CN116761636A - System and method for using mid-infrared and far-infrared to destroy macromolecules - Google Patents

Abstract

A method (100) for disinfection using a lighting system (200), comprising: determining (140) a mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelength of a target macromolecule configured to destroy a target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecule is DNA, RNA, and/or protein of the target pathogen; and exposing (150) the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths via a light source (210) of the illumination system (200), wherein the target macromolecules are directly destroyed and the target pathogen is neutralized by the exposure; and detecting (160) neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure by a sensor (224) of the illumination system (200).

Description

System and method for using mid-infrared and far-infrared to destroy macromolecules

Technical Field

The present disclosure is generally directed to systems and methods for disinfection using a lighting system.

Background

Recent pathogen outbreaks have shown that there is a continuing need for more powerful, more efficient, faster, cheaper and more readily available methods of combating infectious diseases. For example, pathogens such as viruses may be transmitted via short-range particle transmission from person to person (e.g., during coughing or sneezing), and may be transmitted in large amounts via contaminated surfaces. Many viruses can survive easily for days on surfaces such as tables, door handles, paper and other commonly used surfaces.

Because these viruses spread from person to person and through surface contact, some of the places where the risk of viral infection is highest are places where a large number of already infected persons cross caregivers and other patients with reduced immune status, such as in operating rooms, theatres, medical examination rooms, public areas in nursing homes, and other places.

Current methods of disinfecting these locations and surfaces therein are primarily based on cleaning with water and soap and/or with chemicals such as alcohol and the like. One newer sterilization method is the introduction of non-contact UV-C based light sterilization systems, which are based primarily on conventional UV-C light pipes, excimer lamps or xenon lamps.

However, these conventional sterilization methods have significant drawbacks. Manual contact cleaning with chemicals may result in forgotten or inadequate cleaning of the surface. The chemicals used in these cleaners are often harmful to the environment and to the people working with them. Manual cleaning procedures can vary greatly from hospital to hospital and it has been suggested that less than 50% of the ward surfaces are properly cleaned.

Furthermore, exposure to UV-C disinfecting light exceeding a threshold dose limit is very harmful to humans, including potentially causing damage to the eyes and/or skin.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, there is a continuing need in the art for efficient and effective disinfection of places and surfaces using environmentally friendly systems.

The present disclosure is directed to inventive methods and systems for disinfection using a lighting system. Various embodiments and implementations herein are directed to systems that include a light source capable of emitting light in at least the mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared ranges. The emitted light is used to disinfect a target surface or air volume by targeting pathogens. Specific mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths of target macromolecules configured to destroy a target pathogen are determined. According to one embodiment, the macromolecule is DNA, RNA and/or protein of the pathogen of interest. Once the wavelength is determined, the light source exposes the air volume or surface to specific mid and/or far infrared wavelengths such that the target macromolecules are directly destroyed and the target pathogens are neutralized by the exposure.

Generally, in one aspect, a method for disinfecting using a lighting system is provided. The method comprises the following steps: (i) Determining mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelengths of target macromolecules configured to destroy a target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecules are DNA, RNA, and/or proteins of the target pathogen; and (ii) exposing the target pathogen to a defined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength via a light source of the illumination system, wherein the target macromolecule is directly destroyed and the target pathogen is neutralized by the exposure.

According to one embodiment, mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelengths of target macromolecules configured to destroy the target pathogen are determined based on spectral properties of the target pathogen.

According to one embodiment, the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths are determined based at least in part on molecular modeling of the target macromolecules.

According to one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of eliminating at least some liquid surrounding the pathogen of interest prior to said exposing step.

According to one embodiment, the macromolecule is a surface protein of a virus.

According to one embodiment, the exposure of the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths results in an intermediate state of the target macromolecule, thereby resulting in inactivation of the target macromolecule, and further comprising the steps of: determining a second mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength configured to destroy the target macromolecule in an intermediate state; and exposing the pathogen of interest to the determined second mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength.

According to one embodiment, the method further comprises detecting neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure by a sensor of the illumination system.

According to one embodiment, the method further comprises reporting neutralization of the pathogen of interest by exposure.

According to one embodiment, exposing the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths includes exposing the volume of air to a light source of an illumination system.

According to one embodiment, exposing the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths comprises exposing a surface at a first distance from a light source of the illumination system, wherein the first distance comprises at least one meter.

