Patent Description:
Ultraviolet ("UV") light includes light at wavelengths in the band of about <NUM> to about <NUM>. Within the UV light band are several sub-bands of light typically referred to as "UVA", "UVB", and "UVC". The UVC light sub-band is typically referred to as being about <NUM> to about <NUM>. Some UVC wavelengths are known to produce germicidal effects on certain harmful microorganisms (e.g., bacterial viruses, mold, and other pathogens) when the aforesaid microorganisms are exposed to the UVC wavelengths at an adequate intensity for a sufficient duration. For example, UVC light may be used to disinfect food and water products. The UVC light may be absorbed by one or more constituents (e.g., proteins, DNA molecules, or the like) within the microorganism, causing the constituent to morph into a form where the ability of the microorganism to replicate or perform other vital biologic functions is negatively affected, and/or is destroyed.

Handheld devices such as smart phones are ubiquitous today and are notorious transporters of microorganisms. Studies have indicated that people check their phone as many as seventeen times a day, and that phones have been found to carry over seventeen thousand bacterial gene copies. Clearly, there is a need for an apparatus that can disinfect a handheld device, including one that can disinfect a handheld device having sensitive electronics such as a smart phone without detriment to the electronics. This has been particularly true during the Covid-<NUM> pandemic. In addition, there is a need for an apparatus that can disinfect a handheld device that permits performance monitoring and additional functionality. <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> disclose apparatuses to disinfect handheld devices.

The present invention is directed to an apparatus according to present claim <NUM> and to a method according to present claim <NUM>. The present disclosure encompasses aspects which are not necessarily part of the invention. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus for disinfecting a handheld electronic device is provided. The apparatus includes an enclosure, one or more light sources, a disinfecting chamber, a display device, and a controller. The one or more light sources are disposed within the enclosure. The light sources configured to emit one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light. The disinfecting chamber has an interior chamber configured to receive a handheld electronic device, and is configured to receive the one or more wavelengths of light within the interior chamber. The display device is configured to display information. The controller is in communication with the at least one or more light sources, the display device, and a non-transitory memory storing instructions, which instructions when executed cause the controller to: a) control the one or more light sources to emit the one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light for a period of time sufficient to produce a germicidal effect on one or more microorganisms; and b) control the display device to display information during at least the period of time the one or more light sources are controlled to emit the one or more wavelengths of light.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the apparatus may further include a device elevator system configured to move the handheld electronic device within the interior chamber along a lengthwise axis of the disinfecting chamber relative to the one or more light sources. The instructions when executed cause the controller to control the device elevator system to move the handheld electronic device within the interior chamber relative to the one or more light sources a distance sufficient for substantially all of a length of the handheld device to be interrogated with the one or more wavelengths of light emitted from the one or more light sources.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the one or more light sources may include a first light source module in communication with a first side of the disinfecting chamber, and a second light source module in communication with a second side of the disinfecting chamber, wherein the first side of the disinfecting chamber is opposite the second side of the disinfecting chamber and the interior chamber is disposed therebetween.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the first and second light source modules may each include a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED), and each LED is configured to selectively produce at least one of the one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the apparatus may include a cooling system configured to move ambient air through an interior region of the enclosure. The instructions when executed may cause the controller to control the cooling system to selectively move ambient air through the interior region of the chamber.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the cooling system may include one or more temperature sensors that produce a signal and the instructions when executed cause the controller to control the cooling system to selectively move ambient air through the interior region of the chamber based at least in part on the signals from the one or more temperature sensors.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the enclosure may include an enclosure door that is positionable in a closed position and an open position, and in the closed position the enclosure defines an interior region of the enclosure. The enclosure door may include a port that is aligned with the disinfecting chamber, such that the handheld electronic device inserted within the port will be aligned with the disinfecting chamber for receipt within the interior chamber of the disinfecting chamber.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the instructions when executed may cause the controller to determine and record operational information relating to the one or more light sources.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the operational information may include a number of operational cycles performed by at least one of the one or more light sources, or a cumulative operating time of the at least one of the one or more light sources, or both.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the instructions when executed may cause the controller to communicate the operational information to a remote monitoring station.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the instructions when executed may cause the controller to control the display device to display non-operational information during at least the period of time.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the controller may be in communication with a remote source that selectively provides the non-operational information.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the non-operational information may include third-party advertisements.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method of disinfecting a handheld electronic device is provided. The method includes: a) providing an apparatus having an enclosure, one or more light sources disposed within the enclosure, each light source configured to emit one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light, a disinfecting chamber having an interior chamber configured to receive a handheld electronic device, the disinfecting chamber configured to receive the one or more wavelengths of light within the interior chamber, and a display device configured to display information; b) disposing the handheld electronic device within the interior chamber of the disinfecting chamber; c) using the one or more light sources to interrogate the handheld electronic device with the one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light for a period of time sufficient to produce a germicidal effect on one or more microorganisms; and d) controlling the display device to display information during at least the period of time the one or more light sources are used to interrogate the handheld device with the one or more wavelengths of light.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the method may further include using a device elevator system to move the handheld electronic device within the interior chamber along a lengthwise axis of the disinfecting chamber relative to the one or more light sources a distance sufficient for substantially all of a length of the handheld device to be interrogated with the one or more wavelengths of light emitted from the one or more light sources.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the method may further include determining and recording operational information relating to the one or more light sources, the operational information including a number of operational cycles performed by at least one of the one or more light sources, or a cumulative operating time of the at least one of the one or more light sources, or both.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the method may further include controlling the display device to display non-operational information, and/or may include communicating with a remote source that selectively provides the non-operational information.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the non-operational information may include advertising information.

