JP2022120266A - Inactivation method and inactivation system - Google Patents

Abstract

To reduce a risk of infection with harmful microbes or viruses via a surface of an article placed in a space freely accessible for unspecified people (or animals).SOLUTION: An inactivation method is configured to emit light of a wavelength range that inactivates microbes and/or viruses onto a surface of an article to inactivate microbes and/or viruses present on the surface. The inactivation method includes: an entry detection step of detecting entry of a moving body to a detection region within a range of a first distance from the article; and a radiation step of starting light radiation onto the article placed in a radiation range within a range of a second distance, which is smaller than the first distance, from a time point the moving body has entered the detection region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to an inactivation method and an inactivation system for inactivating harmful microorganisms and viruses.

Medical facilities, schools, government offices, theaters, hotels, restaurants, and other facilities where people frequently gather or go in and out are environments where microorganisms such as bacteria and mold can easily propagate, and viruses can easily spread. .
For example, harmful and highly contagious microorganisms and viruses can proliferate on surfaces such as floors and walls of a facility when a person infected with the virus enters or exits a designated space in the facility, to float.

In particular, people infected with viruses etc. may be exposed to the surface of items (e.g., products displayed at stores, shared equipment, equipment (e.g., elevator buttons, gym training machines), etc.) that are present in the facility. If another person touches the article after the contact, the other person may come into contact with the virus or the like adhering to the surface of the article and become infected. As a result, an unspecified number of people may be infected with harmful and highly infectious microorganisms and viruses through the surface of the article.

In order to improve the above situation, in facilities where people (and in some cases animals) gather and go in and out, disinfect the above-mentioned harmful microorganisms (e.g., infectious microorganisms) and remove viruses. Measures such as inactivation are required.
The surfaces of the above-mentioned articles are decontaminated by workers, for example, by spraying a disinfectant such as alcohol, wiping with a cloth impregnated with a disinfectant, or irradiating with sterilizing ultraviolet rays. Microorganisms, viruses, and the like floating in space are sterilized and inactivated by, for example, ultraviolet irradiation.

Patent Document 1 discloses a light irradiation system for sterilizing and inactivating foods by irradiating ultraviolet light (UV light) emitted from light-emitting diodes onto foods placed on display shelves having doors. ing. In this light irradiation system, the irradiation position of the UV light is determined so that the food is irradiated with the UV light and other than the food is not irradiated with the UV light. Further, in this light irradiation system, when it is detected that the door of the display shelf has been opened, the light-emitting diode is turned off.

Japanese Patent No. 6726351

Buonanno M., et al., “207-nm UV light - a promising tool for safe low-cost reduction of surgical site infections. I: in vitro studies”, PLoS One 8, e76968, 2013

As described in Patent Literature 1, irradiation of the surface of an article such as food with UV light can sterilize or inactivate microorganisms and viruses adhering to the surface. However, when a person touches the surface of the article, UV light irradiation is stopped. comes into contact with the surface, the person is at increased risk of infection.

Persons (animals in some cases) who may come into contact with the surfaces of items existing in the above facilities are unspecified, and among them, persons infected with harmful and highly contagious microorganisms and viruses ( or animals) are also not usually specified. In addition, it is difficult to specify the number and timing of contact of such unidentified persons with the surface of the article.
In other words, it has been difficult to properly sterilize and inactivate harmful microorganisms and viruses on the surface of an article that have come into contact with an unspecified person before another unspecified person touches the surface.

Therefore, the present invention provides an inactivation method that can reduce the risk of infection with harmful microorganisms and viruses through the surface of articles placed in a space freely accessible to unspecified people (or animals). and to provide an inactivation system.

In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the inactivation method according to the present invention is to radiate light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of an article, An inactivation method for inactivating microorganisms and/or viruses, comprising: an entry detection step of detecting that a moving body has entered a detection area within a first distance range from the article; an irradiation step of starting irradiation of the light onto the article located in an irradiation area within a second distance from the article that is less than the first distance from the time of entry.

Accordingly, when a moving object enters within the range of the first distance from an article to be irradiated with light, the surface of the article can be irradiated with light. Therefore, even if a moving object containing harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches and contacts the article at random timing, the harmful microorganisms or viruses adhering to the surface of the article can be quickly inactivated, and then the article is contacted. It is possible to suppress infection to people who do.

Moreover, in the above deactivation method, the moving body may be a person or an animal that passes through the detection area and approaches the article placed in the irradiation area.
In this case, when a person or animal infected with harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches the article, it is possible to properly start irradiating the article with light. Even if harmful microorganisms or viruses contained in exhalation (droplets) of humans or animals adhere to the surface of the article when a person or animal approaches the article, they can be appropriately inactivated.

Further, in the above deactivation method, the light may be ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 200nm to 240nm.
In this case, sterilization and inactivation can be effectively performed using light that has little adverse effect on human and animal cells.

In addition, the above-described deactivation method includes a leaving detection step of detecting that the moving body has left the detection area, and an irradiation termination step of ending the irradiation of the light when the moving body has left the detection area. and a step.
In this case, it is possible to terminate the light irradiation to the article when the situation becomes such that no harmful microorganisms or viruses adhere to the article. As a result, unnecessary light irradiation can be suppressed, and the service life of the light source can be lengthened accordingly. In addition, deterioration (discoloration, discoloration, etc.) of the article due to continuous irradiation of the article with light can be suppressed.

Further, in the above-described inactivation method, in the irradiation termination step, the irradiation amount of the light to the article from the time when the moving body leaves the detection area is adjusted to the amount of microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface of the article. The light irradiation may be terminated when the irradiation amount required for inactivation of is reached.
In this case, the light irradiation can be stopped after the harmful microorganisms and viruses adhering to the object surface are appropriately inactivated.

In addition, the above-described deactivation method includes a second entry detection step of detecting that the moving body has entered the irradiation area; an irradiation reduction step of reducing the amount of light compared to normal irradiation in which the moving body enters the detection area but does not enter the irradiation area, or stopping the irradiation of the light. good.
In this case, it is possible to suppress adverse effects of light irradiation on a moving object that has entered the irradiation area.

Furthermore, in the above-described deactivation method, in the irradiation reduction step, the illuminance of the light may be lower than the illuminance of the normal irradiation.
In this case, it is possible to appropriately prevent a moving object that has entered the irradiation area from being irradiated with high-energy light.

Further, in the above-described deactivation method, in the irradiation reduction step, the light lighting operation and the light extinguishing operation are alternately repeated, and the ratio of the lighting time to the total of the light lighting time and the light extinguishing time may be lower than the lighting duty ratio during normal irradiation.
In this case, it is possible to appropriately prevent a moving object that has entered the irradiation area from being irradiated with high-energy light.

Furthermore, the inactivation method further includes a height detection step of detecting the height of the moving object, and in the irradiation reduction step, the height of the moving object entering the irradiation area is equal to or less than a specified value. In this case, the light irradiation may be stopped.
In this case, for example, it is possible to determine whether or not the moving object that has entered the irradiation area is a child, and stop light irradiation if the object is a child. This makes it possible to ensure greater safety.

Further, in the above-described deactivation method, in the irradiation step, the article placed in the showcase may be irradiated with the light. In this case, it is possible to appropriately irradiate an article that can be seen or touched by an unspecified person.
Further, in the above deactivation method, the light is ultraviolet light having a wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm, and in the irradiation step, the article placed in an open showcase is irradiated with the light. You may In this case, since light that has little adverse effect on the cells of humans and animals is irradiated onto the article, the light irradiated onto the article is reflected and scattered by the article, etc. Even if it is possible to irradiate the article, it is possible to positively irradiate the article with light while ensuring the safety of people and animals.