According to one aspect, an illumination system is configured to neutralize a pathogen of interest. The system comprises: (i) A light source configured to emit a predetermined mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelength, wherein the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength is configured to destroy a target macromolecule of a target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecule is DNA, RNA, and/or protein of the target pathogen; and (ii) a controller configured to control the light source, wherein the controller is preprogrammed with predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths.

According to one embodiment, the predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength results in an intermediate product state of the target macromolecule, and wherein the illuminator is configured to emit a second predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength configured to destroy the target macromolecule in the intermediate product state, and wherein the controller is further preprogrammed with the second predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength.

According to one embodiment, the lighting system is configured to neutralize target pathogens located on one or more surfaces of an environment in which the lighting system is installed.

According to one embodiment, the system further comprises a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of one or more of the one or more surfaces, and wherein the controller is further configured to control the luminaire to: (1) If the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, ceasing to emit mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths; or (2) if the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, reducing the intensity of the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths.

According to another aspect, a handheld device is configured to neutralize a pathogen of interest. The hand-held device includes: (i) A light source configured to emit a predetermined mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelength, wherein the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength is configured to destroy a target macromolecule of a target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecule is DNA, RNA, and/or protein of the target pathogen; and (ii) a controller configured to control the light source, wherein the controller is preprogrammed with predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths.

According to one embodiment, the predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths are determined based at least in part on molecular modeling of the target macromolecules.

According to one embodiment, the handheld device is configured to expose the pathogen of interest to a determined mid and/or far infrared wavelength at a distance of 10cm or less.

In various implementations, the processor or controller may be associated with one or more storage media (collectively referred to herein as "memory," e.g., volatile and non-volatile computer memory, such as RAM, PROM, EPROM and EEPROM, floppy disks, compact disks, optical disks, magnetic tape, etc.). In some implementations, the storage medium may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and/or controllers, perform at least some of the functions discussed herein. The various storage media may be fixed within the processor or controller or may be transportable such that the one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into the processor or controller to implement various aspects of the present invention discussed herein. The term "program" or "computer program" is used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code (e.g., software or microcode) that can be employed to program one or more processors or controllers.

In one network implementation, one or more devices coupled to a network may act as a controller (e.g., in a master/slave relationship) for one or more other devices coupled to the network. In another embodiment, the networking environment may include one or more dedicated controllers configured to control one or more of the devices coupled to the network. In general, each of a plurality of devices coupled to a network may access data residing on one or more communication media; however, a given device may be "addressable" in that it is configured to selectively exchange data with (i.e., receive data from and/or transmit data to) a network, e.g., based on one or more particular identifiers (e.g., an "address") assigned to it.

The term "network" as used herein refers to any interconnection of two or more devices (including controllers or processors) that facilitates the transfer of information (e.g., for device control, data storage, data exchange, etc.) between any two or more devices and/or between multiple devices coupled to the network. As should be readily appreciated, various embodiments of networks suitable for interconnecting multiple devices may include any of a wide variety of network topologies and employ any of a wide variety of communication protocols. In addition, in various networks according to the present disclosure, any one connection between two devices may represent a dedicated connection between two systems, or alternatively may represent a non-dedicated connection. In addition to carrying information intended for both devices, such a non-dedicated connection may carry information that is not necessarily intended for either of the two devices (e.g., an open network connection). Further, it should be readily appreciated that the various networks of devices as discussed herein may employ one or more wireless, wired/cable and/or fiber optic links to facilitate the transmission of information throughout the network.

It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in more detail below (if such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. It will also be appreciated that terms explicitly employed herein, which may also appear in any disclosure incorporated by reference, should be given the most consistent meaning with the specific concepts disclosed herein.

Drawings

In the drawings, like reference numerals generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. Moreover, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.

Fig. 1 is a flow chart of a method for disinfection according to one embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a disinfection lighting system according to one embodiment.

Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an environment including a disinfection lighting system according to one embodiment.

Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of an environment including a disinfection lighting system according to one embodiment.

Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of an environment including a disinfection lighting system according to one embodiment.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure describes various embodiments of illumination systems configured to emit light in at least the mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared ranges. More generally, applicants have recognized that it would be beneficial to provide a lighting system configured to target pathogens in the air and/or on one or more surfaces. A particular object of utilizing certain embodiments of the present disclosure is to destroy one or more macromolecules of a pathogen of interest using an illumination system that emits light in the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared range.

