CN116234588A

CN116234588A - Device for hand disinfection, use thereof and method for controlling a device for hand disinfection

Info

Publication number: CN116234588A
Application number: CN202180066380.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 保罗·泰歇特
Original assignee: Danish Clean Water Co
Current assignee: Danish Clean Water Co
Priority date: 2020-09-07
Filing date: 2021-09-07
Publication date: 2023-06-06
Also published as: WO2022048725A1; EP4210547A1

Abstract

A device (1) for hand disinfection and a method of controlling a device for hand disinfection, the device comprising a disinfection zone (6) configured for receiving a hand (30) of a user. At the disinfection zone (6), the device comprises a spraying means (8) for spraying the disinfection liquid onto the user's hand (30) from at least two different directions when the user's hand is at least partly received at the disinfection zone. A spray tool for spraying a sterilizing liquid is configured for generating a spray of said sterilizing liquid from said at least two different directions opposite to each other, and the device (1) comprises a control unit (24) for controlling said spray of said sterilizing liquid based on a 3-dimensional detection of a user's hand (30) relative to said sterilizing area (6).

Description

Device for hand disinfection, use thereof and method for controlling a device for hand disinfection

Technical Field

The present invention relates in a first aspect to a device for hand disinfection, for example, for facilitating that a person, hereinafter referred to as a user, may apply a hand disinfectant to one or more hands of the user.

Furthermore, the invention relates in a second aspect to the use of such a device.

Still further, the present invention relates in a third aspect to a method of controlling a device for hand disinfection.

Background

Although the use of hand disinfection has been widely known for many years, particularly in medical, disinfection and hospital environments, in food manufacturing facilities and the like, in recent years the importance of hand disinfection has increased significantly due to certain diseases and epidemics, particularly due to outbreaks of the covd-19 epidemic, which has led to the necessity of increased hygienic measures for general people and people in the world in everyday situations, such as when shopping, commuting, traveling, visiting and/or working in restaurants, hotels, factories and the like, and generally when visiting public places, buildings, institutions and the like.

Known devices for facilitating hand disinfection may be manually operated by a user, for example, by a user placing one hand under an outlet, nozzle, pipe, etc. and operating a manual pump with the other hand or with, for example, an elbow operating a push rod, lever, etc., after which a portion of the hand disinfectant is delivered to the hand placed under the outlet, nozzle, pipe, etc. After this, the user can distribute the hand sanitizer over both hands, and can wipe the hand sanitizer onto the surfaces of the hands in order to achieve the desired sanitizing effect. In addition, devices for facilitating hand disinfection are known, for example, which are more or less automated based on various sensors for detecting the presence of one or more hands of a user under an outlet, after which a power-operated pump delivers a portion of the hand disinfectant into the user's hand. Also, the user must then distribute the hand sanitizer over both hands and wipe the hand sanitizer against the surfaces of the hands to achieve a satisfactory sanitizing effect.

In any case, therefore, when using known hand disinfection devices, the user must stop, for example, before walking to such devices, place at least one hand under the disinfectant outlet, for example in a horizontal position, and when a portion of the hand disinfectant has been delivered, the user will typically remain standing while dispensing and rubbing the disinfectant on the hand. This means, therefore, that each user will typically occupy such a hand disinfection device for a period of time before the next user can use the device. Thus, the hand disinfection device will form an obstacle at, for example, an entrance, disturb the inflow of people, and may easily form a queue at, for example, an entrance of a shop or other place, which means that people who may be in a hurry may try to enter, for example, a shop without disinfecting their hands, which is detrimental to the best health condition of the whole society.

It should also be noted that with respect to known hand disinfection devices that are more or less automated, the sensor and/or control arrangement used is of a type that does not provide for a quick release of the hand disinfectant, e.g. due to delays in the sensor arrangement or control arrangement, which has the effect that a potential user holding one hand under e.g. a nozzle will have to wait for a period of time before receiving the release of the hand disinfectant, and in some cases may even be confused by a long delay, in which case the device is believed to be empty, the hand is removed before the release of the hand disinfectant, after which a part of the disinfectant is released (and wasted), and after which the user then places the hand under the nozzle again, etc.

An example of an automatic dispenser for hand sanitizer is disclosed in US 2012/0085780 A1, which relates to a device powered by a rechargeable battery pack, which is rechargeable via a solar cell. The disinfectant is stored in a liquid storage bag from which the fluid disinfectant can be delivered via a dispensing nozzle to a location above a lower tray arranged to contain any excess disinfectant fluid. The device is a sensor activated by a sensor detecting the positioning of a hand between the dispensing nozzle and the tray. Thus, when using such prior art devices, generally as described above, the user needs to stop in front of the device, reach his hand with the palm facing up into the space between the dispensing nozzle and the tray, wait for a portion of the disinfectant to be delivered into the palm, and then dispense the disinfectant onto the surfaces of both hands, for example by rubbing both hands. The user may start to walk along the intended route while, for example, dispensing disinfectant and hand-wiping, but many people will remain stationary for a short period of time before bypassing or leaving the hand disinfection device, and when entering, for example, a building, house, store, etc., where such prior art disinfection devices are placed, and when such persons, for example, building, house, store, etc., are entering as desired for use, the speed of the persons will at least be slowed.

Disclosure of Invention

It has been recognized that there is a need for improved devices for hand disinfection, such as hand sanitizer dispensers, which facilitate use and improved, e.g., faster, flow by persons passing through such devices for hand disinfection, while providing improved disinfection of the user's hand. Furthermore, it has been recognized that there is a need for improved devices for hand disinfection, such as hand sanitizer dispensers, which can provide an increased degree of user friendliness. Thus, the present invention has been devised.

The invention in a first aspect relates to a device for hand disinfection, the device comprising a disinfection zone configured for receiving a hand of a user, wherein the device at the disinfection zone comprises a spraying means for spraying a disinfection liquid onto the hand of the user from at least two different directions when the hand of the user is at least partly received at the disinfection zone, the spraying means for spraying the disinfection liquid being configured for generating a spray of the disinfection liquid from the at least two different directions towards each other, and wherein the device comprises a control unit for controlling the spray of the disinfection liquid based on a 3-dimensional detection of the hand of the user relative to the disinfection zone.

