RU2772280C2 - Improving safety when using ultraviolet radiation by tracking changes in output of ultraviolet radiation - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: measuring equipment.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions can be used to combat biological fouling. System (200) for combating biological fouling contains: waveguide element (1210) containing radiation output window (230); optical sensor (310) capable of detecting intensity (I) of internal reflection of internal reflected radiation (221); as well as control system (300) functionally connected to the optical sensor. Waveguide element (1210) is made with the possibility of reception of radiation (221), which at least contains ultraviolet radiation, and emission of at least part of it to the outside of waveguide element (1210) through radiation output window (230), as well as with the possibility of internal reflection of part of radiation (221) on radiation output window (230). Control system (300) is made with the possibility of reduction in the intensity of radiation (221) depending on the achievement of a given first threshold value of reduction in intensity (I) of internal reflection over time. The group of inventions also relates to various objects containing the specified system, a method for controlling the output of radiation from a waveguide element and the use of the specified system for combating biofouling.

EFFECT: safety and efficiency of preventing or reducing biological fouling on surfaces are improved.

15 cl, 6 dwg

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY TO WHICH THE INVENTION RELATES

The present invention relates to a system (for combating biological fouling). The present invention also relates to an object that includes such a system (to combat biological fouling). The present invention also provides a method for controlling the output of ultraviolet radiation from a waveguide (such a (anti-fouling) system). In addition, the present invention relates to a method for providing such a waveguide or system (to combat biofouling) for an object.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Methods for combating biofouling are known in the art. WO 2016192942 A1 (Koninklijke Philips N.B.), for example, describes an object that is at least partially submerged in water during use, the object further comprising an anti-fouling system comprising an ultraviolet emitting element for applying ultraviolet radiation wherein the ultraviolet emitting element in particular comprises one or more light sources, in particular one or more solid state light sources, and is configured to irradiate said ultraviolet radiation (during the irradiation step) to one or more of (i) (specified) part of said outer surface; and (ii) water adjacent to said part of said outer surface, the object being specifically selected from the group consisting of a ship and an infrastructure object.

In particular, the antifouling facility or system comprises a control system. Therefore, the object contains such a control system, which can optionally be built into the system for combating biofouling or in another part of the object.

In a specific embodiment, the control system is particularly configured to control said ultraviolet radiation depending on input information containing information about one or more of (i) the location of the object, (ii) the movement of the object, (iii) the distance (d) from (specified part) of the object to the second object and (iv) the position of the part of the outer surface relative to the water. Therefore, in particular, the anti-fouling system is configured to control said ultraviolet radiation depending on input information containing information about the risk of human exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

WO 2016/001227 describes an anti-fouling lighting system for preventing or reducing biofouling on an object's fouling surface by delivering anti-fouling light through an optical medium to said anti-fouling surface, the anti-fouling lighting system comprising: (a) a module comprising (i) a light source configured to generate anti-fouling light, and (ii) said optical medium configured to receive at least a portion of the anti-fouling light, the optical medium comprising an emission surface configured with the ability to provide at least a portion of said anti-fouling light; and (b) a control system configured to control the light intensity for anti-fouling in response to one or more of (i) a feedback signal associated with the risk of biofouling, and (ii) a timer for time-based change in light intensity for anti-fouling.

Document DE 102008063887 describes a window or door having fittings with a manual control element, such as a doorknob, and ultraviolet radiation sources intended for germicidal ultraviolet irradiation of the element. The element has a material that transmits ultraviolet radiation, and sources of ultraviolet radiation are located in the element and are located on the canvas, for example, on the door leaf. The sources of ultraviolet radiation are provided so that one of the sources of ultraviolet radiation irradiates the door handle in one direction, and the other source of ultraviolet radiation irradiates the door handle in the opposite direction.

Document US 2014/131595 describes the design and use of these devices for transmitting ultraviolet light over a wide area and over a long distance to inactivate microbes and non-microbial sources. The device is activated by a variable or dynamic logic process that controls device activation such that activation occurs automatically and only when there is either a predetermined target or no action or activity within the effective range of the device. The device comprises at least one ultraviolet light source emitting ultraviolet light in the range from about 10 to about 400 nanometers, and a lens made from a material that transmits ultraviolet light. At least one ultraviolet light source is built into the lens. The lens may be functional or decorative and does not filter or significantly refract ultraviolet light emitted by the at least one ultraviolet light source.

