IT202000007981A1 - APPARATUS FOR SANITATION OF PROTECTIVE MASKS - Google Patents

Description

APPARATUS FOR SANITIZING PROTECTIVE MASKS

DESCRIPTION

The present invention refers to a low energy consumption apparatus and to the relative method of use for the sanitization of respiratory protection masks commonly included in the disposable class, but not only. In particular, the present invention refers to an apparatus with two separate chambers for the sanitization of such masks when used also in the presence of coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV-2 for example. The apparatus and the process have the ultimate purpose of sanitizing and deactivating the virus and maintaining the original characteristics of the mask, making it reusable for longer. times.

STATE OF THE ART

Viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi are microorganisms that can cause diseases in humans, sometimes even serious ones. In particular, coronaviruses (CoVs) are a large family of respiratory viruses that can cause anything from the common cold to severe acute respiratory syndromes. Coronaviruses are common in many animal species and in some cases, they can evolve and infect humans. A new coronavirus that had never previously been identified in humans? was reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019. In the first half? of February, WHO announced that respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 reported in Wuhan? been called COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2? a respiratory virus that spreads mainly through contact with the breath droplets of infected people, through saliva (coughing and sneezing), direct personal contact, hands or touching contaminated mouth, nose or eyes with hands.

According to the data currently available, both asymptomatic and symptomatic people can be the cause of the spread of the virus. The incubation period? between 2 and 12 days, while the stay on the surfaces varies from 4 hours to over 24 hours depending on the material and the external climatic conditions.

The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends that the civilian population wear appropriate personal protective equipment (indicated by the acronym PPE). One of these ? the so-called surgical mask or FFP1 that a person should use if they suspect they have contracted the new coronavirus and / or in the presence of symptoms such as coughing or sneezing. The FFP2 or FFP3 mask should instead be worn if assisting a person with suspected new coronavirus infection.

With regard to health and social health personnel, in accordance with the guidelines of the WHO, the ISS (Istituto Superiore di Sanit?) Indicates that? It is necessary to use FFP2 or FFP3 masks as a suitable device to protect healthcare workers.

Surgical masks, FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 masks are generally certified as disposable PPE. The certification guarantees full effectiveness of the masks on the basis of defined use and time prescriptions. It should be noted that these certifications have been designed for situations that can be considered normal? and not of crisis. According to this legislation, the masks should be thrown away after a few hours or in any case after each use.

To date, there are no scientifically validated methods to regenerate disposable masks in a simple and safe way. Least of all there are commercial equipment that can be used in total safety even by private individuals.

However, there are some studies on the elimination of microorganisms and in particular on the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 with heat. On February 9, 2020, Fudan University Medical College Shanghai, the Medical Molecular Virology Laboratory of Health Committee and the School of Public Health produced a scientific research paper on the safe and rapid regeneration of disposable masks. I study ? was published in the Journal of Microbiology and Infection and according to this study, the masks can be decontaminated by wrapping them in plastic bags and heating everything for 30 minutes with the help of a classic electric hairdryer.

The website of the International Medical Center in Beijing, China, on the other hand, refers to another procedure that finds more confirmation among experts, while posing other problems. This other article states that the masks can be decontaminated if heated for 30 minutes at temperatures above 56 degrees Celsius and assuming to bring the? Dry heat? at 70 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes so? to effectively inactivate the virus without affecting the protective function of the mask. However, on the basis of the published studies, one can? at most talk about a significant reduction of the viral load, but not a complete sterilization, that is? of a total inactivation of the virus, due to the resistance of the spores. During the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy and in the world, significant problems were highlighted related to the supply of masks and protective masks as well as complications and uncertainties regarding their disposal. The crisis has therefore raised many questions in the common population with respect to the real possibility? to sanitize these PPE to reuse them as well as the possibility? to contain the pi? possible environmental impact related to their production and subsequent disposal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The primary purpose of the present invention? therefore that of making available an apparatus for sanitizing a protective mask, and a relative method of use of the same, which is able to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

In particular, a first object of the present invention? that of providing an apparatus capable of guaranteeing the sanitization of a respiratory protection mask preferably, but not exclusively, of the class defined as? disposable ?.