In view of the foregoing, various embodiments and implementations are directed to lighting systems having one or more light sources configured to emit light in the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared range. Specific mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths of target macromolecules configured to destroy a target pathogen are determined. According to one embodiment, the macromolecule is DNA, RNA and/or protein of the pathogen of interest. Once the wavelength is determined, the light source exposes the volume or air or surface to specific mid and/or far infrared wavelengths such that the target macromolecules are directly destroyed and the target pathogens are neutralized by the exposure. Mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths may be selected to activate energy levels associated with vibrational energy activation of certain types of keys. According to one embodiment, the bond types range from covalent bonds (such as in peptide chains) to weak hydrogen bonds (such as part of the intermolecular interactions H- - -O and H- - -N seen in folding phenomena). Excitation of one or more of the chemical bond structures in the biomolecule may lead to the following new results or relaxation to the ground state.

Referring to fig. 1, fig. 1 is a flow chart of a method 100 of disinfecting using a lighting system. In step 110 of the method, a lighting system is provided. The lighting system may be any system described herein or otherwise contemplated. According to one embodiment, a lighting system comprises: a light source or illuminator configured to emit a predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength; and a controller configured to control the luminaire. The lighting system may optionally include many other elements or components. As described herein or otherwise contemplated, the lighting system may be a permanent facility, or may be a handheld device or other portable device, such as a personal device, like a smartphone, tablet, or other device.

Referring to fig. 2, in one embodiment, fig. 2 is an illumination system 200. The lighting system comprises one or more light sources 210. The one or more light sources 210 may be configured to emit light in the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared range and may be configured to emit light in any other wavelength range. For example, there are commercially available IR solid state sources (e.g., LEDs or monolithic metal radiators) with emission power up to 1W. IRLEDs at mid-range wavelengths are commercially available with a wavelength range of from 1.9 μm (5263 cm ^-1 ) To 7 micrometers (1428 cm) ^-1 ) Is a center wavelength of (c). Typical power levels are tens to thousands of microwatts. Is also present at 2 μm (5000 cm ^-1 ) To 16 μm (625 cm) ^-1 ) Transmitters within range. Similarly, there are IR emitters for spectroscopic analysis purposes, such as those used in life sciences applications.

The lighting system 200 includes a controller 220 configured to control one or more functions of the lighting system. The controller 220 may include a processor 222 programmed with software to perform one or more of the various functions discussed herein, and may be used in conjunction with a memory 223. Memory 223 may store data including one or more commands or software programs executed by processor 222 as well as various types of data including, but not limited to, one or more specific mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths of a target macromolecule configured to destroy a target pathogen. For example, the memory 223 may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising a set of instructions executable by the processor 222 and causing the system to perform one or more of the steps of the methods described herein.

According to an embodiment, the lighting system 200 may include a wired or wireless communication module 230 configured to communicate with another portion of the system, another system, or any other external source or structure. Thus, the communication module 230 may be directly wired to other external sources or structures, or the module may communicate via a wireless protocol such as Wi-Fi, bluetooth, IR, radio, near field communication, and/or any other protocol.

The lighting system 200 also includes a power source, most typically an AC power source, although other power sources are possible, including DC power sources, solar-based power sources, or mechanical-based power sources, among others. The power source may be in operable communication with a power converter that converts power received from an external power source into a form usable by the lighting system. To power the various components of the system, it may also include an AC/DC converter (e.g., a rectifier circuit) that receives AC power from an external AC power source and converts it to direct current for the purpose of powering the components of the system. Additionally, the system may include an energy storage device, such as a rechargeable battery or capacitor, that is charged via a connection to the AC/DC converter and may power the light source 210 and the controller 220 when the circuit to the AC power source is broken.

The lighting system 200 may include any other elements or components. For example, the lighting system 200 may include a sensor 224, such as a motion detector, configured to identify when an environment in the vicinity of the lighting system is empty or occupied. The lighting system 200 may include a temperature sensor 224 configured to measure the temperature of one or more of the one or more surfaces. The controller 220 may control the luminaire to: (1) If the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, ceasing to emit mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths; or (2) if the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, reducing the intensity of the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths. This may be a direct or remote temperature sensor 224, such as a thermopile. The sensor 224 of the illumination system 200 may detect neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure. For example, the sensor 224 may be any sensor 224 configured for pathogen detection. In some embodiments, the lighting system 200 may include a timer configured to time the exposure and may detect neutralization of the target pathogen based on the time of exposure. Many other types of sensors, components and elements are possible.