US 2011/291995 describes a sterilization device that includes a light guide element and an ultraviolet (UV) light source. The light guide element has a surface. The ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light rays so that the ultraviolet light rays are guided into the guide member by total internal reflection. When an object contacts or is close to the surface, the evanescent wave from the ultraviolet light rays irradiates the object.

Document WO 2005/102401 describes a sterilization device for sterilizing a fluid with ultraviolet radiation. The sterilization device has a modular design with at least one flange, an inner and an outer tube, and contains at least one ultraviolet lamp for emitting ultraviolet radiation. A lamp tag affixed to or embedded in at least one UV lamp contains information associated with the UV lamp. The lamp tag is interconnected with the lamp detection unit and/or the control unit and may contain sensors to control the sterilization process.

Document WO 2015/199602 describes a device that implements a panel fouling detection method based on FTIR. The device generates projection signals representing detection lines that propagate along a plurality of propagation paths due to total internal reflection (TIR) within a transmissive panel such that contamination on the surface of the panel causes at least one of the projection signals to be attenuated (impaired). The device generates a transmission value for each detection line in the transmission panel and determines the presence of contamination on the surface of the panel by comparing the transmission values in accordance with at least one of the presented comparison methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Biofouling or biofouling (also referred to herein as "fouling" or "biofouling") is the growth of microorganisms, plants, algae and/or animals on surfaces. The diversity of organisms involved in biofouling is very wide and goes far beyond the attachment of barnacles and seaweed. According to some estimates, more than 1700 species, including more than 4000 organisms, are involved in biological fouling. Biofouling is classified into microfouling, which includes biofilm formation and bacterial adhesion, and macrofouling, which involves the attachment of large organisms. Due to the clear chemical and biological features that determine the impossibility of settling organisms, organisms are also classified as hard or soft. Calcium (solid) organisms involved in biofouling include barnacles, bryozoans, mollusks, polychaetes and other tube worms, and mussels. Examples of non-calcium (soft) organisms involved in biofouling are algae, hydroid polyps, algae, and biofilm slime. Together, these organisms form a set of organisms involved in biological fouling. As used herein, the expression "fouling" in embodiments may also refer to bacteria.

в день, эффективный способ борьбы с биологическим обрастанием может обеспечить существенную экономию.In some circumstances, biofouling poses serious problems. Equipment stops working, water inlets become clogged, and ship hulls experience increased resistance. Therefore, the topic of anti-fouling, i.e. the process of removing or preventing the occurrence of fouling is widely known. In industrial processes, biodispersants can be used to control biofouling. In less controlled environments, organisms are destroyed or removed from coatings through the use of biocides, heat treatment, or energy pulses. Non-toxic mechanical methods that prevent organisms from anchoring include choosing a material or coating with a slippery surface, or creating nanoscale surface topologies like shark and dolphin skin that do not provide anchoring sites. Biofouling on the hull of ships leads to a serious increase in drag and therefore to an increase in fuel consumption. It is estimated that biofouling can increase fuel consumption by up to 40%. Since large oil tankers or container ships can consume up to

per day, an effective way to combat biofouling can provide significant savings.

Surprisingly, it has been found that ultraviolet radiation can be effectively used to substantially prevent biological growth on surfaces that are in contact with sea water or water in lakes, rivers, canals, etc. This presents an approach based on optical methods, in particular the use of ultraviolet light or radiation (UV). It has been established that under the influence of sufficient ultraviolet light, most microorganisms die, become inactive or lose their ability to reproduce. This effect is mainly determined by the total dose of ultraviolet light. The usual dose to kill 90% of certain microorganisms is 10 mW/h/m ² .

UV LEDs or UV light sources can operate with limited electrical-to-optical conversion efficiency and a limited lifetime. This may limit the use of such light sources.

However, ultraviolet radiation can also be used for applications other than water (eg marine) fouling. UV radiation can also be used to clean objects or to keep objects clean of bacteria, etc.

The expression "water" and similar expressions can refer to both fresh water and salt water (and of course also brackish water).

In all such examples, it may be necessary to take specific measures when higher organisms, including humans, can receive such ultraviolet radiation, in particular when physical contact with radiation-emitting surfaces is possible.

Therefore, an aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative system or method for preventing or reducing biofouling, which preferably further at least partially eliminates one or more of the disadvantages described above. The object of the present invention may be to overcome or eliminate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

Because the system can be used to neutralize bacteria and/or other microorganisms, or to prevent bacteria and/or microorganisms from attaching, the biofouling control system may also be referred to generically as a "system" and in specific embodiments as a "biological microfouling control system". ” or “hygienic system”, etc. In this document, the system may be further referred to as "antifouling system" or "system".