In addition, one aspect of the inactivation system according to the present invention emits light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of an article to kill microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface. An inactivation system for inactivation, comprising: a light irradiation unit including a light source that emits light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses; and a controller that controls irradiation of the light by the light source. A light irradiation device and a sensor section for detecting a moving body, wherein the control section controls, based on a detection signal from the sensor section, whether the moving body has entered a detection area within a first distance range from the article. and an entry detection unit for detecting that the article is at a distance smaller than the first distance from the point in time when the entry detection unit detects that the moving object has entered the detection area by controlling the light source. to initiate illumination of the light on the article located in an illumination area within a second distance from.

Accordingly, when a moving object enters within the range of the first distance from an article to be irradiated with light, the surface of the article can be irradiated with light. Therefore, even if a moving object containing harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches and contacts the article at random timing, the harmful microorganisms or viruses adhering to the surface of the article can be quickly inactivated, and then the article is contacted. It is possible to suppress infection to people who do.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the moving body may be a person or an animal that passes through the detection area and approaches the article placed in the irradiation area.
In this case, when a person or animal infected with harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches the article, it is possible to properly start irradiating the article with light. Even if harmful microorganisms or viruses contained in exhalation (droplets) of humans or animals adhere to the surface of the article when a person or animal approaches the article, they can be appropriately inactivated.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the light may be ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 200nm to 240nm.
In this case, sterilization and inactivation can be effectively performed using light that has little adverse effect on human and animal cells.

Further, in the inactivation system described above, the control unit further includes a leaving detection unit that detects that the moving body has left the detection area based on a detection signal from the sensor unit, and the leaving detection unit Triggered by detection that the moving body has left the detection area, the irradiation of the light may be terminated.
In this case, it is possible to terminate the light irradiation to the article when the situation becomes such that no harmful microorganisms or viruses adhere to the article. As a result, unnecessary light irradiation can be suppressed, and the service life of the light source can be lengthened accordingly. In addition, deterioration (discoloration, discoloration, etc.) of the article due to continuous irradiation of the article with light can be suppressed.

Furthermore, in the deactivation system described above, the control unit controls the irradiation amount of the light to the article after the exit detection unit detects that the moving body has left the detection area. The light irradiation may be terminated when the irradiation amount required for inactivating the microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface is reached.
In this case, the light irradiation can be stopped after the harmful microorganisms and viruses adhering to the object surface are appropriately inactivated.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the control unit further includes a second entry detection unit that detects that the moving body has entered the irradiation area based on a detection signal from the sensor unit. and detecting that the moving object enters the irradiation area by the second entrance detection unit, the unit irradiation amount of the light is applied to the moving object entering the detection area and entering the irradiation area. The light emission may be reduced compared to the time of normal irradiation without light irradiation, or the light irradiation may be stopped.
In this case, it is possible to suppress adverse effects of light irradiation on a moving object that has entered the irradiation area.

Furthermore, in the inactivation system described above, the controller reduces the unit irradiation amount of the light compared to that during normal irradiation by lowering the illuminance of the light below that during normal irradiation. good too.
In this case, it is possible to appropriately prevent a moving object that has entered the irradiation area from being irradiated with high-energy light.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the control unit controls the lighting time with respect to the sum of the lighting time and the lighting-off time of the light in intermittent lighting in which the lighting operation and the lighting-off operation of the light are alternately repeated. By making the lighting duty ratio, which is a ratio of , lower than the lighting duty ratio during normal irradiation, the unit irradiation amount of the light may be reduced compared to that during normal irradiation.
In this case, it is possible to appropriately prevent a moving object that has entered the irradiation area from being irradiated with high-energy light.

Furthermore, in the inactivation system described above, when the control unit determines that the height of the moving object entering the irradiation area is equal to or less than a specified value based on the detection signal from the sensor unit, The light irradiation may be stopped when the moving object enters the irradiation area.
In this case, for example, it is possible to determine whether or not the moving object that has entered the irradiation area is a child, and stop light irradiation if the object is a child. This makes it possible to ensure greater safety.

Moreover, in the inactivation system described above, the article may be arranged in a showcase. In this case, it is possible to appropriately irradiate an article that can be seen or touched by an unspecified person.
Further, in the inactivation system described above, the article may be placed in an open showcase. In this case, since light that has little adverse effect on the cells of humans and animals is irradiated onto the article, the light irradiated onto the article is reflected and scattered by the article, etc. Even if it is possible to irradiate the article, it is possible to positively irradiate the article with light while ensuring the safety of people and animals.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the light irradiation unit includes a housing containing the light source therein and having a light exit window through which at least part of the light emitted from the light source is emitted, the light exit window may be provided with an optical filter that blocks transmission of UV-C waves with wavelengths longer than 237 nm.
In this case, it is possible to irradiate only light in a wavelength range that has little adverse effect on humans and animals.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the light source may be either an excimer lamp or an LED.
Excimer lamps and LEDs are less susceptible to vibrations, pressure changes, and temperature changes than low-pressure mercury lamps, which have been used as UV light sources for conventional deactivators. That is, the illuminance of the emitted light is less likely to become unstable even when subjected to vibrations, pressure changes, and temperature changes. Therefore, by using an excimer lamp or LED as a light source, even when the light irradiation device is used in an environment subject to vibration, changes in atmospheric pressure, and changes in temperature, it is possible to stably emit light, which contributes to sterilization, Inactivation can be done properly.

Also, in the inactivation system described above, the light source may emit ultraviolet light having a center wavelength of 222 nm.
In this case, microorganisms and viruses can be effectively inactivated while appropriately suppressing adverse effects on the human body due to ultraviolet irradiation.

Further, in the above deactivation system, the light source is an LED, and the LED is an aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN)-based LED, an aluminum nitride (AlN)-based LED, or a magnesium zinc oxide (MgZnO)-based LED. It's okay.
In this case, it is possible to appropriately inactivate microorganisms and viruses by emitting ultraviolet rays in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm, which has little adverse effect on the human body, using LEDs that are not easily affected by vibrations, atmospheric pressure changes, and temperature changes. can.

Further, in the deactivation system described above, the light source may be an LED, and the light irradiation unit may have a cooling member for cooling the LED.
In this case, heat rise of the LED can be appropriately suppressed, and stable light can be emitted from the LED.

Furthermore, in the deactivation system described above, the light source may be an excimer lamp, and the light irradiation unit may have a housing made of conductive metal and containing the excimer lamp.
In this case, it is possible to suppress transmission of high-frequency noise generated from the excimer lamp to the outside of the housing. As a result, it is possible to suppress the influence of high-frequency noise from the excimer lamp on the control command to the control system provided outside the housing, and to suppress the problem of the control command.

The present invention aims to reduce the risk of infection with harmful microorganisms and viruses and suppress the spread of infection through the surfaces of articles placed in spaces freely accessible to unspecified people (or animals). can be done.

It is an explanatory view about the infection risk via the article surface. It is a figure which shows the schematic structure of the inactivation system in this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the state which the person entered into the detection area. It is a figure which shows the reflected light and scattered light by the article|item surface etc.. FIG. It is a figure which shows the ultraviolet absorption spectrum of protein. It is a figure which shows the state which the person entered into the irradiation area. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which a child has entered an irradiation area; It is a figure which shows an example of the detection method of a child. It is a figure which shows an example of the detection method of a child. It is a flowchart which shows operation|movement of an inactivation apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structural example of an ultraviolet irradiation unit. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an excimer lamp; FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an excimer lamp; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an excimer lamp; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an ultraviolet irradiation unit;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
In this embodiment, an inactivation device (ultraviolet irradiation device) that irradiates an article present in a target space with ultraviolet rays to inactivate microorganisms and viruses present on the surface of the article will be described.
The term “inactivation” as used in the present embodiment refers to killing microorganisms or viruses (or losing their infectivity or toxicity).