Hereby it is achieved that the device is alerted to the arrival of the hand and its position and on the basis of this the time at which the hand arrives at the proper position can be estimated or determined, for example in case the hand is in the proper position with respect to the nozzle. Thus, knowing the time required to activate the spray tool, the time at which the spray is initiated can be determined to achieve application of sanitizing liquid to the user's hand at the desired locations on the user's hand and on both sides of the hand as the user's hand passes through the sanitizing zone. Thus, when using the device according to the invention, the user does not need to stop, since the sanitizing liquid can be applied to the user's hand at the appropriate moment when the user passes his or her hand through the sanitizing zone.

Thus, in connection with the device according to the invention it is achieved that a user can use the device when passing the device, for example when the user passes the device, walk over the device and let the hand close to the device enter the sterile zone and leave again. It will be appreciated that the device may be configured such that the disinfection zone will be at a height suitable for a wide range of people, for example a wide range of people having a height in the vicinity of a normal height.

However, it should be understood that a person of higher height may bend down slightly, and a person of lower height may raise the arm slightly (or more) so that the hand may enter the sterile field, e.g., with the fingers pointing slightly forward, while still orienting the palm in a substantially vertical direction. Also, it should be appreciated that the user may raise his arm and let his hand enter the sterilization zone, for example from above. Thus, it will be appreciated that persons of lower height may also use the device, such as children, wheelchair users, etc.

In general, it will be appreciated that the user will position and/or move the hand such that when in the sterile field, the palm will face one side of the sterile field, the dorsum of the hand will face the other side, and the fingers will be substantially stretched.

It will also be appreciated that when a device according to the present invention is configured to be placed where a potential user is walking, two or more devices may be placed at an appropriate distance from each other, which may allow a user to disinfect both hands as they pass between them.

It should also be noted that the user may use the device when passing unidirectionally, but the user may also use the device in the opposite direction, since the function of the device is preferably independent of how and from which direction the user's hand enters the sterile field. Thus, a hand may enter from one horizontal direction (and may be moved apart in the same manner if desired), a hand may enter from the opposite horizontal direction, and a hand may enter from above, for example, or any other direction. Thus, the device is very versatile in terms of its use. Further, it should be noted that when the hand is within the sterile field, the user may move the hand, limited only by, for example, the elements forming the sterile field.

According to an embodiment, the sterilization liquid used may be any liquid, fluid or the like compatible with the device, e.g. having properties such as a viscosity suitable for the spray tool, in order to generate a spray liquid, a spray burst, a spray aerosol and/or a spray in the sterilization zone depending on the particular embodiment. Such liquids or fluids may be liquids or fluids used for sterilization, hand washing, disinfectant or washing fluids, biocide liquids, organic disinfectant liquids, and the like.

Thus, it should be noted that in connection with the present invention, the terms "disinfection" and "disinfection liquid" will be understood in their broadest sense and shall cover the examples described above.

Examples of sanitizing liquids that may be suitably used in connection with particular embodiments of the present invention, such as in the case of a spray generated by a spray tool, are hypochlorous acid hand sanitizers, such as are known as

Is a disinfectant of (a).

According to an embodiment, the spray tool may comprise a sensor device for detecting the presence of a user (e.g. a user's hand), which sensor device provides an input to the control unit.

Thus, the apparatus may be controlled via the control unit and based on input from the sensor device to operate the spraying means to provide, for example, spraying liquid, bursts of spraying liquid, sprays of sterilizing liquid, etc. at an appropriate time, for example when a user enters or passes his or her hand through the sterilization zone. Furthermore, based on such sensor device inputs, the control unit may for example end the spraying or control the spraying to take place in an appropriate period of time. The sensor input may also be used to control other elements, such as indicator lights, etc., that may be activated when the potential user is within a predefined distance, for example, to alert the potential user.

It should be noted that the sensor apparatus may comprise a single sensor arranged at the device. According to an embodiment, the sensor device may comprise two sensors, e.g. one arranged at each side of the disinfection zone, but it should be noted that more than two sensors may be used. The sensor device may be of any suitable type, for example operated by optical means, electromagnetic means, etc., as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

According to an embodiment, the sensor device may comprise a sensor device positioned at one or each side of the sterile field, the sensor device being configured for 3-dimensional detection of a user's hand relative to the sterile field.

Thus, due to the 3-dimensional detection on both sides of the disinfection zone, it can be achieved in an efficient manner that the device is alerted to the incoming hand in the disinfection zone and its position. Thus, on this basis, the time at which the hand arrives at the proper position can be estimated or determined, for example, in the case where the hand is in the proper position with respect to the nozzle, etc. Thus, knowing the time required to activate the spray tool, the time at which the spray is initiated can be determined to achieve application of the sanitizing liquid to the user's hand at the desired location on the user's hand as the user's hand passes through the sanitizing zone. It should be noted that such a sensor device may be positioned below, for example, a sterile field.

According to an embodiment, the sterilization zone may comprise two dispenser-side elements arranged opposite to each other to form at least a part of said sterilization zone configured for receiving a user's hand.

Thereby, the sterilization zone can be designed in a convenient and practical manner, whereby at least a part of the spray tool can be integrated in such side elements. In addition, such side elements may be configured as extensions of the lower part of the device, e.g. the housing, etc., and have similar curvatures, etc., which may allow the upper part of the device to be designed in such a way that it is not considered an obstacle by the person passing by, but merely an extension of the whole structure.

It should be noted that one or both of the two dispenser side elements may comprise separate elements, such as parallel bars, fingers, etc., which together may form each side element.

According to an embodiment, the two dispenser side elements may comprise said spraying means arranged for spraying the disinfecting liquid, for example in a spray burst, in a spray or in any other way onto the user's hand, when the user's hand is present in or passes through the disinfection zone.

Thereby, the spraying of the disinfecting liquid onto the user's hand from at least two different directions can be achieved in a convenient manner.

According to an embodiment, the device may comprise an indicator arranged at or near the disinfection zone, which indicator may be controlled to be activated continuously, e.g. by flashing continuously, or to be activated when a potential user is present.

In this way, it is achieved that a potential user walking in a direction generally towards the device, or at least possibly in a position to observe the device, can be alerted to the device and its function as a hand sanitizer. Such indicators, for example light indicators such as LED lights, may be arranged in various ways and may include sequentially flashing lights that direct the eyes of a potential user toward the disinfection zone so that the user may receive an indication that produces an intuitive understanding of how the device is intended to be used. Further, indicator arrangements such as panels, LED panels, etc. may also be used to provide an indication to the user, for example to generate an indication of an intuitive understanding of the device and its use.