This paper proposes a new approach based on the use of optical means. Among other things, the new approach can be based on the following aspects:

Light is pulled out of the surface if "something" touches the surface. This conclusion means that less light will remain inside the fiber. It can be tracked.

Fouling will cause light output in the same way as higher organisms and objects; for example, a human hand touching a surface;

Fouling will gradually cover the surface; whereas a hand touching a surface causes a very abrupt, instantaneous change in output.

Therefore, in particular, the present document proposes to monitor over time the total amount of light that remains inside the light guide, using an integrated ultraviolet sensor. If the change in the amount of output light is slow (the first derivative of the signal is small), this means that fouling is occurring over the entire surface at a gradual pace. However, if a large step is observed in this signal (large first derivative), this means that a large object has touched the surface. Therefore, it cannot be fouling, and thus it must be assumed that something else, such as a person, has touched the surface. Since this involves the output of additional light, and at the same time it assumes that a person is nearby, a decision must be made to turn off the light; at least temporarily.

In one aspect, the present invention provides an anti-fouling system ("system" or "anti-fouling system" or "lighting system") comprising: (i) a waveguide element (or "waveguide" or "light guide") comprising radiation exit window; (ii) an optical sensor ("sensor") configured to detect the intensity of (I) the internal reflection of the internal reflected radiation; (iii) a control system operatively associated with the optical sensor. In particular, the waveguide element is configured to receive radiation (from a light source), wherein the radiation at least comprises ultraviolet radiation, is configured to emit at least a portion of the radiation to the outside of the waveguide element through the radiation exit window, and is configured to internally reflect part of the radiation onto output window. In addition, the control system, in particular, can be configured to reduce the intensity of the radiation depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value of the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time. In this regard, the invention specifically provides an anti-fouling system comprising: (i) a waveguide element comprising a radiation exit window, the waveguide element (a) being configured to receive radiation (from a light source), the radiation along at least contains ultraviolet radiation, (b) is configured to emit at least part of the radiation to the outside of the waveguide element through the radiation exit window and (c) is configured to internally reflect part of the radiation at the radiation exit window; (ii) an optical sensor ("sensor") configured to detect the intensity of (I) the internal reflection of the internal reflected radiation; (iii) a control system operatively coupled to the optical sensor and configured to reduce the radiation intensity depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value for reducing the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time. In particular, such system(s) may further comprise a light source configured to provide radiation, the radiation at least comprising ultraviolet radiation.

In a further aspect, the invention provides an anti-fouling system comprising: (i) a light source configured to provide radiation, the radiation at least comprising ultraviolet radiation; (ii) a waveguide element comprising a radiation exit window, wherein the waveguide element is configured to receive at least a portion of the radiation and radiate at least a portion of the radiation to the outside of the waveguide element through the radiation exit window and is configured to internally reflect a portion of the radiation at the radiation exit window; (iii) an optical sensor configured to detect the intensity of (I) the internal reflection of the internal reflected radiation; and (iv) a control system operatively associated with the optical sensor. The control system may be configured to reduce the intensity of radiation (particularly ultraviolet radiation) when the intensity of internal reflection detected by the sensor decreases (suddenly). In this regard, in particular embodiments, the control system may be configured to reduce the intensity of radiation depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value for reducing the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time.

In another additional aspect, the invention also provides an object that, in embodiments, is at least partially submerged in water during use, the object comprising an anti-fouling system as defined herein, wherein the waveguide element is configured to be irradiated with radiation during the step of irradiating one or more of (i) a portion of the outer surface of said object and (ii) water in the vicinity of said portion of said outer surface. In embodiments, the object may be selected from the group consisting of a vessel and a POI. In still another additional aspect, the invention provides an object comprising an anti-fouling system as defined herein, wherein the object comprises an outer surface and the radiation exit window is configured as at least a portion of the outer surface, e.g., the object is selected from the group consisting of a doorknob, a faucet handle, a toilet handle, a railing, a kitchen cutting board and a medical device or (other) common household objects (which may be used in homes or offices, etc. in particular), etc. (for example, some other examples are described in this document). The invention is further discussed, in particular with reference to an anti-fouling system in combination with an object.