Referring to fig. 3, in one embodiment, fig. 3 is an environment 300 including one or more lighting systems 200a, 200 b. 200a and 200b may be two different lighting systems or components of the same lighting system. In this example, the one or more lighting systems are ceiling structures. The ceiling structure may be any structure located near the space 300, within the space 300, or otherwise located at an upper portion of the space 300. For example, the ceiling structure may be a luminaire or other structure. There may be an optimal placement of the ceiling structure for disinfecting one or more air volumes 320 and/or surfaces 330, which may depend on numerous factors, such as the size and shape of the environment 300, for example. For example, one or more lighting systems may be positioned to allow the entire environment 300 to be sterilized, or may be positioned to allow specific portions of the environment 300 to be sterilized. The configuration of the installation may be predetermined using a map, blueprint, or other information about the environment, or may be determined during installation and/or testing of the system. For example, if the initial placement is determined to be not optimal, or if the use of the room changes over time, the configuration may be modified or adjusted later. Space 310 may be any space where surface and/or air disinfection is desired or required, such as an office, operating room, ward, and/or any other room or space. For example, space 310 in FIG. 3 includes an air volume 320 and a piece of furniture or other object 330 that may be desired for pathogen disinfection.

Referring to fig. 4, in one embodiment, fig. 4 is an environment 300 including one or more lighting systems 200. In this example, the lighting system 200 includes a wall-mounted structure having one or more light sources 210. A wall-mounted structure may be any structure that is positioned near, within, or otherwise associated with other portions of a wall or environment. Although not shown, the lighting system 200 may be a floor-mounted or floor-embedded structure having one or more light sources. A floor-mounted or floor-embedded structure may be any structure that is positioned near, within, or otherwise associated with other portions of a wall or environment.

Referring to fig. 5, in one embodiment, fig. 5 is an environment 400 including one or more lighting systems 200. In this example, the lighting system 200 includes a handheld device used by the user 420 to disinfect one or more surfaces 430 in the space 410. The surface may be any surface for which pathogen disinfection is desired or required. The lighting system 200 includes a portable power source to allow the user 420 to transfer the device from one location to another.

Returning to FIG. 1, at step 120 of the method, the pathogen of interest is identified. The pathogen of interest is any pathogen for which specific mid and/or far infrared wavelengths can target and destroy macromolecules of the pathogen, including but not limited to microorganisms, viruses, prions, and other pathogens.

Identification of the pathogen of interest may be based on detection of the pathogen in space or on a surface, for example. For example, the space or surface may be monitored periodically or continuously for the presence of one or more pathogens, for a particular pathogen, or any known pathogen. Alternatively, the system may be configured to target a particular pathogen, whether the pathogen is detected in space or on a surface. For example, the lighting system may be programmed or otherwise designed to periodically target one or more specific pathogens as described or otherwise envisioned herein. Thus, the system may be pre-programmed to target one or more specific pathogens, or the system may be modified, programmed, or otherwise designed to target one or more specific pathogens after installation.

At step 130 of the method, target macromolecules of the identified target pathogen are identified. According to one embodiment, the target macromolecules are DNA, RNA and/or proteins of the pathogen of interest. According to another embodiment, the target macromolecules are lipids and/or carbohydrates. The target macromolecules may be selected based on any criteria for selecting target macromolecules. For example, the target macromolecules may be selected based on the highest probability of failure using mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths, ease of failure, minimum or minimum energy required for failure, and/or any other criteria.

At step 140 of the method, specific mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths of the identified macromolecules configured to destroy the pathogen of interest are determined. According to one embodiment, the specific mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths are based on the spectral properties of the target pathogen.

For example, macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins absorb energy in the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths. The DNA for example comprises one or more functional (vibration) groups for absorption. Depending on the symmetry of the molecule, absorption phenomena of macromolecules can lead to: IR absorption, resulting in a change in dipole moment during vibration; and/or Raman (Raman) absorption, resulting in a change in molecular polarization during vibration.