In any of the aspects or embodiments described above and herein, the apparatus is controlled by a custodial party and the custodial party may provide the non-operational information displayed.

Referring to <FIG>, the present disclosure is directed to an apparatus <NUM> and method for disinfecting handheld electronic devices <NUM>. The disinfecting process utilizes UV light at wavelengths that produce germicidal effects on certain harmful microorganisms (e.g., bacterial viruses, mold, and other pathogens). Embodiments of the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> include an enclosure <NUM>, one or more light sources <NUM>, a disinfecting chamber <NUM>, and a controller <NUM> that operate in concert to selectively subject surfaces of a handheld electronic device <NUM> to the aforesaid UV light to produce desired germicidal effects. As will be described herein, aspects of the present disclosure may also include the collection of data relating to the operation of the apparatus <NUM> that may be used to enhance the reliability and performance of the apparatus <NUM>, and may also include means for providing information to users of the apparatus <NUM>.

The enclosure <NUM> includes an enclosure door <NUM> having a top panel <NUM>, a first side panel <NUM>, a second side panel <NUM> opposite the first side panel <NUM>, and a front panel <NUM>. The top panel <NUM>, first and second side panels <NUM>, <NUM>, and the front panel <NUM> may be attached to one another to form a unitary door <NUM>. In those embodiments that include a pedestal <NUM>, the door <NUM> may be pivotally mounted to the pedestal <NUM> or to an enclosure back panel <NUM>. In those apparatus <NUM> embodiments that are configured to be mounted to a surface, the door <NUM> may be pivotally mounted to the enclosure back panel <NUM> or otherwise pivotally attached. The door <NUM> is positionable (e.g., pivotable) between a closed position and an open position, and in the open position components of the apparatus <NUM> are accessible. In the closed position, the door <NUM> defines an interior region <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. The present disclosure is not limited to an enclosure <NUM> having a door <NUM> that is pivotally mounted; e.g., the door <NUM> may be a unitary component that can be removed to gain access to the enclosure interior region <NUM>. In the embodiments shown in <FIG>, the top panel <NUM> of the enclosure door <NUM> includes a port <NUM> for receiving a handheld electronic device <NUM>. The present disclosure is not limited to having a port <NUM> disposed in the top panel <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, a port <NUM> for receiving a handheld electronic device <NUM> may be disposed in a side panel <NUM>, <NUM> or the front panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may include one or more cooling vents <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, cooling vents <NUM> are disposed in the side panels <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more cooling vents <NUM> may be disposed in locations such as in a front panel <NUM>, a back panel <NUM>, or in a bottom panel <NUM> as an alternative to being disposed in a side panel <NUM>, <NUM>, or in addition to a cooling vent <NUM> disposed in a side panel <NUM>, <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> or the enclosure <NUM> may include a port door <NUM> that can be translated (or rotated) from a closed door position where the door <NUM> covers or blocks the port <NUM> to an open door position where the port door <NUM> does not cover or block the port <NUM> and thereby allows a handheld electronic device <NUM> to be inserted into the enclosure <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an apparatus <NUM> with a port door <NUM> disposed in the closed door position and <FIG> and <FIG> illustrates an apparatus <NUM> with a port door <NUM> disposed in the open door position. The port door <NUM> may be configured for manual movement or automated movement (e.g., movement by mechanical means). The apparatus <NUM> may be configured so that the port door <NUM> assumes a default closed door position when the apparatus <NUM> is not operating and when the apparatus <NUM> is operating with a handheld electronic device <NUM> loaded. The apparatus <NUM> may be configured such that the port door <NUM> assumes the open door configuration when a device <NUM> is to be loaded, when it is being loaded, and when a handheld electronic device <NUM> is being ejected subsequent to being sanitized. In the closed door position, the port door <NUM> blocks the light produced by the light source <NUM> from escaping the enclosure <NUM> to avoid a user being interrogated with such light. The apparatus <NUM> is not limited to any particular port door <NUM> actuation mechanism. Automated port door <NUM> actuation mechanisms may include positional limit switches and the like in communication with other apparatus <NUM> components such as the handheld electronic device conveyor <NUM> (e.g., an elevator system <NUM>). An automated port door <NUM> mechanism may be operated as a result of an input command; e.g., a user touching an input device such as a touch screen or an "on" button or the like. In some embodiments, an automated port door <NUM> mechanism may be configured to open based on input from a sensor such as a proximity switch, a motion sensor, or the like that senses the presence of a user in close proximity to the apparatus <NUM>. The present disclosure is not limited to including an automated port door <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, a port door <NUM> in the form of a pliable member or members may be disposed proximate the enclosure port, which member(s) deflect to allow a handheld electronic device <NUM> to be inserted and removed from the apparatus <NUM> and assume a closed door position that blocks light when the apparatus <NUM> is not in use or when a handheld device is fully inserted into the apparatus <NUM>.