Here, the target space is a space in which an article to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays is installed and in which an unspecified person can freely access the article. The target space may be an open space or a space that can be closed with a door or the like.
Examples of the target space include (1) a supermarket where food is displayed, (2) a store where merchandise such as books, miscellaneous goods, and electrical appliances are displayed, (3) a library, and (4) a door. Facilities such as offices, medical facilities, schools, government offices, theaters, hotels, restaurants, etc., (5) washrooms and toilets with water supply, (6) sports gyms, (7) parks, (8) ) elevators, and (9) spaces such as buffets provided in hotels and the like.

Items to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays include (1) food, (2) merchandise such as books, miscellaneous goods, and electrical appliances, (3) books lent out in libraries, (4) doorknobs, and (5). (6) gym equipment; (7) park playground equipment; (8) elevator buttons; and (9) buffet tongs.

The inactivation device according to the present embodiment irradiates an article placed in a target space in which a person may exist with ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 to 240 nm, which has little adverse effect on cells of humans and animals. It inactivates harmful microorganisms and viruses present on the surface and in the space in which the article is placed.

As described above, the target space in which the inactivation device in the present embodiment irradiates with ultraviolet light is a space that can be freely accessed by unspecified people. Therefore, it is not possible to specify the number of times and the timing at which a person (or animal) infected with harmful and highly contagious microorganisms or viruses comes into contact with the surface of an article to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays.
For example, as shown in FIG. 1(a), articles 210 are arranged on a display shelf 200, and the deactivation device 100′ performs deactivation treatment by irradiating ultraviolet rays UV to the articles 210. As shown in FIG. As shown in b), when the person 300 infected with harmful and highly contagious microorganisms or viruses comes into contact with the article 210 at the timing when the ultraviolet irradiation ends, as shown in FIG. Virus V or the like adheres to the surface of the article 210 . In addition, the breath (droplets) of the person 300 may contain bacteria and viruses, and even if the person 300 approaches the article 210 when the ultraviolet irradiation by the inactivation device 100 ′ is not performed, the surface of the article 210 Virus V and the like can adhere to the . If another person touches the article 210 in the state shown in FIG. 1(c), there is a risk that the person will be infected with bacteria, viruses, or the like.

Therefore, in this embodiment, when it is detected that the person 300 has approached the article 210, the ultraviolet irradiation of the article 210 is started from that point. In other words, when it is detected that a moving object has entered a detection area within a first distance range from the article 210, irradiation within a range of a second distance (< the first distance) from the article 210 from that point is detected. Start irradiating the article 210 placed in the region with ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet irradiation is continued at least while the person 300 is entering the detection area.
As a result, even if the person 300 approaches or touches the article 210 at random timing, the microorganisms and viruses attached to the surface of the article 210 can be quickly inactivated, and the risk of infection can be reduced. .

FIG. 2 is a configuration example of an inactivation system 1000 including the inactivation device 100 according to this embodiment.
A case will be described below in which the target space is a supermarket and the article to be irradiated with ultraviolet light is food.
A supermarket is a place where unspecified people stop by to select and purchase food. In addition, the display racks on which foodstuffs are arranged are not installed in closed spaces where specific people enter and exit, but are installed in places where unspecified people can freely access. Therefore, the inside of the supermarket becomes an open space (open space).

In the supermarket, as shown in FIG. 2, display shelves (showcases) 200 in which articles (such as food) 210 are arranged are arranged. Here, it is assumed that the display shelf 200 has three shelves, and the deactivation device 100 is provided above each shelf.
The inactivation device 100 downwardly emits light (ultraviolet light) in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of the article 210, and the article placed below the inactivation device 100 210 surface is irradiated with ultraviolet light.

The inactivation device 100 includes an ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 equipped with an ultraviolet light source that emits light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses (here, ultraviolet rays in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm), and an ultraviolet irradiation unit 110. and a control unit 120 that controls irradiation of light by. The ultraviolet light source radiates ultraviolet rays having a center wavelength of 222 nm, for example.
The control unit 120 detects the approach of a person to the article 210, and starts irradiating the article 210 with ultraviolet rays by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 at the timing when the approach of the person is detected.
To simplify the explanation, a case where one person 300 approaches the article 210 will be explained here.

In order to detect the approach of a person to the article 210, the deactivation device 100 includes a first entry detection unit 131 that detects that the person 300 has entered a detection area within a first distance range from the article 210. Have at least one. This detection area is an area through which the person 300 must pass in order to approach the article 210 (an area where the article 210 is irradiated with ultraviolet rays).
As the first entry detection unit 131, a human sensor or image recognition means may be used. The human sensor can be, for example, a pyroelectric infrared sensor that detects changes in heat (infrared rays) emitted from a human body or the like. Also, in the case of using the image recognition means, it is possible to detect a person present in the irradiation space by analyzing an image captured by a camera or the like.
The first distance is, for example, the distance at which the person 300 can touch the article 210, or the distance at which the exhalation (droplets) of the person 300 reaches the article 210, and can be set to 1 m, for example.
Note that the first entry detection unit 131 only needs to be able to detect that the person 300 has entered the detection area, and means for detecting entry is not limited to the above.

As shown in FIG. 3 , when a person 300 enters the detection area, the first entry detection unit 131 detects that the person 300 has entered the detection area, and transmits a first entry detection signal to the control unit 120 . do. Upon receiving the first entry detection signal, the control unit 120 irradiates the articles 210 with ultraviolet rays UV from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 .
At this time, the irradiation area irradiated with the ultraviolet rays UV is an area within a second distance (<the first distance) from the article 210, and can be an area within the display shelf 200, for example.

When the article 210 is irradiated with ultraviolet rays UV from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110, depending on the material and surface state (for example, surface roughness) of the article 210 and the shelf on which the article 210 is placed, as shown in FIG. As described above, at least part of the ultraviolet rays UV irradiated to the article 210 is scattered/reflected by the irradiated surface of the article 210 or the like, and emitted as scattered light and reflected light. A part of this scattered light and reflected light can irradiate the person 300 in the vicinity of the article 210 .

In practice, the wavelength range of ultraviolet rays used for decontamination (sterilization) is 200 to 320 nm. It is common to use However, such ultraviolet rays in the wavelength region around 260 nm have an adverse effect on humans and animals. For example, it induces cancer due to erythema and DNA damage in the skin, and causes eye disorders (eye pain, hyperemia, corneal inflammation, etc.).

Therefore, in the conventional ultraviolet irradiation system that decontaminates (sterilizes) using ultraviolet rays around 260 nm as described above, in consideration of the safety of humans and animals, ultraviolet rays are irradiated when humans and animals are not present. It is configured to stop emitting UV light when a person is present in the illuminated area.
Therefore, when the reflected light and scattered light as shown in FIG. 4 are taken into consideration, even if the illuminance (intensity) is low, if the person 300 is present in the area where the reflected light or scattered light reaches, the surface of the article 210 is normally turned off.
However, in that case, the risk of person-to-person infection through the article 210 cannot be appropriately reduced as described above.

As a result of intensive research, the present inventors have found that light in the wavelength range of 200 to 240 nm is safe for humans and animals, and is capable of sterilizing microorganisms and inactivating viruses.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing ultraviolet absorption spectra of proteins.
As shown in FIG. 5, protein has an absorption peak at a wavelength of 200 nm, and it can be seen that ultraviolet light is not easily absorbed at a wavelength of 240 nm or longer. In other words, ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 240 nm or longer easily penetrates human skin and penetrates deep into the skin. Therefore, the cells in the human skin are easily damaged. On the other hand, ultraviolet light with a wavelength of around 200 nm is absorbed by the human skin surface (for example, the stratum corneum) and does not penetrate into the skin. Therefore, it is safe for skin.
On the other hand, ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of less than 200 nm can generate ozone (O ₃ ). This is because when ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of less than 200 nm are irradiated in an oxygen-containing atmosphere, oxygen molecules are photodecomposed to generate oxygen atoms, and ozone is generated by a bonding reaction between the oxygen molecules and the oxygen atoms. be.