According to one embodiment, for IR absorption, excitation of the bond results in oscillation of the bond at a vibration frequency equal to the frequency of the absorbed radiation. In the case of raman absorption, the two frequencies are different. Thus, specific mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths may be selected to excite specific bond types in specific macromolecules targeted for disinfection purposes. According to one embodiment, various types of damage are targeted to various key types.

Because the target macromolecules are complex in nature, various chemical bonds and/or bonding interactions can be targeted. For example, proteins comprise 3D arrangements of amino acid chain molecules, also having primary to quaternary structure; lipids are smaller molecules that form structures such as membranes of microbial species; and carbohydrates may, for example, play the role of structural components. Thus, these form suitable target macromolecules.

Depending on the vulnerability of the target macromolecule to vibrational energy activation of certain types of bonds, the wavelength may be selected to activate the energy level associated with the bond. According to one embodiment, the bond types range from covalent bonds (such as in peptide chains) to weak hydrogen bonds (of part of the intermolecular interactions H- - -O and H- - -N as seen in folding phenomena). Excitation of one or more of the chemical bond structures in the biomolecule may lead to the following new results or relaxation to the ground state. According to one embodiment, when using IR radiation in a detection mode during an analyzed IR spectroscopic analysis, it is an object to return to the ground state, wherein someone analyzes the composition of the sample under test and the percentage of molecules in such sample. In this analytical method, the excitation energy (intensity) is always chosen so as not to interfere with the sample (prevent heating or chemical reactions).

However, for the directional destruction of macromolecules, the goal is the opposite, i.e. mid-infrared and/or far-infrared light is used to create radiation conditions or induce chemical reactions that lead to thermal effects. This means that the bond strength must be overcome by directly or indirectly providing energy transfer to the bond. According to one embodiment, one way for destroying macromolecules includes internal heating within the molecule with IR light, wherein non-radiative dissipation of absorbed IR light energy results in localized thermal energy generation. This can be used as an alternative for heat-based molecular destruction, according to one embodiment, now from inside the molecule without affecting the surrounding environment/surface.

According to one embodiment, the IR light may result in the reconstruction of tertiary/quaternary structures of the membrane and/or surrounding functional proteins. This may be accomplished, for example, by targeting weak intramolecular or intermolecular bonds. This may be used, for example, to modify the viral S protein and thus prevent recognition (ACE 2 of covd-19) with respect to the host cell membrane (typically endothelial cells), just as a specific example. Another way would be to modify the interaction of the RNA strand with its protein envelope to interfere with the protective barrier of the virus, resulting in pathogen inactivation.

According to one embodiment, the IR light may affect the secondary structure of the RNA molecule and/or the protein. By way of example, there may be RNA strand interactions, such as folding between complementary regions, that result in inactivation of RNA in later propagation in the host cell.

According to one embodiment, the IR light may affect the primary structure of the RNA molecule and/or the protein. As an example, IR light may have an effect on the primary RNA or DNA strand, on peptide bonds in the protein, and may lead to inactivation of RNA in later propagation, or disruption of the properties or functions of the protein.

Thus, according to one embodiment, exposing macromolecules to mid-infrared light and/or far-infrared light may be used to permanently destroy macromolecules, such as proteins envelope that interfere with viruses and stop their recognition function, or other macromolecules that affect RNA, DNA, or the formation of an effective pathogen.

According to another embodiment, exposing the macromolecule to mid-infrared light and/or far-infrared light may cause the macromolecule to relax to the original state after excitation. Thus, the primary excited state may be followed by a second actuation with another wavelength specifically targeting the excited state absorption band to ensure that the conformation of the protein or other macromolecule is permanently lost, rather than returning to the ground state without modification. For example, recombination of macromolecules may result in another configuration that is not recognized by host cell receptors. Thus, step 140 may include determining a second mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength configured to destroy the target macromolecule in the intermediate state, thus requiring a second exposure to the target macromolecule in the intermediate state after the initial exposure. Alternatively, the second exposure may utilize wavelengths in the UV range, for example 254nm or 222nm light at a medium dose.