A second object of the present invention? that of making available an apparatus, and a relative method of use, for the sanitization of a respiratory protection mask that is safe and reliable and is able, after a predefined number of treatments, to still guarantee the original effectiveness of the mask.

Finally, another no less important purpose? to offer an apparatus that is easy to use, both for professional and domestic use and therefore also for people who are not experts in the sector.

Yet another purpose? to provide an apparatus for the sanitization of a protective mask that can contribute to significantly reduce the disposal of this type of PPE, allowing reuse even for more? times.

A further purpose, linked to the previous one,? that of providing an apparatus for the sanitization of a protective mask that can contribute to the protection of the territory with a process that is based on concrete concepts of circular economy and eco-sustainability.

Not the last object of the present invention? that of providing an apparatus for sanitizing a protective mask that is reliable and easy to make at competitive costs. These and further purposes are achieved by means of an apparatus for the sanitization of a protective mask characterized by the fact of comprising:

- a first sanitizing chamber with hermetic insulated closure that delimits an internal volume to house a protective mask to be sanitized, in which said first chamber comprises a means of generating thermal energy, a means of heat exchange to exchange thermal energy with said internal volume and thermal energy storage means, wherein said thermal energy generation means comprise a core in at least one semiconductor material such that the thermal power generated by it decreases as its temperature increases and such that, when said temperature reaches a predefined maximum temperature, said thermal power generated is substantially equal to zero;

- a second sanitizing chamber closed and separated from said first chamber and defining a second volume for housing said protective mask, in which said second chamber comprises means for generating ultraviolet radiation in the spectrum having a wavelength between 100 and 280 nm , said second chamber being provided with cooling means for cooling said ultraviolet radiation generation means.

The present ? therefore also relating to a method for sanitizing a protective mask through the use of the apparatus indicated above. In its essence, this method includes at least the steps of:

a) activating said thermal energy generating means of said first chamber to pre-heat the same up to a predetermined sanitizing temperature;

b) placing a protective mask to be sanitized in said first pre-heated chamber; c) maintaining said protective mask inside said first chamber at said predetermined sanitizing temperature and for a predetermined time interval;

d) moving said protective mask from said first chamber to said second chamber;

e) activating said electromagnetic radiation generating means for a predetermined time useful for the complete sanitization of said protective mask.

The method therefore provides for a sanitization carried out in two phases in a specific sequence which together ensure the elimination of the viral material without degrading the physical structure of the protective mask in order to allow its reuse.

Advantageously, the thermal energy generation means provided for the first chamber? self-regulating and self-limiting, thanks to the presence of a core in semiconductor material, so not? it is necessary to provide the insulated chamber with a thermostat to regulate the temperature, n? of a safety thermostat. Furthermore, such a means of generating thermal energy allows to have a constant and modulated production of thermal energy, achieving accurate control of the temperature inside the chamber. The semiconductor materials, in fact, having a conductivity? which depends directly on the temperature and a resistance that varies significantly with the temperature, allow to modulate the power, and therefore the quantity, of thermal energy produced. The thermal energy storage medium acts as a thermal reservoir, absorbing heat when its temperature? lower than the temperature inside the chamber and yielding it when its temperature? higher than the temperature inside the chamber. Thus, moreover,? It is possible to achieve a rapid recovery of the desired temperature inside the chamber in the event of a sudden drop in temperature, due for example to the opening of the chamber (to insert the masks to be sanitized). In this case, in fact, the storage medium immediately releases heat inside the chamber and the thermal energy generator will produce? a smaller amount of energy to restore the desired temperature inside the chamber. The combination of a means for generating thermal energy provided with the aforesaid characteristics with such a means for accumulating thermal energy, allows to obtain an optimal control of the temperature inside the chamber, with a substantially constant and substantially uniform temperature inside it. In fact, such a means of generating electrical energy allows to keep the temperature constant at the desired value, and the means of storing electrical energy allows to keep this value constant even when the means of generating electrical energy? deactivated (door opening). Furthermore, the combination of these characteristics achieves a conspicuous energy saving, with advantages from an economic and sustainability point of view. environmental. In fact, the combination of a generation medium capable of producing a modulable flow of thermal energy, together with a storage medium capable of assisting the generating medium in restoring the desired temperature, makes it possible to avoid unnecessary waste of energy.

