IT202000023842A1 - SANITIZER FOR AN AIR TREATMENT PLANT, PROCEDURE AND AIR TREATMENT PLANT USING THE SAID SANITIZER - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

annexed to a patent application for INDUSTRIAL INVENTION PATENT entitled: ?SANIFIER FOR AN AIR TREATMENT PLANT, PROCEDURE AND AIR TREATMENT PLANT USING THE SAID SANITIZER?

FIELD OF FOUND

The present invention relates to a sanitizer and an air treatment process, as well as an air treatment plant using said sanitizer. The invention can find application in the transport sector, for example public and tourist, and in particular for the sanitization of the recirculated air inside trains, light rails, trams, buses, planes and private means of transport.

STATE OF ART

Devices for the sanitization of objects of various kinds are known today, capable of reducing the presence of bacteria and contaminants that the common activities of cleaning and sanitizing fail to remove; these devices are able to bring the microbial load back within acceptable and optimal hygiene standards which depend on the intended use of the objects involved and on the regulatory constraints.

Today, devices using UV lamps as a sanitizing element are more widespread, in particular capable of emitting ultraviolet light radiation in the UVC wavelength range (between 100-300 nm), suitable for interacting with pathogens such as bacteria , moulds, spores, mites and viruses. UV lamps, in particular UVC, are also used for air treatment to allow the sanitization of environments.

In addition to the direct effect of the UVC there is an indirect effect based on the phenomenon of photocatalysis activated on surfaces coated with titanium dioxide or other coatings capable of releasing hydroxyl. In detail, this principle uses UVC rays to generate OH- hydroxyls, capable of combining with pathogens, destroying them by chemical-physical interaction.

An air treatment device that exploits the photocatalysis phenomenon? described for example in PCT patent application No. WO2004112958A1. This device comprises ultraviolet lamps, in particular UVC lamps, configured to irradiate an internal gold and titanium coating of the treatment device itself, to generate hydroxyl and thus eliminate, by chemical action, the pathogens present in the air.

Another known type of air treatment device? described in Chinese patent application No. CN201437322U. This device comprises UVC ultraviolet lamps arranged directly inside an air conditioning/heating system to allow direct treatment of the air and the consequent reduction of airborne pathogens.

Bench? the solutions described above make it possible to potentially reduce the pathogens present in the air, the Applicant has found that these solutions show limitations and drawbacks. In particular, the known devices do not allow the air flow to be effectively irradiated due to a sufficient reduction of the pathogens contained therein and significantly alter the load losses and therefore the aeraulic characteristics of the system.

PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION

Purpose of the present invention? therefore that of solving at least one of the drawbacks and/or limitations of the previous solutions.

A first objective of the present invention ? that of providing a sanitizer capable of effectively treating an air flow in such a way as to significantly reduce, or even completely eliminate, the pathogens present in the flow. Particularly, ? The object of the present invention is to make available a sanitizer which allows airborne pathogens to be rendered inert within an air recirculation system.

A further object of the present invention ? that of making a sanitizer available with a simple and compact structure which allows its rapid installation on air treatment systems, even in small volumes but which at the same time can guarantee the treatment of high volumes of air.

? Another object of the present invention is to provide a sanitizer which is flexible in use and which can therefore be easily integrated into pre-existing air treatment systems, such as for example air conditioning systems.

? Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide a sanitizer capable of guaranteeing continuous treatment of an air flow by exploiting the power of the system on which it is used. installed, for example air conditioning.

These purposes and others still, which will become clearer from the following description, are substantially achieved by a sanitizer and an air treatment procedure, as well as an air treatment plant, in agreement with one or more? of the joined claims and/or of the following aspects.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the invention are described hereinafter. In one aspect ? a sanitizer (1) is provided for an air treatment plant, said plant (1) comprising at least one air transport channel in communication with an environment to be treated, in which the sanitizer (1) comprises:

- a casing (2) defining a chamber (3),

- at least one inlet (4) that can be connected to the air transport channel and configured to receive air from the latter and allow it to enter the chamber (3),

- at least one outlet (5) which can be connected to the transport channel (1a) and configured to allow the expulsion of air from the chamber (3) and its introduction into the transport channel,

- an expansion zone (6) defined inside the chamber (3) interposed between the inlet (4) and the outlet (5),

- at least one electromagnetic wave emitter housed at least partially in the chamber (3) and configured to emit electromagnetic wave radiation capable of irradiating at least part of the air passing through the chamber (3).

In one aspect according to the preceding aspect, the electromagnetic wave emitter comprises at least one lamp (30) arranged in the chamber (3) and configured to emit ultraviolet light radiation capable of irradiating at least part of the air passing through the chamber (3) .

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects in which, at least during an operating condition of the sanitizer during which the air passes through the chamber (3), the lamp (30) is switched on. configured to determine at least one of:

- a continuous emission of light during/a pre-set period of time,

- an emission of light according to a train of consecutive pulses alternated by non-emission intervals during the/a predetermined period of time.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the inlet (4) has an air passage section lower than an air passage section (E) of the expansion area (6).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the at least one lamp (20) ? arranged at or immediately downstream from the expansion zone (6).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the casing (2) has a treatment zone (7) defined in the chamber (3) and interposed between the expansion zone (6) and the outlet (5). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the at least one lamp (20) ? placed inside the treatment area (7).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the input (4) comprises at least one input channel (10). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the air passage section, along the whole development of the intake channel (10), ? lower than the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6).

In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion area (6) and the air passage section of the inlet (4) ? equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 8, even more? optionally between 2 and 6.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the intake channel (10) extends between: - an intake port (10?) which can be connected to the air transport channel of the air treatment plant, and

- an inlet port (10??) configured to introduce air into the expansion area (6) of the chamber (3).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the intake channel (10) has, in correspondence with an intermediate zone, a minimum air passage section (M). In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects the inlet channel (10) has a convergent-divergent conformation.

In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion area (6) and an air passage section (A??) at the inlet mouth (10??) ? greater than 3, optionally between 3.5 and 8, even more? optionally between 4 and 7.

In one aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (5) and the minimum air passage section (M) of the intake channel (10) ? equal to or greater than 3, optionally between 4 and 15, even more? optionally between 4 and 10.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6) and any of the air passage sections of the inlet channel (10) is? equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 2 and 8, even more? optionally between 2 and 6.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6) and an air passage section of the treatment zone (7) is? between 0.7 and 2, optionally between 0.8 and 1.5.

