.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states a film formation apparatus that is an electrostatic spray apparatus which forms a film on a skin by electrostatic spraying. The electrostatic spray apparatus is of a hand-held type having a shape or size that can be held by the user by hand. A first laser apparatus and a second laser apparatus for irradiating the skin with a first laser beam and a second laser beam are provided. The first laser apparatus and the second laser apparatus are disposed such that the first laser beam and the second laser beam overlap each other at a distance away from a discharge nozzle of the electrostatic spray apparatus.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states a device including a flexible substrate and an ultraviolet radiation system. The ultraviolet radiation system can include at least one ultraviolet radiation source configured to emit ultraviolet radiation towards a surface to be disinfected, an ultraviolet transparent component configured to focus the ultraviolet radiation, and a control system configured to control the at least one ultraviolet radiation source. The device can include a hand article, such as a glove.

<CIT> (Art. <NUM>(<NUM>) EPC), in accordance with its abstract, states an ultraviolet (UV) light pacing system that includes an assembly including a UV lamp configured to emit UV light to disinfect a component. One or more range light sources are configured to emit ranging light. At least one aspect of the ranging light is altered to provide a visual cue for guiding motion of the assembly to disinfect the component. An ultraviolet (UV) light pacing method includes emitting ranging light from one or more range light sources of and assembly having a UV lamp configured to emit UV light to disinfect a surface of a component, and altering at least one aspect of the ranging light to provide a visual cue for guiding motion of the assembly to disinfect the component. Similar devices are also disclosed in <CIT> (Art. <NUM>(<NUM>) EPC) and <CIT> (Art. <NUM>(<NUM>) EPC).

A need exists for a system and a method for efficiently providing ranging guidance which assists the user to maintain the UV light source at a desirable distance from the target disinfecting surface to provide reliable, consistent sanitization.

With those needs in mind, the invention provides a sanitizing head according to claim <NUM>.

Optionally, the exposed perimeter edge may have multiple segments, and the range light sources in each respective pair of the one or more pairs are disposed on a common segment of the multiple segments. Optionally, the exposed perimeter edge may be rectangular with two longer segments that extend between two shorter segments, and the range light sources may be disposed on at least the two longer segments. Optionally, the one or more pairs of range light sources may include at least four pairs, such that at least two of the pairs are disposed on each of the two longer segments of the exposed perimeter edge.

Optionally, the predetermined distance may be no less than <NUM> (<NUM> inch) and no greater than <NUM> (<NUM> inches). Optionally, the light beams emitted by the range light sources in each pair have different colors. Optionally, the range light sources may be light emitting diodes (LEDs) that have a divergence no greater than <NUM> degrees. Optionally, the range light sources in each pair may be oriented at an angle in a range between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees relative to each other.

Optionally, the one or more pairs may include multiple pairs arranged in a first subset of one or more pairs and a second subset of one or more pairs. The range light sources in each pair within the first subset are oriented at a first relative angle, and the range light sources in each pair within the second subset are oriented at a second relative angle that is different from the first relative angle. The first relative angle may be at least <NUM> degrees and no greater than <NUM> degrees, and the second relative angle may be at least <NUM> degrees and less than <NUM> degrees. Optionally, the first relative angle may be approximately <NUM> degrees, and the second relative angle may be approximately <NUM> degrees.

Optionally, the UV lamp may be configured to emit UV light in the far UV range, such that the UV light has a wavelength between <NUM> and <NUM>. Optionally, the UV light may have a wavelength of approximately <NUM>. Optionally, the UV lamp may be configured to emit UV light in the UV-C range, such that the UV light has a wavelength between <NUM> and <NUM>. Optionally, the UV light may have a wavelength of approximately <NUM>.

According to the invention, a portable sanitizing method is provided according to claim <NUM>.

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. Further, references to "one embodiment" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or a plurality of elements having a particular condition can include additional elements not having that condition.

The present invention provides a sanitizing head and a portable sanitizing method that include a UV lamp that emits UV light which neutralizes (such as kills) microbes (for example, viruses and bacteria), while posing no risk to humans. The UV lamp may be used within an internal cabin to decontaminate and kill pathogens. Embodiments of the present invention provide safer and more effective sanitation as compared to certain known UV systems. A sanitizing system includes a sanitizing head that is portable.

The sanitizing head can be manipulated by a user, such as a human or robot, that waves the sanitizing head within the internal cabin to emit UV light onto surfaces within the cabin. The sanitizing head has a housing and an ultraviolet (UV) lamp and range light sources mounted to the housing. The range light sources may be positioned along the length of the housing on both sides of the UV lamp.

