GB2612341A

GB2612341A - Sterilisation apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2612341A
Application number: GB2115531.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Ashiqur Rahman Khan Mohammad; Hook Daniel
Original assignee: More Housing Ltd
Current assignee: More Housing Ltd
Priority date: 2021-10-28
Filing date: 2021-10-28
Publication date: 2023-05-03
Also published as: GB202115531D0

Abstract

A portable sterilisation apparatus (2, fig. 1) comprising: a sterilisation system (42, fig. 2) and a mounting formation 12 configured to provide mounting of the apparatus (2, fig. 1) to a support structure 6 in use. The apparatus (2, fig. 1) comprises a sensor (32, fig. 4) configured to indicate to the sterilisation system when the apparatus is unmounted from the mounting formation. The sterilisation system (42, fig. 2) may be configured to deactivate in response to activation/output of the sensor (32, fig. 4). The mounting formation 12 may comprise a plurality of angled, curved or hooked members 16 spaced on a backing plate 14 which may further comprise pins 18. The sterilisation system (42, fig. 2) may comprise a recess to accommodate the backing plate 14. Preferably the sterilisation agent is an airborne sterilisation agent such as one comprising non-pathogenic bacteria.

Description

Sterilisation Apparatus The present invention relates to a sterilisation apparatus, particularly to a portable and/or redeployable sterilisation apparatus.

Background of invention

A prior art sterilisation device is shown in US 2018/0311396. The device comprises a volumetric sterilisation device. For example, the device is configured to sterilise a three-dimensional space, such a room. As best seen in figure 1, the device is permanently mounted to a wall 15. Such an arrangement may prevent unauthorised removal of the device.

The inventor has found that in such an arrangement, where a plurality of rooms are provided, a device must be provided for each room. This reduces available space in each room, and increases the expense of maintaining such a system.

A solution to such a problem is shown in US 2016/235878. The device is portable, thereby allowing use in any suitable location. It is also generally known that sterilisation devices in the form of so-called 'foggers' may be provided in the form of a system carried on a wheeled trolley. Such an arrangement allows the fogger to be wheeled between different rooms, e.g. within a medical facility, for use.

However, the inventor has found that such items may be moved and/or activated/deactivated by unauthorised persons. Furthermore such items can be bulky and require separate/secure storage.

It is an aim of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the above problems.

Statement of Invention

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided sterilisation apparatus as recited in claim 1.

The sterilisation system may be provided as a portable module.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a portable sterilisation system according to claim 25.

Any of the optional features defined in claims 2-24 or the following detailed description may be applied to either or both of the first and second aspect where practicable.

Detailed description

Workable embodiments of the invention are described in further detail below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1 shows an isometric view of sterilisation apparatus; Figure 2 shows a sectional side view of the sterilisation apparatus in a mounted condition; Figure 3 shows a sectional side view of the sterilisation apparatus in an unmounted condition; Figure 4 shows a sectional side view of a mounting arrangement of the sterilisation apparatus; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a mount for mounting the apparatus; Figure 6 shows a schematic view of an electrical system for the apparatus.

A sterilisation apparatus 2 is shown in figures 1-4. The apparatus 2 comprises a housing 4. The housing 4 comprises a shell or the like. The housing 4 may form a generally sealed/enclosed container. The housing 4 may comprise one or more sterilisation agent (e.g. silver ions). The housing 4 is typically polymeric.

As best seen in figure 3, the apparatus 2 is configured to be mounted to a support structure 6. In the present embodiment, the support structure comprises a wall 6. However, it can be appreciated the support structure 6 may comprise any suitable structure, for example, one or more of: post; beam; door; ceiling; roof; window; vehicle; container (e.g. ISO container); fencing; trolley; or the like. This arrangement allows the apparatus to be secured within a space (e.g. a room). The support structure may comprise a structural member/element of the room. The support structure could comprise a fixture or fitting of the room.

The mounting of the apparatus 2 to the support structure 6 will be described in detail later.

As best seen in figure 2, the apparatus 2 comprises a sterilisation system 42. The sterilisation system 42 is contained within the housing 4.