In one aspect, according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section of the treatment area (7) and any air passage section of the inlet (4) is? greater than 1.5, optionally between 2 and 10, even more? optionally between 2 and 6. In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section of the treatment area (7) and the air passage section (A??) of the inlet mouth (10? ?) of the input channel (10) ? greater than 2, optionally between 2.5 and 10, even more? optionally comprised between 2.5 and 6. In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section of the treatment zone (7) and the air passage section (B) of the outlet ? equal to or greater than 1.1, optionally between 1.2 and 3, even more? optionally between 1.2 and 2.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sanitizer comprises at least one deflector (11) configured to intercept air entering the sanitizer (1) and guide it towards the chamber (3). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the baffle has a curvilinear shape. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) has, in section, a substantially ?S? shape.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) defines at least part of the inlet (4). In one aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) defines at least part of the inlet channel (10).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the deflector (11) comprises a laminar body extending longitudinally along a predetermined development direction. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) has, in section along a plane orthogonal to the predetermined development direction of the deflector (11):

- a first portion (11a) having a substantially ?C? whose concavity? ? facing away from the chamber (3),

- a second portion (11b), joined to the first portion (11a), also having a substantially ?C? whose concavity? ? facing the chamber (3).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects at least part of the second portion (11b) in cooperation with the casing (2) defines the inlet (4). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects at least a portion of? extremity? of the second portion (11b) of the deflector (11) opposite the first portion (11a), in cooperation with the casing (2) defines the inlet (4). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects at least a portion of? extremity? of the second portion (11b) of the deflector (11) delimits, in cooperation with the casing (2), the inlet mouth (10??).

In an aspect according to any of the aspects before entry (4) ? placed next to the exit (5). In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (2) extends longitudinally along a predetermined development direction (D). In an aspect according to any of the aspects before entry (4) ? flanked, transversally to the direction of development (D) of the casing (2), to the outlet (5).

In one aspect according to any of the above aspects the inlet (4) and outlet (5) both extend, parallel to each other. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the inlet (4) and outlet (5) extend along the entire longitudinal extension of the casing (2).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) extends along the entire longitudinal extension of the casing (2). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the predetermined development direction of the deflector (11) is? substantially parallel to the predetermined longitudinal development direction (D) of the casing (2).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the casing (2) comprises:

- a profile (20) elongated in the development direction (D) of the casing (2) and shaped in section with an open profile,

- closing end walls (25) arranged transversely to the direction of development of the elongated profile.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the section bar (20) comprises, in cross section, a first and a second side (21, 22) opposite each other and connected, on the opposite side to said inlet (4), by a wall junction terminal (23) of the first and second sides (21, 22). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the inlet (4) and the outlet (5) are both defined, on an open side of the profile (20), in opposition to the junction end wall (23). In an aspect according to any of the foregoing where:

- the first flank (21) ? a first longitudinal wall extending parallel to the predetermined development direction (D) of the casing (2),

- the second flank (22) ? a second longitudinal wall, opposite the first longitudinal wall, also extending parallel to the predetermined development direction (D) of the casing (2),

- the closing end walls (25) are defined by a first and a second transversal wall facing each other which join respective ends? longitudinal of the first and second longitudinal walls.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the inlet (4) extends transversally between an intermediate zone of the open side and the first side (21) of the section bar (20). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the outlet (5) extends transversely between an intermediate zone of the open side and the second side (22) of the section bar.

In an aspect according to any of the foregoing where:

- the first side (21) of the section bar (20) cooperates with the second portion (11b) of the deflector (11) to define the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10),

- the second side (22) of the section bar (20) cooperates with the first portion (11a) of the deflector (11) to define the outlet (5).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the section bar (20) has, along a section orthogonal to the predetermined development direction (D) of the casing (2), a substantially ?U? shape.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the deflector (11) extends along the entire longitudinal development of the casing (2). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) ? engaged at the open side of said section bar (20). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the deflector (11) defines, in cooperation with the casing (2), the inlet (4) and the outlet (5) of the sanitizer (1).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sanitizer (1) comprises a bulkhead (12) opposite the end wall (23) and arranged at the open side of the section bar (20). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the bulkhead (12) and the baffle (11) define the inlet (4). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the bulkhead (12) and baffle (11) define the inlet channel (10). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) ? placed between the bulkhead (12) and the junction end wall (23).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects at least part of the second portion (11b) of the deflector (11) defines, in cooperation with the casing (2), at least part of the expansion zone (6).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the outlet (5) has an air passage section (B) greater than the air passage section of any cross section of the inlet (4). In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects the ratio between the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5) and any air passage section of the inlet (4) ? equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 1.5 and 5, even more? optionally between 2 and 4.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the air passage section, along the whole development of the intake channel (10), ? lower than the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the ratio between the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5) and the minimum air passage section of the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10 ) ? equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 1.5 and 5, even more? optionally between 2 and 4.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5) is? lower than the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6).

In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6) and the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5) ? equal to or greater than 1.2, optionally between 1.5 and 3.

In one aspect according to any of the foregoing aspects the sanitizer comprises a plurality of of lamps (30) housed at least partially in the chamber (3). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the sanitizer (1) comprises a number of lamps (30) equal to or greater than 2, in particular between 2 and 20, even more? especially between 2 and 6.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one lamp (30) extends substantially along the entire extent of the casing (2). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each lamp (30) extends along a predetermined development direction which ? substantially parallel to the development direction (D) of the casing (2). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each lamp (30) extends along a direction configured to be transverse to the passing air.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the sanitizer (1) comprises at least one diverter (13), arranged in the chamber (3) at least partially inside the expansion area (6), configured to intercept the incoming air to the chamber (3) and guide it in the direction of the at least one lamp (30), optionally of the plurality? of lamps (20).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each diverter (13) comprises a plate extending longitudinally along a direction substantially parallel to the development direction (D) of the casing (2).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each diverter (13) has, in cross section:

- at least one curvilinear insertion portion (13a) presenting concavity? facing at least partially towards the entrance (4),

- at least one substantially rectilinear guide portion (13b) extending from the curvilinear portion (13a) towards the treatment area (7).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the curvilinear section (13a) of each deviator (13) ? substantially facing the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10).

In one aspect according to any of the foregoing aspects the sanitizer comprises a plurality of of deviators (13) spaced apart from each other and sequentially arranged away from the inlet mouth (10??) of the channel (10).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the driving traits (13b) of the plurality? of deviators (13) are substantially parallel to each other. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the guide segments (13b) of the deviators (13) are configured to impart a linear pattern to the air in transit.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the insertion traits (13a) of the plurality? of deviators (13) are arranged in progressive approach to the first side (21) proceeding away from the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the plurality? of deviators (13) define a plurality? of overlapping channels. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the overlapping channels defined by the plurality of deviators (13) have respective inlet sections of decreasing area proceeding away from the inlet mouth (10??). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the entrance sections of the plurality? of superimposed channels are defined in correspondence with the first side (21) and substantially face the inlet (4), optionally the inlet draft (10??).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each inlet section has an air passage area smaller than the air passage section (A??) of the inlet port (10??) of the inlet channel (10) .