With the present anti-fouling system, anti-fouling can be carried out more safely. When a hand touches the waveguide surface, or when, for example, a dolphin touches the waveguide surface on the hull of a vessel, the system can reduce or turn off the UV light. In particular, the system can turn off or reduce ultraviolet radiation at the point where the higher organism touches the waveguide. Of course, ultraviolet radiation can be increased or turned on again when the higher organism no longer touches the waveguide. Due to contact with the waveguide, more radiation can be output, resulting in a decrease in internal reflection; this effect can be described in terms of frustrated (total) internal reflection. Therefore, the sensor detects (indirectly) the presence of the element on the window. Of course, fouling can lead to a gradual decrease in internal reflection (provided that biofouling is not removed by anti-fouling radiation). However, it will build up gradually, while contact with a higher organism will usually be sudden. If such contact is detected due to a sudden leakage of radiation, the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation may be reduced for safety reasons. Reducing the intensity may include turning off, local turning off, reducing the intensity (but not reducing to zero), or local reducing the intensity (but not local reducing to zero).

Instead of the expression "waveguide element", the expression "ultraviolet emitting element" can also be used. In particular, the waveguide element is configured to provide ultraviolet radiation during use of the system.

In particular, in embodiments, the control system may take into account a short delay before changing the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation, since the contact may be short-term, and the amount of internal reflection will quickly return to its previous level. In such a case, it may not be necessary to reduce the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation. In this regard, in the embodiments, the control system is configured to reduce the intensity of radiation only when a predetermined second threshold value of increasing the intensity (I) of internal reflection (over time) is not reached during a given control period. In particular, the control system will only change the intensity of the radiation when the reduced intensity of internal reflection is maintained for at least 0.1 second, such as at least 0.5 seconds, such as at least 1 second. Thus, it becomes obvious that this is not a casual contact. However, when the internal reflection suddenly decreases, but within a (short) predetermined period of time increases again (essentially to the original level), this may indicate an accidental contact, and the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation does not necessarily need to be reduced. However, for safety reasons, in embodiments, any (rapid) decrease in internal reflection may be (immediately) accompanied by a decrease in UV intensity.

For example, if the door handle contains a radiation-transmitting material, and in the case of ultraviolet radiation, the handle remains clean, when the (radiation-transmitting material) of the door handle is touched with a hand, the ultraviolet radiation can be turned off. After releasing the knob, the intensity can be increased again.

The control system may be configured such that when the substantially black element contacts the waveguide, the control system reduces the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation. This element may, for example, be in physical contact with 10 cm ^{2 of} the waveguide, eg a total of 4 cm ^{2 of} the waveguide, eg only 1 cm ^{2 of} the waveguide. This example shows that the control system can be configured to ensure the safe operation of the system. In this regard, in particular embodiments, the predetermined first threshold value is determined to be at least reached when the object comes into contact with the radiation exit window and covers 1 cm ² of the radiation exit window, and the part of the object that is in contact with the exit window radiation, absorbs at least 90% of the radiation that is output from the radiation exit window.

For example, in specific embodiments, the predetermined first threshold value for reducing the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time is a decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by the optical sensor by at least 1%, for example, at least 2%, for example , at least 5%, for example, at least 10%, for example, at least 15%, for example, at least 20%, for a (time period) maximum 0.05 seconds, for example, for a maximum of 0.1 seconds , in particular for a maximum of 0.5 seconds, for example, for a maximum of 1 second, for example, for a maximum of 2 seconds, for example, for a maximum of 5 seconds, for example, for a maximum of 10 seconds. Reducing the intensity of internal reflection by at least n%, for example, 10%, implies that relative to the initial level, internal reflection is reduced by n%, for example, 10%.

In this document, in particular, the expression "threshold value" refers to the level that must be reached (or passed) to obtain a result. Therefore, for example, when reaching (or passing) the first threshold decrease by at least 1% in a maximum of 0.1 seconds, for example, by way of example 1% in 0.1 seconds (exactly the first threshold) or 5% 0.05 seconds (greater than the first threshold (because the intensity is greater and the time is shorter)), the UV radiation will be reduced (by the control system). An example would be a reduction from 100 mW to 90 mW (see also the example below) or from 50 mW to 45 mW, in both cases there is a reduction of 10%.

When the threshold is reached or passed, the threshold is passed and the UV radiation can be reduced (when the first threshold is reached) or increased (when the second threshold is reached).