Moreover, the first chamber with hermetic closure and suitably insulated with the aforementioned characteristics is safe as the temperature cannot? exceed the maximum predefined temperature due to the very nature of the means of generating thermal energy, thus avoiding the possibility? that if the masks to be sanitized are damaged, or worse there are fires, melting of materials or other possible accidents due to excess temperatures. It is also reliable in that, for the reasons explained above, it achieves a substantially constant temperature inside the chamber, guaranteeing the masks to keep their properties intact. chemical and physical maintaining the original characteristics.

Preferably, the thermal energy generation means comprises at least one PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) type thermistor. These are cheap and easily available devices on the market.

The hermetically sealed and suitably insulated chamber of the present invention can? be made with any suitable material. In accordance with preferred embodiments, the means for exchanging thermal energy with the interior of the chamber comprises a metal or metal alloy plate. It is an inexpensive and easy to install heat exchanger element.

Even more? preferably, said plate? in anodized aluminum. The aluminum? in fact, a cheap material, light and provided with good conductivity? thermal. It is subjected to anodization in order to be more? corrosion resistant.

The plate ? advantageously positioned on at least one of the internal surfaces of the chamber itself, so as to optimize the heat exchange with the inside of the chamber.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the thermal energy generation means? interposed between the thermal energy exchange medium and the thermal energy storage medium and in contact with them. In this way, in fact, the storage medium receives heat from the generation medium, by conduction, when this? active, and from inside the chamber, through the medium of exchange, when the means of generation? inactive, resulting, in this way, more? effective.

Preferably, the thermal energy storage medium comprises at least one refractory material. If so, the thermal energy storage medium? a passive means, with consequent economic advantages. Furthermore, refractory materials are able to withstand high temperatures for long periods without reacting with the materials with which? in contact. Even more? preferably, said refractory material? a printable refractory material, so that it is easy to produce.

For the purposes of this description and the subsequent claims, when we speak of? Sealed and insulated chamber? it refers to a device which, activated (ie connected to the electric line) and filled with air at a predefined temperature, keeps this temperature substantially constant, ie with variations not exceeding 1 ° C.

Furthermore, in the present context, the? Thermal power? indicates the quantity? of thermal energy generated in the unit? of time.

Hereinafter, the terminology? Self-regulating device? refers to a device capable of autonomously regulating its own temperature, without the aid of special instruments, such as thermostats and the terminology? self-limiting device? refers to a device capable of autonomously limiting its own temperature, without the aid of special instruments, such as thermostats (which by nature introduce substantial variations in temperature).

In fact, the computerized control system does not have the task of controlling the temperature inside the chamber by switching the thermal energy generation device off and on again but, before activating the sanitization process, it has the important purpose of checking that the safety related to the hermetic closure of the chamber are active and the predefined working temperature has been reached.

The insulated room, can? be made of different materials, as long as? coupled with materials with good thermal insulation characteristics, in particular any material having a conductivity coefficient? thermal? ? 0.045 W / mK.

With reference to the second sanitation chamber, it can? be made of different materials, as long as? resistant to UV-C radiation. Since UV-C radiation tends to degrade the organic material, inorganic materials such as metal or ceramic coatings are used for the construction of the second chamber.

Advantageously, the UV-C radiations allow a second phase of sanitation or guarantee the sterilization and disinfection of the protective mask. In particular, the UV-C radiations ensure the elimination of the viral material that survived the first phase of sanitization in the first chamber.

Preferably, the electromagnetic radiation generating means comprise fluorescent lamps. Advantageously, the cooling means allow the working temperature to be kept at a predefined and constant value so that the quantity can be precisely controlled. of radiations emitted that could vary in case of increase of the temperature of the lamps.

As an alternative to fluorescent lamps, UV LEDs can be used.