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the ratio between the air passage section (A??) of the inlet port (10??) of the inlet channel (10) and the air passage area of a section of ?input of at least one of the superimposed channels ? equal to or greater than 1.2, optionally between 1.2 and 3.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the outlet sections of the superimposed channels open into the treatment zone (7). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the outlet sections of the superimposed channels have air passage sections which differ from each other by no more than by 20%, in particular substantially equal to each other.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each outlet section has an air passage area smaller than the air passage section (A??) of the inlet port (10??) of the inlet channel (10). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the ratio between the air passage section (A??) of the inlet port (10??) of the inlet channel (10) and the air passage area of a section of output of at least one of the overlapping channels ? equal to or greater than 1, optionally between 1.1 and 3.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the end portion of the second portion (11b) of the baffle (11) and the insertion portions (13a) of the plurality of deviators (13) are oriented towards each other to direct a major part of the air entering the sanitizer (1) towards said superimposed channels.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each deflector (13) has a trailing edge (13c) joined to the guide section (13b) and opposed to the insertion section (13a), in which said trailing edge (13c ) ? transversal, optionally orthogonal, to the guide segment (13b). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the trailing edge (13c) emerges from one? of the guide portion (13a) opposed to the insertion portion (13a).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the plurality? of deviators (13) are placed at a minimum distance from each other greater than 15 mm, optionally between 20 and 100 mm, even more? optionally between 25 and 60 mm. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the guide portions (13b) of two immediately consecutive deviators are placed at a minimum distance from each other greater than 15 mm, optionally comprised between 20 and 100 mm, even more? optionally between 25 and 60 mm.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sanitizer (1) comprises a number of deviators (13) equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 6, even more? optionally between 2 and 5.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each diverter (13) ? arranged at the first side (21) of the section bar (20). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each deflector (13) has the insertion section (13a) facing the first side (21) of the section bar (20) while the guide section (13b) extends from the insertion section (13a ) in the direction of the second side (22) of the profile (20).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the guide section (13b) of each deflector (13) extends substantially parallel to the end junction wall (23) of the section bar (20).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the plurality? of diverters (13) ? arranged in correspondence with the first side (21) at a predetermined distance from the latter.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, a distance present between a first deflector and the first side (21) is? greater than a distance present between a second deviator and the same first side (21), in which the second deviator has a distance from the inlet (4) greater than a distance present between said inlet (4) and the first deviator.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, a distance present between a first and a second deflector ? greater than a distance present between said second deviator and a third deviator; where the distance between the second switch and the input (4) ? greater than a distance present between said inlet (4) and the first deviator, and in which the distance present between the third deviator and the inlet (4) is? greater than a distance present between said inlet (4) and the second diverter.

In one aspect, according to any of the preceding aspects, the sanitizer (1) comprises at least a first pair of lamps (30) placed immediately downstream of the at least one diverter (13) and at least a second pair of lamps (30) placed between the first pair of lamps and the outlet (5).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the at least one deviator (13) ? distanced from at least one lamp (30). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the minimum distance from the at least one deflector (13) and the at least one lamp (30) ? greater than 20 mm, optionally ? between 25 and 80 mm. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the ratio between the distance present between two guide sections (13b) of two immediately adjacent deflectors (13) and the minimum distance between the at least one deflector (13) and the at least one lamp ( 30) ? greater than 0.9, optionally ? between 1 and 3, even more? optionally ? between 1 and 2.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sanitizer (1) comprises at least one separating wall (14) arranged inside the chamber (3) and extending along a transverse plane, optionally orthogonal, to the development direction (D) of the ?casing (2),

said separating wall (14) being configured to divide the chamber (3) into at least one first and at least one second sub-chamber both in fluid communication with said inlet (4) and said outlet (5).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the sanitizer (1) comprises a plurality of separation walls (14) configured to divide the chamber (3) into a plurality? of sub-chamber in fluid communication with said inlet (4) and said outlet (5). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the sub-chambers of said plurality are placed side by side along the direction of development (D) of the casing (2). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each partition wall (14) is configured to define an optical and fluid separation septum between two adjacent sub-chambers defined by said separation wall (14).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the deflector (11) extends along the entire longitudinal extent of the casing (2) through the plurality of of sub-chambers.

In an aspect according to any of the previous aspects within each sub-chamber ? at least one lamp (30) is present. In an aspect according to any of the previous aspects within each sub-chamber ? is there a plurality? of lamps (30).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one separating wall (14) comprises at least one through hole configured to allow the passage of at least one lamp (30). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each lamp (30) extends along the entire extension of the casing (2) through a respective through hole of each separating wall (14) and therefore through the plurality of of sub-chambers.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each separation wall (14) engages and supports at least one lamp (30) passing through the separation wall (14) itself.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, at least part of an internal surface of the casing (2) delimiting said chamber (3) and placed in correspondence with the at least one lamp (30) has a coating in at least selected from the group among the following materials: titanium dioxide in anatase, apatite, zinc trioxide.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each lamp (30) is configured to emit ultraviolet light with wavelengths between 100 nm and 300 nm (nanometers).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects each lamp (30) has a power ranging from 11 to 800 W, optionally ranging from 75 to 150 W.

In one aspect ? a procedure for treating an air flow by means of a sanitizer (1) in accordance with any of the previous aspects is envisaged. In one aspect according to any of the foregoing aspects the treatment method comprises the following steps:

- introduce a flow of air into the chamber (3) of the sanitizer (1) through the inlet (4),

- irradiating said air flow present in the chamber (3) by means of ultraviolet light emitted by at least one lamp (20),

- expelling said flow of air irradiated by ultraviolet light from the sanitizer (1) through the outlet (5).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the step of introducing an air flow into the chamber (3) comprises the sub-step of passing the fluid flow inside the inlet channel (10). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the step of injecting an air stream into the chamber (3) comprises the sub-step of driving the air stream from the suction draft (10??) to the inlet port (10??) of the input channel (10).

In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the flow of air introduced into the chamber is made to pass through the expansion area (6), in which the flow of air passing through the expansion area has a speed? lower than the speed? of an air flow crossing the inlet (4). In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the flow of air introduced into the chamber is made to pass through the expansion area (6), in which the flow of air passing through the expansion area has a speed lower than the speed? of an air flow passing through the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10).

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the flow of air passing through the chamber (3) crosses the expansion area (6) and then passes through the treatment area (7) through the at least one lamp (30) .

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the airflow passing through the sanitizer is introduced through the inlet, then proceeds towards the expansion zone and then enters the treatment zone and finally is expelled from the sanitizer through the outlet.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the step of irradiating the air flow comprises a step of activating the at least one lamp (30) at least when ? there is an air flow passing through the chamber (3).

In one aspect ? an air treatment plant (100) is provided comprising at least one sanitizer (1) in accordance with any of the previous aspects.

In one aspect according to any of the foregoing aspects, the system (100) comprises:

- at least one air transport channel configured to be placed in fluid communication with an environment to be treated,

- a ventilation system (102) in fluid communication with the air handling channel and configured to generate an air flow inside the latter,

- at least one sanitizer (1) in accordance with any of the previous aspects, in which the inlet (4) and outlet (5) are in fluid communication with the transport channel to respectively allow the introduction and expulsion of air from chamber (3) of the sanitizer.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the sanitizer (1) ? arranged upstream of the ventilation system (102) with respect to a direction of advance of the air in the transport channel. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the system (100) comprises at least one air filter (103) active on the transport channel and arranged upstream of the sanitizer (1) with respect to a direction of advance of the air in the transport channel .

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the plant (100) comprising a unit? cooling system (104) also active on the transport channel and arranged downstream of the sanitizer (1) with respect to a direction of advance of the air in the transport channel.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the system (100) comprises an air conditioning system comprising a unit? of air treatment (104), in which the sanitizer (1) ? placed upstream of the unit? of air treatment of the conditioning system according to an advancement direction of the air. In an aspect according to any of the previous aspects the unit? treatment unit comprises at least one heat exchanger.