The range light sources are configured to help the user maintain a correct range or distance between the UV lamp and the target surface being sanitized to provide effective disinfection of the target surface. For example, the range light sources are arranged in pairs. The two range light sources in each pair are oriented towards each other such that the respective light beams emitted from the two light sources converge at a location in front of the sanitizing head. The two range light sources in each pair are oriented such that the light beams converge at a predetermined distance in front of the sanitizing head that is associated with effective disinfection. The convergence of the lights is visible on the target surface when the sanitizing head is located at the predetermined distance from the target surface which indicates to the user manipulating the sanitizing head that the sanitizing head is properly positioned relative to the target surface to provide effective disinfection of the target surface. If the sanitizing head is located too close to the target surface and/or too far from the target surface, the light beams emitted from the first and second range light source of the pair are spaced apart (e.g., do not converge) on the target surface. The user can see that the two lights are non-converging on the target surface which indicates that the sanitizing head is not properly positioned relative to the target surface for effective disinfection. The range light sources therefore provide active range guidance for the user manipulating the sanitizing head by providing a visual indication of whether or not the sanitizing head is at a correct distance from the target surface.

The range light sources also serve to frame or define the edges of the surface area receiving UV light (e.g., radiation). For example, the UV light emitted from the UV lamp may be difficult or impossible to see on the surface of the structure being disinfected, so the visible light emitted by the range light sources visually indicate the region or surface area of the structure that currently receives UV light. The range light sources may emit a series of small light markers that frame the region being illuminated, without emitting light into a center of the illuminated area. The light emitted by the range light sources does not interfere with the disinfection process.

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a portable sanitizing system for disinfecting surfaces, such as within an internal cabin of a vehicle. The portable sanitizing system includes a wand assembly. The wand assembly may include a housing, a UV lamp, a reflector, mounts to secure the UV lamp to the housing, an inlet to allow air to be drawn across the UV lamp, and a handle for manually grasping and manipulating the wand assembly. The wand assembly, or some components thereof, is referred to herein as a sanitizing head. Optionally, the wand assembly may be coupled, via a hose and/or one or more cables, to a power source, such as a backpack assembly, a carrying case, a wheeled cart, a stationary power source, or the like. For example, the power source can include a main body or housing, one or more batteries (such as rechargeable batteries), a plug for recharging the one or more batteries, an air blower, a carbon filter, an exhaust vent, and/or the like.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a portable sanitizing system <NUM> worn by an individual or user <NUM>, according to an embodiment useful for understanding the present invention. The portable sanitizing system <NUM> includes a wand assembly <NUM> coupled to a backpack assembly <NUM> that is removably secured to the individual through a harness <NUM>. The wand assembly <NUM> includes a sanitizing head <NUM> coupled to a handle <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, the sanitizing head <NUM> is moveably coupled to the handle <NUM> through a coupler <NUM>. In another embodiment, the sanitizing head <NUM> has an integral handle instead of, or in addition to, the handle <NUM> coupled via the coupler <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wand assembly <NUM> is in a stowed position. In the stowed position, the wand assembly <NUM> is removably secured to a portion of the backpack assembly <NUM>, such as through one or more tracks, clips, latches, belts, ties, and/or the like. In another embodiment, the portable sanitizing system <NUM> may include a wheeled assembly that rolls along the ground or a carrying case connected to the wand assembly <NUM> via a hose instead of the backpack assembly <NUM>. In still another embodiment, only the wand assembly <NUM> is portable and is connected to a stationary assembly via a hose <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In another embodiment, the wand assembly <NUM> may be coupled on a device, such as a robot that moves along an interior cabin. The wand assembly <NUM> can be controlled indirectly via controlling the movement of the robot, rather than carrying and manually manipulating the wand assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective top view of the sanitizing head <NUM> of the wand assembly <NUM> according to an embodiment useful for understanding the present invention.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective bottom view of the sanitizing head <NUM> shown in <FIG> illustrates an axial cross-sectional view of the sanitizing head <NUM> through line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, the sanitizing head <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>, a UV lamp <NUM>, and range light sources <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The UV lamp <NUM> and the range light sources <NUM> are mounted to the housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> includes at least a shroud <NUM> and a cover plate <NUM>.

The shroud <NUM> extends from a proximal end <NUM> to a distal end <NUM>. The shroud <NUM> has a port <NUM> at the proximal end <NUM> that couples to a hose <NUM>. The shroud <NUM> is curved to define an interior chamber <NUM>. The shroud <NUM> has an exposed perimeter edge <NUM> at a front <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The exposed perimeter edge <NUM> defines a front opening <NUM> of the housing <NUM> at the front <NUM>. The UV lamp <NUM> is held within the interior chamber <NUM> and emits UV light that exits the interior chamber <NUM> through the front opening <NUM>.