Therefore, in particular embodiments, a decrease ΔI of the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by an optical sensor, and the time period Δt over which such a decrease is to occur, may result in a first threshold value selected from the range 0.1%/s≤|ΔI /Δt|≤100%/s (where ΔI<0%). In this document, ΔI is defined as the final intensity minus the intensity at the beginning of the time period (both expressed as a percentage), with the intensity at the beginning of the time period being, by definition, 100%. As an example, consider a 100 mW signal at t=0 and a 90 mW signal at the end of the time period (after 0.5 seconds, for example). Thus, ΔI=-10%. Therefore, a reduction in the sensor signal (ie, reduced internal reflection) by definition results in a negative ΔI. An approximate decrease of 10 mW in 0.5 seconds, starting from 100 mW at 0 s, will provide |ΔI/Δt|=|-10%/0.5 s|=20%/s, which is in the range of the first threshold selection . Thus, this may be an appropriate choice for the first threshold.

If the threshold is greater than the specified range, the sensitivity may not be high enough.

Any reduction equal to or greater than such predetermined first threshold may result in a reduction in UV intensity. It should be noted that, in particular, Δt is a maximum of 2 seconds, such as a maximum of 1 second. Therefore, if the first threshold value is reached, for example, in more than 10 seconds, this may qualify as gradual fouling, or at least not as physical contact of a higher organism, such as a human, with the radiation exit window. Therefore, such a reduction in reflection would not qualify as sudden. Therefore, for example, if the first threshold level is defined as |ΔI/Δt|=50%/s, then upon reaching (or passing) this first threshold value, for example, as an example 50% in 1 second (exactly the first threshold value) or 80% for 0.5 seconds (greater than the first threshold), UV radiation will be reduced.

In this regard, in the embodiments, the specified first threshold value is selected from the range of 0.1%/s≤|ΔI/Δt|≤100%/s, where ΔI is the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection in percent (detected by the optical sensor), wherein ΔI<0%, Δt is the time period over which such a decrease in ΔI occurs, with Δt being at most one of the above time periods, for example at most 1 second. The intensity of internal reflection at t=0 is defined as 100%.

Using such data, a derivative can be determined. This can also be used to determine if there is gradual fouling or contact with another element, such as a higher organism.

As noted above, when the higher organism no longer touches the surface of the waveguide, such as releasing a doorknob, the intensity can be increased again. In this regard, in particular embodiments, the implementation of the control system is configured to increase the intensity of the radiation depending on the given second threshold increase in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time.

Alternatively or additionally, a predetermined minimum sensor signal (reduction) (example -1 mW) can also be defined as the minimum reduction in internal reflection intensity I.

In the case of the second threshold, essentially the same numbers as defined above can be used, with the understanding that touching the surface may lead to a decrease in the detected internal reflection, and moving the object away from the surface may (again) lead to an increase in the detected internal reflection.

Similarly, in particular embodiments, an increase ΔI in the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by an optical sensor, and the time period Δt over which such an increase is to occur, may result in a first threshold value selected from the range 0.1%/s≤| ΔI/Δt|≤400%/s (where ΔI>0%). As noted above, herein ΔI is defined as the end intensity minus the intensity at the start of the time period (both expressed as a percentage), with the intensity at the start of the time period being, by definition, 100%. As an example, consider a 100 mW signal at t=0 and a 110 mW signal at the end of the time period (after 0.5 seconds, for example). Thus, ΔI=+10%. Therefore, an increase in the sensor signal (ie, increased internal reflection) by definition results in a positive ΔI.

Any increase equal to or greater than such predetermined first threshold may result in an increase in ultraviolet radiation intensity. It should be noted that, in particular, Δt is a maximum of 2 seconds, such as a maximum of 1 second. Therefore, if the second threshold value is reached, for example, in more than 10 seconds, this may qualify as a gradual removal of fouling, or at least not as a removal of a higher organism, such as a human, from the exit window. Therefore, such an increase in reflection would not qualify as sudden. Therefore, for example, if the second threshold level is defined as |ΔI/Δt|=50%/s, then upon reaching (or passing) this first threshold value, for example, as an example 50% in 1 second (exactly the second threshold value) or 80% in 0.5 seconds (greater than the second threshold), the UV output can be (again) increased (eg to the previous UV intensity before the reduction). The intensity of internal reflection at t=0 is defined as 100% (if the intensity is not equal to 0).

Therefore, a predetermined minimum sensor signal (magnification) (by way of example 1 mW) can also be defined as the minimum increase in the internal reflection intensity I.