Therefore, it can be said that the wavelength range of 200 to 240 nm is a safe wavelength range for humans and animals. The safe wavelength range for humans and animals is preferably 200 to 237 nm, more preferably 200 to 235 nm, even more preferably 200 to 230 nm.

The deactivation device 100 of the present embodiment uses ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 200 to 240 nm, which is in the safe wavelength range for humans and animals, as light to irradiate the article 210 .
For example, ultraviolet rays of 207 nm are known to be 1000 times safer to humans than ultraviolet rays of 254 nm (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1). From this, it can be said that ultraviolet rays in the above wavelength range are sufficiently safer for humans than ultraviolet rays of 254 nm.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, even if the person 300 is irradiated with reflected light or scattered light emitted from the deactivation device 100, the person 300 is not adversely affected. In other words, even if the person 300 exists in the area where the reflected light or the scattered light reaches, it is not necessary to stop the irradiation of the ultraviolet rays on the surface of the article 210 .
In this way, even if there is a possibility that the ultraviolet rays reflected and scattered by the surface of the article 210 or the like may irradiate the person 300 existing in the open space, the person 300 is kept safe, and the article 210 is positively detected. It is possible to decontaminate the surface by irradiating the surface with the ultraviolet rays.

Also, when the person 300 inserts his or her hand into the display shelf 200 while the article 210 is being irradiated with ultraviolet light, the hand of the person 300 is directly irradiated with the light emitted from the inactivation device 100. As described above, the light emitted from the deactivation device 100 is sufficiently safe for humans, and the time for the person 300 to insert his/her hand into the display shelf 200 is short. Person 300 is less likely to be adversely affected.

According to ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists) and JIS Z 8812 (measurement method of harmful ultraviolet radiation), the amount of ultraviolet irradiation to the human body per day (8 hours) is A threshold limit value (TLV) is defined for each wavelength.
Therefore, even if the UV light is in the wavelength range that is safe for humans as described above, the illuminance and irradiation time of the UV light should be set so that the daily UV dose (integrated light dose) is below the allowable limit value. is preferred.

Therefore, in order to prevent the amount of ultraviolet irradiation from reaching the allowable limit value, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. When the person 300 enters the area, the inactivation device 100 detects this, and during normal irradiation (when the person 300 has not entered the irradiation area) while part of the body of the person 300 is entering the irradiation area. lighting), the unit irradiation amount of ultraviolet rays may be reduced.
Specifically, the deactivation device 100 includes a second entry detection unit 132 that detects that the person 300 has entered an irradiation area within a range of a second distance (<first distance) from the article 210. . As the second entry detection unit 132, an area sensor may be used, or image recognition means may be used.
The area sensor has a projector that projects infrared rays and a receiver that receives the infrared rays, which are provided at the entrance of the irradiation area. Detects entry into the irradiation area. Note that the second entry detection unit 132 only needs to detect that the person 300 has entered the irradiation area, and means for detecting entry is not limited to the above.

The second entry detection unit 132 transmits a second entry detection signal to the control unit 120 when detecting that the person 300 has entered the irradiation area. Upon receiving the second entry detection signal, the control unit 120 reduces the unit irradiation amount of ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 to the article 210 .
The control for reducing the unit irradiation amount of ultraviolet rays includes control for reducing the illuminance of ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation section 110 and control for reducing the lighting duty ratio of the ultraviolet irradiation section 110 . Here, the lighting duty ratio is the ratio of the lighting time to the total sum of the ultraviolet lighting time and the ultraviolet light extinguishing time in intermittent lighting in which the ultraviolet lighting operation and the ultraviolet light extinguishing operation are alternately repeated.

In addition, in the control for reducing the illuminance of ultraviolet rays, the amount of illuminance reduction may be a constant amount, may be a constant ratio of the illuminance during normal irradiation, or may be a constant ratio to the illuminance during normal irradiation. It may also be an amount according to the time spent. Further, in the control for reducing the lighting duty ratio, the reduced lighting duty ratio may be a fixed value, or may be a value according to the time during which the person 300 enters the irradiation area.

Furthermore, the inactivation device 100 determines whether or not the person 300 approaching the article 210 is a child, and reduces the unit irradiation dose of ultraviolet rays (irradiance of ultraviolet rays or The lighting duty ratio may be reduced), and when a child enters the irradiation area, the ultraviolet irradiation may be stopped.
As shown in FIG. 7, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 is often installed at a position higher than the line of sight of the child 300a, and it is also assumed that the child 300a will look into the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 out of curiosity. be done. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7, it is preferable to stop the ultraviolet irradiation while the child 300a is entering the irradiation area.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 8, deactivation device 100 includes proximity sensor 133 as a child detection unit for determining whether a moving object approaching article 210 is child 300a.
Here, the proximity sensor 133 detects the height of the moving object approaching the article 210 . For example, the proximity sensor is installed between the entrance of the detection area and the entrance of the irradiation area and above the vicinity of the irradiation area (for example, the ceiling or the upper part of the display shelf 200), and from the installation position of the proximity sensor 133 Detects the distance to a moving object.

The proximity sensor 133 has, for example, an infrared light emitting element such as an infrared LED and a light receiving element such as a photodiode. An infrared proximity sensor that senses the distance to an object can be used.
In this case, the proximity sensor 133 detects the height of the moving object based on the installation height of the proximity sensor 133 and the distance from the proximity sensor 133 to the moving object. If there is, it is determined that the moving object is a child.

Further, the child detection unit for determining whether person 300 approaching article 210 is a child is not limited to proximity sensor 133 shown in FIG.
For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the child detection unit can be composed of a plurality of proximity sensors 134a to 134c installed at different heights in the vicinity of the irradiation area (for example, the sides of the display shelf 200).
In this case, for example, when the proximity sensor 134a is installed at a predetermined height (for example, 120 cm) from the floor, the proximity sensor 134a does not detect the object, and the proximity sensors 134b and 134c detect the object. , determine that the object is a child.
Note that the configuration of the child detection unit is not limited to the above, and may be of any configuration. For example, it may be determined whether the person 300 approaching the article 210 is a child by analyzing an image captured by a camera or the like using image recognition means.

Furthermore, when the deactivation device 100 detects that the person 300 has left the detection area by the first entry detection unit 131, the amount of UV irradiation to the article 210 from that time point is reduced to the surface of the article 210. When the amount of irradiation required for activation (required amount of irradiation) is reached, the ultraviolet irradiation is terminated.
Specifically, the deactivation device 100 starts counting the timer when the person 300 leaves the detection area, and the ultraviolet irradiation time from the time when the person 300 leaves the detection area is the time when the article 210 is irradiated with the ultraviolet rays. When the amount reaches the required irradiation amount, the ultraviolet irradiation is terminated.

Here, the time required to irradiate the required dose can be appropriately set according to the type of bacteria or virus to be inactivated.
For example, in the case of influenza viruses (Influenza A, H1N1, A/PR/8/34 ATCC VR-1469) and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 222 nm reduce the number of viruses to 1/10. is known to be 1 mJ/cm ² . In other words, by irradiating for 10 seconds with an ultraviolet light intensity of 0.1 mW/cm ² , the number of viruses can be reduced to 1/10, which is sufficient for general sterilization. In an environment where a high inactivation effect is required, the irradiation time is set longer than the above time. For example, when irradiated for 30 seconds with an ultraviolet light intensity of 0.1 mW/cm ² , the number of viruses can be reduced to 1/1000.