According to an embodiment, the device may be arranged with a dispenser head at the top, the dispenser head comprising the spraying means and one or more of the following

-said control unit

The power supply is connected to the power supply,

the pump is a pump which is arranged in the housing,

one or more indicators of the presence of a liquid,

-a controllable valve, and/or

-a sensor device.

Hereby it is achieved that the main components and/or the control related components etc. may be accommodated in a dispenser head, which may be releasably coupled to the support structure. Thus, the dispenser head may be removed, e.g., for maintenance, for replacement of batteries in the power supply, for cleaning, etc. The dispenser head may be coupled to the support structure by, for example, a hinge, by a bayonet coupling, by a threaded connection, by an extendable structure, or the like.

It should be noted in this regard that in addition to indicator lights, indicator panels, LED light arrangements, etc., the dispenser head may include optical means, such as acrylic, plexiglas or other plastic components, for use in combination with indicator lights, other light sources, etc., to provide optical and possibly color effects, for example, to provide improved user friendliness and user appeal.

According to an embodiment, the device may comprise a base frame having a height suitable for a floor stand, a table top stand or otherwise supported on, for example, a wall or a piece of furniture or the like.

Thus, the device may be provided in different variants, for example for use on floors, on tables and other components, etc., and wherein for example the height of the dispenser head may be adapted to various uses. Still further, it should be noted that the height of the base frame is adjustable so that even greater flexibility and versatility can be achieved. Thus, it will be appreciated that the device may thus be adapted to suit a user, such as a child, wheelchair user, etc.

According to embodiments, the base frame may be configured for containing a supply of the sanitizing liquid, such as one or more bags, containers, or the like.

Hereby is achieved that the supply of sterilizing liquid, e.g. one or more bags, containers, etc., can easily be replaced when empty, by simply removing the dispenser head from the base frame and replacing, e.g. an empty bag with a filled bag. It should be noted in this connection that the supply line, e.g. a pipe or tube, to the dispenser head may be connected to a supply source of sterilizing liquid, e.g. a bag, by means of a coupling, e.g. a quick-connect coupling, which coupling may be dedicated to this particular use in order to ensure that only suitable sterilizing liquid having the correct properties may be used in connection with the specific device according to the invention.

It should be noted in this respect that according to an embodiment, the device is capable of communicating with other devices, communication means, etc., e.g. via a bluetooth connection, via a Wi-Fi connection, etc., and thus the need to replace the disinfection fluid bag may be communicated to the attendant in this way (e.g. via a bluetooth connection, via an internet connection, etc.).

Still further, it should be noted that according to an embodiment, the device may comprise means for preventing loss of the device, e.g. a tracking device incorporated in the device, which allows the device to be retrieved in case the device is misplaced or stolen.

According to an embodiment, the spray means may comprise one or more nozzles arranged at each side of said disinfection zone.

Thereby, the spray tool may be arranged, for example, such that the nozzles are placed in a suitable manner, such that the entire surface of the user's hand may receive a spray of sterilizing liquid, or may be in contact with a spray of aerosol, for example, provided by an array of nozzles. In this case it should be noted that the nozzle is manufactured and designed to correspond to the pressure of the sterilizing liquid to be delivered, so that the liquid can be sprayed in a suitable manner, for example as a burst or burst of sprayed liquid, or as a spray, for example in the form of an aerosol. It should also be noted that in case the sanitizing liquid is sprayed as a spray, for example a burst of spray, and due to the fact that the spray is directed to the user's hand in a relatively limited space (i.e. the sanitizing zone), a large part of the spray will be applied to the user's hand, including the otherwise rather inaccessible skin area of the hand, as explained above, and essentially no excess liquid will be formed. When the applied sanitizing liquid is in the form of a spray (e.g., aerosol) suspended in air, for example, any aerosol that may not reach the user's hand will evaporate and virtually no excess liquid will fall onto, for example, a device, floor, or the like. However, in rare cases, any liquid droplets should fall on the bottom of the dispenser head, where a grid or the like may be arranged to collect and contain such excess liquid.

According to an embodiment, the spray means may comprise one nozzle arranged at each side of said disinfection zone, e.g. near the lower part of the disinfection zone, and directed at an upward angle, e.g. in an angle interval of 0 ° to 90 ° or in an angle of 5 ° to 85 ° with respect to the vertical, or the angle may be e.g. in an interval of about 30 °, in an angle interval of about 45 ° or in an angle interval of about 60 ° or in other suitable angle interval with respect to the vertical.

It should be noted that in embodiments of the invention, the sterilizing liquid is delivered to the nozzle by a pump at a pressure that causes the sterilizing liquid to be sprayed in a predefined manner, for example as a burst or burst of sprayed liquid, or as a spray, for example as an aerosol, in either case. Such pressure may be a pressure of up to 5 bar, or may be higher than 5 bar, higher than 6 bar, higher than 8 bar, higher than 10 bar, etc. As an example, mention may be made of pressures in the interval from 6 bar to 8 bar, or in the interval from 8 bar to 12 bar, etc. However, the pressure may depend on the actual sterilizing liquid used and/or the actual nozzle used.

Furthermore, it should be noted that when providing a desired spray of sanitizing liquid, the pressure in combination with the duration of delivery of sanitizing liquid to the nozzle is important, for example, as a burst or burst of spraying liquid, or as a burst of aerosol, to deliver a spray that helps achieve a sanitizing effect, for example, a short duration in combination with a high pressure.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the device according to an embodiment of the invention may comprise further indicators for maintenance purposes, such as indicator lights, e.g. indicators warning a person handling the device maintenance, e.g. low disinfection level, low power level, etc. Thereafter, the responsible person may replace the sterile liquid container, e.g. a bag, replace a battery pack or the like or perform other maintenance work.

It should be noted in this respect that according to an embodiment, the device is capable of communicating with other devices, communication means, etc., e.g. via a bluetooth connection, via a Wi-Fi connection, etc., and thus the need to replace the disinfection fluid bag may be communicated to the responsible person in this way (e.g. via an internet connection, via a bluetooth connection, etc.).

According to an embodiment, the spraying of the sanitizing liquid may comprise spraying of the sanitizing liquid.