The sterilisation system is configured to sterilise the space surround the apparatus. The sterilisation system may comprise a space-filling or "volumetric" system, e.g. for releasing a sterilisation agent into the air surrounding the system. The sterilisation system may therefore sterilise substantially any exposed surface in a space proximal the system. Typically, this provided by dispersing or otherwise filling the space/volume about the system with a sterilisation agent. For example, the sterilisation agent may comprise one or more: steam; ethylene oxide; hydrogen peroxide; peracetic acid; nitrogen dioxide; alcohol; or ozone.

Due to the natural dispersion of the sterilisation agent, agents out of the line of sight of the apparatus 2 may be sterilised (i.e. the agent can flow around corner or into crevices etc.). The agent typically comprises a gas, vapour or other fluent dispersion.

In some embodiments, the sterilisation agent comprises a non-pathogenic or benign bacteria. The bacteria compete with pathogenic bacteria, thereby reducing the pathogenic load on a surface.

The housing comprises one or more apertures 8 to allow egress of the sterilisation agent. The apertures 8 are provided on an upper side 10 and/or outer side of the apparatus 2 to aid with dispersion of the agent (e.g. the apertures are directed upward in use). The apertures 8 may be provided in a side of the housing 4 that faces away from a mounting formation thereof (to be described below).

The sterilisation system comprises suitable apparatus to disperse the sterilisation agent. The system 42 comprises a reservoir 50. The reservoir may be removable and/or refillable. A port/closure may be provided on the reservoir and/or housing 4 to allow refilling. The apparatus 2 may comprise a visual indicator to indicate the agent level in the reservoir and/or depletion thereof.

A pump 52 pumps agent from reservoir for dispersal thereof. An atomiser 54 atomises or otherwise disperses or vaporises the agent. A tube/pipe 56 fluidly connects the pump 52 and the atomiser 54. The agent may egress the system via a nozzle/outlet 8.

In other embodiments, the sterilisation system comprises a radiative system. For example, the radiation may comprise one or more: UV; Gamma rays; or X-rays.

Such a system typically only requires electrical power, and so do not require refilling. These may be beneficial in remote or less accessible locations.

As best seen in figures 3-5, the apparatus 2 is mounted to the support structure 6 via a mount 12. The mount 12 may be affixed to the support structure 6 using any suitable means and/or may form an integral portion thereof. The mount 12 comprises a back plate 14. This provides a stable connection with the support structure 6. A protrusion 16 of the mount 12 is configured to be received by the apparatus 2 to provide a connection, e.g. a supporting connection capable of bearing the weight of the apparatus.

The protrusion 16 protrudes outwardly from the back plate 14 and may be generally circular/cylindrical. The protrusion 16 comprises an upstanding pin 18. The pin 18 is proximal an end 19 of the protrusion 16. The protrusion 16 is thus L-shaped, hook-shaped or otherwise angled or curved. As such, the protrusions 16 may provide a clothing hook when not mounting the sterilisation apparatus. The mount 12 is thus generally less conspicuous and provides an additional function when not used to hang the apparatus.

A second protrusion 20 is provided as shown in figures. The protrusions 16,20 are generally identical. The protrusions 16,20 are provided in a side-by-side arrangment. The protrusions are spaced. The respective pins 18 extend in the same direction. Typically, this direction will be upward in use.

As best seen in figure 4, the protrusion 16 is configured to be received the apparatus 4. The housing and/or apparatus comprises a corresponding mounting formation.

The housing 4 comprises a recess 22 shaped to accommodate the protrusion 16. The recess comprises a first recess 24 configured to receive the body of the protrusion 16. The second recess 26 receives the pin 18. The second recess 26 may be smaller than the first recess and/or angularly offset therefrom, e.g. being perpendicular thereto. The first and second recesses may comprise portions of common recess 22, e.g. with the second recess 26 opening into the first recess 24.

The recesses 24,26 are correspondingly shaped to the protrusion 16/pin18. The recesses 24,26 therefore provide a close fit with the mount 12. However, as best seen in figure 1, the first recess 24,26 is elongate thereby allowing reception of the height of the protrusion 16 and pin 18 therein during installation. Once the pin 18 is aligned with the second recess 26, then the pin 18 may slide therein and the upper side 28 of the first recess 24 engage the protrusion. A similar recess is provided for the second protrusion 20.

The L-shaped protrusion 16 requires the housing 6 to be moved in two different directions to allow removal thereof. For example, to remove the housing 6 from the mount 12, it must first be lifted upward and then horizontally away from the mount 12. This prevents accidental detachment thereof.