In this regard, in the embodiments, the specified second threshold value is selected from the range of 0.1%/s≤|ΔI/Δt|≤400%/s, where ΔI is the increase in the intensity (I) of internal reflection in percent (detected by the optical sensor), where ΔI>0%, Δt is the time period over which such a decrease in ΔI occurs, and Δt is at most one of the above time periods, for example, at most 1 second. It should be noted that the decrease cannot exceed 100%, while the increase can exceed 100%.

Therefore, in particular, the control system is configured to turn off the radiation depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value of the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time and turn on the radiation depending on the predetermined second threshold value of the increase in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time .

Therefore, in such an embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation of the (one) light source is turned off (and turned on) completely. However, it is also possible to reduce the intensity, for example to a level of 50% or less. In this regard, in embodiments, the control system is configured to reduce radiation depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value for reducing the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time to a first level of radiation intensity exceeding 0 W, and increasing radiation depending on a predetermined second the threshold value of the increase in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time to a given second level of radiation intensity.

When the system is a "simple" on/off system, the system turns on the light source to its predetermined fixed level. However, also the intensity of the light source can be adjustable. As further disclosed below, the intensity may, for example, be a function of the amount of fouling, which can thus be measured by an optical sensor. It can also be used and is desirable that after the intensity has been reduced, the light source is switched back to its previous level before the intensity was reduced. In this regard, in particular embodiments, the target second level of radiation intensity is the level of radiation intensity before the (most recent) decrease (or "reduction") to the first level of radiation intensity +/-20%, for example, +/-10%. Therefore, in embodiments, the predetermined second radiation intensity level is in the range of +/-10% of the radiation intensity level before decreasing to the first radiation intensity level.

Of course, it is also possible that during this time the surface of the waveguide has undergone further biofouling, or that the fouling has been removed, for example as a result of spontaneous removal. Therefore, in such cases, a return to the original value may be less desirable. Therefore, in embodiments, the anti-fouling system may be configured to emit at least a portion of the radiation to the outside of the waveguide element in accordance with a predetermined ratio between the radiation intensity and the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by the optical sensor. This allows the UV radiation to be adjusted depending on the (indirectly) detectable biofouling. Biofouling is (indirectly) detected by an optical sensor. Therefore, in such embodiments, the given second radiation intensity level is (simply) the radiation intensity level related (according to the given relationship between the radiation intensity and the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by the optical sensor) with the intensity (I) of internal reflection, detected by an optical sensor. To this end, the control system may include a memory storing a predetermined ratio(s) between the radiation intensity and the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by the optical sensor.

In specific applications where safety may be of the utmost importance, an increase in ultraviolet radiation can only be performed on human command. Therefore, in particular embodiments, the anti-fouling system may comprise a user interface, the control system further comprising a safety procedure such that after the radiation intensity has been reduced due to reaching a predetermined first internal reflection intensity threshold (I), the radiation intensity may be increased only by command through the user interface. Here, the first threshold may also refer to an intensity threshold.

It should be noted that in further embodiments, any reduction above a predetermined first threshold may result in a reduction in anti-fouling radiation. For example, such embodiments may be chosen for security reasons.

As noted above, the anti-fouling system comprises an ultraviolet emitting element. The term "ultraviolet emitting element" can also refer to a plurality of ultraviolet emitting elements. Therefore, the system may include a plurality of such elements. The system may include an electrical power source, but the system may also be operatively coupled to the electrical power source (during use). In embodiments, each ultraviolet emitting element may be operably associated with an energy source. This ensures the decentralization of power supply emitting ultraviolet radiation elements. The energy source is particularly used to power the light source(s).

In this document, the ultraviolet emitting element may also be referred to as "illumination module". The ultraviolet emitting element may be a plate module (herein also referred to as "optical medium"), with one or more corresponding elements at least partially or even completely embedded therein. Therefore, in embodiments, the ultraviolet emitting element comprises a light transmissive (solid) material such as silicone, etc. However, the ultraviolet emitting element may also include a casing enclosing at least partially or even completely one or more respective elements. One or more respective elements at least comprise a light source which is configured to provide light from the light source, in particular ultraviolet radiation. The ultraviolet emitting element may have a flat or curved radiation exit window. The expression "ultraviolet emitting element" means that the element, in particular, is configured to provide ultraviolet radiation during use of the element.

The waveguide element can be made in the form of a plate, optionally, curvilinear. However, the waveguide element may also have other shapes. This may depend, for example, on the application. For example, when the object is a doorknob, a faucet handle, a toilet handle, a railing, a kitchen cutting board, or a medical device, the shape of the waveguide element may or should be different from a plate and may have one or more curved surfaces.