LIST OF FIGURES

Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the examination of the following detailed description of some preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of the hermetically sealed and suitably insulated chamber, illustrated for indicative and non-limiting purposes, with the support of the attached drawings. , in which:

Figure 1 shows a transparent schematic side perspective view of an apparatus with two sanitizing chambers according to a preferred embodiment of the invention in a closed chamber configuration;

Figure 2 shows a further lateral perspective view of the apparatus in Figure 1 in an open chamber configuration;

- figure 3? a partial sectional view of a portion of a first hermetic and insulated sanitizing chamber of an apparatus according to the present invention;

- figure 3A? a schematic view of a heating unit of said first sanitizing chamber of an apparatus according to the present invention;

- Figures 4 and 4A are respectively a schematic view and a side view of a group of components that can be installed in a second closed sanitizing chamber of an apparatus according to the present invention;

- Figures 5 and 6 are schematic side perspective views of the apparatus of Figures 1 and 2 in which the control modules of said sanitizing chambers are schematized;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to figures 1 - 6, with the reference number 1? generally indicated is an apparatus for sanitizing a respiratory protection mask according to the present invention. The apparatus 1? it was conceived for both professional and home use.

The apparatus 1 comprises a first sanitation chamber 2 with hermetic and insulated closure. Preferably, the first chamber 2 comprises an insulating jacket which defines an internal volume for temporarily housing a mask to be sanitized. In a possible embodiment, the insulating jacket comprises an internal covering casing, preferably made of metallic material.

The first insulated chamber 2 comprises a first door 4. In a closed condition of the first door 4, the internal volume? hermetically closed from the external environment in which the first chamber is located 2.

Preferably, the insulating jacket? made of sintered expanded polypropylene, with a conductivity coefficient? thermal (?) equal to 0.039 W / mK, in order to guarantee a limited and predictable thermal drop. The thermal insulation characteristics of this material, combined with its non-toxicity? and recyclability, make it optimal for the purpose of this invention.

The insulating jacket could still be made of different materials, as long as? provided with good thermal insulation characteristics, in particular any material having a conductivity coefficient? thermal? ? 0.045 W / mK.

The apparatus 1 also includes a second sanitation chamber 3 which is closed and separated from the first chamber 2. The second chamber 3? defined by a casing made of a material resistant to UV-C radiation. This casing defines an internal volume of the second chamber 3 in which? intended to be housed in a respiratory protection mask after it has undergone a heat treatment inside the first chamber 2 according to a method described below. For this purpose, the second chamber 3 comprises a second door 5 or other element which allows access to the internal volume. In closed conditions, this second door 5 ensures a closure of the second chamber 3 such as to avoid the escape of electromagnetic radiations.

Preferably, the second chamber 3? operatively connected in a position adjacent to the first chamber 2. Even more? preferably, the apparatus 1 comprises a frame which supports the second chamber 3 and / or the first chamber 2 in a mutually adjacent position.

According to the present invention, the first chamber 2 comprises at least one thermal unit 7 comprising a thermal energy generation means 11, a thermal energy exchange medium 10 and a thermal energy storage medium 12.

The generating means 11 has the function of transforming electrical energy into thermal energy. The heat exchange medium 10 has the function of exchanging thermal energy with the internal volume of the first chamber 10. The first chamber 10? moreover provided with at least one thermal energy storage means 12.

The thermal energy generation means 11 (hereinafter also referred to as the generator means 11)? suitable for transforming electrical energy into thermal energy. It preferably comprises a core, a semiconductor material such that the generated thermal power Q decreases as the temperature T of the thermal energy generation means 11 increases and whereby, when said temperature T reaches a predefined maximum temperature TMAX, said thermal power generated? substantially equal to zero.

Mathematically there? it could be translated into the following form:

Q = f (T)

Lim Q = 0 for T? TMAX

Where f (T)? a function inversely proportional to T, which depends on the type of material used.

In other words, how already? mentioned, the half generator 11? self-regulating. In fact, as its temperature T increases, the thermal power Q it produces decreases, so that T will increase? at first rapidly, then progressively more? slow, until the predefined temperature TMAX is reached, at which point, the production of thermal energy? substantially interrupted. Therefore the generating means 11? also self-limiting, as its temperature never exceeds TMAX and does not require thermostats. There? ? made possible by the fact that the generating means 11 comprises a core made of at least one semiconductor material. In these materials, in fact, the conductivity? electrical depends directly on the temperature and the resistance varies significantly with the temperature, therefore? It is possible to significantly vary the thermal power produced as the temperature varies. When the predetermined temperature TMAX is exceeded, the generating means 11 substantially ceases to absorb electrical energy and ceases to generate heat.