The one or more light sources <NUM> are configured to produce wavelengths of light within the UVC sub-band; i.e., wavelengths in a nominal range of about <NUM> to about <NUM>. Light sources <NUM> that produce wavelengths of light in a nominal range between about <NUM> and <NUM> are understood to be particularly useful. A light source <NUM> that produces light at a nominal wavelength of <NUM> is a specific example having particular germicidal utility. A non-limiting example of a light source <NUM> that may be used in the present apparatus <NUM> is a light emitting diode (LED) that is configured to produce the aforesaid wavelengths; e.g., LEDs that produce light in the range of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, with a nominal wavelength of <NUM>. The present disclosure is not limited to using LEDs or any other particular light source; e.g., a broader band light source in combination with filters that permit passage of the aforesaid wavelengths may be used in some embodiments. As will be described herein, the one or more light sources <NUM> may include a plurality of light source modules 26A, 26B.

The disinfection chamber <NUM> may be disposed internally within the apparatus <NUM> and defines an interior chamber <NUM> configured to receive the handheld electronic device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the disinfection chamber <NUM> may be configured to locate the one or more light sources <NUM> such that light produced by the light sources <NUM> will interrogate surfaces of the handheld electronic device <NUM> when the handheld electronic device <NUM> is received within the interior chamber <NUM> of the disinfection chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, the disinfection chamber <NUM> may be configured to substantially prevent any interrogating light from exiting the interior chamber <NUM> and may include reflective surfaces disposed relative to the interior chamber <NUM> to promote the light interrogation of the handheld electronic device <NUM> surfaces when the device is disposed in the interior chamber <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> is in communication with the light source <NUM> and other components to control and/or receive signals therefrom to perform the functions described herein. The controller <NUM> may include any type of computing device, computational circuit, processor(s), CPU, computer, or the like (collectively referred to hereinafter as a processor) capable of executing a series of instructions that are stored in memory. The controller <NUM> may have a single processor or multiple processors. Components (e.g., display device <NUM>) of the apparatus <NUM> may include one or more processors that are in communication with a controller processor. The instructions may include an operating system, and/or executable software modules such as program files, system data, buffers, drivers, utilities, and the like. The executable instructions may apply to any functionality described herein. The controller <NUM> may include a single memory device or a plurality of memory devices. The present disclosure is not limited to any particular type of memory device, and may include non-transitory memory, read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digital information. Components within the apparatus <NUM> may include a memory device that is directly or indirectly in communication with a controller processor. The controller <NUM> may include, or may be in communication with, an input device that enables a user to enter data and/or instructions, and may include, or be in communication with, an output device configured, for example to display information (e.g., a visual display or a printer), etc. A person of skill in the art will recognize that portions of the controller <NUM> may assume various forms (e.g., digital signal processor, analog device, etc.) capable of performing the functions described herein. The controller <NUM> and other apparatus components may be in communication with one another by wired or wireless connection, or any combination thereof.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> include an internal power supply <NUM> configured for connection to an external power supply; e.g., <NUM>-264Vac AC power. The present disclosure apparatus <NUM> is not limited to including an internal power supply <NUM>; e.g., some embodiments may utilize an external power supply. In addition, some embodiments may be configured to utilize a stored electrical energy source such as a battery or the like as the sole power source for the apparatus <NUM>, or in combination with a power source connectable to an external power supply.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure may include a conveyor <NUM> controllable to move a handheld electronic device <NUM> relative to the one or more light sources <NUM> to facilitate exposing the entirety of the handheld electronic device <NUM> to interrogating light from the light sources <NUM>. As will be described herein, in some embodiments the conveyor <NUM> may be configured as a device elevator system <NUM> that is configured to move a handheld electronic device <NUM> along an axis (e.g., a vertical axis aligned with a gravitational vector) relative to one or more stationary light sources <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured such that the handheld electronic device <NUM> and the one or more light sources <NUM> are both translatable relative to one another to cause the entirety of the handheld electronic device <NUM> to be exposed to interrogating light, or the apparatus <NUM> may be configured so that the one or more light sources <NUM> are translatable relative to a stationary handheld electronic device <NUM>. The present disclosure does not require a conveyor <NUM> or a configuration wherein one or both of the handheld electronic device <NUM> and the light sources <NUM> are moved relative to one another; e.g., the apparatus <NUM> may be configured with light sources <NUM> that interrogate the entirety of a device <NUM> held in a stationary position within the disinfection chamber <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> may include a cooling system <NUM> for cooling apparatus components disposed within the enclosure <NUM>. The cooling system <NUM> may include a means of driving ambient air through the enclosure <NUM> such as a fan <NUM>. The cooling system <NUM> may be configured to operate in a variety of different ways; e.g., the cooling system <NUM> automatically engages when a device <NUM> is being sanitized, or engages when the air temperature within the enclosure <NUM> exceeds a predetermined value, or engages when the temperature of a component disposed within the enclosure <NUM> exceeds a predetermined value, or the like. For example, the controller <NUM> may be configured (via stored instructions) to activate a cooling fan <NUM> as soon as the light source modules 26A, 26B are activated, or if the light sources 26A, 26B have been in an on-mode for predetermined percentage of time (e.g., light sources <NUM> have cycled "X" number of times in the last "Y" minutes), or the ambient air is above "Z" temperature, etc., and/or until the sensed air temperature within the enclosure <NUM> (or the temperature of a component) is below a predetermined temperature. The above examples are provided to illustrate modes of cooling system <NUM> operation and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Embodiments of the present disclosure utilize a cooling system <NUM>. It is envisioned, however, that some present disclosure apparatus embodiments may not require a cooling system; e.g., apparatus embodiments that utilize a light source that produces minima thermal load. In those embodiments that include a cooling system <NUM>, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular cooling system <NUM> or cooling system mode of operation.