In one aspect ? a vehicle is envisaged, in particular for the transport of persons, comprising the air treatment plant in accordance with any of the preceding aspects.

In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects the air treatment plant ? arranged at least partially at the roof of the vehicle. In one aspect according to any of the preceding aspects at least the sanitizer (1) ? located on the roof of the vehicle.

In one aspect ? foreseen a use of a sanitizer (1) in accordance with any of the previous aspects on an air conditioning system of a vehicle for sanitizing the air. In one aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects the vehicle comprises at least one of: a train, a light rail, a tram, a bus, a motor car, an airplane, means of private transport.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the attached drawings, provided for indicative and therefore non-limiting purposes only, in which:

- Figure 1 ? a perspective view of a sanitizer in accordance with the present invention;

- Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of a sectional view of a sanitizer in accordance with the present invention;

- Figure 4 ? a sectional view of a sanitizer in accordance with the present invention;

- Figure 5 schematically shows an air treatment plant using the sanitizer in accordance with the present invention;

- Figure 6 ? a sectional view of a vehicle on which ? installed an air treatment plant including the sanitizer in accordance with the present invention;

- Figure 7 ? a detail of the sectional view of figure 6.

DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It should be noted that in the present detailed description corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated with the same reference numerals. The figures could illustrate the object of the invention through non-scale representations; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures relating to the object of the invention could relate exclusively to schematic representations.

In the description that follows and in the claims, the upstream and downstream terms refer to a movement of an airflow along an advance path that goes from an airflow inlet, through a chamber, to an outlet of the sanitizer.

unit? control

The sanitizer and/or the air treatment plant described and claimed here can comprise at least one unit control system responsible for checking the operating conditions set up by the sanitizer and/or system itself. The unit control can? be one or be formed by a plurality? of distinct units? of control depending on the design choices and operational requirements.

With the term unit? control ? understood a component of the electronic type which can? include at least one of: a digital processor (CPU), a memory (or memories), an analog-type circuit, or a combination of one or more? unit? of digital processing with one or more? analog circuits. The unit? control can? be "configured" or "programmed" to perform some phases: there? can? be made in practice with any means that allows you to configure or program the unit? control. For example, in the case of a? unit? control comprising one or more? CPU and one or more? memories, one or more programs can be stored in appropriate memory banks attached to the CPU or CPUs; Does the program or programs contain instructions that, when executed by the CPU or CPUs, program or configure the unit? control to perform the operations described in relation to the unit? control. Alternatively, if the unit? control ? or includes circuitry of the analog type, then the circuit of the unit? control can? be designed to include circuitry configured, in use, to process electrical signals in such a way as to execute the phases related to the unit? control.

The unit? control can? understand one or more unit? digital, for example of the microprocessor type, or one or more? unit? analog, or a suitable combination of units? digital and analog; the unit? control can? be configured to coordinate all the actions required to execute an instruction and sets of instructions.

Electromagnetic wave emitter

With the term emitter of electromagnetic waves ? meant a device configured to emit electromagnetic waves; the emitter can? include at least one of:

- a predetermined number of light emitting lamps, for example visible light, ultraviolet light (UV), infrared light,

- a pre-set number of light-emitting LEDs, such as visible light, ultraviolet light (UV), infrared light

- a fixed number of microwave generators,

- a fixed number of laser generators.

The emitter of electromagnetic waves, during an air treatment phase, can? emit electromagnetic waves continuously, i.e. without the emission being interrupted during treatment, or intermittently. In the event that the electromagnetic wave emitter uses beams of light, the emission can be of the pulsed light type. The electromagnetic emission, in particular the emission of light, ? characterized by:

- a wavelength (generally expressed in nm);

- a frequency expressed in Hz.

UVC

The term UVC refers to ultraviolet radiation belonging to a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum with a wavelength between 100 nm and 300 nm.

Disinfection

In the context of the present invention, the term sanitation means the reduction of the microbial load present in the air to be treated. This term includes both an effective decrease in the number of microorganisms present in the air, and the non-increase in the number of microorganisms (in case they are not killed but are rendered inert, preventing their reproduction and/or blocking their growth cycle, action microbistatic). The term ?microorganisms? includes among others viruses, bacteria, yeasts, moulds, fungi, spores.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Sanitizer 1

With 1 ? Overall, a sanitizer for the treatment of air has been indicated, in particular to be used on means of transport, such as for example trains, light rails, trams, buses, cars and airplanes for the reduction of the microbial load circulating inside said means. In particular, the sanitizer 1 can? find advantageous application in combination with air treatment systems installed on road vehicles for passenger transport. For example, as shown in figure 6, the sanitizer can? be installed in an air handling system located on the roof of a bus. As can be seen from figure 1, the sanitizer can? comprise a casing 2 extending longitudinally along a predetermined development direction D and arranged in communication with the external environment, by means of an inlet 4 and an outlet 5. In particular, the casing 2 can? comprise a section bar 20 extending along the development direction D of the casing 2 itself and having, in cross section, a substantially ?U?, ?C? or ?V?. The specific shape of the profile 20 therefore allows the fluid to be efficiently moved inside the profile 20 itself. The profile 20 can? in turn comprising a first and a second side 21, 22, respectively defining a first and a second longitudinal wall of the same profile 20, each of which extends parallel to the predetermined direction of development D of the casing 2. The first and second side 21, 22 are mutually opposite, distinct and spaced apart by a junction end wall 23 which connects the first and second sides 21, 22. The junction end wall 23 ? then joined in one piece to the first and second side 21, 22, effectively defining a top wall? of casing 2 arranged on the opposite side with respect to inlet 4.

The casing 2 also comprises end closure walls 25 arranged transversely to the development direction D of the casing 2. As can be seen in figure 1, each end closure wall 25? engaged to the first and second sides 21, 22 at respective ends? longitudinal of the first and second longitudinal wall. In other words, the closing end walls 25 delimit, in cooperation with the section bar 20, a chamber 3. The chamber 3 can? therefore be arranged in communication with the external environment at an open side of the section bar 20, the latter arranged in opposition to the end junction wall 23 and on which an inlet 4 and an outlet 5 of the enclosure are defined. ? it is also useful to note that the section bar 20 and each closing end wall 25 can be, for example, made of metallic material and have, at respective internal surfaces, a coating of titanium dioxide in anatase, apatite or zinc trioxide.