Air <NUM> is configured to be drawn into the sanitizing head <NUM> through one or more openings <NUM> (or simply an open chamber) of the housing <NUM>. The air <NUM> is drawn into the sanitizing head <NUM>, such as via a vacuum generator within the backpack assembly <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The air <NUM> is drawn into the shroud <NUM>, and cools the UV lamp <NUM> as it passes over and around the UV lamp <NUM>. The UV lamp <NUM> may represent an excimer lamp, a mercury lamp, or the like. The air <NUM> passes into the port <NUM> and into the hose <NUM>, such as within an air tube within the hose <NUM>. The air <NUM> not only cools the UV lamp <NUM>, but also removes ozone, which may be generated by operation of the UV lamp <NUM>, within the shroud <NUM>. The air <NUM> may be drawn to an air filter, such as an activated carbon filter, within the backpack assembly <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, the portable sanitizing system <NUM> may also include an alternative ozone mitigation system. As an example, the ozone mitigation system may be disposed in the shroud <NUM> or another portion of the system, and may include an inert gas bath, or a face inert gas system, such as in <CIT>.

Referring to <FIG>, a bumper <NUM> is secured to the exposed perimeter edge <NUM> of the shroud <NUM>. The bumper <NUM> may be formed of a resilient material, such as rubber, another elastomeric material, open or closed cell foam, and/or the like. The bumper <NUM> protects the sanitizing head <NUM> from damage in case the sanitizing head <NUM> inadvertently contacts a surface. The bumper <NUM> also protects the surface from damage.

According to the invention, the bumper <NUM> is transparent or alternatively, in an embodiment which is not part of the present invention, may be at least translucent to enable light transmission therethrough from the range light sources <NUM> (shown in <FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, in particular, the housing <NUM> of the sanitizing head <NUM> may include a cover plate or lens <NUM> that extends at least partially across the front opening <NUM> (below the UV lamp <NUM> in the illustrated orientation). The cover plate <NUM> may be formed of glass, for example, and may be configured to filter UV light emitted by the UV lamp <NUM>. In at least one embodiment, the cover plate <NUM> is or otherwise includes a far UV band pass filter that filters UV light emitted by the UV lamp <NUM> to allow wavelengths in the far UV band to pass through the cover plate <NUM> while blocking other wavelengths. For example, the far UV band pass filter may enable wavelengths between <NUM> and <NUM> to pass through the cover plate <NUM>. In another embodiment, the cover plate <NUM> may be or include a UV-C band pass filter that allows wavelengths in the UV-C band to pass through the cover plate <NUM>, such as wavelengths between <NUM> and <NUM>. The sanitizing head <NUM> may include a reflector <NUM> along an interior surface <NUM> that reflects the UV light towards the front opening <NUM>. The cover plate <NUM> is coupled to the shroud <NUM> at or proximate to the exposed perimeter edge <NUM>. A rim <NUM> (such as a <NUM> (<NUM>") thick Titanium rim) may connect the cover plate <NUM> to the shroud <NUM>. The rim <NUM> may distribute impact loads therethrough and/or therearound.

<FIG> depicts another embodiment of the portable sanitizing system <NUM> worn by an individual or user <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the wand assembly <NUM> lacks the handle <NUM> coupled to the sanitizing head <NUM> that is shown in <FIG>. The sanitizing head <NUM> has a handle <NUM> that is an integral feature of the housing <NUM>. For example, the handle <NUM> may be fixed to a rear <NUM> of the shroud <NUM>. The other components of the portable sanitizing system <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be the same or similar to the embodiment shown in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the cover plate <NUM> and the bumper <NUM> are omitted for descriptive purposes.

The range light sources <NUM> are disposed on the housing <NUM> and used to help the user <NUM> maintain a desired range to the target surface of the structure being sanitized. The range light sources <NUM> may be light emitting diodes (LEDs). In the illustrated embodiment, the range light sources <NUM> are mounted to the shroud <NUM> at or proximate to the exposed perimeter edge <NUM>. For example, the range light sources <NUM> may contact the interior surface <NUM> of the shroud <NUM>. Alternatively, the range light sources <NUM> may be mounted to other parts of the housing <NUM>, such as the rim <NUM> and/or the cover plate <NUM>.