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to collect and produce information regarding the operation of the apparatus <NUM>, and/or to permit monitoring of the operation of the apparatus <NUM>. For example, some embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to record the number of operational cycles performed by the apparatus <NUM> or the cumulative "time-on". In a more specific example, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to record the number of operational cycles performed by a light source <NUM>, or the cumulative time the light source <NUM> is powered to produce light. Light source <NUM> elements typically have a limited useful life, and the monitoring may provide information regarding the status of the light source <NUM> relative to that useful life as a preventative measure. As another example, some embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to monitor performance of the apparatus <NUM>. Sensor feedback, or component operational values (e.g., voltages and/or currents drawn by a component such as a motor or a fan, etc.) may be monitored during operation of the apparatus <NUM>. The monitoring, and information produced thereby, may be provided at the apparatus <NUM>, or may be transmitted to a remote communication station (e.g., a communication station operated by the manufacturer of the apparatus <NUM>, or by the entity providing the apparatus <NUM> to employees or the public, or the like), or both. If a monitored sensor feedback value or a component operational value is within an acceptable range, or acceptable relative to a predetermined value, the monitored information indicates the apparatus <NUM> is functioning properly and the apparatus <NUM> is permitted to function in its normal course. If the monitored sensor feedback value or component operational value is outside of the acceptable range, or skewed relative to a predetermined value, the monitored information may indicate the apparatus <NUM> is not functioning within specification, or within user chosen guidelines, or the like. The monitoring information may be used to take corrective action as may be necessary, or to schedule maintenance, or to document compliance, or the like, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may include a display device <NUM> (e.g., a LCD, a LED display, or the like) in communication with the controller <NUM>. The display device <NUM> may be a touch screen operable to communicate instructions to the controller <NUM>. The display device <NUM> may include a processor configured to communicate with the controller <NUM>. The display device processor may be configured to communicate (e.g., receive data such as non-operational information) directly from a source remote from the apparatus <NUM>, or may be configured to communicate (e.g., receive data such as non-operational information) with a remote source indirectly through the controller <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> may be configured (e.g., via stored instructions) to permit the display device <NUM> to operate in a variety of different modes. For example, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to use the display device <NUM> to display operational information; e.g., "please insert device", "time until sanitization complete", "device operational or not operational", and the like. In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to use the display device <NUM> to display solely non-operational information, or to display non-operational information in combination with operational information. Examples of non-operational information include, but are not limited to, general news or entertainment information, information relating to the business providing the apparatus <NUM> (e.g., today's business blurb, employee reminders, business visitors for the day, upcoming special events, and the like), or third party advertising information, and the like. These are nonlimiting examples of information types that the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to display on the display device <NUM>. The display device <NUM> may be configured to produce both visual information and audio information. The apparatus <NUM> may be hard wire connected or wirelessly connected to a source (e.g., a remote source) of the information to be displayed, or the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to permit such information to be downloaded and stored within a memory device of the apparatus <NUM>. In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured so that the informational content to be displayed may be managed by a remote manager; e.g., the apparatus <NUM> is in communication with an internet interface that a manager can access that permits the manager to update, change, or modify the informational content. may be particularly useful. The ability of the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> to operate in multiple different information display modes provides significant advantages and versatility. As stated above, in some embodiments the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to use the display device <NUM> to display non-operational information (solely or in combination with operational information) that is controlled by the party providing the apparatus. In some situations, a company (e.g., a custodial party) may elect to utilize the apparatus and its display capability only to display "company" related information. In instances like this, the non-operational information to be displayed can be controlled by the company using the apparatus. In fact, a company using multiple present disclosure apparatus may elect to display different non-operational information in different areas of the company; e.g., a first subset of non-operational information subset management offices, a second subset of non-operational information for manufacturing facilities, a third subset of non-operational information for shipping facilities, and so on. In this manner, a company can tailor the information to the functionality of that portion of the company. In those instances where a company elects to utilize the apparatus and its display capability to display specifically chosen information, the company can control the informational content for appropriateness and messaging. For example, in a retail setting a company providing the apparatus <NUM> may use the apparatus <NUM> and its display capability to provide tailored information to the retail consumers (e.g., items on sale, marketing information, etc.). In other instances, a party (company / business / commercial venue, etc.) may elect to utilize the apparatus and its display capability to display third party information; e.g., news, weather information, etc. that will be useful to users of the apparatus and therefore likely reflecting favorably on the party providing the apparatus <NUM>. In other instances, a party may elect to utilize the apparatus <NUM> and its display capability to display advertising information that can provide a revenue stream directly or indirectly back to be party providing the apparatus. For example, a present disclosure disinfecting apparatus <NUM> placed in a commercial setting (e.g., a shopping center, a grocery store, etc.) will very likely be exposed to significant human traffic. As a result, it is very likely that the present disclosure disinfecting apparatus <NUM> not only provides a beneficial disinfecting service, but also provides a desirable advertising platform that advertisers will pay to use.