A third recess 30 is configured to receive the back plate 14. The third recess 30 is shaped accordingly. This ensures a close connection with the mount 12, thereby preventing rocking etc. Additionally, this allows the housing 4 to engage and/or lie flush with the support structure 6.

The first recess 24 may open into the third recess 30. The third recess 30 may be wider and/or shallower than the first recess 24.

A tamper and/or control sensor 32 is provided within the second recess 26. The tamper sensor 32 is configured to determine when the apparatus 4 is engaged with the mount 12. The sensor 32 is mounted at an end 34 of the second recess 26. The sensor 32 is thus engaged/triggered by the pin 18.

The tamper sensor 32 does not form line of sight with the exterior of the apparatus. That is to say the tamper sensor 32 is located behind a corner or in an obstructed portion of the recess that is not visible or readily reachable from the exterior of the housing. The second recess 26 may be sized to prevent a user inserting a finger thereinto. For example, the second recess 26 may comprise a width/diameter less than lOmm. Additionally or alternatively, the angle between the first recess 24 and second recess 26 prevents access to the sensor 32. This prevents interference therewith.

In some embodiments, the sensor 32 comprises a touch/pressure sensor. Such a sensor is configured to indicate contact between the pin 18 and the sensor 32. In some examples, the sensor 32 comprises a mechanical switch. The switch breaks/completes an electrical circuit upon engagement therewith. The switch may be resiliently biased toward the unengaged position. This allows some tolerance in the positioning of the pin 18 relative to the sensor 32.

In other examples, the sensor 32 comprises a capacitive/resistive touch sensor.

In some embodiments, the sensor 32 comprises a non-contact sensor. For example, an optical sensor and/or a magnetic sensor. It can be appreciated, the exact form of the sensor is not pertinent to the invention at hand, and the sensor 5 32 may comprise any suitable technology.

The sensor 32 may be provided on one or both of the recesses 22. The sensor 32 may be provided in any suitable position to indicate mounting of the apparatus 4 to the mount 12. For example, a sensor 32 may be provided in the third recess 30 and/or along the back wall of the housing 6 that engages the wall 8 in use.

However, it can be appreciated that such arrangements may be sub-optimal as the sensor 32 is provided in an accessible position that could be prone to tampering.

In some embodiments, the mount 12 may comprise a recess configured to receive a protrusion on the housing 6. The tamper sensor 32 may be provided on the mount 12. It can be appreciated the arrangement is otherwise as previously described.

A lock or the like may be provided to lock the housing 6 onto the mount 12. This 20 may prevent unauthorised removal or tampering. The lock may comprise any suitable form, for example, one or more: latch; barrel lock (e.g. key operated); padlock; electrically operated lock; security fastener etc. A front panel 60 (i.e. a panel opposite the mount 12) may be removable. The sterilisation system 42 and/or portions thereof may be fixed to the panel 60. This allows access to the interior of the housing 4 and/or the reservoir 50.

The electrical system 36 of the apparatus 4 is shown schematically in figure 6. The system 36 comprises a power supply 38. Typically, this will comprise a battery.

This allows portability of the apparatus 4. The battery may comprise any suitable technology. The battery may be rechargeable and/or replaceable. Additionally or alternatively, a mains electrical connection may be provided. This may provide a more reliable energy source and/or back-up.

A controller 40 may control operation of the sterilisation system 42, operation of which will be described later. The controller 40 may comprise any suitable processing/memory system (e.g. micro-controller, SoC etc.).

In some embodiments, a remote device 44 is configured to operatively connect to the apparatus 4. The remote device 44 may comprise any suitable computing device, for example, inter alia: a mobile (cellular) phone; tablet; laptop; desktop; server etc. Typically, the remote device 44 is a portable device. This allows communication with the apparatus 4 in a similar vicinity. The apparatus comprises any suitable communication interface for communication with the remote device 44. Typically, communication is provided wirelessly (e.g. Bluetooth (RTM), Wifi, GSM etc.). Additionally or alternatively, wired communication is provided (e.g. ethernet, broadband, fibre optic etc.). Communication between the apparatus 4 and the remote device 44 may be direct (e.g. Bluetooth (RTM), or Wifi) and/or via an intermediatory (e.g. Internet, or remote server). The apparatus may be internet connected (e.g. provides an loT device).