Thereby it is achieved that the spray means for spraying the sterilizing liquid will, under control of the control unit, direct a spray towards both sides of the hand, e.g. an aerosol comprising the sterilizing liquid, an aerosol curtain or the like, when the hand is in the sterilizing zone, whereby a film of the sterilizing liquid is formed on the surface of the hand. It should be noted that since the sanitizing liquid is directed towards the hand as a spray, for example an aerosol comprising the sanitizing liquid, for example the aerosol will flow in and through the air and reach areas that are otherwise difficult to reach by spraying, for example skin areas between the user's fingers, etc. Thus, an improved disinfection effect is thereby achieved.

It will be appreciated that the user may be stationary while using the device, but with the disinfection zone oriented substantially vertically, and since the control unit is adapted to provide an appropriate amount of disinfection liquid at each hand as it passes, the user may conveniently use the device while walking. After passing the device, the user may wipe his hands, which may enhance the disinfection effect, for example due to the distribution of the liquid, but may achieve a satisfactory disinfection without rubbing his hands afterwards, due to the application of the disinfection liquid in the form of a spray, for example providing an explosion of the spray of film on the hands.

According to an embodiment, the sterile field may be configured for receiving a hand of a user oriented in a substantially vertical direction.

Thus, in connection with this embodiment of the device according to the invention it is achieved that the user can use the device when passing the device, for example by walking through the device and conveniently letting the hand close to the device enter the sterile zone and come out again when the user passes. It will be appreciated that the device may be configured such that the disinfection zone will be at a height suitable for a wide range of people, for example a wide range of people having a height in the vicinity of a normal height.

However, it should be understood that a person of higher height may bend down slightly, and a person of lower height may raise the arm slightly (or more) so that the hand may enter the sterile field, e.g., with the fingers pointing slightly forward, while still orienting the palm in a substantially vertical direction. Also, it should be appreciated that the user may raise his arm and let his hand enter the sterilization zone from above. Thus, it will be appreciated that persons of lower height may also use the device, such as children, wheelchair users, etc.

It should be noted that when it is stated that the user's hand is oriented in a substantially vertical direction, it is understood that the hand, which may be in a relaxed state, e.g. away from the hand forming a planar structure that may be used to define a precise direction and plane, may be oriented in a relatively wide range, which is in fact limited only by elements of the device for disinfecting hands defining a sterile field, such as, for example, side walls or the like.

According to an embodiment, the sterile field may be configured for receiving a user's hand oriented at an angle relative to a substantially vertical direction.

In a second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the device is positioned at or near a walking area, at or near a passing area, and wherein optionally another one of the devices may be positioned at a distance from the device such that a user may pass between the device and the further device such that the user may disinfect one or both hands while passing.

As described above, a user may use the device according to the invention when passing the device, for example, by walking through the device and letting the hand close to the device enter the sterile zone and come out again when passing the device. When a device according to the invention is configured to be placed where a potential user is walking, two or more devices may be placed at a suitable distance from each other, which may allow the user to disinfect both hands while passing between them, or the user may disinfect only one hand, for example if the user holds something in the other hand. However, an option is provided to disinfect both hands, which in this way can be performed in a relatively quick manner when passing between two devices.

In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method of controlling a device for hand disinfection, the device comprising a disinfection zone configured for receiving a hand of a user, the method comprising

Detecting the user's hand when entering the disinfection zone,

-determining the position within the sterile field in 3 dimensions, and

-determining an activation time of a spraying means for spraying the disinfecting liquid onto the user's hand based on the determined position within the disinfecting zone.

Hereby it is achieved that the device is alerted to the arrival of the hand and its position and on the basis of this the time at which the hand arrives at the proper position can be estimated or determined, for example in case the hand is in the proper position with respect to the nozzle. Thus, knowing the time required to activate the spray tool, the time at which the spray is initiated can be determined to effect application of the user's hand with the sanitizing liquid at the desired location on the user's hand as the user's hand passes through the sanitizing zone.

According to an embodiment, said activation of the spray tool may comprise activation of a pump and/or activation of a controllable valve.

According to an embodiment, the step of determining the position within the sterile field 3-dimensionally may comprise applying an electric field detection using an electric field detection arrangement positioned at or in at least one dispenser-side element defining one side of the sterile field and/or at or in the bottom of the sterile field, e.g. in the bottom of a dispenser head.

According to an embodiment, the step of determining the position within the sterilization zone 3-dimensionally may comprise applying an electric field detection using an electric field detection arrangement positioned at or in two opposing dispenser side elements defining the sterilization zone.

According to an embodiment, activating the spraying means for spraying the sanitizing liquid may comprise a burst or series of bursts of sanitizing liquid to be delivered via one or more nozzles.

According to an embodiment, the method is applied in connection with an apparatus configured according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

Drawings

The invention will be explained in further detail below with reference to the drawings, in which

Figure 1 shows in a schematic way an example of an embodiment of the device according to the invention seen in a front view,

figure 2 is an example of components of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention,

figure 3 shows an example of an embodiment corresponding to figure 1 but suitable for positioning on e.g. a table,

figure 4 shows an example of an embodiment corresponding to figures 1 and 3 but suitable for positioning on e.g. a wall,

figures 5a to 5c show an example of an enlarged view of the dispenser head seen in elevation,

Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of a further example of a dispenser head seen in elevation together with the top of the base frame,

figure 7 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the device according to the invention,

figure 8 shows the device of figure 7 in a front view,

9a, 9b show a lower part of an embodiment of a device for illustrating a height adjustment option;

figure 10 shows a user disinfecting one hand in a device according to an embodiment of the invention,

fig. 11 corresponds to fig. 8, but additionally shows an example of an explosion of the spray,

figure 12 shows an example of the use of the device according to the invention in a position where a plurality of persons passes,

figures 13a to 13c illustrate various ways in which the device for hand disinfection may be used,

figure 14 shows in a schematic way the components of an embodiment of a disinfection device according to the invention,

figure 15 illustrates the sensor arrangement in an embodiment of the disinfection apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention seen from above,

FIGS. 16a, 16b schematically illustrate a sensor device for detecting a user's hand using electric field technology, an

Fig. 17 shows various examples of positioning one or more sensor devices in an apparatus for hand disinfection.