The ultraviolet emitting element comprises an ultraviolet radiation exit window. The ultraviolet radiation exit window is configured to transmit at least a portion of the ultraviolet radiation of the light source. At least part of the ultraviolet radiation exits through the radiation exit window to the outside of the ultraviolet radiation emitting element. Therefore, the exit window transmits ultraviolet radiation. Typically, a window will also let in visible light. As noted above, and as will be discussed further below, in embodiments, the element may be a radiation-transmitting plate. In such a case, the window may be the surface (or plane) of the element.

The expression "transmitting radiation" refers to the transmission of radiation, in particular ultraviolet radiation and, optionally, also visible radiation.

The ultraviolet radiation exit window comprises a back side of the window and a front side of the window. The expressions "rear" and "front" refer to the arrangement of elements or features with respect to the propagation of light from the light generating means (here in particular the light source), with respect to the first position within the light beam from the light generating means, the second position in the light beam, being closer to the light generating means is "rear", and the third position in the light beam, farther from the light generating means, is "forward". Therefore, the rear side of the window ("rear side"), in particular, is directed towards the inside of the element and can receive the light of the light source directly or after internal reflection. The front side of the window ("front side") can, in particular, be directed outward of the element. This side of the window may, for example, (temporarily) come into contact with water during the use of the system. It should be noted that in plate-like embodiments of the element, the rear side of the window and the front side of the window may be both sides of a (same) face (or plane).

The element in particular also includes an optical sensor. The sensor is at least partially enclosed by the element, but in embodiments may be completely embedded in it. Therefore, the optical sensor, like the light source, is provided on the rear side of the element's window. The optical sensor ("sensor") in the embodiments may be configured to detect radiation emitted from the front side of the window (into the element). In addition, the expression "sensor" can also refer to a plurality of sensors, two or more of which can optionally be configured to detect different properties.

The sensor may be configured to detect radiation in the element, the radiation coming from a light source.

In embodiments, the system may be based on the principle of reflection, in particular TIR (total internal reflection). The light source may be configured to provide ultraviolet radiation (and/or other types of radiation; see below) to the radiation exit window based on the principle of internal reflection. Therefore, in embodiments, the optical sensor is configured to detect ultraviolet radiation (and/or other type of radiation; see below) reflected by said ultraviolet exit window. When a biofouling develops on a radiation exit window, particularly on the front side of the window, more UV radiation (and/or other types of radiation; see below) can exit the element. Therefore, less UV radiation (and/or other types of radiation; see below) can reach the optical sensor. When less UV radiation (and/or other types of radiation; see below) is received by the sensor, the system may (if possible) increase the intensity of the UV radiation to combat biofouling. Therefore, in particular, the system for combating biofouling can be configured to increase the intensity of said ultraviolet radiation when the optical sensor detects a decrease in ultraviolet radiation (and/or other type of radiation; see below). (UV) radiation may be reduced as a result of "bad TIR" due to biofouling (on the front of the radiation exit window). Biofouling "extracts" light from the light exit window. Therefore, in embodiments, the (detectable) radiation comes from a light source.

In embodiments, the element may at least contain a light source to provide ultraviolet radiation. This ultraviolet radiation is used to combat biological fouling. Therefore, ultraviolet radiation is used as radiation for anti-fouling. This radiation can also be the basis for the sensor, since the sensor can be configured to detect one or more of reflected ultraviolet radiation, scattered ultraviolet radiation, and luminescence (from species adjacent to or attached to the radiation exit window).

Therefore, in LED embodiments, the same LED wavelength is used for tracking and anti-fouling. Therefore, in embodiments, the source of the sensor system may be a UV LED, which is also used for anti-fouling.

However, alternatively or additionally, a separate light source, also referred to herein as a second light source, configured to generate radiation from the second light source ("second radiation"), may be the basis for the sensor. In such embodiments, the sensor may be configured to detect one or more of reflected second radiation, scattered second radiation, and luminescence (from species adjacent to or attached to the radiation exit window) due to excitation by the second radiation.

Therefore, the source of the sensor system may be an ultraviolet LED (or laser), essentially not used for antifouling. The source of the sensor system can also be a visible LED (or laser). Alternatively or additionally, the source of the sensor system may be an infrared LED (or laser). Therefore, in the above embodiments, ultraviolet radiation and/or other type of radiation is mentioned.

In particular, the sensor is configured to detect the reflection of the radiation of the light source, in particular the reflection on the light exit window.