The exposed perimeter edge <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> has multiple segments. In the illustrated embodiment, the edge <NUM> has a rectangular shape that includes two longer segments <NUM> and two shorter segments <NUM>. The longer segments <NUM> have greater lengths than the shorter segments <NUM>. The longer segments <NUM> extend along both sides of the UV lamp <NUM> such that the UV lamp <NUM> is between the two longer segments <NUM>. A length axis of the UV lamp <NUM> is parallel to the longer segments <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the range light sources <NUM> are located on both of the longer segments <NUM> of the exposed perimeter edge <NUM> and are not located on the shorter segments <NUM>. The multiple range light sources <NUM> are disposed on each longer segment <NUM> to define two parallel lines or rows <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of light sources <NUM>. In one or more other embodiments, the range light sources <NUM> are also mounted to the shorter segments <NUM> and/or may be mounted at corners between the shorter and longer segments <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front perspective view of the shroud <NUM> and the range light sources <NUM> according to an embodiment. <FIG> is a side perspective view of a portion of the shroud <NUM> and the range light sources <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The shroud <NUM> may be at least partially translucent such that light emitted from the range light sources <NUM> located inside the shroud <NUM> is visible through the thickness of the shroud <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the range light sources <NUM> are spaced apart from each other along the two parallel rows <NUM>. The range light sources <NUM> may be light emitting diodes (LEDs). The conductive wires and other hardware may be routed along the interior surface <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> and exit through the port <NUM> into the hose <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to connect to an electrical power source, such as a battery in the backpack assembly <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The LEDs may be narrow divergence LEDs that limit the spread of the emitted light. The divergence of the LEDs may be no greater than <NUM> degrees, such as no greater than <NUM> degrees. In a non-limiting example, the divergence may be no greater than <NUM> degrees. Alternatively, the LEDs may not be narrow divergence LEDs. As shown in <FIG>, each range light source <NUM> emits respective light or light beam forward of the shroud <NUM> that illuminates a nearby structure <NUM> to form a respective light marker <NUM> on the target surface <NUM> of the structure <NUM>. The light markers <NUM> in <FIG> are approximately circular or ellipsoidal in shape.

Referring to <FIG>, the range light sources <NUM> are arranged in one or more pairs <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, there are multiple pairs <NUM>, but only a single pair <NUM> of range light sources <NUM> may be utilized in a basic embodiment. The range light sources <NUM> in each pair <NUM> are oriented relative to each other to emit respective light beams that converge at a predetermined distance in front of the UV lamp <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). For example, the two range light sources <NUM> in each pair <NUM> may be angled towards each other such that an aiming axis <NUM> of the first range light source <NUM> and an aiming axis <NUM> of the second range light source <NUM> in the pair <NUM> intersect at the predetermined distance. The light beams are emitted generally along the respective aiming axes <NUM>, <NUM>. The range light sources <NUM> in the pair <NUM> may be oriented relative to each other at an angle <NUM> (defined between the axes <NUM>, <NUM>) that is in a range between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees. As described herein, ranges referred to as being "between" two end values are inclusive of the end values unless specifically addressed. The angle <NUM> may be between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees. The angle <NUM> is determined based on the intended sanitizing application and the known characteristics of the UV light that is emitted. More specifically, the angle <NUM> is determined such that the convergence occurs at a designated distance in front of the UV lamp that corresponds to a desired proximity of the UV lamp to the target surface which yields effective disinfection.

The two range light sources <NUM> in each pair <NUM> may emit different colored light in order to visually distinguish between the light emitted from the different light sources <NUM>. For example, the light marker <NUM> in <FIG> emitted by a first range light source 130A of a pair <NUM> may be a difference color than the light marker <NUM> emitted by a second range light source 130B of the pair <NUM>. In an example, the first range light source 130A may emit blue or green light, and the second range light source 130B may emit amber, yellow, orange, or red light.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the two range light sources <NUM> in each pair <NUM> are adjacent to each other and located on a common segment <NUM> of the shroud <NUM>. The two light sources <NUM> in each pair <NUM> may be separated by a discrete spacing distance, such as <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (<NUM> inch, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches, <NUM> inches), or the like. The spacing distance also affects the relative angle <NUM> at which the light sources <NUM> are oriented in order to provide converging light at a designated distance in front of the UV lamp <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the shroud <NUM> includes three discrete pair <NUM> of range light sources <NUM> on each of the two longer segments <NUM>, for a total of twelve range light sources <NUM>. The number and arrangement of the range light sources <NUM> may be based on the dimensions of the shroud <NUM> such that more or fewer light sources <NUM> can be used in other embodiments. Optionally, the shroud <NUM> may include molded bulges <NUM> along an exterior surface <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> at the locations of the range light sources <NUM>. The bulges <NUM> protrude outward to provide individual spaces for the range light sources <NUM> within the shroud <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts five images <NUM>-<NUM> showing the light markers <NUM> emitted by a pair <NUM> of range light sources <NUM> from different distances relative to a target surface <NUM>. <FIG> shows how the relative positioning of the light markers <NUM> can provide guidance to a user concerning whether the sanitizing head <NUM> is located at a desired distance from the target surface <NUM> to provide effective disinfection. For example, the first image <NUM> shows the light markers <NUM> at a distance of <NUM> (<NUM> inch) from the surface <NUM>. The second image <NUM> shows the light markers <NUM> at a distance of <NUM> (<NUM> inches) from the surface <NUM>. The third image <NUM> shows the light markers <NUM> at a distance of <NUM> (<NUM> inches) from the surface <NUM>. The fourth image <NUM> shows the light markers <NUM> at a distance of <NUM> (<NUM> inches) from the surface <NUM>, and the fifth image <NUM> shows the light markers <NUM> at a distance of <NUM> (<NUM> inches) from the surface <NUM>. The distances may be refer to the distance between the UV lamp <NUM> and the area of the target surface <NUM> that is illuminated by the UV light emitted by the UV lamp <NUM>. The light markers <NUM> include a first light marker 176A and a second light marker 176B that have different colors and are emitted by different range light sources <NUM> in a single pair <NUM>. For example, the first light marker 176A may be amber, and the second light marker 176B may be blue.