The apparatus <NUM> may be configured to display the information continuously, or may be configured to display information selectively. For example, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to operate in a display device <NUM> "sleep mode" in the absence of activity after a predetermined period of time. In the sleep mode, the display device <NUM> may display a blank screen or a screen saver (e.g., the brand of the apparatus <NUM>, or the name of the business providing the apparatus <NUM>, today's date, etc.). The apparatus <NUM> may be further configured to transition from the "sleep mode" to an "on mode". The transition from "sleep mode" to "on mode" may be triggered by a variety of different events; e.g., a proximity sensor that senses the presence of a person in close proximity, or a user touching a touch screen type display device <NUM> (or via other input device), or upon sensing an insertion of a handheld electronic device <NUM> into the apparatus <NUM>, or via a motion sensor, or the like, or any combination thereof. Once the sanitizing process is completed, the apparatus <NUM> may be further configured to transition from the "on mode" back to the "sleep mode" after a predetermined period of time in the absence of any triggering event to stay in an "on mode". The present disclosure is not limited to particular mechanism or methodology (e.g., stored instructions) for transitioning from "sleep mode" to "on mode" and vice versa.

As indicated above, the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> may assume a variety of different configurations. To facilitate a full appreciation of the significance of the present disclosure, nonlimiting examples of present disclosure apparatus <NUM> embodiments are provided below.

Referring to <FIG>, an embodiment of the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> mounted on a pedestal <NUM> is shown. <FIG> is a perspective view of an apparatus <NUM> embodiment mounted on a pedestal <NUM> with its enclosure door <NUM> closed and <FIG> illustrates the same embodiment with its enclosure door <NUM> open. <FIG> is an exploded view of the apparatus <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The apparatus <NUM> embodiment shown in <FIG> includes an enclosure door <NUM> that is pivotally attached along a side surface panel <NUM>, <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> embodiment shown in <FIG> includes an enclosure door <NUM> that is pivotally attached along a bottom panel <NUM>. The pedestal <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is a nonlimiting example that is configured to facilitate use of the apparatus <NUM>. A pedestal <NUM> is useful for some embodiments of the present disclosure but is not required. For example, the apparatus <NUM> embodiment shown in <FIG> is configured for attachment to a wall or other surface.