Similarly, when the temperature T drops, the generator means 11 resumes generating heat.

In particular, the generating means 11 preferably comprises at least one PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) type thermistor. The core of the PTC? made of polychrostalline material and preferably comprises barium carbonate, titanium oxide (TiO2) and particles of titanium, silicon (semiconductor) and manganese, which are ground, mixed, compressed and sintered. The PTC also includes two electrical conductors, preferably copper. Since PTCs are known devices, they will not be further described here. It is only pointed out that the PTCs can be used at different predefined voltages that can? be for example of 12VDC, 24VDC, 110VAC or 230VAC.

According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the thermal energy storage means 12? only one and? in the form of a block of refractory material, preferably of the printable type. Preferably, and printable refractory materials are indicated with the English term? Plastic refractories? or? refractory castable materials? and possess good properties? of workability. As mentioned in the summary, refractory materials withstand high temperatures for long periods without reacting with the materials with which? in contact, they are therefore suitable for the purposes of the present invention.

Preferably, such a moldable refractory material? ceramic type and includes silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, calcium peroxide and ferric oxide.

The storage medium 12? substantially a passive accumulator, able to absorb thermal energy, under certain conditions, and to release it when necessary. So it acts as a buffer or? Heat reservoir? or? thermal flywheel? how will it come? better explained below. The heat exchange medium 10 (hereinafter also referred to as? Exchanger medium 10?) Preferably comprises a plate made of metal or metal alloy, preferably of anodized aluminum. The metal plate? facing the internal volume defined by the enclosure in insulated material. The plate exchanges heat by convection and irradiation with the inside of the chamber, (possibly conduction, if in contact with elements inside the chamber). In a possible embodiment, said exchanger 10 can? be made up of an internal metal casing that internally covers the jacket in insulating material

The exchanger half 10? therefore in thermal contact with the generating means 11. In general, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the generating means 11? interposed between the exchanger means 10 and the thermal energy storage means 12.

As can be seen in Figure 2, the plate constituting the exchanger means 10? suitably positioned on one of the internal walls 6 of the first insulated chamber 2 itself, preferably at an optimal height from the point of view of thermal energy exchanges. That is, by exploiting the convective currents that are generated in correspondence with the plate, due to the temperature differences that are created between the various elements.

Even if, for reasons of clarity, the first insulated chamber 2 comprises a single heat exchange medium 10, a single thermal energy generation medium 11 and a single thermal energy storage medium 12, according to possible embodiments, the first chamber 2 could comprise a plurality of of heat exchange means 10, for example two metal plates positioned on parallel side walls 6 of the insulating jacket of the first chamber 2. Each plate could be associated with a corresponding generator means 11 and a corresponding thermal energy storage means 12.

Overall, therefore, the first chamber 2 could comprise a plurality of of thermal groups 7, suitably positioned in correspondence with its internal walls.

As above already? indicated, for each thermal group 7, the means for generating thermal energy 11? interposed between the thermal energy exchange medium 10 and the thermal energy storage medium 12 and in contact with them. In particular, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the aluminum plate (acting as a heat exchange medium 10)? located in correspondence with the internal surface 9 of the side wall 6 of the insulating jacket of the first chamber 2 in a position substantially coplanar with it. If so, the side wall 6? provided with a special housing for the thermal unit 7. As shown in figure 3, the generator means 11? located adjacent to the exchanger means 10 and in contact with it, at its surface facing the outside of the chamber 2. Similarly, the thermal energy storage means 12? placed adjacent to the generator means 11 and in contact with it, in correspondence with its surface facing the outside of the chamber 2.

According to an alternative embodiment, not shown in the figures, the thermal group 7? coupled with the internal surface 9 of the side wall 6 by gluing the storage means 12 on the side wall 6. Alternatively, the thermal unit 7 could be coupled to the chamber 2 also by means of screws or equivalent mechanical means.

In one of its possible embodiments, the thermal energy storage means 12 can? have the shape of a parallelepiped with a rectangular section, or have an L-shaped section, as shown in Figure 3, so that it is in contact both with the generator means 11 and with the exchanger means 10, so as to be further effective. In fact, in this way, the storage means 12 directly exchanges heat both with the generator means 11 and with the exchanger means 10.