It should be noted that control using an ultraviolet sensor, for example, can be performed instead of the timer count. In this case, for example, an ultraviolet sensor is installed in the vicinity of the article 210 to measure the illuminance of ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110 and calculate the amount of ultraviolet irradiation based on the measured ultraviolet illuminance and irradiation time. Ultraviolet irradiation may be terminated when the amount of ultraviolet irradiation accumulated in the ultraviolet sensor after the person 300 leaves the detection area reaches the required irradiation amount.

Also, the timing to end the ultraviolet irradiation may be any time when the amount of ultraviolet irradiation from the point at which it can be determined that contaminants from the person 300 will not adhere to the article 210 reaches the required amount of irradiation.
When the person 300 exits the detection area, the person 300 is often not facing the item 210 (eg, turning his/her back). Considering that contaminants are not attached to the article 210 when the person 300 moves away from the article 210, it can be considered that the deactivation of the surface of the article 210 is completed when the person 300 leaves the detection area. Therefore, irradiation of the article 210 with ultraviolet rays may be terminated when the person 300 leaves the detection area.
In other words, when the person 300 leaves the detection area, the irradiation of ultraviolet rays may be terminated.

In this way, when the surface of the article 210 is properly inactivated and no harmful microorganisms or viruses from the person 300 adhere to the surface of the article 210, the ultraviolet irradiation is stopped. As a result, deterioration (discoloration, discoloration, etc.) of the article 210 due to continued irradiation of ultraviolet rays can be suppressed.
In the above description, the first entry detection section 131, the second entry detection section 132, the proximity sensors 133 and 134a to 134c correspond to the sensor section.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the operation of the inactivation device 100 in this embodiment.
First, in step S<b>1 , the control unit 120 determines whether or not the person 300 has entered the detection area based on the first entry detection signal from the first entry detection unit 131 . If the control unit 120 determines that the person 300 has not entered the detection area, it stands by, and if it determines that the person 300 has entered the detection area, the control unit 120 proceeds to step S2.
In step S<b>2 , the control unit 120 starts irradiating the irradiation region with ultraviolet rays from the ultraviolet irradiation amount 110 . Thereby, the article 210 is irradiated with ultraviolet rays.

In step S<b>3 , based on the first entry detection signal from the first entry detection section 131 , the control section 120 determines whether or not the person 300 has left the detection area. If the control unit 120 determines that the person 300 has not left the detection area, the process proceeds to step S4, and if it determines that the person 300 has left the detection area, the process proceeds to step S9.
In step S<b>4 , based on the second entry detection signal from the second entry detection section 132 , the control section 120 determines whether or not the person 300 has entered the irradiation area. If the control unit 120 determines that the person 300 has not entered the irradiation area, the process returns to step S3, and if it determines that the person 300 has entered the irradiation area, the process proceeds to step S5.

In step S5, the control unit 120 determines whether or not a child has entered the irradiation area based on the detection signal from the child detection unit. The process proceeds to step S6, and when it is determined that the person who entered the irradiation area is a child, the process proceeds to step S7.
In step S6, the control unit 120 reduces the unit dose of ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110, and proceeds to step S8.
In step S7, the control unit 120 stops the ultraviolet irradiation from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110, and proceeds to step S8.

In step S<b>8 , based on the second entry detection signal from the second entry detection section 132 , the control section 120 determines whether or not the person 300 has left the irradiation area. If the control unit 120 determines that the person 300 has not left the irradiation area, it stands by, and if it determines that the person 300 has left the irradiation area, the process returns to step S2.

Further, in step S9, the control unit 120 determines whether or not the amount of ultraviolet irradiation after the person 300 has left the detection area has reached the required amount of irradiation. Then, if the control unit 120 determines that the ultraviolet irradiation amount has not reached the required irradiation amount, it continues the ultraviolet irradiation as it is, and if it determines that the ultraviolet irradiation amount has reached the required irradiation amount, Go to step S10.
In step S10, the control unit 120 stops the ultraviolet irradiation of the irradiation region from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 110, and returns to step S1.

In the process of FIG. 10, the process of step S1 corresponds to the entry detection section, the process of step S3 corresponds to the exit detection section, and the process of step S4 corresponds to the second entry detection section.

As described above, the deactivation device 100 in the present embodiment includes, as a sensor unit for detecting a person (moving body) 300, the first entrance detection unit 131 for detecting the person 300 entering the detection area, a second entry detection unit 132 for detecting a person 300 who has entered the area; a child detection unit (proximity sensors 133, 134a to 134c) for determining whether the person 300 who has entered the irradiation area is a child; , provided. Then, when the deactivation device 100 detects that the person 300 has entered the detection area based on the detection signal from the first entry detection unit 131, the light to the article 210 placed in the irradiation area is emitted from that point. Start irradiation. Here, the light with which the article 210 is irradiated is ultraviolet rays in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm, which have little adverse effect on cells of humans and animals.

In this way, unlike the conventional deactivation device, it is configured not to irradiate the person or the space where the person exists, but when the person 300 enters within a predetermined distance range from the article to be irradiated with ultraviolet light. Then, the surface of the article 210 is irradiated with ultraviolet rays. Therefore, even if the person 300 having harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches and contacts the article 210 at random timing, the harmful microorganisms or viruses adhering to the surface of the article 210 can be quickly inactivated. Infection to people who come into contact with the article 210 can be suppressed.

In addition, as the light used for the deactivation treatment, ultraviolet rays in a wavelength range that is safe for humans and animals are used. Even if the person 300 present in the open space is irradiated with the ultraviolet rays, it is possible to ensure the safety of the person 300 under the ultraviolet irradiation.

Furthermore, the deactivation device 100 in the present embodiment detects that the person 300 has left the detection area based on the detection signal from the first entry detection unit 131, and irradiates the article 210 with light. finish. Specifically, the light irradiation amount to the article 210 from the time when it is detected that the person 300 has left the detection area reaches the irradiation amount necessary for inactivating harmful microorganisms and viruses adhering to the surface of the article 210. At that point, light irradiation is terminated.
As a result, unnecessary light irradiation can be suppressed, and the service life of the light source can be lengthened accordingly. Moreover, deterioration (discoloration, discoloration, etc.) of the article 210 due to continuous irradiation of the article 210 with light can be suppressed.

Furthermore, the deactivation device 100 in this embodiment detects that the person 300 is entering the irradiation area based on the detection signal from the second entry detection unit 132, and the light to the article 210 is detected. The unit irradiation dose is reduced compared to normal irradiation. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately prevent the person 300 who has entered the irradiation area from being irradiated with light having a high energy amount.
Based on the detection signal from the child detection unit, the deactivation device 100 determines that the height of the person 300 entering the irradiation area is equal to or less than a specified value, and that the person 300 entering the irradiation area is a child 300a. , the light irradiation is stopped when the child 300a enters the irradiation area. This makes it possible to ensure greater safety.

As described above, in this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the risk of infection with harmful microorganisms and viruses through the surfaces of articles placed in a space that is freely accessible to unspecified people. Expansion can be suppressed.

In the above embodiment, for ease of understanding, the case where one person approaches the article to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays has been described, but a plurality of persons can also approach the article to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays. In this case, when the first person among the plurality of people enters the detection area, the ultraviolet irradiation to the article is started, and when the last person leaves the detection area, the ultraviolet irradiation is terminated.
Also, in the above embodiment, the case where a person approaches an article to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays has been described, but the same applies when a moving body other than a person (for example, an animal) approaches.

A configuration example of the inactivation device 100 will be specifically described below.
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the inactivation device 100 described above.
FIG. 11 mainly shows the parts related to the ultraviolet irradiation section 110 and the control section 120 . Hereinafter, the parts related to the ultraviolet irradiation section 110 and the control section 120 are collectively referred to as the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 .
The ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 includes a housing 11 made of conductive metal and an ultraviolet light source 12 housed inside the housing 11 .
The ultraviolet light source 12 can be, for example, a KrCl excimer lamp that emits ultraviolet light with a center wavelength of 222 nm. The ultraviolet light source 12 is not limited to the KrCl excimer lamp, and may be any light source that emits ultraviolet light within a wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm.