Referring to <FIG>, embodiments of the apparatus <NUM> includes an enclosure <NUM>, a cooling system, a disinfection chamber <NUM>, one or more light sources <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, a display device <NUM>, an internal power supply <NUM>, and a conveyor <NUM> in the form of a device elevator system <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> includes an enclosure door <NUM> having a top panel <NUM>, a first side panel <NUM>, a second side panel <NUM>, a front panel <NUM>, and a bottom panel <NUM>. The top panel <NUM>, first and second side panels <NUM>, <NUM>, front panel <NUM>, and bottom panel <NUM> are attached to one another to form a unitary door structure. As stated above, the embodiment shown in <FIG> has an enclosure door <NUM> that is pivotally attached along a side surface panel <NUM> and the embodiment shown in <FIG> includes an enclosure door <NUM> that is pivotally attached along a bottom panel <NUM>. The top panel <NUM> of these embodiments includes a port <NUM> for receiving a handheld electronic device <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a handheld electronic device <NUM> (e.g., a smart phone) partially received within the apparatus <NUM>, with a portion of the device <NUM> disposed above the port <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> includes a port door <NUM> that is pivotally mounted and can be pivoted between a closed door position where the port door <NUM> covers the port <NUM> (e.g., see <FIG>) and an open door position where the port door <NUM> does not cover the port <NUM> (e.g., see <FIG> and <FIG>). In these embodiments, the port door <NUM> is configured for automated movement (e.g., by mechanical means) in coordination with the device elevator system <NUM> and the controller <NUM>. In these embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> is configured such that the port door <NUM> assumes the open door configuration when a device <NUM> is to be loaded, when it is being loaded, and when a handheld electronic device <NUM> is being ejected subsequent to being sanitized, and in the closed door configuration the port door <NUM> covers the port <NUM> and blocks substantially all of the light produced by the light source <NUM> that might otherwise escape from the enclosure <NUM> during operation or covers the port <NUM> when the apparatus <NUM> is not in use to prevent debris / dust entry.

The cooling system <NUM> includes a cooling fan <NUM> and one or more cooling vents <NUM> disposed within the side panels <NUM>, <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. As stated above, the cooling system <NUM> may be configured to operate in a variety of different ways as described above.

The disinfection chamber <NUM> is disposed internally within the apparatus <NUM> and defines an interior chamber <NUM> configured to receive the handheld electronic device <NUM>. The interior chamber <NUM> extends along a lengthwise axis of the disinfection chamber <NUM>. The disinfection chamber <NUM> includes a front panel <NUM>, a back panel <NUM>, and a pair of side panels <NUM>, <NUM> extending between the front and back panels <NUM>, <NUM>. In the embodiments shown in <FIG>, as will be detailed below, the one or more light sources <NUM> include a first light source module 26A and a second light source module 26B. The disinfection chamber <NUM> is configured to permit the first light source module 26A to be mounted on the front panel <NUM> and is configured to permit the second light source module 26B to be mounted on the back panel <NUM>. Openings (not shown) in the front and back panels <NUM>, <NUM> aligned respectively with the first and second light source modules 16A, 26B permit light produced by the light source modules 26A, 26B to enter the interior chamber <NUM> of the disinfection chamber <NUM>. As stated above, one or more reflective surfaces may be disposed relative to the interior chamber <NUM> to promote the light interrogation within the interior chamber <NUM>, and the disinfection chamber <NUM> may be configured to substantially prevent any interrogating light from exiting the interior chamber <NUM>.