Detailed Description

An exemplary embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention is shown in a schematic manner in fig. 1, seen in a front view. In this embodiment, the device is configured for standing on, for example, a floor, and has a base frame 2 standing on a support 4, wherein the base frame 2 carries a dispenser head 12. The dispenser head 12 defines a disinfection zone 6, which may for example be in the form of a channel, groove or the like, and into which a user's hand may be inserted, as will be explained later, for example wherein the hand and fingers are directed downwards and whereby the hand may pass the zone 6 from, for example, the front to the back when a person passes the device 1. The dispenser head 12 may have two dispenser side elements 10 arranged opposite each other to form the sterilization zone 6. At these two distributor-side elements 10, the spray tool 8 is arranged as indicated in fig. 1 and, as will be explained in more detail later, for example in the form of a nozzle or the like. When passing through the disinfection zone 6 or otherwise present in the disinfection zone 6, the spraying means 8 is used to spray an burst of disinfection liquid or spray of disinfection liquid onto the user's hand, such that, for example, a film of disinfection liquid is received on substantially all accessible surfaces of the hand. The burst of sterilizing liquid or the spray of sterilizing liquid sprayed by the spraying means 8 is such that substantially no excess sterilizing liquid is formed, e.g. falls to the bottom of the sterilization zone 6. However, if any excess sterilizing liquid forms, this can escape via small holes, small gratings or the like (not shown in fig. 1) in the bottom of the sterilization zone 6. Furthermore, as indicated in fig. 1, a supply of sterilizing liquid may be included in a container, such as a flexible bag 18, which may be placed in the interior of the base frame 2. The base frame may contain one or more of such flexible bags 18 or other forms of containers for sanitizing liquids.

As further indicated in fig. 1, the device 1 may comprise a sensor arrangement 14, for example arranged in the dispenser head 12, for detecting when a potential user is close to the device and/or when a user's hand enters or is about to enter the disinfection zone 6. In addition, the sensor device 14 may be used to detect when the user's hand leaves or is about to leave the sterile field 6, respectively.

Still further, the device 1 may include one or more indicators 16, e.g., lights such as LED lights, which may be used to draw the attention of the potential user to the device 1 and/or may be used to indicate to the potential user how the device is intended to be used. Such indicators, indicator lights, indicator light panels, etc. are visible to the user in a 360 ° configuration, e.g. from all directions.

The function of the device according to an embodiment of the invention will be explained with reference to fig. 2, fig. 2 showing an example of the components of the device 1 in a schematic way.

The device comprises a supply of sterilizing liquid 20, which, as described above, may be arranged as one or more bags 18 in the base frame 2. The supply of sterilizing liquid 20 is connected via, for example, a pipe or tube to a pump 22 which may be placed in the dispenser head 12 or possibly in the base frame 2. When it is desired to provide a burst of sanitizing liquid or a spray of sanitizing liquid, the pump pressurizes the sanitizing liquid and pumps the liquid via a pipe or tube to the spray tool 8, which, as described above, may include a nozzle for providing a burst of sanitizing liquid or a sanitizing spray. It should be noted that the pump 22 may provide the necessary pressure when necessary, for example when a hand is detected in the disinfection zone 6, or the pump may be configured to maintain a certain pressure all the time, so that for example an explosion of disinfection liquid or a spray of disinfection liquid may be provided by allowing already pressurized liquid to reach the spray tool 8, which may have the effect that for example the spray will form faster and less surplus liquid will form. Thus, it will be appreciated that a controllable valve or the like (not shown in fig. 2) may be arranged between the pump 22 and the spray tool, which controllable valve or the like will be controlled by the control unit 24 to deliver the sterilizing liquid at a specific pressure for a specific period of time.

Further, in fig. 2, a power supply 26 is shown, which may be in the form of a battery pack. The power supply is connected to the pump 26 and may provide power to other components, such as the control unit 24, the sensor device 14, and the indicator(s) 16. Possibly, power may be provided to other components. For example, the power supply 26 may be connected to a supply of sanitizing liquid 20 to power a supply meter. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such a supply meter for indicating the amount of liquid remaining may be powered directly from the control unit 24, which in any event needs to be connected to the supply 20 in order to indicate the amount of liquid remaining.

However, it should also be noted that in order to estimate the remaining content of the supply of sterilizing liquid, the control unit may, for example, count the number of bursts of sterilizing liquid that have occurred since the last time the sterilizing liquid bag was replaced, and in this way estimate how much liquid remains. Alternatively, the control unit may keep a count of the burst durations in case they are sometimes different, for example by adding a time period for which the pump has been applied, and in this way estimate how much liquid remains. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other ways of doing so are possible.

As also shown in fig. 2, a control unit 24 is connected to the pump 22 for controlling the pump, and certain signals may be sent from the pump 22 to the control unit, such as pressure indicator signals or the like. In addition, the control unit 24 is connected to an indicator(s) which can send a signal back to the control unit.

It should be noted that the pump 22 is configured to supply the sterilizing liquid at a pressure that will cause the sterilizing liquid to be sprayed as a burst of sterilizing liquid or as a spray, for example as an aerosol, from the spraying means 8. Such a pressure may be, for example, a pressure of up to 5 bar, or it may be higher than 5 bar, higher than 6 bar, higher than 8 bar, higher than 10 bar or even higher. As an example, mention may be made of pressures in the interval from 6 bar to 8 bar, or in the interval from 8 bar to 12 bar, etc. However, the pressure may depend on the actual sterilizing liquid used and/or the actual nozzle used. Furthermore, it should be noted that when providing bursts of sanitizing liquid (e.g. aerosol) to deliver a spray for achieving a sanitizing effect, the combination of pressure and duration of delivery of the sanitizing liquid to the nozzle is important, e.g. a short duration in combination with a high pressure, whereby bursts of e.g. aerosol can be delivered which will flow into and through the air to the surface of the user's hand, including the skin surface between the fingers and other skin surfaces which might otherwise be difficult to reach by spraying. Furthermore, by using high pressure to generate bursts of sanitizing liquid, such as sprays, for a short duration, it is achieved that aerosol that may not reach the user's hands will flow in air and eventually evaporate, thus leaving no excess and effectively no dripping.

The particular period of time during which pressure is delivered to the nozzle and the spray tool (e.g., nozzle) sprays bursts or sprays of sanitizing liquid into the sanitizing zone from at least two directions may be referred to as the application period T _a . Application time period T _a May be, for example, up to 0.1 seconds, more than 0.2 seconds, more than 0.5 seconds, more than 0.8 seconds, or more than 1.0 seconds.