When the generating means 11 produces heat, the storage means 12 absorbs heat from it and from the exchanger means 10, heated by it, by conduction. When the generator means 11 produces substantially zero thermal power, but the temperature inside the first chamber 2? higher than the temperature of the thermal storage means 12, the latter in any case absorbs heat from the generator means 11 and from the exchanger means 10, which are, in turn, heated from inside the first chamber 2, by conduction or convection.

When, on the other hand, is the temperature inside the first chamber 2? lower than the temperature of the storage means 12, the latter transfers heat to the generator means 11 and to the exchanger means 10, which, in turn, release it inside the first chamber 2, restoring the desired temperature.

According to a preferred embodiment, the electromagnetic radiation generating means 14 can preferably comprise a plurality of electromagnetic radiation. of fluorescent lamps. Alternatively, UV-C LEDs can be used. In any case, cooling means are provided which preferably comprise an electrically operated fan 13. Preferably, the second chamber 3 comprises at least one lamp unit 8 consisting of a cooling fan 13 and a plurality of elements. of UV-C lamps (indicated with reference 14). Such a group? positioned in the upper part of the second chamber 3 in order to radiate the whole? of said internal volume. The UV-C lamp is powered by an electronic ballast. The cooling fan cools the lamp by extracting heat from the chamber at the height of the lamp in such a way as to prevent the flow of air from creating a strong turbulence inside the chamber.

The sanitation chambers 2 and 3 of the apparatus 1 could have a different shape from that schematized in the figures. For example, one or both chambers could have a lateral opening, with the relative door, instead of? front.

The dimensions and the geometry of the apparatus 1, as well as? the thickness of the walls of the chambers 2 and 3 of the same, as well as the dimensions, the number and the positioning of the groups 7 and 8 in the same chambers 2 and 3, can vary and be established on the basis of specific needs, for example on the quantity? of masks to be sanitized at the same time, on the type of use and place where the apparatus 1 is located.

The present invention? therefore also related to a method of sanitizing a protective mask which includes the following steps:

a) activating the thermal energy generating means 11 of the first chamber 2 to pre-heat the same up to a predetermined sanitizing temperature;

b) placing a protective mask to be sanitized in said first pre-heated chamber 2; c) maintaining said protective mask inside said first chamber 2 at said predetermined temperature and for a predetermined time interval;

d) moving said protective mask from the first chamber 2 to the second chamber 3;

e) activating said electromagnetic radiation generating means 14 for a predetermined time. The method involves two sanitizing phases (c and e) consecutive and in sequence of sanitizing which ensure the elimination of the viral material from the protective mask without altering the properties. of the mask itself which therefore can? be reused again. With reference to steps c) and e), the predetermined sanitizing temperature in the first chamber 2 corresponds to the temperature TMAX referred to above to the thermal energy generating means 11 defined above.

Preferably, the method according to the invention provides for a further step f) in which the cooling means of the second chamber 3 are activated when the temperature inside it exceeds a predetermined value.

According to a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 1 comprises a first control module UC2 of the first chamber 2 and a second control module UC3 of the second chamber 3 which are interconnected at least in the most significant sense. forward indicated. For the purposes of the present invention, with the expression? Control module? do you want to generically indicate the set of components responsible for the command and / or control of the two sanitation chambers 2, 3 and on which it can? if necessary, intervene with the operator to set up and / or check the functioning of the chambers themselves. The first UC2 module? also electrically connected to a first temperature sensor T1 which detects the temperature in the first chamber 2. The first UC2 module? also? connected to a first position sensor S1 which detects the closing state of the first door 4 of the first chamber 2 and to a second position sensor S2 which detects the closing state of the second door 5 of the second chamber 3. to create the interconnection between the two modules UC2 and UC3. In particular, the first module UC2 provides the second module UC3 with the consent to activate the electromagnetic radiation generating means 14 only if the second sensor S2 detects the closing state of the second door 5 and only if the first temperature sensor T1 detects the reaching the TMAX sanitizing temperature in the first chamber 2.