In the embodiments shown in <FIG> and as indicated above, the one or more light sources <NUM> include a first light source module 26A and a second light source module 26B mounted on the disinfection chamber <NUM>. Alternative embodiments may include more or less than two light source modules. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the first and second light source modules 26A, 26B are opposite hands of one another. <FIG> is a perspective view of a light source module 26A, 26B embodiment that includes a plurality of LEDs <NUM> each configured to emit light at one or more wavelengths in the UVC sub-band, a processor <NUM>, an electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) <NUM>, a heat sink <NUM>, and a connector <NUM>. The LEDs <NUM>, processor <NUM>, and EEPROM <NUM> are mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is in communication with the PCB <NUM> and is in direct or indirect communication with an internal power supply <NUM> and the controller <NUM>. Information may be stored in the EEPROM <NUM> such as, but not limited to, manufacturer information, model/part number, serial number, operational information, and the like. In regard to operational information, each light source module 26A, 26B may be configured to record LED <NUM> operational information (e.g., operation cycles, collective operational time, and the like) on the EEPROM <NUM> or some or all of the operational information may be stored in another memory device (e.g., a memory device associated with the controller <NUM>), or both. The above described light source module 26A, 26B is a nonlimiting example (e.g., a PCB <NUM> is not required, etc.) and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The light source modules 26A, 26B in this example are configured such that the LEDs <NUM> are oriented to emit light outwardly substantially in a first direction (e.g., inwardly to the interior chamber <NUM> of the disinfection chamber <NUM>) and the heat sink <NUM> of each module 26A, 26B is disposed on the opposite side of the LEDs <NUM>. The heat sink <NUM> is configured to dissipate thermal energy that may be developed by the LEDs <NUM> during operation. The exemplary light source module 26A, 26B shown in <FIG> includes shroud elements <NUM> configured to enclose the side of the light source module 26A, 26B from which light is emitted relative to the disinfection chamber <NUM> when the light source module 26A, 26B is attached to the disinfection chamber <NUM>; e.g., around the perimeter of that side of the light source module 26A, 26B. The shroud elements <NUM> are configured to confine the emitted light and may also be configured to direct cooling air relative to the respective light source module 26A, 26B. Alternatively, shroud elements <NUM> independent of the respective light source module 26A, 26B may be attached to the disinfection chamber <NUM> to enclose at least a portion of the respective light source module 26A, 26B. In some embodiments, the light source modules 26A, 26B may be configured to be replaceable units that can be readily attached to the disinfection chamber <NUM> for use, and readily detached from the disinfection chamber <NUM> when replacement is necessary or if an alternative light source module 26A, 26B is desired.

Referring to <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> embodiments include a conveyor <NUM> in the form of a device elevator system <NUM> that is configured to move a handheld electronic device <NUM> within the interior chamber <NUM> of the disinfection chamber <NUM> along the lengthwise axis of the disinfection chamber <NUM>, and therefore move the handheld electronic device <NUM> relative to the light source modules 26A, 26B to permit light interrogation of the entirety of the handheld device <NUM>. In these embodiments, the device elevator system <NUM> moves the handheld electronic device <NUM> along a vertical axis (i.e., parallel to a gravitational vector). In the specific embodiments shown in <FIG>, the device elevator system <NUM> includes a linear actuator <NUM> driven by a motor <NUM>, and the device elevator system <NUM> is in communication with the controller <NUM>. As stated above, the present disclosure does not require a conveyor / device elevator system; e.g., in alternative embodiments the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to interrogate the entirety of a stationary handheld electronic device <NUM> with UVC light.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating communication paths between the various components of the apparatus <NUM>. The controller <NUM> is shown having a processor <NUM> in communication with a light source module 26A, 26B, a device elevator system motor <NUM>, a display device <NUM>, a cooling fan <NUM>, and various sensors and limit switches. The light source module 26A, 26B diagrammatically shown in <FIG> includes three LEDs <NUM> and an EEPROM <NUM>. The block diagram shows an internal power supply <NUM> in communication with the controller <NUM>.

Referring to the flow chart of <FIG>, a non-limiting example an operation of the present disclosure apparatus <NUM> and the method associated therewith, is shown. The apparatus <NUM> may initially be in a dormant mode; e.g., if the apparatus <NUM> has not been used recently. In the dormant mode, the display device <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> may be controlled to display information. A user engages with the apparatus <NUM> (either "awakening" via a touch screen, or the presence of the user is sensed (e.g., by a proximity sensor, or a motion sensor, etc.), or by other means) and the apparatus <NUM> changes into an active mode. Upon entering the active mode, the display device <NUM> may begin to display information (including audio information in some embodiments) or may change the information being displayed. The apparatus <NUM> subsequently operates to open the enclosure port door <NUM> to permit the user to insert the handheld electronic device <NUM> into the port <NUM>.

The process of receiving the handheld electronic device into the enclosure <NUM> (and therefore the disinfecting chamber <NUM>) / initiating the disinfection process may be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, in some embodiments the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to draw the device <NUM> into the enclosure <NUM> a distance into the enclosure <NUM> far enough for the port door <NUM> to be closed before the disinfecting process is initiated. In other embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured to draw the device <NUM> into the enclosure <NUM> a distance into the enclosure and the disinfecting process may be initiated before the entirety of the device <NUM> is through the port <NUM>. In either of these modes of operation, the apparatus <NUM> may sense the presence of the handheld device <NUM> disposed within the port <NUM> and automatically draw the device <NUM> into the enclosure <NUM>, or the apparatus <NUM> may be configured such that the process of receiving the device <NUM> into the enclosure begins with a user command (e.g., touch screen input). In either of these modes of operation, the port door <NUM> may be operated to a closed door position (e.g., by mechanical means or automated means) once the device <NUM> is completely received. Once the disinfecting process is initiated, the device elevator system <NUM> is actuated to draw the device <NUM> into or further into the disinfecting chamber <NUM> and the light sources <NUM> are activated to produce light at wavelengths that are effective to disinfect the surfaces of the device <NUM>. During the disinfecting process (and/or after) the cooling system <NUM> (if present) may be activated to pass ambient air through the enclosure <NUM>. The device elevator system <NUM> operates to move the entirety of the handheld electronic device <NUM> past the light sources <NUM>. The velocity at which the handheld electronic device <NUM> traverses past the light source modules 26A, 26B may be chosen to produce a desirable dwell time that is sufficient for complete disinfection of the handheld electronic device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may include sensors for sensing the geometry of the handheld electronic device <NUM> to ensure the entirety of the device is traversed past the light source modules 26A, 26B. The device elevator system <NUM> subsequently operates to reverse the path of the device <NUM>, now moving back toward the enclosure port <NUM>. In some embodiments, the light sources <NUM> may be activated to interrogate the device <NUM> a second time on the reverse trip.