The casing 2 therefore has an inlet 4 extending along the entire longitudinal extension of the casing 2, between an intermediate zone of the open side and the first side 21 of the section bar 20. As shown for example in figure 4, the inlet 4 can ? comprise at least one inlet channel 10 configured to convey the air to be treated inside the chamber 3. In fact, the inlet channel 10 has an air passage section defined along the entire length of the inlet channel 10, less than a air passage section E of an expansion area 6, the latter defined inside the chamber 3 and subsequently detailed. The input channel 10 can? furthermore, it has a suction mouth 10?, configured to engage with an air transport channel 1a able to put the sanitizer 1 in communication with the environment to be treated: the suction mouth 10? it therefore allows the entry of air to be treated into the chamber 3. The inlet channel 10 can? also present an entry mouth 10? defined in interposition between the first side 21 of the section bar 20 and a deflector 11, configured to allow air to enter chamber 3. The inlet channel therefore has a predetermined air passage section defined between the deflector 11 and the first side 21 of the profiled 20. As shown in the accompanying figures, the input channel 10 can? furthermore, it has a convergent-divergent configuration configured to accelerate the air in transit through the inlet 4. The inlet channel 10 therefore has, in correspondence with an intermediate zone, a minimum air passage section M, in which ? a throat of the entry channel 10 is defined. Downstream of the throat, the entry channel 10, on the other hand, has a divergent conformation in which the speed? of the incoming air increases. The input channel 10 therefore allows to efficiently convey a high quantity of air entering chamber 3 to allow continuous treatment of air. As previously mentioned, the sanitizer 1 can? further comprise at least one deflector 11 engaged with the casing 2 at the open side of the profile 20, configured to intercept the air entering the sanitizer and guide it towards the chamber 3. In particular, as visible for example from figures 2-4, the deflector 11 comprises a laminar body extending longitudinally along a predetermined direction of development, for the entire longitudinal extension of the casing 2. As shown for example in the accompanying figures, the predetermined direction of development of the deflector 11 can? be substantially parallel to the predetermined longitudinal development direction D of the casing 2. In detail, the deflector 11 is interposed between a bulkhead 12 of the casing and the terminal junction wall 23, defining, in cooperation with the same bulkhead 12, the intake channel 10. From a geometric point of view, the deflector 11 has a substantially ?S? delimiting the inlet channel 10: the curvilinear shape of the deflector 11 therefore defines the convergent-divergent shape of the inlet channel 10.

The deflector 11 comprises a first portion 11a substantially shaped like a ?C?, the concavity of which is ? facing away from room 3, as well as? a second portion 11b, joined to the first portion 11a, also having a substantially ?C? with concavity ? facing room 3. ? therefore it is useful to note how the arc defined by the first portion 11a has a larger dimension than the arc defined by the second portion 11b. How can it be observed from figure 4, the curvature of the first portion 11a? higher than the curvature of the second portion 11b; in particular, the ratio between the curvature of the first portion 11a and the curvature of the second portion 11b ? equal to or greater than 1.2, optionally between 1.2 and 3.

The definition of the first portion 11a having a larger size than the second portion 11b allows to create an intake channel 10 having a large passage section upstream of the throat of the same intake channel 10. This geometric conformation therefore allows to efficiently introduce air inside chamber 3. As visible from the joined figures, at least one portion of the end? of the first portion 11a of the deflector 11, opposite the second portion 11b, in cooperation with the casing 2, defines the inlet 4, in particular the suction mouth 10? of the input channel. The second portion 11b of the deflector 11 also has an end portion, opposite to the end portion of the deflector 11. of the first portion 11a and facing along a direction entering the chamber 3 to direct a preponderant part of the air entering the sanitizer towards a diverter 13. The end portion? of the second portion 11b defines, in cooperation with the first side 21 of the section bar 20, the inlet mouth 10? of input channel 10.

The sanitizer 1 can? furthermore comprising a bulkhead 12 arranged at the open side of the section bar 20 on the opposite side with respect to the junction end wall 23, configured to define, in cooperation with the deflector 11, the inlet channel 10. In fact, as shown for example in Figure 4, the bulkhead 12 has a laminar body substantially parallel to the terminal junction wall 23 and defining, in cooperation with the deflector 11, the passage section of the suction mouth 102. In other words, does the bulkhead 12 allow a reduced passage section of the suction mouth 10 to be defined? of the inlet channel 10, thus allowing to efficiently convey the air to be treated, through the same inlet channel 10, inside the chamber 3.

The casing 2 can? furthermore, it has an outlet 5 extending along the entire longitudinal extension of the casing 2, between the intermediate area of the open side and the second side 22 of the section bar 20. In other words, the outlet 5 is arranged at the side of the inlet 4, defined in cooperation between the section bar 20 and the deflector 11. The outlet 5 is? therefore configured to engage with the air transport channel 1a, allowing the expulsion of air from the chamber 3 and its introduction into the same transport channel 1a. As for example shown in figure 4, the outlet 5 has an air passage section B greater than the air passage section of any cross section of the inlet 4. In other words, the ratio between the air passage section B of the? outlet 5 and any air passage section of inlet 4? equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 2 and 4. The speed? of? the air crossing the? output 5 pu? therefore be lower than the speed? of the air crossing the inlet 4. In fact, the air passage section B of the outlet ? greater than the air passage section of the inlet along the entire development of the inlet channel 10. In particular, the ratio between the air passage section B of the outlet 5 and the air passage section of the inlet mouth 10? of input channel 10 ? equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 2 and 4. ? it is further useful to note how the air passage section B of the outlet 5 is instead lower than the air passage section E of the expansion zone 6 of the sanitizer. In particular, the ratio between the passage section E of the expansion zone 6 and the air passage section B of the outlet 5? equal to or greater than 1.2, optionally between 1.5 and 3.

As previously mentioned, the casing 2 can? have at least one chamber 3 delimited transversely by the closing walls 25 and longitudinally by the section bar 20. The chamber 3 can? in turn presenting an expansion area 6 of the sanitizer arranged at the entrance 4, as well as? a treatment zone 7 adjacent to the expansion zone 6 and interposed between the latter and the outlet 5. In fact, as shown for example in figure 4, the chamber 3 is longitudinally divided by an ideal cutting plane intermediate between the first and second flanks 21, 22. The expansion zone 6 ? therefore defined by the volume of the chamber 3 interposed between the ideal cutting plane and the first side 21 of the section 20. Conversely, the treatment area 7 is defined by the volume of the chamber 3 interposed between the same ideal cutting plane and the second side 22 of the profile 20. The expansion area 6 therefore has an air passage section E which runs between the ideal cutting plane and the first side 21 of the profile 20, higher than the passage section of inlet 4. From a dimensional point of view, the ratio between the air passage section E of the expansion zone 6 and the air passage section of inlet 4 ? equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 6. In particular, ? it is useful to note how the ratio between the air passage section E of the expansion zone 6 and the air passage section A? at the inlet port 10?? ? greater than 3, optionally between 4 and 7. ? therefore it is useful to note how the arrangement of an area passage section E of the expansion zone 6, higher than the air passage section A? of the mouth of entry 10?, allows to slow down the speed? of the air in transit towards the treatment area 7. This slowing down therefore allows the air to pass through the treatment area 7 for a prolonged period of time, thus allowing to increase the efficiency of the treatment, in such a way as to completely eliminate the agents pathogens contained in the air.

The sanitizer 1 also comprises at least one separating wall 14 arranged inside the chamber 3 and extending transversely to the casing 2, engaged with the latter at the first and second sides 21, 22, as well as the of the junction end wall 23. In particular, as for example shown in figure 2, the separating wall 14 allows the chamber 3 to be divided into at least a first and a second sub-chamber, each of which is in fluid communication with the? inlet 4 and outlet 5. As shown for example in figure 2, the separating wall 14 has at least one through hole, configured to allow the passage of at least one lamp 30 at least in the first and second sub-chamber. The separating wall 14 then engages and supports each lamp 30 traversing the through hole. ? it is also useful to note that the separating wall 14, as for example shown in figures 2 and 3, has, in correspondence with each passing photo of the lamp 30, a damper configured to cushion the vibrations acting on the sanitizer. In particular, the damper ? arranged coaxially with the lamp 30 and configured to absorb the vibrations acting on the lamp 30, preventing its damage following a collision of the same with the separating wall 14.