According to one embodiment, the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths are determined based at least in part on molecular modeling of the target macromolecules. Molecular modeling methods can be used to model or mimic the behavior of potential or identified target macromolecules, allowing the determination of optimal mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths for destruction. There are many methods and ways for atomic scale description of macromolecules that enable one or more possible mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths to be determined for destruction. In embodiments, the system may use molecular modeling to determine properties of target molecules, including but not limited to bond strength and intra-or inter-molecular bond information. In some embodiments, molecular modeling may determine bond strength between at least two atoms (e.g., hydrogen atoms in different molecules). The system may use the determined bond strengths and molecular modeling to determine mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelengths for breaking bonds of target macromolecules of the target pathogen and destroying the target molecules. Once one or more possible mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths for destruction are identified, they may be experimentally tested and/or programmed into the lighting system controller for sterilization. For example, the system may perform molecular modeling to determine a response to applied mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelengths to determine, for example, whether a bond is weakened, whether a bond is broken, whether an intramolecular or intermolecular bond is weakened or broken. Molecular modeling may mimic the response or behavior of a target macromolecule to an applied wavelength to determine if the dose is sufficient or correct to break the bond and allow destruction. The system may select the appropriate mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths based on molecular modeling.

According to one embodiment, in addition to determining the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths, step 140 may further include determining a dose, which may be the amount of time required to expose macromolecules of the pathogen of interest to the determined wavelengths. The amount of time may be experimentally and/or theoretically derived and may be determined based on how much energy or how long it takes to produce molecular destruction. According to one embodiment, the period of exposure may be a constant period of time or an intermittent or pulsed period of time. According to one embodiment, the period of exposure may be nanoseconds, seconds, or longer.

According to one embodiment, the dose is determined based at least in part on molecular modeling of the target macromolecule. Molecular modeling methods may be used to model or mimic the behavior of potential or identified target macromolecules, allowing the determination of the dose necessary for exposure to the determined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths to allow destruction. There are many methods and ways for atomic scale description of macromolecules, which enable dose determination. Once the possible dose is determined, it may be experimentally tested and/or programmed into the lighting system controller for sterilization. For example, the system may perform molecular modeling to apply one or more different doses and determine a response to each of the applied different doses of mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelengths. Molecular modeling may mimic the response or behavior of a target macromolecule to each of the different doses of applied wavelength to determine whether the individual doses are sufficient or correct to break the bonds and allow destruction. The system may select an appropriate dose of mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths based on molecular modeling.

According to just one embodiment, for other reasons than just the amount of time of exposure, a specific dose may be necessary to inactivate or otherwise destroy the macromolecules of the pathogen. For example, the pathogen may be covered or otherwise obscured or blocked by things such as dust, liquid, or another compound. This may require a longer dose to compensate for micro-shadows of the pathogen. As another example, in the event that the pathogen is immersed in water or another fluid or liquid, the dosage will be affected for the following reasons: (1) possible attenuation of radiation; and (2) possible relaxation (energy loss) due to the interaction of the excited macromolecule with its environment. Many other factors may play a role in the determination of the dosage.

According to another embodiment, step 140 of the method includes determining that a specific near infrared wavelength configured to destroy an identified macromolecule of the pathogen of interest is determined. According to one embodiment, the specific near infrared wavelength is based on the spectral properties of the pathogen of interest. According to one embodiment, the wavelength ranges of the near infrared, mid infrared and far infrared may vary slightly among different information sources. However, according to one embodiment, the near infrared may be a wavelength range of about 0.7 to about 3-5 μm, the mid infrared may be a wavelength range of about 3-5 μm to about 25-50 μm, and the far infrared may be a wavelength range of about 25-50 μm to about 200-350 μm. According to this embodiment, the pathogen of interest is exposed to a determined near infrared, optionally subject to a determined dose, in accordance with step 150 and/or subsequent steps of the method.

At step 150 of the method, the illumination system 200 is activated or otherwise controlled to cause the light source to emit light of the determined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths to destroy target macromolecules of the target pathogen such that the target macromolecules are directly destroyed and the target pathogen is neutralized by exposure.

According to one embodiment, the light source is a component of the handheld device and the surface and/or air volume may be exposed more closely for sterilization. Thus, according to one embodiment, the light source is a component of a handheld and/or wearable device and is positioned at a distance of 10cm or less from the target surface and/or air volume to be disinfected during the emission of the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths. For example, the system may be used to disinfect surfaces such as electronic hand held devices.