In the illustrated embodiment, the two range light sources <NUM> in the pair <NUM> are intentionally oriented for the light beams emitted from the light sources to converge at a distance of <NUM> (<NUM> inches). That convergence distance may be determined based on characteristics of the UV light and/or disinfecting properties. For example, that convergence distance may represent a distance in which the UV light provides desirable sanitization to kill or neutralize pathogens. When the sanitizing head <NUM> is held too close to the target surface <NUM>, such as at <NUM> (<NUM> inches) as shown in image <NUM>, the first and second markers 176A, 176B are generally discrete with little or no overlap. The lack of overlap is visible to the user which indicates that the sanitizing head <NUM> is not in correct position. The user moves the sanitizing head <NUM> closer or farther from the surface <NUM> to cause the markers 176A, 176B to move together. In this case, moving the sanitizing head <NUM> farther away to <NUM> (<NUM> inches) as shown in image <NUM> causes the markers 176A, 176B to partially converge and define an overlap region <NUM>. The overlap region <NUM> is the area that is concurrently illuminated by both of the range image sources <NUM> in the pair <NUM>. The overlap region <NUM> may have a different color than the individual markers 176A, 176B, such as a lighter or whiter color. As the sanitizing head <NUM> is moved even farther away from the surface <NUM>, the size of the overlap region <NUM> increases until the distance reaches <NUM> (<NUM> inches) as shown in image <NUM>. In image <NUM>, the two markers 176A, 176B almost completely overlap such that there is essentially only one light marker now instead of two. This large overlap region <NUM> (e.g., and the singular marker) indicate to the user that the sanitizing head <NUM> is positioned at a desirable height or distance from the target surface <NUM> to provide effective disinfecting.

Additional movement of the sanitizing head <NUM> away from the target surface <NUM> causes the overlap region <NUM> to shrink as the discrete amber and blue light markers 176A, 176B become visible and move apart from each other, which is shown in images <NUM> and <NUM>. Although the visual cues shown in images <NUM> and <NUM> look similar, the user can quickly determine if the sanitizing head <NUM> should be moved closer or farther from the target surface <NUM> to achieve the desired positioning by moving the sanitizing head <NUM> closer or farther from the surface <NUM> and observing whether the individual markers 176A, 176B move closer together or farther away. If the markers 176A, 176B diverge even more, then that indicates that the sanitizing head <NUM> should be moved in the opposite direction.

<FIG> is an end view of the sanitizing head <NUM> showing the light markers <NUM> on the target surface <NUM> that is being sanitized. <FIG> is a side perspective view showing the sanitizing head <NUM> used to sanitize and disinfect an instrument panel <NUM>. The light markers <NUM> illuminate the target surface <NUM> in two parallel rows <NUM>, <NUM>. The two rows <NUM>, <NUM> can provide a visual indication to the user of the area that is being disinfected. For example, the intervening area <NUM> between the two rows <NUM>, <NUM> is illuminated with UV light from the UV lamp <NUM>. In addition to provided range guidance in the depth dimension, by bordering or framing the UV illuminated area <NUM>, the range light sources <NUM> help the user determine which section of the target surface <NUM> is receiving a dose of UV radiation (e.g., is being disinfected) at any given time. The user may not be able to see the UV light itself.

<FIG> is a diagram showing multiple relative angles between the two range light sources <NUM> in a pair <NUM> according to an embodiment. The LEDs used for the range light sources <NUM> may have a narrow divergence of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees. The relative angle 184A, 184B in the housing <NUM> is predetermined based on the type of UV lamp <NUM> used and the intended use of the disinfecting system. For example, when disinfecting flat surfaces, such as a cabin area within a vehicle, a desirable distance between the UV lamp <NUM> and the target surface may be between <NUM> and <NUM> (<NUM> and <NUM> inches), inclusive of the end points. In an embodiment, the desirable distance may be approximately <NUM> (<NUM> inches). Based on a predetermined separation distance between each other, the range light sources <NUM> in the pair <NUM> may be set at an angle of approximately <NUM> degrees from one another. At this angle, the light beams emitted from the two light sources <NUM> will converge at a distance in front of the sanitizing head <NUM> that matches the desired distance, such as <NUM> (<NUM> inches). Therefore, when the markers converge at the overlap region as shown in image <NUM> of <FIG>, that indicates to the user that the sanitizing head <NUM> is at the correct distance <NUM> from the target surface for the intended application.