Further, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 includes a power supply section 16 that supplies power to the excimer lamp 12, and a control section 17 that controls irradiation and non-irradiation of the excimer lamp 12, the amount of ultraviolet light emitted from the excimer lamp 12, and the like. . Note that the control unit 17 corresponds to the control unit 120 described above, and has the various functions described above.
The excimer lamp 12 is supported by a support portion 18 inside the housing 11 .
The housing 11 is formed with an opening 11a serving as a light exit window. A window member 11b is provided in the opening 11a. The window member 11b can include, for example, an ultraviolet transmitting member made of quartz glass, an optical filter for blocking unnecessary light, and the like.
A plurality of excimer lamps 12 can also be arranged in the housing 11 . The number of excimer lamps 12 is not particularly limited.

As the optical filter, for example, a wavelength selection filter that transmits light in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 237 nm and cuts light in the other UV-C wavelength range (light of 238 nm to 280 nm) can be used.
Here, as the wavelength selection filter, for example, a dielectric multilayer filter with HfO ₂ layers and SiO ₂ layers can be used.
As the wavelength selection filter, an optical filter having a dielectric multilayer film of SiO ₂ layers and Al ₂ O ₃ layers can also be used.
By providing the optical filter in the light exit window in this way, even if the excimer lamp 12 emits light that is harmful to humans, it is possible to more reliably prevent the light from leaking out of the housing 11. can be reduced to

A configuration example of the excimer lamp 12 used as the ultraviolet light source in the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 will be specifically described below.
12(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the excimer lamp 12 in the tube axis direction, and FIG. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 12(a).
As shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), the excimer lamp 12 has a long, straight circular tubular discharge vessel 13 hermetically sealed at both ends. The discharge vessel 13 is made of, for example, a dielectric material such as synthetic quartz glass or fused quartz glass, which is transparent to ultraviolet light. A discharge space is formed inside the discharge vessel 13, and a rare gas and a halogen gas are enclosed in the discharge space as a barrier discharge gas (hereinafter also referred to as "discharge gas") for generating ultraviolet rays. ing. In this embodiment, krypton (Kr) is used as the rare gas, and chlorine gas (Cl ₂ ) is used as the halogen gas.
A mixed gas of krypton (Kr) and bromine (Br ₂ ) can also be used as the discharge gas. In this case, the excimer lamp (KrBr excimer lamp) emits ultraviolet rays with a central wavelength of 207 nm.

A first electrode (internal electrode) 14 is arranged in the discharge space inside the discharge vessel 13 . The internal electrode 14 is a coiled metal wire made of a metal having electrical conductivity and heat resistance, such as tungsten, wound into a coil with a coil diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the discharge vessel 13 . an electrode. The internal electrode 14 extends along the central axis (tube axis) of the discharge vessel 13 and is arranged so as not to come into contact with the inner peripheral surface of the discharge vessel 13 .
One end of an internal electrode lead member 14 a is electrically connected to each of both ends of the internal electrode 14 . The other end portions of the internal electrode lead members 14 a each protrude outward from the outer end surface of the discharge vessel 13 .

A second electrode (external electrode) 15 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the discharge vessel 13 . The external electrode 15 is a net-like electrode composed of metal strands made of a metal having electrical conductivity and heat resistance, such as tungsten. The external electrode 15 is provided along the outer peripheral surface of the discharge vessel 13 so as to extend in the central axis direction of the discharge vessel 13 . In the excimer lamp 12 shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), the external electrode 15, which is a mesh electrode, has a cylindrical outer shape and is provided in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the discharge vessel 13. It is
With such a configuration, a discharge region is formed in the discharge space where the internal electrode 14 and the external electrode 15 face each other through the tube wall (dielectric material wall) of the discharge vessel 13 .

Further, one end of the external electrode 15 and the other end of one of the internal electrode lead members 14a are connected to a high-frequency power source 16a provided in the power supply section 16 (see FIG. 11) via a power supply line 16b. The high-frequency power supply 16a is a power supply capable of applying a high-frequency voltage between the internal electrode 14 and the external electrode 15. FIG.
One end of a lead wire 16c is electrically connected to the other end of the external electrode 15, and the other end of the lead wire 16c is grounded. That is, the external electrode 15 is grounded through the lead wire 16c. In the excimer lamp 12 shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), one internal electrode lead member 14a is integrated with the feeder line 16b.

When high-frequency power is applied between the internal electrode 14 and the external electrode 15, dielectric barrier discharge occurs in the discharge space. This dielectric barrier discharge excites the atoms of the discharge gas (barrier discharge gas) enclosed in the discharge space to generate an excited dimer (exciplex). When this excited dimer returns to its original state (ground state), a unique luminescence (excimer luminescence) occurs. That is, the discharge gas is an excimer emission gas.

The configuration of the excimer lamp is not limited to the configuration shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b). For example, like an excimer lamp 12A shown in FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b), it may be configured to include a discharge vessel 13A having a double-tube structure.
A discharge vessel 13A included in this excimer lamp 12A has a cylindrical outer tube and a cylindrical inner tube arranged coaxially with the outer tube inside the outer tube and having an inner diameter smaller than that of the outer tube. The outer tube and the inner tube are sealed at the ends in the left-right direction in FIG. 13(a), and an annular inner space is formed between them. A discharge gas is enclosed in this internal space.

A film-like first electrode (inner electrode) 14A is provided on the inner wall surface 13a of the inner tube, and a net-like or mesh-like second electrode (outer electrode) 15A is provided on the outer wall surface 13b of the outer tube. The inner electrode 14A and the outer electrode 15A are electrically connected to a high-frequency power source 16a via power supply lines 16b, respectively.

A high-frequency AC voltage is applied between the inner electrode 14A and the outer electrode 15A by the high-frequency power supply 16a, thereby applying a voltage to the discharge gas through the tubular bodies of the outer tube and the inner tube. A dielectric barrier discharge occurs within the enclosed discharge space. This excites the atoms of the discharge gas to produce excited dimers, which emit excimer light when the atoms transition to the ground state.

The configuration of the excimer lamp is such that, for example, like the excimer lamp 12B shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b), a pair of electrodes (first electrode 14B, second electrode 15B) may be arranged. Here, as an example, it is assumed that two discharge vessels 13B are arranged side by side in the Z direction of FIG. 14(a).
As shown in FIG. 14(a), the first electrode 14B and the second electrode 15B are arranged on the side surface of the discharge vessel 13B opposite to the light extraction surface (surface in the -X direction) in the direction of the tube axis of the discharge vessel 13B. They are spaced apart from each other in the Y direction.
The discharge vessel 13B is arranged so as to straddle the two electrodes 14B and 15B while being in contact therewith. Specifically, two electrodes 14B and 15B are respectively formed with grooves extending in the Y direction, and the discharge vessel 13B is fitted in the grooves of the electrodes 14B and 15B.

The first electrode 14B and the second electrode 15B are electrically connected to a high-frequency power source 16a via power supply lines 16b, respectively. By applying a high-frequency AC voltage between the first electrode 14B and the second electrode 15B, excited dimers are generated in the internal space of the discharge vessel 13B, and the excimer light is emitted from the light extraction surface of the excimer lamp 12B ( +X direction).
Here, the electrodes 14B and 15B may be made of a metal material that reflects the light emitted from the excimer lamp 12B. In this case, the light emitted from the discharge vessel 13B in the -X direction can be reflected to travel in the +X direction. The electrodes 14B and 15B can be made of, for example, aluminum (Al) or stainless steel.