At optional step 160 of the method, the sensor 224 of the illumination system detects neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure. For example, the sensor 224 may be any sensor 224 configured for pathogen detection. In some embodiments, the lighting system may include a timer configured to time the exposure and detect neutralization of the target pathogen by the exposure (e.g., the time or duration of the exposure). Thus, at optional step 170 of the method, the system may be configured to report neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure, or to report an attempt at neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure. For example, the system or a component in communication with the system (e.g., a user interface) may be configured to report that the surface or air volume is exposed to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths. The report may include, among other information, one or more of the following: a target macromolecule, a target pathogen, one or more determined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths, one or more time periods, and a result of the exposure. As another example, the user interface may communicate messages such as "end of disinfection-safe", "insufficient disinfection-unsafe", etc., and this may be accomplished through the use of LED indicators, among other indicators.

According to one embodiment, the disinfection lighting system is movable within a disinfection environment. For example, the disinfection lighting system may be or may comprise: a mobile element, such as a robot or a drone; or a stationary but mobile system that can place the light source within the requisite proximity of the target surface or other target item for sterilization.

According to one embodiment, the disinfection lighting system may be combined with other disinfection devices for supplementing or enhancing disinfection. These other disinfection systems may be, for example, safe for individuals.

According to one embodiment, the system and/or method may further comprise: at least some of the liquid surrounding the pathogen of interest is eliminated prior to the step of exposing the pathogen or surface to mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths. This may for example improve the absorption of energy by the target macromolecules as compared to heating water molecules around the pathogen. Elimination of at least some of the liquid surrounding the target pathogen may include active elimination and/or passive elimination. For example, the surface may be actively dried, or the system may wait a predetermined or experimentally derived or tested amount of time for the liquid on the surface and/or surrounding pathogens to be substantially eliminated. Furthermore, according to one embodiment, the liquid may be an aerosolized liquid that blocks viruses.

According to one embodiment, the system and/or method may further include an algorithm, look-up table, or other component configured to define mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths that are or should be used to target pathogens or specific pathogens. For example, a user may determine that a surface is contaminated or likely to be contaminated with one or more particular pathogens or pathogen types. If the system includes a lookup component that includes wavelengths recommended for targeting those one or more pathogens, the user may select the wavelengths as an option or otherwise program the illumination system 200 to emit the recommended wavelengths. This may be done, for example, via a user interface by selecting the wavelength of the recommendation that has been found within the system or manually entering the recommended wavelength, among other options.

According to one embodiment, the lighting system 200 includes a temperature sensor 224, the temperature sensor 224 configured to measure the temperature of one or more of the one or more surfaces. This may be a direct or remote temperature sensor 224, such as a thermopile. The measured temperature may be used to ensure that the surface and/or volume or air is maintained within a specified temperature range. According to another embodiment, the system may be configured or designed to detect temperature fluctuations or changes due to the presence of non-pathogenic organisms such as humans or pets within the environment. Thus, the controller may be configured to control the luminaire to: (1) If the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold or if the system detects the presence of a human or animal, ceasing to emit mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths; or (2) if the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold or if the system detects the presence of a human or animal, reducing the intensity of the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths. According to another embodiment, the system may be configured or designed to operate in a pulsed mode, or otherwise designed to prevent or limit as much as possible harmful exposure to humans or other non-pathogenic organisms.

Although several inventive embodiments are described and illustrated herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the functions and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. Furthermore, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not inconsistent with each other, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

All definitions as defined and used herein should be understood to govern dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

The indefinite articles "a" and "an" as used in the specification and claims herein should be understood to mean "at least one" unless explicitly stated to the contrary.

The phrase "and/or" as used in the specification and claims herein should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so combined (i.e., elements that are in some cases conjunctively present and in other cases disjunctively present). The use of "and/or" of a plurality of elements listed should be interpreted in the same manner as "one or more" of the elements so combined. In addition to elements specifically identified by the "and/or" clause, other elements may optionally be present, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with an open language such as "include/contain," references to "a and/or B" may in one embodiment refer to a alone (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment it may be only concerned with B (optionally including elements other than a); in yet another embodiment it may involve both a and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

As used in the specification and claims herein, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and/or" defined above. For example, when items in a list are separated, "or" and/or "should be construed as including, i.e., including, at least one of a number of elements or list of elements, but also including more than one element of a number of elements or list of elements, and optionally additional unlisted items. Only the item explicitly stated to the contrary, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of" or when used in the claims, "consisting of … …" shall mean comprising a number of elements or exactly one element of a list of elements. Generally, the term "or" as used herein should be interpreted to mean only an exclusive alternative (i.e., "one or the other, not both") when preceded by exclusive terms such as "any," "one," "only one," or "exactly one" among others. As used in the claims, "consisting essentially of … …" shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the patent statutes.