When disinfecting surfaces with protrusions, such as a flight deck of an aircraft, a desirable distance between the UV lamp <NUM> and the target surface may be between <NUM> and <NUM> (<NUM> and <NUM> inches), inclusive of the end points. The desirable distance <NUM> may be approximately <NUM> (<NUM> inches) (e.g., within <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or <NUM>% of <NUM> (<NUM> inches)). At the same predetermined separation distance, the range light sources <NUM> in the pair <NUM> may be set at an angle of approximately <NUM> degrees from one another. At this angle, the light beams emitted from the two light sources <NUM> will converge at a distance in front of the sanitizing head <NUM> that matches the desired distance, such as <NUM> (<NUM> inches). Therefore, when the markers converge at the overlap region as shown in image <NUM> of <FIG>, that indicates to the user that the sanitizing head <NUM> is at the correct distance <NUM> from the target surface for the intended application.

<FIG> is a diagram showing three range light sources <NUM> according to an alternative embodiment. The sanitizing head <NUM> may include at least one pair of range light sources <NUM> arranged in a first subset <NUM> and at least one pair of range light sources <NUM> arranged in a second subset <NUM>. Each of the subsets <NUM>, <NUM> may include one pair or multiple pairs of range light sources <NUM>. The pairs in the first subset <NUM> are oriented at a different relative angle than the pairs in the second subset <NUM>. For example, the pairs in the first subset <NUM> may have a first relative angle 184A that is greater than a second relative angle 184B of the pairs in the second subset <NUM>. The first relative angle 184A may be at least <NUM> degrees and no greater than <NUM> degrees. In a non-limiting example, the first relative angle 184A is approximately <NUM> degrees. The second relative angle 184B may be no less than <NUM> degrees and less than <NUM> degrees. In a non-limiting example, the second relative angle 184B is approximately <NUM> degrees. The range light sources <NUM> may be selectively controlled via the user or an automated control system to individually operate the first and second subsets <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the first subset <NUM> can be operated without the second subset <NUM> for a first intended application, and the second subset <NUM> can be operated without the first subset <NUM> for a second intended application. The first intended application could be to clean a cabin area within a vehicle, and the second intended application could be to clean a flight deck of an aircraft.

Optionally, at least one range light source <NUM> can define part of two different pairs. For example, the illustrated diagram shows a first range light source 130A, a second range light source 130B, and a third range light source 130C. The second and third range light sources 130B, 130C may emit the same colored light, such as blue light. The first range light source 130A defines a pair in the first subset <NUM> with the second range light source 130B. The first range light source 130A defines a pair in the second subset <NUM> with the third range light source 130C. The third range light source 130C represents one of an alternate set of LEDs along one side of the housing <NUM>. The second and third range light sources 130B, 130C are disposed on the same side of the housing <NUM> but set at different angles to allow the user to switch the optimum disinfecting distance based on the intended use. A switch can be installed to change the focus from <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM> inches to <NUM> inches) depending upon the desired range (switching from blue LED1 to blue LED2) without changing the red LED 130A.

<FIG> illustrates an ultraviolet light spectrum. In an embodiment, the sanitizing head <NUM> may be configured to emit sanitizing UV light (through operation of the UV lamp <NUM>) within a far UV spectrum, such as between <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, the sanitizing head <NUM> may emit sanitizing UV light having a wavelength of approximately <NUM>. In another embodiment, the sanitizing head <NUM> may be configured to emit sanitizing UV light (through operation of the UV lamp <NUM>) within a UV-C spectrum, such as between <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, the sanitizing head <NUM> may emit sanitizing UV light having a wavelength of approximately <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft <NUM>, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The aircraft <NUM> includes a propulsion system <NUM> that includes engines <NUM>, for example. Optionally, the propulsion system <NUM> may include more engines <NUM> than shown. The engines <NUM> are carried by wings <NUM> of the aircraft <NUM>. In other embodiments, the engines <NUM> may be carried by a fuselage <NUM> and/or an empennage <NUM>. The empennage <NUM> may also support horizontal stabilizers <NUM> and a vertical stabilizer <NUM>.

The fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft <NUM> defines an internal cabin <NUM>, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (for example, galleys, personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), one or more passenger sections (for example, first class, business class, and coach sections), one or more lavatories, and/or the like. The internal cabin <NUM> includes one or more lavatory systems, lavatory units, or lavatories, as described herein.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the present invention may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train cars, watercraft, and the like. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

<FIG> illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin <NUM> of an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The internal cabin <NUM> may be within the fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft, such as the fuselage <NUM> of <FIG>. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the internal cabin <NUM>. The internal cabin <NUM> includes multiple sections, including a front section <NUM>, a first class section <NUM>, a business class section <NUM>, a front galley station <NUM>, an expanded economy or coach section <NUM>, a standard economy of coach section <NUM>, and an aft section <NUM>, which may include multiple lavatories and galley stations. It is to be understood that the internal cabin <NUM> may include more or less sections than shown. For example, the internal cabin <NUM> may not include a first class section, and may include more or less galley stations than shown. Each of the sections may be separated by a cabin transition area <NUM>, which may include class divider assemblies between aisles <NUM>.

The aisles <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> extend to egress paths or door passageways <NUM>. Exit doors <NUM> are located at ends of the egress paths <NUM>. The egress paths <NUM> may be perpendicular to the aisles <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The internal cabin <NUM> may include more egress paths <NUM> at different locations than shown. The portable sanitizing system <NUM> shown and described with respect to <FIG> may be used to sanitize various structures within the internal cabin <NUM>, such as passenger seats, monuments, stowage bin assemblies, components on and within lavatories, galley equipment and components, and/or the like.

<FIG> illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin <NUM> of an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The internal cabin <NUM> is an example of the internal cabin <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The internal cabin <NUM> may be within a fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define the internal cabin <NUM>. The internal cabin <NUM> includes multiple sections, including a main cabin <NUM> having passenger seats <NUM>, and an aft section <NUM> behind the main cabin <NUM>. It is to be understood that the internal cabin <NUM> may include more or less sections than shown.

The aisle <NUM> extends to an egress path or door passageway <NUM>. Exit doors <NUM> are located at ends of the egress path <NUM>. The egress path <NUM> may be perpendicular to the aisle <NUM>. The internal cabin <NUM> may include more egress paths than shown. The portable sanitizing system <NUM> shown and described with respect to <FIG> may be used to sanitize various structures within the internal cabin <NUM>, such as passenger seats, monuments, stowage bin assemblies, components on and within lavatories, galley equipment and components, and/or the like.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin <NUM> of an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The internal cabin <NUM> includes outboard walls <NUM> connected to a ceiling <NUM>. Windows <NUM> may be formed within the outboard walls <NUM>. A floor <NUM> supports rows of seats <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a row <NUM> may include two seats <NUM> on either side of an aisle <NUM>. However, the row <NUM> may include more or less seats <NUM> than shown. Additionally, the internal cabin <NUM> may include more aisles than shown.

Overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> are secured to the ceiling <NUM> and/or the outboard wall <NUM> above and inboard from the PSU <NUM> on either side of the aisle <NUM>. The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> are secured over the seats <NUM>. The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> extend between the front and rear end of the internal cabin <NUM>. Each stowage bin assembly <NUM> may include a pivot bin or bucket <NUM> pivotally secured to a strongback (hidden from view in <FIG>). The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> may be positioned above and inboard from lower surfaces of the PSUs <NUM>. The overhead stowage bin assemblies <NUM> are configured to be pivoted open in order to receive passenger carry-on baggage and personal items, for example.

The portable sanitizing system <NUM> shown and described with respect to <FIG> may be used to sanitize various structures shown within the internal cabin <NUM>. Appendix B shows the portable sanitizing system <NUM> being used to sanitize various components within a cockpit or flight deck of an aircraft.

When not in use, the portable sanitizing system <NUM> may be stored within a closet, galley cart bay, or galley cart, such as within the internal cabin of the vehicle.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective internal view of a lavatory <NUM> within an internal cabin of a vehicle, such as any of the internal cabins described herein. The lavatory <NUM> is an example of an enclosed space, monument, or chamber, such as within the internal cabin a vehicle. The lavatory <NUM> may be onboard an aircraft, as described above. Optionally, the lavatory <NUM> may be onboard various other vehicles. In other embodiments, the lavatory <NUM> may be within a fixed structure, such as a commercial or residential building. The lavatory <NUM> includes a base floor <NUM> that supports a toilet <NUM>, cabinets <NUM>, and a sink <NUM> or wash basin. The lavatory <NUM> may be arranged differently than shown. The lavatory <NUM> may include more or less components than shown. The portable sanitizing system <NUM> shown and described with respect to <FIG> may be used to sanitize the various structures, components, and surfaces within the lavatory <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a flow chart of a portable sanitizing method, according to an embodiment useful for understanding the present invention.

The method includes emitting (<NUM>) UV light from a sanitizing head <NUM> that includes an ultraviolet (UV) lamp <NUM>.