The remote device 44 may be configured to send/receive data or commands to/from the apparatus 4. For example, the remote device 44/apparatus 4 may be configured to send/receive: * Signals to activate/deactivate the sterilisation system; * Signals indicative of sterilisation routine (e.g. duration/intensity of the sterilisation); * Signals indicative of a reservoir level (e.g. remaining level of sterilisation agent); * Signal indicative of the time remaining of sterilisation routine and/or when a routine is complete.

* Analytics of the sterilisation system (e.g. time/duration of each routine; agent usage etc.) * Signals indicative of unmounting of the apparatus 4.

* Signals indicative of activation of the proximity sensor 46.

In some embodiments, the remote device 44 may comprise a remote controller (i.e. a dedicated controller). The remote controller may comprise one or more buttons or like to provide control of the apparatus 4. The remote device 4 may communicated with the apparatus using short range RF. For example, the remote 4 may comprise an IR or Bluetooth (RTM) transmitter etc. A proximity sensor 46 is provided. The proximity sensor 46 is configured to detect persons and/or animals. The proximity sensor 46 comprises any suitable sensor, for example, an Infra-red sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor 46 may comprises a motion sensor, camera or the like. The sensor may be provided adjacent an upper side 10 of the housing 4.

In optional embodiments, a manual input 48 is provided, e.g. a user interface. The manual input 48 comprises a switch/button/touch interface, etc. This may allow manual activation of the sterilisation system 42 and/or other functions of the system.

In some embodiments, the apparatus 4 comprises a location tracking system. The apparatus 4 comprises a geo-location system (e.g. G PS, Galileo etc.). Signals indicating the location of the apparatus 4 may be sent to the remote device 44. This may provide tracking in the event the system is stolen.

Additionally/alternatively, the apparatus 4 may only be operable in one or more predefined location, e.g. whereby the controller 40 confirms the location before controlling operation of the sterilisation system 42.

The electrical system 36 may be provided on a PCB 58 or the like.

Operation of the invention A mount 12 is installed to a support structure 6 as required. The apparatus 4 is mounted to the mount 12 by placing the recess 22 thereover and then lowering the housing 4 onto the protrusions. The pin(s) 18 engage the tamper sensor(s) 32. Engagement with one or two sensors 32 may be required for operation.

In some embodiments, the tamper sensor 32 (e.g. where the sensor 32 comprises a mechanical switch) is configured to operatively connect the power supply to the electrical system 36 or a portion thereof when engaged. The controller 40 and/or sterilisation system 42 are therefore deprived of power when the apparatus 4 is unmounted. This provides a simple arrangement to prevent activation of the sterilisation system. This may also preserve battery charge.

In other embodiments, the tamper sensor 32 relays a signal to the controller 40 when activated. Therefore, when the apparatus 4 is unmounted, the controller 40 is configured to prevent activation of the sterilisation system 42. As the controller 40 is powered, communication with the remote device 44 is possible when unmounted. For example, this allows sending signals to the remote device 44 to indicate the apparatus 4 is unmounted. The user may then intervene if necessary.

Once mounted, the sterilisation system 42 may be activated. Typically, this will be initiated by the remote device 44. For example, the user will leave the room/space to be sterilised and then manually activate the sterilisation system 42 via the device 44. The user may then monitor the progress of the sterilisation routine on the device 44. The apparatus 4 may provide real-time and/or periodic updates on the progress of the sterilisation routine. The apparatus 4/device 44 may notify the user when the routine is complete.

The user may then remove the apparatus 4 and perform sterilisation of the next space, repeating the process.

In other embodiments, the user activates the sterilisation system 42 via the manual input 48. A delay between activation of the input 48 and activation of the sterilisation routine may be provided. This provides time for the user to leave the space. The delay may be least 10 seconds, preferably, at least 30 seconds. The user may then re-enter when routine is complete. Additionally/alternatively the sterilisation routine may not activate whilst the proximity/movement sensor 46 senses the presence/movement of a body in the vicinity of the apparatus.

The apparatus 4 may comprise an indicator (e.g. light and/or audible alarm) to indicate the routine is complete. Alternatively, the user may use monitor progress using the remote device 44.

During the sterilisation routine, the sterilisation system 42 will disperse the sterilisation agent into the space/room. The duration/intensity or other operational parameters of the sterilisation routine are determined according to the sterilisation agent used and/or the volume of the space. After dispersion of the agent, a cooldown period may be provided. This allows time for the dispersed agent to settle and/or degrade. Once the cooldown in complete, a notification may be provided to the user to indicate the routine is complete.