The first UC2 control module of the first chamber 2? therefore electrically connected to the generating means 11 of the thermal group 7 so as to control its activation and so as to set the maximum predefined temperature TMAX for said core made of semiconductor material.

The first UC2 module? preferably also connected to first display means VIS1 of the thermal state of the first chamber 2. In a possible embodiment, the first display means VIS1 can comprise a first LED L1 and a second LED L2. The first LED L1, for example red, indicates a first operating condition for which the generating means 11? activated, but the first chamber 2 has not reached the preset temperature. The second LED L2, for example green, indicates a second operational for which the internal temperature of the first chamber 2 has reached the value of the maximum predefined temperature TMAX.

Preferably, the first visualization means VIS 1 also comprise a third LED L3 which is activated by the first module UC2 to indicate that the mask sanitization process? in progress.

The visualization means VIS 1 could be replaced or integrated with sound signaling means. A first sound signal could be generated following the reaching of the predefined temperature TMAX, while a second sound signal could be generated at the end of the sanitization process. In this regard, the first control module UC-2 preferably comprises a first timer TIM1 through which the duration of the first sanitizing phase b) is set.

The second UC3 control module? electrically connected to a second temperature sensor T2 which detects the temperature inside the second chamber 3. The second module UC3 commands the activation of the cooling means 13 when a predetermined temperature value is exceeded.

The second UC3 module? electrically connected to a third position sensor S2 also designed to detect the closing status of the door 5 of the same second chamber 3. As above already? indicated, the second module UC3? therefore connected to the first control module UC2 which gives consent to UC3 only when the first temperature sensor T1 has detected that the temperature of chamber 2 has reached the TMAX value and also the first position sensor S2 detects the closing status of the door 5 of the second chamber 3. In fact, the lamp unit 8? preferably controlled by the second module UC3 through the consent received from UC2 and a safety interlock which prevent the activation of the means 14 for generating electromagnetic radiation in the event that the door 5 is not in a closed state. This solution provides protection to the user against any exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

According to a possible embodiment, the second module UC3 comprises counter means CONT configured to count the hours of operation of the lamp unit 8 and in particular of the means 14 generating electromagnetic radiation. Preferably, the second control module UC3 comprises a second timer TIM2 through which the duration of the second sanitizing phase d) is set.

The second UC3 module? preferably connected to second display means VIS2, preferably LED. In one possible embodiment thereof, said second visualization means VIS 2 comprise an LED 2.1 (for example with green light) which flashes as much as the lamp unit 8? activated, that is? during the sanitization in the second chamber 3. A second LED 2.2 (yellow for example) signals when the electromagnetic radiation generating means 14 have exceeded a first threshold of operating hours, that is? indicates the need? to replace such radiation generating means shortly. A third LED 2.3 (for example with red light) signals the end of life of the generating means 14 and therefore the need to replace these means in order to proceed with the sanitization process.

In a possible embodiment, the two control modules UC2 and UC3 are integrated in the same unit? control.

The operating principle of the apparatus 1 according to the invention is described below in the context of carrying out a method of sanitizing a protective mask such as the one described above.

Through the first control module UC2 the operator activates the generator means 11 of the thermal group 7. The first module UC2 activates the display means on the basis of the signal supplied by the first sensor T1. The first LED (red light) remains activated until the temperature in the first chamber 2? lower than the preset value. When this value is reached, the second LED (green light) is activated. The latter indicates the achievement of the conditions for the first phase of sanitation or the end of phase a) of the above method.

The operator introduces the protective mask in the first chamber 2 (phase b) and through the first control module UC2 activates the first sanitization phase (phase c). The first module UC2 activates the TIM1 timer after checking the closing status of the first door 4. When the TIM1 timer is activated, the third LED (flashing green light) is activated, indicating that the first phase of sanitation? in progress.

Upon completion of the latter, the first UC2 module activates the sound alarm. The operator opens the door 4 and removes the protective mask by moving it to the second chamber 3. After closing the second door 5, the operator can? provide consent for the activation of the same. The second control module UC3 activates the lamp unit 8 after having verified through the third sensor S3 the closure of the door 5 of the second chamber and after having received the consent from the first module UC2 (as indicated above). At the same time, the second module UC3 activates the timer TIM2, the LED 1.2 (green flashing light) and the half counters CONT which count the operating hours of the lamps.