As used in the specification and claims herein, the phrase "at least one" in reference to a list of one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements of the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that optionally there may be elements other than the specifically identified element within the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of a and B" (or equivalently "at least one of a or B", or equivalently "at least one of a and/or B") may refer in one embodiment to at least one a, optionally including more than one a, where B is absent (and optionally includes an element other than B); in another embodiment, at least one B, optionally including more than one B, wherein a is absent (and optionally includes an element other than a); in yet another embodiment, at least one a, optionally including more than one a, and at least one B, optionally including more than one B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

It should also be understood that, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, in any method claimed herein that includes more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

In the claims and in the above description, all transitional phrases (e.g., "comprising," "including," "carrying," "having," "containing," "involving," "having," "constituting," and the like) are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. As set forth in the U.S. patent office patent review program manual (UnitedStatesPatentOfficeManualofPatentExamining Procedures), only the transitional phrases "consisting of … …" and "consisting essentially of … …" should be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

Claims (16)

1. A method (100) for disinfection using a lighting system (200), comprising:

determining (140) a mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelength of a target macromolecule configured to destroy a target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecule is DNA, RNA, and/or protein of the target pathogen;

exposing (150) the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths via a light source of the illumination system, wherein the target macromolecules are directly destroyed and the target pathogen is neutralized by exposure; and

Neutralization of the target pathogen by exposure is detected (160) by a sensor (224) of the illumination system.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelengths of target macromolecules configured to destroy a target pathogen are determined based on spectral properties of the target pathogen.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of determining (140) a dose exposing the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the mid and/or far infrared wavelengths and/or doses are determined based at least in part on molecular modeling of the target macromolecule.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of eliminating at least some liquid surrounding the pathogen of interest prior to the exposing step.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the macromolecule is a surface protein of a virus.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein exposing the target pathogen to the determined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths results in an intermediate state of the target macromolecule, thereby resulting in inactivation of the target macromolecule, and further comprising the steps of:

Determining a second mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength configured to destroy the target macromolecule in the intermediate state; and

exposing the target pathogen to the determined second mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of reporting (170) neutralization of the pathogen of interest by exposure.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein exposing the target pathogen to the determined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths comprises exposing a volume of air to a light source of the illumination system.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein exposing the target pathogen to the determined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths comprises exposing a surface a first distance from a light source of the illumination system, wherein the first distance comprises at least one meter.

11. A lighting system (200) configured to neutralize a pathogen of interest, comprising:

a light source (210) configured to emit a predetermined mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelength, wherein the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength is configured to destroy a target macromolecule of the target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecule is DNA, RNA, and/or protein of the target pathogen;

A controller (220) configured to control the light source, wherein the controller is pre-programmed with the predetermined mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths; and

a sensor (224) configured to detect neutralization of the target pathogen.

12. The illumination system of claim 11, wherein the predetermined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths result in an intermediate state of the target macromolecule, and wherein the light source is configured to emit a second predetermined mid and/or far infrared wavelength configured to destroy the target macromolecule in the intermediate state, and wherein the controller is further preprogrammed with the second predetermined mid and/or far infrared wavelength.

13. The lighting system of claim 11, wherein the lighting system is configured to neutralize a target pathogen located on one or more surfaces of an environment in which the lighting system is installed.

14. The lighting system of claim 13, further comprising a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of one or more of the one or more surfaces, and wherein the controller is further configured to control the light source to: (1) Stopping emitting the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelengths if the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold; or (2) if the measured temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, reducing the intensity of the mid and/or far infrared wavelengths.

15. A handheld device (200) configured to neutralize a pathogen of interest, comprising:

a light source (210) configured to emit a predetermined mid-Infrared (IR) and/or far-infrared wavelength, wherein the mid-infrared and/or far-infrared wavelength is configured to destroy a target macromolecule of the target pathogen, wherein the target macromolecule is DNA, RNA, and/or protein of the target pathogen; and

a controller (220) configured to control the light source, wherein the controller is preprogrammed with the predetermined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths, wherein the predetermined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths are determined based at least in part on molecular modeling of the target macromolecules.

16. The handheld device of claim 15, wherein the handheld device is configured to expose the target pathogen to the determined mid and/or far infrared wavelengths at a distance of 10cm or less.