Since the excimer lamp performs high-frequency lighting by applying high-frequency power as described above, high-frequency noise is generated. However, by forming the housing 11 containing the excimer lamp from a conductive metal as described above, it is possible to suppress transmission of high-frequency noise from the excimer lamp to the outside of the housing 11 . As a result, the control command to another control system installed in the vicinity of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 can be prevented from being disturbed by the high-frequency noise, and the control command can be prevented from malfunctioning. can.

As described above, in the inactivation device 100 of the present embodiment, the excimer lamp, which is the ultraviolet light source, is a KrCl excimer lamp that emits ultraviolet rays having a peak at a wavelength of 222 nm, or a KrCl excimer lamp that emits ultraviolet rays having a peak at a wavelength of 207 nm. A KrBr excimer lamp is preferably used.
Ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 222 nm emitted from KrCl excimer lamps and ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 207 nm emitted from KrBr excimer lamps are both safe for humans and animals, and can sterilize microorganisms and inactivate viruses. Light. Therefore, even if a person or an animal exists in the sterilization/inactivation area in the space, the sterilization/inactivation work can be performed by the ultraviolet irradiation.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the case of using an excimer lamp as an ultraviolet light source has been described, but an LED can also be used as an ultraviolet light source.
FIG. 15 shows an example of an ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 using an LED 19 as an ultraviolet light source. In FIG. 15, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 has a plurality of LEDs 19 .

As described above, the wavelength range of ultraviolet rays used for decontamination (sterilization) is 200 to 320 nm, and a particularly effective wavelength is around 260 nm where nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) absorb strongly.
Therefore, the LED 19 as the ultraviolet light source mounted on the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 also employs one that emits ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 200 to 320 nm. Specifically, for example, an aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN)-based LED, an aluminum nitride (AlN)-based LED, or the like can be employed. AlGaN-based LEDs emit light in the deep ultraviolet region (deep UV: DUV) in the wavelength range of 200 to 350 nm by changing the composition of aluminum (Al). AlN-based LEDs emit ultraviolet rays with a peak wavelength of 210 nm.

Here, for the AlGaN-based LED, it is preferable to adjust the Al composition so that the central wavelength is within the range of 200 to 237 nm. As described above, ultraviolet rays in this wavelength range are safe for humans and animals, and can appropriately sterilize microorganisms and inactivate viruses. For example, by adjusting the composition of Al, it is possible to produce an AlGaN-based LED emitting ultraviolet rays with a central wavelength of 222 nm.

A magnesium zinc oxide (MgZnO) LED can also be employed as the LED. MgZnO-based LEDs emit light in the deep UV region (DUV) in the wavelength range of 190 to 380 nm by changing the composition of magnesium (Mg).

Here, as for the MgZnO-based LED, it is preferable to adjust the composition of Mg so that the center wavelength is within the range of 200 to 237 nm.
As described above, ultraviolet rays in this wavelength range are safe for humans and animals, and can appropriately sterilize microorganisms and inactivate viruses. For example, by adjusting the composition of Mg, it is possible to obtain an MgZnO-based LED emitting ultraviolet rays with a central wavelength of 222 nm.

Here, an LED that emits ultraviolet rays (especially ultraviolet rays in the deep ultraviolet region) as described above has a low luminous efficiency of several percent or less and generates a large amount of heat. Further, when the heat generated by the LED increases, the intensity of the light emitted from the LED decreases, and the wavelength of the emitted light also shifts. Therefore, in order to suppress the heat rise of the LEDs, it is preferable to install the LEDs 19 on a cooling member (for example, heat radiating fins for dissipating heat) 20 as shown in FIG. 15 .
At this time, as shown in FIG. 15 , a part of the cooling member 20 may protrude from the housing 11 of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 10 . In this case, part of the cooling member 20 is exposed to outside air, and the heat dissipation of the cooling member 20 progresses efficiently.

The AlGaN-based LED and the MgZnO-based LED, which emit ultraviolet rays with a central wavelength of 222 nm, emit ultraviolet rays in a wavelength range that spreads to some extent from the central wavelength of 222 nm, and the light emitted from the LEDs contains a small amount of human energy. and UV wavelengths that are unsafe for animals. Therefore, as in the case where the ultraviolet light source is an excimer lamp, it is preferable to use a dielectric multilayer filter (optical filter) that cuts light in the UV-C wavelength range having wavelengths other than the wavelength range of 200 to 237 nm.
The optical filter more preferably cuts light in the UV-C wavelength range having a wavelength other than 200 to 235 nm, and more preferably cuts light in the UV-C wavelength range having a wavelength other than 200 to 230 nm. may be cut. This is the same even when the light source is an excimer lamp.

However, the above-mentioned AlN-LED emitting ultraviolet rays with a center wavelength of 210 nm does not require the above-mentioned optical filter.
Also, whether the ultraviolet light source is an excimer lamp or an LED, depending on the illuminance on the light emitting surface of the ultraviolet light source, the distance from the ultraviolet light source to the surface to be irradiated with ultraviolet rays, etc. and animal-unsafe wavelengths of UV light may fall below the permissible level. Therefore, in such a case, it is not necessary to provide the optical filter.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case of using ultraviolet rays in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm as light in the wavelength range for inactivating microorganisms and/or viruses has been described, but ultraviolet rays outside the wavelength range may also be used. good. Also, for example, visible light (blue light) having a wavelength of 405 nm can be used. In this case, the inactivation device (ultraviolet irradiation device) in the above embodiment is a light irradiation device provided with a light source that emits light with a center wavelength of 405 nm.

According to the present invention, it is possible to irradiate the surface of the article with ultraviolet light when a moving object enters within the range of the first distance from the article to be irradiated with light. Therefore, even if a moving object containing harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches and contacts the article at random timing, the harmful microorganisms or viruses adhering to the surface of the article can be quickly inactivated, and then the article is contacted. It is possible to suppress infection to people who do.
In particular, by using ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 200 to 240 nm, it is possible to provide the original sterilization and virus inactivation capabilities of ultraviolet rays without causing erythema or keratitis in the skin or eyes of humans or animals. In particular, unlike conventional UV light sources, it can be used in manned environments. By installing it in manned indoor and outdoor environments, it is possible to irradiate the entire environment, suppressing viruses in the air and on the surfaces of members installed in the environment. • Can provide disinfection.
This corresponds to Goal 3 of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages", and also to Target 3.3. It will make a significant contribution to “by 2030, end epidemics such as AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases, and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable diseases”.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Ultraviolet irradiation unit, 11... Case, 12... Excimer lamp, 13... Discharge container, 14... First electrode, 15... Second electrode, 16... Power supply part, 17... Control part, 18... Support part, 19... LED, 20... Cooling member, 100... Inactivation device, 110... Ultraviolet irradiation unit, 120... Control unit, 131... First entry detection unit, 132... Second entry detection unit, 133... Proximity sensor (child detection unit ), 134a to 134c... proximity sensor (child detection unit), 200... display shelf, 210... article, 300... person, 1000... deactivation system

In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the inactivation method according to the present invention emits light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of articles placed in a showcase. an inactivation method for inactivating microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface, comprising: an entry detection step of detecting entry of a moving object into a detection area within a first distance range from the article; From the time the moving body enters the detection area, irradiation of the light to the article arranged in the irradiation area within a range of a second distance from the article, which is smaller than the first distance, is started. and an irradiation step.

Accordingly, when a moving object enters within the range of the first distance from an article to be irradiated with light, the surface of the article can be irradiated with light. Therefore, even if a moving object containing harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches and contacts the article at random timing, the harmful microorganisms or viruses adhering to the surface of the article can be quickly inactivated, and then the article is contacted. It is possible to suppress infection to people who do.
In addition, since the light is applied to the articles arranged in the showcase, it is possible to appropriately apply the light to the articles that can be freely seen and touched by unspecified persons.