Still further, it should be noted that according to an embodiment, the apparatus is capable of communicating with other devices, communication means, etc., e.g. via a (not shown) module for a bluetooth connection, wi-Fi connection, etc. Thus, any service signal, such as the need to replace a sterile fluid bag, a low battery voltage, etc., may be communicated to the responsible person in this manner (e.g., via an internet connection, via a bluetooth connection, etc.), including the ID of the particular device. Furthermore, it should be noted that when more than one device 1 is used, the respective devices 1 may communicate with each other. For example, based on sensor input received at one device, an indicator may be activated at one or more of the other devices.

Furthermore, it should be noted that according to an embodiment, the device may comprise means for preventing loss of the device, e.g. a tracking device (not shown) incorporated in the device, which allows the device to be retrieved in case the device is misplaced or stolen.

Further, it should be noted that more than one particular type of component may be included in the example shown in fig. 2, such as two or more pumps, two or more battery packs, two or more control units, and the like.

Fig. 3 and 4 show an embodiment of the device as shown in fig. 1 and wherein thus the same reference numerals denote the same or similar features, but in the case of fig. 3 the device 1 is adapted to be positioned on a piece of furniture such as a table 40, thus having a shorter base frame 2 and a correspondingly adapted support 4. Correspondingly, the device shown in fig. 4 is adapted to be placed on a vertical member, such as a wall 42, and thus also has a shorter base frame 2 and a support 4 adapted to be fixed to the wall 42, as schematically shown, for example by fastening with screws or the like.

It should be noted that embodiments with a shorter base frame and thus a lower height may also be used for example for children, e.g. at schools, children's institutions, etc., and furthermore, places, institutions, etc. accessed by wheelchair users may have the advantages of embodiments with a lower base frame height. In this regard, it should be noted that, as will be explained in detail later, the apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention may be configured to be highly adjustable, which may also be useful for users such as children, wheelchair users, and the like.

In fig. 5a, an example of a dispenser head 12 is shown in an enlarged view, seen in a front view. Here, a plurality of nozzles 50, for example two, are shown positioned at each of the distributor side elements 10 to form the spray tool 8. As described above, there may be only one at each side, or there may be more than two at each side. Furthermore, it is shown that the indicator 16 may include a plurality of indicator lights 52, only a few of which are shown in FIG. 5 for illustrative purposes. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such indicator lights 52, such as LED lights, may be arranged in a variety of ways, patterns, etc. for the purpose of providing information to a user.

Still further, in fig. 5a, a vertical plane 56 is shown to illustrate the manner in which a user's hand may be oriented when received in the disinfection zone 6 in a substantially vertical direction, e.g., wherein the hand is oriented substantially near the vertical plane 56, e.g., within a relatively wide space surrounding the plane 56.

Furthermore, fig. 5b shows a further example of a dispenser head 12 corresponding to fig. 5a, but wherein it is illustrated that the dispenser head may be tilted, and wherein the user's hand will be oriented substantially in a non-vertical plane 57, e.g. angled with respect to the vertical, possibly even a horizontal plane, or in any other suitable orientation.

Still further, fig. 5c shows a further example of a dispenser head 12 corresponding to fig. 5a and 5b, but wherein it is illustrated that the dispenser head may be tilted even more, and wherein the user's hand will be oriented substantially in a non-vertical plane 57, e.g. forming an angle with respect to the vertical, wherein the non-vertical plane 57 is substantially horizontal.

In fig. 6, another example of a dispenser head 12 is shown in an enlarged view, seen in a front view. The same reference numerals as used in fig. 5 denote the same or similar features herein, but the top of the base frame 2 is additionally shown herein to illustrate that the dispenser head 12 is disconnected from the base frame 2, for example, because the dispenser head 12 may be connected to the base frame 2 by a hinge, bayonet coupling, screw coupling, or any other suitable tool (not shown herein). Thus, a supply of sanitizing liquid in the base frame (not shown here) is shown connected to the pump and spray tool in the dispenser head via tubing 54. The tube 54 may be connected to a supply of sanitizing liquid by a releasable coupling to facilitate replacement of an empty sanitizing liquid bag with a filled bag, such as by simply removing the dispenser head 12, lifting the empty bag, coupling a new bag to the tube 54, placing the new bag in the base frame 2, and placing the dispenser head 12 onto the base frame again.

Fig. 6 additionally illustrates the inner side of the distributor side element 10 and thus the sterilization zone 6 has a different form. It will be apparent that other forms may be used and that the side members 10 may be inclined outwardly or inwardly, for example, if deemed appropriate.

A further embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention is shown in fig. 7, seen in a perspective view.

The support 4 of the device is here configured as a lower part of a cone and the dispenser head 12 is adapted to tilt the dispenser side element outwards at the top and has a circular shape, so that the disinfection zone is wider at the top where the user normally places his or her hand. Thus, improved user friendliness is achieved, as it will be easier for a user to access his/her hand and avoid touching the end by manipulating with respect to a wider entrance gap.

The embodiment shown in fig. 7 is also shown in fig. 8 in a front view, wherein the shape of the sterile field 6 appears clearly, and wherein the indicator 16 is also shown to comprise a light or another optical marking arrangement around the edge of the sterile field, possibly with aesthetic and/or informative color effects. Such indicators 16, indicator lights, indicator light panels, etc. may be visible to the user in a 360 deg. configuration, for example, from all directions.

In fig. 9a and 9b, it is shown that the height of the device 1 can be adjusted, since the base frame 2 can be configured to be adjusted with respect to the conical support 4, for example in a stepwise or steplessly varying manner, which adjustment can be made in various ways, as will be obvious to a person skilled in the art.

It should be noted that according to embodiments of the present invention, the dispenser head 12, including the main portions of the electrical and electronic components and the like, may be configured to be sturdy and may include, for example, rubber coverings, shock absorbers and the like to prevent any damage to the dispenser head and its components in the event the device is knocked over, pushed over or otherwise tipped over. The same applies to supports 4 which may also be damaged, for example when tipped over or the like, and for example when accidentally bumped by a person, article and/or material.

Note that in some embodiments, the device that is movable and placed in any desired position may be configured to be secured to, for example, a floor, such as by bolts or the like.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the device 1 may be configured with a pad (not shown), such as a rubber pad or the like, under the support 4.