In more detail, does the sanitizer include a plurality? of separating walls 14, each configured to divide the chamber 3 into a plurality of sub-chambers in communication with the fluid with the inlet 4 and the outlet 5. The sub-chambers are adjacent to each other and side by side along the development direction D of the casing 2. Thanks to the separating wall 14, each sub-chamber ? independent of an adjacent sub-chamber, effectively defining an optical and fluid separation septum.

The sanitizer 1 can? further comprise a diverter 13 arranged inside the chamber 3 and configured to intercept the air entering the same chamber 3 and guide it towards at least one lamp 30. As shown for example in figure 2, the diverter 13 comprises a plate extending longitudinally along a direction substantially parallel to the direction of development D of the casing 2. In detail, the deviator 13 has, in cross section, at least one insertion section 13a arranged to the side of the first side 21 of the section bar 20, at one end ? cross section of the deviator 13 itself. In particular, the insertion portion 13a has a substantially curvilinear shape with a concavity? facing the inlet 4, substantially facing the inlet mouth 10? of the inlet channel 10. The insertion section 13a therefore makes it possible to facilitate the interception of air entering the chamber 3 to be conveyed towards the lamp 30.

The diverter 13 can? furthermore, they have at least one guide section 13b which is substantially straight and extends towards the treatment area 7 starting from the insertion section 13a. In other words, the guide section 13b extends parallel to the junction end wall 23 of the section bar 20 starting from the insertion section 13a, in the direction of the second side 22 of the section bar 20 and up to a trailing edge 13c. The guide section 13b therefore allows the air intercepted by the insertion section 13a to be conveyed towards the treatment area 7: the guide section 13b therefore gives a linear pattern to the air in transit. The diverter 13 can? also have, in cross section, at least one trailing edge 13c arranged on the opposite wall with respect to the insertion section 13a, at one end of the transversal of the same deviator 13. The trailing edge 13c can? then extend parallel to the insertion segment 13a, presenting, in cross section, a curvilinear shape, with concavity? facing room 3.

As visible from the united figures, the sanitizer includes a plurality of of deviators 13, in particular comprised between 2 and 5, sequentially arranged away from each other with respect to the inlet mouth 10?? of channel 10 and spaced out by a quantity? between 25 mm and 60 mm. The deviators 13, in particular the guide portions 13b, are parallel to each other along a direction away from the inlet mouth 10?.

In detail, each diverter 13 ? arranged in progressive approach with an adjacent diverter defining a plurality? of mutually superimposed channels suitable for conveying the air along the guide section 13b. In other words, the distance between a first and a second diverter ? greater than a distance present between the second deviator and a third deviator.

The deviators 13 are also arranged in progressive approach to the first side 21 of the casing 2. In other words, the deviators 13 have an air inlet section which runs between the insertion section 13a and the first side 21, progressively decreasing for each deviator 13 proceeding along the aforementioned direction away from the inlet mouth 10?. The air inlet section therefore has a lower air passage area than the air passage section A? of the inlet port 10? of the intake duct 10. In particular, the relationship between the air passage section A?? of the mouth of? input 10?? of the input channel 10 and the air passage section of an input section of at least one of the superimposed channels ? therefore equal to or greater than 1.2. The plurality? of diverters 13

In terms of size, each superimposed channel has an air outlet section measured between the trailing edge 13c and a guide portion 13b of an adjacent deflector. In particular, the air outlet section of adjacent superimposed ducts? substantially identical, differing at the pi? by 20%. The outlet section therefore has a lower air passage area than the air passage section A?? of the mouth of? input 10?? of the intake duct 10. In detail, the relationship between the air passage section A?? of the mouth of? input 10?? of the intake channel 10 and the air passage area of an outlet section of at least one of the superimposed channels ? equal to or greater than 1.1.

? it is useful to note how each diverter 13 therefore allows to intercept the air entering the chamber 3 through the insertion section 13a and to convey it, through the guide section 13b towards the treatment area 7. The deviators 13 therefore allow to efficiently convey a? high quantity of air inside the chamber 3, in order to then be able to subject it to a prolonged treatment in the treatment area 7.

The sanitizer also comprises at least one lamp 30 housed in the chamber 3 at or immediately downstream of the expansion area 6, extending along the entire longitudinal development of the casing 2 along a direction parallel to the direction of development D of the same casing 2 and through each sub-chamber. From a structural point of view, the lamp 30 therefore reaches each sub-chamber by passing through a through hole defined on the separating walls: the lamp 30 ? therefore supported by the separating walls 14. The lamp 30 ? therefore arranged transversely to the direction of movement of the air, configured to emit ultraviolet radiation sufficient to break down the pathogens present in the air. In particular, the sanitizer 1 comprises a plurality of lamps 30 strictly between 2 and 6, each of which ? housed inside chamber 3 and configured to emit ultraviolet light radiation to irradiate at least part of the air contained in chamber 3 itself. it is further useful to note how the lamps 30 are substantially equidistant from each other and arranged in a uniform manner within the treatment area 7. In other words, the sanitizer has a first pair of equidistant lamps, arranged immediately downstream of the deviators 13 at the same distance, measured along a direction orthogonal to the prevailing development direction D of the casing, with respect to the deflectors themselves 13. In particular, the minimum distance between each deflector and the first pair of lamps ? greater than 20mm, optionally between 25mm and 80mm. In detail, the ratio between the distance present between two guide portions 13b of two immediately consecutive deflectors 13 and the minimum distance between each deflector and the first pair of lamps? greater than 0.9, optionally between 1 and 3. In fact, the correct ratio between the size of the superimposed channels defined by the deviators and the minimum distance between the latter and the lamps 30 allows a certain linearity? of the air in transit, decreasing (even eliminating) the formation of turbulent motions. In this condition, the lamps 30 are able to treat the air in transit completely and uniformly, thus reducing effectively presenting airborne pathogens.

The sanitizer also has a second pair of equidistant lamps, interposed in an intermediate area between the first pair of lamps and the second side 22. ? therefore it is useful to note how the preparation of a first and a second pair of lamps so? spaced out, allows the air present in the treatment area 7 to be treated in a uniform manner.

Each lamp 30 ? therefore configured to emit an ultraviolet light with a wavelength between 100 nm and 300 nm. The ultraviolet light belonging to this spectrum of the electromagnetic field? defined of type C, which ? known to allow pathogens, for example present in the air, to be rendered inert. The arrangement of the lamps 30 therefore allows the fluid in transit within the treatment area 7 to be treated efficiently, rendering any airborne pathogen inert.