If in the context of the sanitization phase in the second chamber 3 the temperature inside it exceeds a predetermined value (second sensor T2), the second control module UC3 will activate? the cooling means 13.

The end of the second sanitization phase is established by the TIM 2 timer. In this condition, LED 1.2 is deactivated.

After a first threshold of operating hours, the second UC3 module will activate? the LED 2.2 and after a second threshold, higher than the first, will come? LED 2.3 activated.

The control module UC2, UC3 of each chamber 2,3 of the apparatus 1 can? be activated by simply inserting an electric plug into a power socket. The apparatus 1 could however also integrate a battery system.

Furthermore, the apparatus 1 can? also be equipped with remote control means, to remotely activate each UC2-UC3 control module: In this regard, an application for smart devices could be used.

The technician of the sector, in order to satisfy contingent and specific needs, can? making further modifications and variations to the system 1 as described and claimed, without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims (10)

CLAIMS 1. Apparatus (1) for the sanitization of protective masks characterized by the fact of comprising: - a first sanitation chamber (2) with hermetic and insulated closure which defines a first internal volume to house a protective mask to be sanitized, said first chamber (3) including a first door (4) for access to said first internal volume , wherein said first chamber (2) comprises a thermal energy generation means (11), a heat exchange medium (10) for exchanging thermal energy with said internal volume and a thermal energy storage medium (12), in wherein said thermal energy generation means (11) comprises a core in at least one semiconductor material such that the thermal power generated by it (Q) decreases as its temperature (T) increases and such that, when said temperature ( T) reaches a predefined maximum temperature (TMAX), said thermal power generated is substantially equal to zero; - a second closed sanitizing chamber (3) made of a material resistant to UV-C radiation, in which said second chamber (3)? separated from said first chamber (2) and defines a second volume for housing said protective mask, said second chamber (3) comprising a second door (5) for accessing said second internal volume, in which said second chamber (3) comprises generation means (14) of ultraviolet radiation in the spectrum having a wavelength comprised between 100 and 280 nm, said second chamber (3) being provided with cooling means for cooling said generation means (14) of ultraviolet radiation. 2. Apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein said apparatus (1) comprises a first control module (UC2) of a first group (7) consisting of said thermal energy generation means (11), said means of heat exchange (10) and said thermal energy storage medium (12), said apparatus (1) comprising a second module (UC2) for controlling a second group (8) consisting of said ultraviolet radiation generation means and said cooling means. Apparatus (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said ultraviolet radiation generation means (14) comprise UV-C or LED UV-C fluorescent lamps. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said thermal energy generation means (10) comprises at least one PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) type thermistor. 5. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said first chamber (2) comprises an insulating jacket made of a material having a conductivity coefficient? thermal less than or equal to 0.045 W / mK. 6. Apparatus (1) according to claim 5, wherein said heat exchange medium (10) comprises a plate made of metal material applied to a wall of said jacket made of insulating material or comprising a casing made of metal material which internally covers said jacket in insulating material. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said thermal energy generation means (11)? interposed between said thermal energy exchange medium (10) and said thermal energy storage medium (12) and in contact with them. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said thermal energy storage medium (12) comprises a refractory material, preferably printable. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein said first control module (UC2) activates said generating means (11) of said first chamber (2) and supplies to said second module (UC3) the consent to the activation of said generating means (14) of said second chamber (3) if said second door (5) of said second chamber (3)? closed and in which said second control module (UC3) activates said electromagnetic radiation generation means (14) only if the temperature inside said first chamber (2) substantially corresponds to said predetermined maximum value (TMAX). Method for sanitizing a protective mask through an apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said method comprises the steps of: a) activating said thermal energy generating means (11) of said first chamber (2) to pre-heat it up to a pre-established sanitizing temperature (TMAX); b) placing a protective mask to be sanitized in said first preheated chamber (2); c) maintaining said protective mask inside said first chamber (2) at said predetermined sanitizing temperature (TMAX) and for a predetermined time interval; d) moving said protective mask from said first chamber (2) to said second chamber (3); e) activating said electromagnetic radiation generating means (14) for a predetermined time useful for the complete sanitization of said protective mask.