During the disinfecting process, the controller <NUM> may be configured collect operational data from one or more apparatus <NUM> components; e.g., the number of operational cycles performed by a light source module <NUM> A, 26B and/or a light source's cumulative "time-on", etc. The light sources <NUM> are subsequently deactivated and the enclosure port door <NUM> is opened. The device elevator system <NUM> operates to move at least a portion of the handheld electronic device <NUM> outside of the enclosure <NUM> where it can be accessed by the user. The display device <NUM> may be controlled to continue to display information for some period of time subsequent to the disinfecting process. A period of time after the device is removed from the enclosure <NUM>, and assuming a second device <NUM> is not inserted, the apparatus <NUM> may return to a dormant mode.

In some embodiments, the apparatus <NUM> may periodically communicate operational information (e.g., usage data, sensor performance, component operational values such as voltage, current, etc. ) to a remote monitoring site. The collected operational information may then be used to schedule maintenance (e.g., apparatus not functioning, apparatus needs maintenance, X% of useful life of light source module remaining", light source module requires replacement, sensor data out of norm, motor / fan drawing current above norm, etc.). In those instances where the collective recorded information is communicated to the apparatus <NUM> manufacturer, the aforesaid information can be evaluated over a large population of such apparatus <NUM> and utilized for performance evaluation, quality control, to determine usage rates, etc..

In addition, periodically, the apparatus <NUM> owner / supervisor / operator may periodically communicate a change in information to be displayed to the apparatus <NUM>.

While the principles of the disclosure have been described above in connection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as limitation on the scope of the disclosure.

It is noted that the embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a block diagram, etc. Although any one of these structures may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc..

The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" refer to one or more than one, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "comprising a specimen" includes single or plural specimens and is considered equivalent to the phrase "comprising at least one specimen. " The term "or" refers to a single element of stated alternative elements or a combination of two or more elements unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, "comprises" means "includes. " Thus, "comprising A or B," means "including A or B, or A and B," without excluding additional elements.

It is noted that various connections are set forth between elements in the present description and drawings (the contents of which are included in this disclosure by way of reference). It is noted that these connections are general and, unless specified otherwise, may be direct or indirect and that this specification is not intended to be limiting in this respect.

No element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. As used herein, the terms "comprise", "comprising", or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

Claim 1:
An apparatus (<NUM>) for disinfecting a handheld electronic device (<NUM>), comprising:
an enclosure (<NUM>);
one or more light sources (<NUM>) disposed within the enclosure, the one or more light sources configured to emit one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light;
a disinfecting chamber (<NUM>) having an interior chamber (<NUM>) configured to receive a handheld electronic device (<NUM>), the disinfecting chamber (<NUM>) configured to receive the one or more wavelengths of light within the interior chamber (<NUM>);
a display device (<NUM>) configured to display information; and
a controller (<NUM>) in communication with the at least one or more light sources (<NUM>), the display device, and a non-transitory memory storing instructions, which instructions when executed cause the controller (<NUM>) to:
control the one or more light sources (<NUM>) to emit the one or more wavelengths of light in the UVC sub-band of light for a period of time sufficient to produce a germicidal effect on one or more microorganisms;
control the display device (<NUM>) to display information during at least the period of time the one or more light sources (<NUM>) are controlled to emit the one or more wavelengths of light;
and
control the display device (<NUM>) to display non-operational information during at least the period of time, and the controller (<NUM>) is in communication with the remote source that selectively provides the non-operational information;
wherein the non-operational information consists of one or more of: third party advertising information, general news information, entertainment information, or information relating to the business providing the apparatus (<NUM>);
wherein the instructions when executed cause the controller (<NUM>) to determine and record operational information relating to the one or more light sources (<NUM>); and
wherein the operational information includes a number of operational cycles performed by at least one of the one or more light sources (<NUM>), or a cumulative operating time of the at least one of the one or more light sources (<NUM>), or both.