Furthermore , in the above-described deactivation method, in the irradiation step, the article placed in an open showcase may be irradiated with the light. In this case, since light that has little adverse effect on the cells of humans and animals is irradiated onto the article, the light irradiated onto the article is reflected and scattered by the article, etc. Even if it is possible to irradiate the article, it is possible to positively irradiate the article with light while ensuring the safety of people and animals.

In addition, one aspect of the inactivation system according to the present invention is to radiate light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of an article placed in a showcase, and an inactivation system for inactivating microorganisms and/or viruses, comprising a light irradiation unit including a light source that emits light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses; and controlling irradiation of the light by the light source. and a sensor unit for detecting a moving object, wherein the control unit detects a moving object within a range of a first distance from the article based on a detection signal from the sensor unit. an entry detection unit for detecting that a moving body has entered the detection area; and controlling the light source to detect the entry of the moving body into the detection area by the entry detection unit. Begin irradiating said light on said article located in an irradiation area within a second distance from said article, which is less than the distance.

Accordingly, when a moving object enters within the range of the first distance from an article to be irradiated with light, the surface of the article can be irradiated with light. Therefore, even if a moving object containing harmful microorganisms or viruses approaches and contacts the article at random timing, the harmful microorganisms or viruses adhering to the surface of the article can be quickly inactivated, and then the article is contacted. It is possible to suppress infection to people who do.
In addition, since the light is applied to the articles arranged in the showcase, it is possible to appropriately apply the light to the articles that can be freely seen and touched by unspecified persons.

Further , in the inactivation system described above, the article may be placed in an open showcase. In this case, since light that has little adverse effect on the cells of humans and animals is irradiated onto the article, the light irradiated onto the article is reflected and scattered by the article, etc. Even if it is possible to irradiate the article, it is possible to positively irradiate the article with light while ensuring the safety of people and animals.

Claims (28)

An inactivation method for inactivating microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface of an article by radiating light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of the article,
an entry detection step of detecting that a moving object has entered a detection area within a range of a first distance from the article;
From the time the moving body enters the detection area, irradiation of the light to the article arranged in the irradiation area within a range of a second distance from the article, which is smaller than the first distance, is started. and an irradiation step. 2. The deactivation method according to claim 1, wherein the moving body is a person or an animal that passes through the detection area and approaches the article placed in the irradiation area. 3. The deactivation method according to claim 1, wherein the light is ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 nm to 240 nm. a leaving detection step of detecting that the moving body has left the detection area;
4. The deactivation method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an irradiation termination step of terminating the irradiation of the light when the moving body has left the detection area. . In the irradiation termination step,
When the irradiation amount of the light to the article after the moving body leaves the detection area reaches the irradiation amount necessary for inactivating the microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface of the article, the 5. The inactivation method according to claim 4, wherein the light irradiation is terminated. a second entry detection step of detecting that the moving body has entered the irradiation area;
While the moving body is entering the irradiation area, the unit irradiation amount of the light is reduced compared to normal irradiation in which the moving body enters the detection area but does not enter the irradiation area, or 6. The inactivation method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising an irradiation reduction step of stopping irradiation of the light. In the irradiation reduction step,
7. The inactivation method according to claim 6, wherein the illuminance of said light is made lower than the illuminance of said normal irradiation. In the irradiation reduction step,
alternately repeating the light-on operation and light-off operation of the light;
7. The lighting duty ratio according to claim 6, wherein the lighting duty ratio, which is a ratio of the lighting time to the sum of the light lighting time and the light extinguishing time, is set lower than the lighting duty ratio during normal irradiation. Inactivation method. further comprising a height detection step of detecting the height of the moving object;
In the irradiation reduction step,
7. The deactivation method according to claim 6, wherein the irradiation of the light is stopped when the height of the moving object entering the irradiation area is equal to or less than a specified value. The light is ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm,
10. The deactivation method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein in the irradiation step, the article placed in a showcase is irradiated with the light. 11. The deactivation method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in the irradiation step, the article placed in an open showcase is irradiated with the light. An inactivation system for inactivating microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface of an article by radiating light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses to the surface of the article,
A light irradiation device comprising: a light irradiation unit comprising a light source that emits light in a wavelength range that inactivates microorganisms and/or viruses; and a controller that controls irradiation of the light by the light source;
and a sensor unit that detects a moving object,
The control unit
an entry detection unit that detects that a moving object has entered a detection area within a first distance range from the article based on a detection signal from the sensor unit;
Controlling the light source to emit light within a range of a second distance from the article, which is smaller than the first distance, from the time when the entry detection unit detects that the moving body has entered the detection area. A deactivation system, characterized in that it initiates irradiation of said light onto said article located in an area. 13. The deactivation system according to claim 12, wherein the moving object is a person or animal passing through the detection area and approaching the article placed in the illumination area. A deactivation system according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that said light is ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm. The control unit
further comprising a leaving detection unit that detects that the moving body has left the detection area based on a detection signal from the sensor unit;
15. The inactivation according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the irradiation of the light is terminated when the exit detection unit detects that the moving body has exited the detection area. system. The control unit
The irradiation amount of the light to the article from the time when the exit detection unit detects that the moving body has left the detection area is the amount necessary for inactivating the microorganisms and/or viruses present on the surface of the article. 16. The inactivation system according to claim 15, wherein the light irradiation is terminated when the irradiation amount is reached. The control unit
further comprising a second entry detection unit that detects that the moving object has entered the irradiation area based on a detection signal from the sensor unit;
While the second entrance detection unit is detecting that the moving body has entered the irradiation area, the unit irradiation amount of the light is applied to the moving body entering the detection area and entering the irradiation area. 17. The inactivation system according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the light is reduced as compared with normal irradiation without light, or the light irradiation is stopped. The control unit
18. The deactivation system according to claim 17, wherein the illuminance of the light is made lower than the illuminance of the normal irradiation, thereby reducing the unit irradiation amount of the light compared to that during normal irradiation. The control unit
The lighting duty ratio, which is the ratio of the lighting time to the total sum of the lighting time and the light-extinguishing time in intermittent lighting in which the lighting operation and the light-extinguishing operation are alternately repeated, 18. The deactivation system according to claim 17, wherein the unit irradiation amount of the light is reduced compared to normal irradiation by making it lower than the lighting duty ratio. The control unit
When it is determined that the height of the moving object entering the irradiation area is equal to or less than a specified value based on the detection signal from the sensor unit, the light is emitted at the time when the moving object enters the irradiation area. 18. The inactivation system of claim 17, wherein the inactivation system stops the 21. An inactivation system according to any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the articles are arranged in a showcase. The light is ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 240 nm,
22. An inactivation system according to any one of claims 12 to 21, wherein the articles are placed in an open showcase. The light irradiation unit includes a housing containing the light source therein and having a light emission window for emitting at least part of the light emitted from the light source,
23. The optical filter according to any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein the light exit window is provided with an optical filter that blocks transmission of UV-C waves with wavelengths longer than 237 nm. activation system. 24. The deactivation system of any one of claims 12-23, wherein the light source is one of an excimer lamp and an LED. 25. The deactivation system of any one of claims 12-24, wherein the light source emits ultraviolet light with a central wavelength of 222 nm. The light source is an LED,
26. The LED according to any one of claims 12 to 25, wherein the LED is an aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) based LED, an aluminum nitride (AlN) based LED or a magnesium zinc oxide (MgZnO) based LED. The inactivation system described. The light source is an LED,
27. The deactivation system according to any one of claims 12 to 26, wherein said light irradiation unit has a cooling member for cooling said LED. The light source is an excimer lamp,
26. The deactivation system according to any one of claims 12 to 25, wherein the light irradiation unit houses the excimer lamp and has a housing made of conductive metal.

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