The method also includes emitting (<NUM>) a first light beam from a first range light source 130A mounted on the sanitizing head <NUM> and a second light beam from a second range light source 130B mounted on the sanitizing head <NUM>. The first and second range light sources 130A, 130B are arranged in a pair <NUM> and oriented relative to each other such that the respective light beams converge at a predetermined distance in front of the UV lamp <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the portable sanitizing system <NUM> can be used to safely and effectively sanitize high-touch surfaces in the flight deck and internal cabin in a timely and cost-effective manner. UV disinfection allows the internal cabin to be quickly and effectively disinfected, such as between flights. In at least one embodiment, the portable sanitizing system <NUM> is used to augment or modify a cleaning process, such as to augment manual cleaning or to replace manual cleaning.

The pairs of range light sources provide range guidance to the user manipulating the portable sanitizing head by providing visual feedback that indicates whether the sanitizing head is too close to, too far from, or at a desired distance from the target surface of the structure that is being disinfected. For example, each pair of different colored LED lights (e.g., amber and blue) converge into one light marker to indicate the sanitizing head is at a desired distance from the target surface. The range lights also visually indicate the edges of the area that is cleaned by the UV light because the UV light itself may be difficult to visualize.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the range light sources may be arranged in two rows with the UV lamp disposed between the two rows. Optionally, the LED range lights are narrow field of view LEDs positioned along both sides of the length of the housing at an exposed perimeter edge at the front of the housing. The two range light sources in each pair may be disposed adjacent each other in the same row and spaced apart by a designated spacing, such as <NUM> (two inches).

The form factor of the portable sanitizing system can vary for different applications. For example, the system can include a backpack assembly that is coupled to the sanitizing head (or wand) via a hose. In another example, the system can include a carrying case that is coupled to the sanitizing head via a hose. The carrying case may be smaller than the backpack assembly and may lack shoulder straps. For example, the carrying case may have a handle for carrying the case by hand. In another example, the system can include a wheeled case that is coupled to the sanitizing head via a hose. In still another example, the hose can be relatively long and coupled to a fixed structure, such as a stationary power source mounted in a vehicle or in a building. The sanitizing head is portable, while tethered to the power source via the hose, to sanitizing the internal cabin of the vehicle or building. For each of the described examples, the hose can be used to supply to or draw air across the UV lamp at the sanitizing head, and may also be used to power the UV lamp and the range light sources.

As described herein, embodiments of the present invention provide systems and a methods for efficiently sterilizing surfaces, components, structures, and/or the like within an internal cabin of a vehicle. Further, embodiments of the present invention provide compact, easy-to-use, and safe systems and methods for using UV light to sterilize surfaces within an internal cabin.

Also provided are the following illustrative, non-exhaustive examples of further non-claimed embodiments that are compatible with the claimed subject matter:
In the claimed method, the first light beam and the second light beam may have different colors.

The method further may comprise: mounting the first and second range light sources at a relative angle on the housing to cause the first and second light beams to converge at a predetermined distance that is no less than <NUM> (<NUM> inch) and no greater than <NUM> (<NUM> inches) from the UV lamp.

The first and second range light sources may represent a pair within a first subset of one or more pairs of range light sources. The method may further comprise deactivating the first subset and activating a second subset of one or more pairs of the range light sources. The one or more pairs in the second subset may have a different relative angle between the range light sources than the one or more pairs in the first subset.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like can be used to describe embodiments of the present invention, it is understood that such terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in the drawings.

As used herein, value modifiers such as "about" and "approximately" inserted before a numerical value indicate that the value can represent other values within a designated threshold range above and/or below the specified value, such as values within <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or <NUM>% of the specified value.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments.

While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the invention, the embodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims.

In the appended claims and the detailed description herein, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein. " Moreover, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

This written description uses examples to disclose the various embodiments of the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the invention,.

Claim 1:
A sanitizing head (<NUM>) comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) that retains an ultraviolet UV lamp (<NUM>), wherein UV light emitted from the UV lamp (<NUM>) exits through a front end (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>), said housing (<NUM>) including a shroud (<NUM>) that defines a front opening (<NUM>);
a bumper (<NUM>) secured to an exposed perimeter edge (<NUM>) of the shroud (<NUM>); and
multiple range light sources (<NUM>) secured to the housing (<NUM>) and arranged in one or more pairs (<NUM>), the range light sources (<NUM>) in each pair (<NUM>) of the one or more pairs oriented relative to each other to emit respective light beams that converge at a predetermined distance in front of the UV lamp (<NUM>), wherein the bumper (<NUM>) is transparent to transmit the emitted light beams from the range light sources (<NUM>);
wherein the range light sources (<NUM>) are spaced apart along the exposed perimeter edge (<NUM>) of the shroud (<NUM>) at the front opening (<NUM>).