Fig. 10 shows a user 32 disinfecting one hand 30 in the device 1 according to the invention, wherein the user passes his hand 30 through the disinfection zone 6 while the hand is oriented in a substantially vertical direction. When a hand passes, the spraying means sprays an burst of sterilizing liquid or spray of sterilizing liquid into the sterilizing zone, e.g. for an application period T, from at least two directions, e.g. nozzles placed at each side of the sterilizing zone, e.g. nozzles placed at each of the dispenser side elements 10 _a . Applying time period T _a May be, for example, up to 0.1 seconds, more than 0.2 seconds, more than 0.5 seconds, more than 0.8 seconds, or more than 1.0 seconds.

Fig. 11 corresponds to fig. 8, but in fig. 10 a vertical plane 56 (also shown in fig. 5) is shown, and wherein a spray burst 58 from each of the two nozzles 50 located in the disinfection zone is shown, and sprays the disinfection liquid on the user's hands from two directions, e.g. from each side. The spray may be directed at a more or less upward angle, for example in an angle interval of 0 ° to 90 ° or in an angle range of 5 ° to 85 ° with respect to the vertical direction 56, or the angle may be, for example, in an angle interval of about 30 °, about 45 °, or about 60 ° with respect to the vertical direction 56, or in other suitable angle intervals.

Fig. 12 shows an example of the use of the device 1 according to the invention in a position where a plurality of persons passes. The devices are positioned at an appropriate distance from each other so that the user 32 may pass between the devices so that the user 32 may disinfect one or both hands while passing. It should be noted that the device may also be used for guide posts and as anchor points for e.g. guide bars and similar marking means when used in places such as airports.

Fig. 13a to 13c illustrate some of the various ways in which a device for hand disinfection may be used, for example as illustrated by the schematically illustrated dispenser head 12, for example as illustrated by the dispenser side element 10 from one side and as illustrated by the user's hand 30. In fig. 13a, the user has entered the user's hand 30 from the left, keeping the hand substantially upright, with the fingers pointing downwards, and with the hand substantially parallel to the dispenser side element 10. As indicated by the arrow, the user passes the hand 30 from left to right such that the hand passes the sterile field.

In fig. 13b it is shown that the user's hand 30 is accessible from above, e.g. with the fingers pointing downwards, and that the user can retract the hand 30 upwards, e.g. as indicated by the double arrow, when a spraying tool (not shown in fig. 13 a-13 c) has sprayed a burst or spray of disinfection liquid onto the hand 30.

In fig. 13c it is also shown that the user can bring his or her hand 30 into the sterilization zone by moving the hand downwards with an angular movement, for example with the palm substantially parallel to the dispenser side element 10, until the hand is received in the sterilization zone. When a spraying tool (not shown in fig. 13 a-13 c) has sprayed a burst or spray of sanitizing liquid onto the hand 30, the user may again retract the hand 30 angularly upward, for example, as indicated by the double arrow.

Other ways of using the device for hand disinfection are also applicable, such as combinations of the ways illustrated in fig. 13a to 13 c.

Fig. 14 shows in a schematic way the components of an embodiment of the disinfection device according to the invention, wherein it is illustrated that the bag 18 for disinfection liquid is connected to the pump 22 via a filter 60 for removing possible particles, contaminants etc. Via a pipe 54 or the like the sterilizing liquid is led to a bi-directional controllable valve 62, which valve is controlled by a (not shown) control unit. The two outlets of the bi-directional controllable valve 62 are connected to a distribution pipe 64 or the like, which leads the sterilizing liquid to the nozzles 50 in the sterilization zone 6, possibly via a further filter 60.

Fig. 15 illustrates an embodiment of a disinfection device according to an embodiment of the invention seen from above, for example showing the profile of the dispenser head 12 seen from above, and wherein, seen from above, two dispenser side elements 10 are additionally indicated. Within each of these is located a sensor device 40, which in this embodiment is a hand detection system based on 3D positioning in an electric field. The E-field sensor devices are enclosed in the distributor side element 10 and thus each have a package 11 protecting the sensor device 14. The sensor device 14 according to this embodiment generates electric fields e_f_1 and e_f_2, which are generated by electric charges and propagate 3-dimensionally within the sterilization zone 6. Furthermore, since two sensor devices 40 are placed facing each other, on each side of the sterilization zone 6, the electric fields e_f_1 and e_f_2 may overlap, as indicated by e_f_1+2.

When the user's hand enters the sterile field 6, the position of the hand and its movement into the sterile field is detected in 3 dimensions. Thus, based on the signal from the sensor device 14, the apparatus and e.g. the spray tool 8 can be alerted to the incoming hand and the nature of the movement, e.g. the speed at which the hand enters, and thus an explosion of e.g. disinfection liquid can be applied from the respective nozzle when the hand is in place.

Fig. 16a shows in a schematic way a sensor device 40 using electric field technology for detecting a user's hand. The sensor device 40 according to this embodiment comprises a transmitter 70 on one side of a spacer 72 (e.g. dielectric material, layer, plate, etc.), and a plurality of

receivers

74a, 74b are positioned on the other side of the spacer 72. Below the emitter 70, a layer defining an electrical ground 76 is arranged.

When a voltage is applied to the electrodes, an electric field (E-field) is generated, as illustrated in FIG. 16a, with field lines 78 (dashed lines) and corresponding equipotential lines 80 (dotted lines), only one of which is shown for clarity.

When the user's hand 30 enters the electric field, for example when the user's hand approaches or enters the disinfection zone, the electric field becomes distorted, as illustrated in fig. 16 b. The electric field lines 78 are drawn toward the user's hand 30 due to the conductivity of the human body and due to the human body representing a shunt to ground. Thus, the influence of the user's hand 30 results in a compression of the equipotential lines, as represented by the single equipotential line 80 in fig. 16b, which means that the signal level of the receiver electrode 74a is shifted to a lower potential, which can be measured and utilized by e.g. a control unit (not shown in fig. 16 b) to calculate e.g. the position of the hand 30, to track movements etc.

It will thus be appreciated that by means of such sensor devices 40 applied on or in the dispenser-side element 10, based on signals from these sensor devices 14, the apparatus and e.g. the spray tool 8 can be alerted to the incoming hand 30 and to the nature of the movement, e.g. the speed of hand entry, and thus an explosion of e.g. disinfection liquid can be applied from the respective nozzle when the hand is in place.

Other embodiments of the sensor device may be used, which may operate using other techniques.