As previously mentioned, the air in transit in the treatment area 7 has a speed transfer lower than the speed? of transfer of the air in transit through the channel 10, in such a way as to allow a prolonged exposure of the air to the ultraviolet radiations of the lamps 30. In other words, the prolonged exposure of the air to the UVC radiations allows to completely eliminate the pathogens present in the air itself. ? it is also useful to note how to decrease the speed? passage of the air inside the chamber 3 and, in particular in the treatment area 7, allows to carry out an effective treatment of the air by using lamps 30 with a reduced power, optionally between 75W and 150W. The passage of air in the treatment area 7 at a speed? reduced therefore not only allows to obtain an efficient treatment of the air itself, but also allows to obtain a high energy saving.

The sanitizer 1 can? also include a? unit? connected and active in command of at least one lamp 30. The unit? control can? be configured to adjust the mode? emission of ultraviolet light and / or the? intensity? brightness and/or the number of active/to be activated lamps. For example, the unit? control can? command a type of light emission in continuous or light pulses; the unit? control can? further vary the? intensity? light as a function of at least one reference parameter. This benchmark can be representative of at least one selected in the group between: a speed? of the air entering the chamber 3, a speed? of the air in transit from chamber 3, a speed? of the air coming out of the chamber 3, a speed? of the air in the transport duct 1a of an air treatment plant 100 on which ? activate sanitizer 1.

Treatment process

Another object of the present invention is an air treatment process, optionally using a sanitizer 1 in accordance with the above description and in accordance with any one of the appended claims.

The air treatment process comprises a step of introducing air into the chamber 3 of the sanitizer through the inlet 4. In particular, the air is introduced through the suction mouth 10?, inside the inlet channel 10 and forced along a convergent-divergent path up to the inlet 10? of the same input channel 10. The air can? therefore be introduced inside the inlet channel 10, through the suction mouth 10?, at a speed? strictly between 1 m/s and 25 m/s, in particular between 1 m/s and 6 m/s. Downstream of the inlet channel 10 and in particular downstream of the inlet mouth 10?, the air is conveyed inside the expansion area 6 of the chamber 3.

In accordance with what has been previously detailed and for example what is shown in figure 4, the expansion area 6 has a passage section E greater than the passage section of the inlet mouth 10?, thanks to which the speed? of the air passing through the expansion zone decreases. In other words, the air that passes through the expansion area 6 has a speed? lower than the speed? of the air in transit through the intake channel 10. ? in fact, it is useful to note how the relationship between the speed? of the air in transit through the expansion area and the speed? of the air in transit through the introduction channel 10 ? strictly between 1 and 15, in particular strictly between 5 and 10. As described above, within the expansion area 6, there are one or more? diverters 13 configured to receive the air in transit from the inlet mouth 10? and guide it inside the superimposed channels towards the treatment area 7. The deviators 13 therefore allow to linearize the air flow in the expansion area 6, preventing the generation of turbulent motions inside the expansion area 6.

Outgoing from the expansion area 6, the air is conveyed inside the treatment area 7. In particular, the treatment area has at least one lamp 30 arranged transversely to a movement direction of the air in transit inside the treatment area 7. The process therefore comprises a step of irradiating the air passing through the treatment area 7 using ultraviolet light. In particular, as detailed above, the treatment area 7 has a plurality of of lamps 30 configured to emit type C ultraviolet light, ie having a wavelength between 100 nm and 300 nm. The air in transit in the treatment area 7 is then irradiated by the lamps 30 to allow the airborne pathogens to be eliminated. During the passage of air, the lamps 30 can radiate ultraviolet light continuously, however it is not excluded that they can radiate the air 30 in intermittent pulses. Outgoing from treatment area 7, is the treated air ? expelled from the outlet 5 of the casing 2, in the direction of an air recirculation system arranged downstream of the sanitizer 1. The method therefore comprises a step of expelling the treated air through the outlet 5.

Air treatment plant 100

Furthermore, the object of the present invention is an air treatment plant, for example using the sanitizer 1 in accordance with the above description and/or in accordance with any one of the appended claims.

As shown for example in figure 5, the air treatment plant 100 comprises an air transport channel 1a configured to be placed in fluid communication with an environment to be treated. Via transport channel 1a ? therefore it is possible to convey the air of an environment to be treated towards the inside of the treatment plant 100, as well as? convey the treated air, and therefore out of the plant 100, towards the destination environment.

The 100 plant can? further comprise a ventilation system 108 configured to convey the air entering the system 100 towards the sanitizer 1. In detail, the ventilation system 108 can include at least one axial fan placed in the vicinity? of the environment to be treated to effectively withdraw the air. The 108 ventilation system can? also include a plurality? of axial fans, strictly between 4 and 8 in number, arranged in the vicinity? of the environment to be treated, configured to convey the air to be treated at high speeds towards the sanitizer 1.

The 100 plant can? further comprise at least one air filter 103 arranged downstream of the ventilation system 108. In particular, the air filter 103 is active on the transport channel and arranged upstream of the sanitizer 1 with respect to a direction of advancement of the air in the transport channel 1a: the air in transit through the air filter 103 is therefore conveyed inside the sanitizer 1. The sanitizer 1? therefore disposed downstream of the air filter 103 and upstream of a unit? cooler 104, the latter configured to cool the air coming from the sanitizer 1.

The 100 air treatment plant can? further include a ventilation system 102 disposed downstream of the unit? cooling system 104 and configured to convey the air in transit through the latter inside the air treatment channel 1a. In particular, the ventilation system 102 can include at least one centrifugal fan configured to introduce a high flow of air into the destination environment.

? it is useful to note how in figures 6 and 7, the air treatment plant 100 has been installed on a road vehicle for the transport of passengers. In particular, the 100 plant? been shown partly positioned above the roof in a bus (sanitizer 1), and partly positioned inside the environment to be treated (bus cab). In detail, figure 6 shows an air filter 103 arranged inside the bus cabin, through which the air to be treated passes in the direction of the sanitizer 1. The treated air then passes through the unit? of cooling 104 pushed by the ventilation system 102 to be introduced inside the destination environment. ? therefore it is useful to note how the environment to be treated and the destination environment both coincide with the bus cabin. The 100 plant can? further include a conventional air recirculation system configured to cool the air passing through the unit? cooling system 104. As shown in figure 5, the air recirculation system can? then present a compressor 106, a condenser 107 and an expansion valve 105.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INTRODUCTION

The present invention allows to obtain a simple and compact sanitizer 1, able to treat air at speed? reduced, maximizing the efficiency of the treatment itself. In fact, the preparation of a casing of the sanitizer having an inlet and an outlet of the air parallel to each other and arranged parallel to a longitudinal development of the casing, makes it possible to make it even more efficient. compacts the structure of the sanitizer itself, minimizing the masses and dimensions involved. Furthermore, the preparation of pre-set sections of the internal channels of the sanitiser determines a reduction in the speed? of air transit. Since the sanitization effect is based on energy transfer (power per time), it follows that the greater ? the time, or more? low ? the speed? of transit of the air, greater? the energy given to the air on equal terms? of luminous power of the lamps. At parity? of energy transferred to pathogens and viruses, less power is needed for the lamps to obtain the sanitizing effect by acting on the variable speed? of the air. In other words, by increasing the exposure time of the air to the ultraviolet radiations emitted by the lamps, It is possible to use standard powers, for example between 11 and 800 W, thus obtaining high energy savings.