During the sterilisation routine, the proximity sensor 46 monitor the space around the apparatus 4. If a person/animal etc. is detected a signal is sent to the controller 40. The controller then deactivates the sterilisation system 42. A notification may be sent to the remote device 44. The sterilisation system 42 may be configured to reactivate once the proximity sensor 46 is no longer activated. Alternatively, the user may be required to manually restart the sterilisation routine (e.g. via the remote device 44 and/or manual input 48).

If the apparatus 4 is unmounted during the sterilisation routine, the sterilisation system 42 is stopped/unpowered. The controller 40 may send a notification to the remote device 44. The user may then intervene if required. An alert may be emitted by the apparatus, e.g. using lights and/or a sounder to indicate interruption of the sterilisation routine.

The system is portable, thereby allowing a flexible configuration. The bespoke shape of the mount ensures the apparatus is only activated when connected thereto. This prevents unauthorised use and/or activation during transport etc. As the mount is typically affixed to a wall, the apparatus may be provided out of reach of young children and/or pets etc. The system may be activated/controlled remotely, allowing safe operation thereof.

Mounts 12 can be installed in any desired room/space to be sterilised. Thus, a 5 single apparatus can be taken from one space/room to the next and operated quickly/safely according to its mounted or unmounted status on a mount.

The system allows a volumetric sterilisation, thus providing effective sterilisation of a complex space (i.e. a room including furniture etc). The use of a non-pathogenic bacteria provides effective sterilisation without/reduced use of potentially dangerous chemical (i.e. provides a more child/pet friendly system).

Claims

Claims 1. A portable sterilisation apparatus comprising: a sterilisation system; a mounting formation configured to provide mounting of the apparatus to a support structure in use; where the apparatus comprises a sensor configured to indicate to the sterilisation system when the apparatus is unmounted from the mounting formation.
2. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 1, where the sensor is provided within a recessed or enclosed portion of the apparatus.
3. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the sensor does not form a line of sight with the exterior of the apparatus.
4. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the sensor comprises a touch/pressure switch.
5. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where one of the mounting formation or sterilisation system comprises an angled, curved or hooked member configured to be received by the other of the mounting formation or sterilisation system.
6. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where one of the mounting formation or sterilisation system comprises a recess configured to receive the other of the mounting formation or sterilisation system.
7. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the mounting formation is fully received within a recess in the sterilisation system.
8. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the mounting formation provides a close fit with the sterilisation apparatus.
9. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the mounting formation comprises a plurality of angled, curved or hooked members, the members being spaced on a common backing member.
10. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 9, where the sterilisation system comprises a recess to accommodate the backing plate.
11. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the sterilisation apparatus and/or the mounting formation are shaped such that movement in two different directions is required to provide disengagement or separation thereof.
12. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 11, where at least one of the directions extends in an upward direction in use.
13. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 5, where the angled, curved or hooked member is configured to engage or otherwise activate the sensor.
14. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where sterilisation system is configured to deactivate in response to activation/output of the sensor.
15. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the sensor is configured to operatively disconnect the sterilisation system from a power supply.
16. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the sterilisation system comprises a volumetric sterilisation system.
17. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 16, where the sterilisation system is configured to disperse at least one airborne sterilisation agent in use.
18. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 17, where the sterilisation agent comprises non-pathogenic bacteria.
19. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the apparatus is operatively connected to a remote computing device
20. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 19, where the sterilisation system is configured to be activated/deactivated by the remote device.
21. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 20, where the apparatus is configured to provide a signal to the remote device indicative of unmounting of the apparatus.
22. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising proximity sensor configured to detect a person proximal the apparatus.
23. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to claim 22, where apparatus is configured deactivate the sterilisation system or inhibit operation thereof in response to activation of the proximity sensor.
24. A portable sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, where the sterilisation system is provided in a housing configured to be hung on the mounting formation.
25. A portable sterilisation system comprising: an on-board power supply; a controller; sterilising means arranged to be activated by the controller to sterilise a space in the vicinity of the sterilisation system; a mount arranged for cooperation with a mounting formation to support the sterilisation system for use; and, an on-board sensor arranged to sense cooperation between the mount and mounting formation, where activation of the sterilising means is selectively permitted or denied in dependence upon the sensor.