Fig. 17 shows various examples of positioning one or more sensor devices in an apparatus 1 for hand disinfection, wherein the apparatus is seen in a front view, for example corresponding to fig. 8 and 11. The sensor device may be a sensor device using electric field technology for detecting a user's hand, as explained above in connection with fig. 15 and 16 a-16 b. Such a sensor device 14a may be positioned at one side of the sterilization zone 6, for example placed in the dispenser-side element 10, where it may generate an electric field e_f_1. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor device 14b may be positioned at the other side of the disinfection zone 6, for example placed in another dispenser-side element 10, where it may generate an electric field e_f_2, as illustrated in fig. 17. Still further, it is illustrated in fig. 17 that the sensor device 14c may be positioned at the bottom side of the sterilization zone 6, e.g. placed in the bottom of the dispenser head, where it may generate an electric field e_f_3. It is apparent that based on the operation of the sensor devices using electric field technology for detecting the user's hand, one or more of these

sensor devices

14a, 14b and 14c may be used for detecting the user's hand, e.g. a single sensor device, e.g. a combination of two sensor devices, e.g. 14a and 14b, 14a and 14c or 14b and 14c, and possibly even a combination of three sensor devices.

It should be noted that other locations than the illustrated locations of one or more of these

sensor devices

14a, 14b, and 14c are possible.

In the above description, various embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, but it will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that the invention can be carried out in an unlimited number of ways, e.g. using the examples disclosed in the description in various combinations, and within the broad scope of the appended claims.

List of reference numbers

1. Device for hand disinfection

2. Base frame

4. Support member

6. Sterilizing area

8. Spraying tool

10. Distributor side element

11. Packaging

12. Distributor head

14. Sensor device

14a-c sensor device

16. Indicator device

18. Bag for sterilizing liquids

20. Supply source of disinfection liquid

22. Pump with a pump body

24. Control unit

26. Power supply

30. User's hand

32. User' s

40. Table (Table)

42. Wall with a wall body

50. Nozzle

52. Indicator lamp

54. Tube for sterilizing liquid

56. Vertical plane

57. Non-vertical plane

58. Spraying from nozzles

60. Filter device

62. Bidirectional controllable valve

64. Distributing pipe

70. Transmitter

72 spacers, e.g. dielectric

74a, b receiver

76. Grounded (earth)

78. Field wire

80. Equipotential lines

Claims

1. A device (1) for hand disinfection, the device comprising a disinfection zone (6) configured for receiving a user's hand (30), wherein the device at the disinfection zone (6) comprises a spraying means (8) for spraying a disinfection liquid onto the user's hand (30) from at least two different directions when the user's hand is at least partly received at the disinfection zone (6), the spraying means (8) for spraying a disinfection liquid being configured for generating a spray of the disinfection liquid from the at least two different directions opposite each other, and wherein the device (1) comprises a control unit (24) for controlling the spray of the disinfection liquid based on a 3-dimensional detection of the user's hand (30) relative to the disinfection zone (6).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the spraying means (8) comprises a sensor device (14) for detecting the presence of the user (32), e.g. the user's hand (30), the sensor device (14) providing an input to the control unit (24).

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the sensor device (14) comprises a sensor device positioned at one or each side of the disinfection zone (6), the sensor device being configured for 3-dimensional detection of the user's hand (30) relative to the disinfection zone (6).

4. A device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the sterilization zone (6) comprises two dispenser-side elements (10) arranged opposite to each other to form at least a portion of the sterilization zone (6) configured for receiving a user's hand (30).

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the two dispenser side elements (10) comprise the spraying means (8) arranged for spraying a disinfecting liquid onto the user's hand when the user's hand is present in or past the disinfection zone (6).

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the device comprises an indicator (16) arranged at or near the disinfection zone (6), the indicator being controlled to be activated continuously, for example by continuously flashing, or to be activated when a potential user (32) is present.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the device is arranged with a dispenser head (12) at the top, the dispenser head comprising the spray tool and one or more of the following

-said control unit (24)

-a power supply (26),

-a pump (22),

one or more indicators (16),

-a controllable valve (62), and/or

-a sensor device (14).

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the device comprises a base frame (2) having a height suitable for a floor stand, a table top stand or for being otherwise supported on, for example, a wall or a piece of furniture or the like.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the base frame (2) is configured for containing a supply (20) of the sterilizing liquid, such as one or more bags (18), containers or the like.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the spraying means (8) comprises one or more nozzles (50) arranged at each side of the sterilization zone (6).

11. The device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the spray of the sanitizing liquid comprises a spray of the sanitizing liquid.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the sterile field (6) is configured for receiving a hand (30) of a user oriented in a substantially vertical direction.

13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the sterile field (6) is configured for receiving a user's hand (30) oriented at an angle with respect to a substantially vertical direction.

14. Use of a device according to any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the device (1) is positioned at or near a walking area, at or near a passing area, or the like, and wherein optionally another one of the devices (1) is positionable at a distance from the device such that a user (32) can pass between the device and the other device such that the user can disinfect one or both hands when passing.

15. A method of controlling a device (1) for hand disinfection, the device comprising a disinfection zone (6) configured for receiving a hand (30) of a user, the method comprising

-detecting the user's hand (30) when entering the disinfection zone (6),

-determining the position within the sterile zone (6) in 3 dimensions, and

-determining an initial time for activating a spraying means (8) for spraying a sanitizing liquid onto the user's hand (30) based on the determined position within the sanitizing zone (6).

16. Method according to claim 15, wherein the activation of the spray tool (8) comprises activation of a pump (22) and/or activation of a controllable valve (62).

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the step of determining the position within the disinfection zone (6) in 3 dimensions comprises applying an electric field detection using an electric field detection arrangement positioned at or in at least one distributor side element (10) defining one side of the disinfection zone (6) and/or at or in the bottom of the disinfection zone (6), for example in the bottom of the distributor head (12).

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the step of determining the position within the disinfection zone (6) in 3 dimensions comprises applying an electric field detection using an electric field detection arrangement, the electric field detection arrangement being positioned at (10) or in two opposing dispenser-side elements, the two opposing dispenser-side elements defining the disinfection zone (6).

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein activating the spraying means (8) for spraying the sterilizing liquid comprises a sterilizing liquid burst or a series of bursts to be delivered via one or more nozzles (50).

20. The method of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the device is configured according to any one of claims 1 to 13.