The present invention also allows to increase the efficiency of the treatment by arranging the ultraviolet lamps transversely to a direction of movement of the flow inside the sanitizer, maximizing the transfer of energy transferred to the airborne pathogens.

Claims (16)

1. Sanitizer (1) for an air treatment plant, said plant comprising at least one air transport channel in communication with an environment to be treated, wherein the sanitizer (1) comprises: - a casing (2) defining a chamber (3), - at least one inlet (4) that can be connected to the air transport channel and configured to receive air from the latter and allow it to enter the chamber (3), - at least one outlet (5) which can be connected to the conveying channel (1a) and configured to allow the expulsion of air from the chamber (3) and its introduction into the conveying channel, - an expansion zone (6) defined in inside the chamber (3) placed between the entrance (4) and the exit (5), - at least one lamp (30) housed at least partially in the chamber (3) and configured to emit ultraviolet light radiation capable of irradiating at least part of the air passing through the chamber (3), wherein the inlet (4) has an air passage section lower than an air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6). 2. Sanitizer according to claim 1, wherein the casing (2) has a treatment area (7) defined in the chamber (3) and interposed between the expansion area (6) and the outlet (5), wherein the ?at least one lamp (30) ? placed inside the treatment area (7). 3. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet (4) comprises at least one inlet channel (10) whose air passage section, along the entire length of the inlet channel (10), is? lower than the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6), optionally the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6) and the air passage section of the inlet (4) ? equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 8, even more? optionally between 2 and 6. 4. Sanitizer according to the preceding claim, wherein the inlet channel (10) extends between: - a suction mouth (10?) connectable to the air transport channel of the air treatment plant, ed - an inlet port (10??) configured to introduce air into the expansion area (6) of the chamber (3), wherein in correspondence with an intermediate zone of the input channel (10) ? defined a minimum air passage section (M), in particular in which the intake duct (10) has a convergent-divergent shape, in which the ratio between the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6) and an air passage section (A??) in correspondence with the inlet mouth (10??) ? greater than 3, optionally between 3.5 and 8, even more? optionally between 4 and 7. 5. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one curvilinear deflector (11) having a substantially ?S? shape, configured to intercept air entering the sanitizer (1) and guide it towards the chamber (3). wherein the deflector (11) comprises a laminar body extending longitudinally along a predetermined direction of development and presenting, in section along a plane orthogonal to the predetermined direction of development of the deflector (11): - a first portion (11a) having a substantially ?C? whose concavity? ? facing away from the chamber (3), - a second portion (11b), joined to the first portion (11a), also having a substantially ?C? whose concavity? ? facing the room (3), wherein at least part of the second portion (11b), optionally at least one end portion of the second portion (11b) of the deflector (11) opposite the first portion (11a), in cooperation with the casing (2), defines the inlet (4). 6. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the casing (2) extends longitudinally along a predetermined direction of development (D), wherein the inlet (4) is? flanked, transversely to the direction of development (D) of the casing (2), to the outlet (5), optionally the inlet (4) and the outlet (5) both extend parallel to each other along the entire extension longitudinal of the casing (2). 7. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the casing (2) comprises: - a profile (20) elongated in the development direction (D) of the casing (2) and shaped in section with an open profile, - closing end walls (25) arranged transversely to the direction of development of the elongated profile, wherein the section bar (20) comprises, in cross section, a first and a second side (21, 22) facing each other and connected, on the opposite side to said inlet (4), by a junction end wall (23) of the first and second side (21, 22), wherein the inlet (4) and the outlet (5) are both defined, on an open side of the profile (20), as opposed to the end wall (23). 8. Sanitizer according to the previous claim, wherein: - The first side (21) of the section bar (20) cooperates with the second portion (11b) of the deflector (11) to define the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10), - The second side (22) of the section bar (20) cooperates with the first portion (11a) of the deflector (11) to define the outlet (5). 9. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet (5) has an air passage section (B) greater than the air passage section of any cross section of the inlet (4), in particular in which the ratio between the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5) and any air passage section of the inlet (4) ? equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 1.5 and 5, even more? optionally between 2 and 4, in which the air passage section (B) of the outlet (5) ? lower than the air passage section (E) of the expansion zone (6). 10. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one lamp (30) extends along the entire extension of the casing (2), substantially parallel to the development direction (D) of the casing (2), optionally each lamp (30) extends along a direction configured to be arranged transversely to the passing air. 11. Sanitizer according to any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one diverter (13), arranged in the chamber (3) at least partially inside the expansion area (6), configured to intercept the air entering the chamber (3) and guide it in the direction of the at least one lamp (20), optionally of the plurality? of lamps (30). wherein each diverter (13) has, in cross section: - at least one curvilinear insertion portion (13a) presenting concavity? facing at least partially towards the entrance (4), - at least one substantially straight guide section (13b) extending from the curvilinear section (13a) towards the treatment area (7), optionally in which the curvilinear section (13a) of each deviator (13) ? substantially facing the inlet mouth (10??) of the inlet channel (10). 12. Sanitizer according to the preceding claim comprising a plurality of of deviators (13) spaced apart from each other and sequentially arranged away from the inlet mouth (10??) of the channel (10), in which the plurality? of deviators (13) define a plurality? of channels superimposed on each other with respective inlet sections of decreasing area proceeding away from the inlet mouth (10??), in which the outlet sections of the superimposed channels open into the treatment area (7) and have air passage sections that differ from each other no more? of 20% in particular substantially equal to each other. 13. Sanitizer according to any one of claims from 6 to 12 comprising at least one separating wall (14) arranged inside the chamber (3) and extending along a transversal plane, optionally orthogonal, to the development direction (D) of the casing (2), said separating wall (14) being configured to divide the chamber (3) into at least a first and at least a second sub-chamber both in fluid communication with said inlet (4) and said outlet (5), optionally in which the sanitizer (1) includes a plurality? of separation walls (14) configured to divide the chamber (3) into a plurality? of sub-chamber in fluid communication with said inlet (4) and said outlet (5), wherein the sub-chambers of said plurality? are placed side by side along the direction of development (D) of the casing (2) and form septa of optical and fluid separation between adjacent sub-chambers, in which inside each sub-room ? Is there at least one lamp (30), optionally inside each sub-chamber? is there a plurality? of lamps (30). 14. Process of treating an air stream using a sanitizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the treatment process comprises the following steps: - introduce a flow of air into the chamber (3) of the sanitizer (1) through the inlet (4), - irradiating said air flow present in the chamber (3) by means of ultraviolet light emitted by at least one lamp (20), - expelling said flow of air irradiated by ultraviolet light from the sanitizer (1) through the outlet (5). 15. Air treatment plant (100) including: - at least one air transport channel configured to be placed in fluid communication with an environment to be treated, - a ventilation system (102) in fluid communication with the air handling channel and configured to generate an air flow inside the latter, - at least one sanitizer (1) in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the inlet (4) and outlet (5) are in fluid communication with the transport channel to respectively allow the introduction and ?expulsion of air from chamber (3) of the sanitizer. 16. Vehicle, in particular for the transport of people, comprising the air treatment plant in accordance with the previous claim, in which the air treatment plant? arranged at least partially in correspondence with the roof of the vehicle, optionally at least the sanitizer (1) ? located on the roof of the vehicle.