Thus, in this document, the expression "light" in the expression "light source" and similar expressions can also refer to ultraviolet radiation and/or infrared radiation (and, of course, to visible light). This will be clear from the context. Therefore, in embodiments, ultraviolet light sources may be used. In other embodiments, one or more ultraviolet light sources and one or more light sources may be used to provide one or more of visible and infrared radiation.

As noted above, the sensor is configured to provide an appropriate optical sensor signal. Therefore, the sensor signal is particularly related to the radiation that is detected by the sensor and for which the sensor is designed. For example, an increase in reflected (ultraviolet) radiation may, for example, refer to a larger sensor signal.

In particular, the anti-fouling system is further configured to provide said ultraviolet (anti-fouling) radiation depending on said optical sensor signal. Therefore, when the system determines the presence of biofouling or an increase (amount) of biofouling based on the sensor signal, light can be provided and/or increased to combat biofouling (system). Alternatively or additionally, depending on the sensor signal, the spectral distribution of light can also be changed to combat biofouling (see also below).

The control loop described herein may include or provide for a control system that may be built into the element, or which may be external to the element. In the latter embodiment, this involves a wired or wireless connection between the element and the control system. Therefore, in particular, the antifouling facility or system may further comprise a control system. Therefore, the object may contain such a control system. In embodiments, the anti-fouling system comprises a control system, but external to the object. Therefore, in embodiments, the anti-fouling system may further comprise a control system, optionally enclosed by a UV-emitting element. When the control system contains more than one element, one or more elements may be included in the object, and/or one or more elements may be external to the object.

In an embodiment, the control system comprises a plurality of control systems. For example, a ship may include a control system as the master control system, with each antifouling system containing a slave control system. Optionally, the control system can be made external to the object, i.e. away from the object. In specific embodiments, a master control system remote from the facility controls a slave control system included in the facility (eg, a system to combat biofouling). Therefore, for example, the (main) control system may be far away; or be not on the ship, but on the shore, for example, in the control room of a shipping company. Such a master control system may be configured to control systems for combating biofouling of a plurality of objects.

The optical sensor may be sensitive to one or more of ultraviolet radiation, visible radiation, and infrared radiation. Such sensitivity may refer to a subrange of wavelengths within one (or more) of them, for example, an optical sensor may generally only be sensitive to the wavelength range of 200-300 nm. The optical sensor may be configured to detect the radiation used.

Some additional embodiments are discussed in more detail below.

As noted above, ultraviolet light used for antifouling can also be used to detect the amount of biofouling at the exit window. Therefore, in embodiments, the anti-fouling system is further configured to control the intensity of said ultraviolet radiation depending on said optical sensor signal.

As noted above, not only can ultraviolet radiation be used as the basis for the sensor, alternatively or additionally, another type of radiation can be used. This radiation can be provided by the same light source that provides the ultraviolet radiation, or by a separate light source (second light source). Therefore, in embodiments (i) the light source is configured to provide ultraviolet radiation and one or more of visible and infrared radiation, and/or (ii) the ultraviolet radiation emitting element comprises a second light source configured to generate one or more of visible and infrared radiation, and the optical sensor is configured to detect one or more of visible and infrared radiation and provide said corresponding sensor signal. In particular, in embodiments, the anti-fouling system is further configured to control one or more of the spectral distribution and intensity of said ultraviolet radiation (and/or one or more of visible and infrared radiation) depending on the spectral distribution of the received radiation. The sensor can measure scattered and/or reflected visible and/or infrared radiation. As stated herein, a (physical) barrier may be provided between the sensor and the light source to prevent the light sensor from directly receiving a light source from that light source.

In this regard, in embodiments, the implementation of the optical sensor is configured to detect the specified ultraviolet radiation. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, the optical sensor is configured to detect one or more of visible and infrared radiation.

In particular, the system contains a plurality of ultraviolet light sources. In particular, they can be arranged in a substantially regular manner. Similarly, the system may include a plurality of sensors (which may be arranged in a substantially regular manner). In general, an element may include more lights than sensors, such as a plurality of lights but one sensor, although optionally the element may also include a plurality of sensors. Distances between light sources may be smaller than distances between sensors.

In particular, the system may include a plurality of subsets, each subset being a plurality of light sources and one or more sensors. Therefore, in embodiments, the anti-fouling system comprises a plurality of light sources, wherein adjacent light sources have mutual distances (d1) between light sources selected from the range of 0.5-200 mm, such as 2-100 mm, and the system for anti-fouling further comprises a plurality of optical sensors, wherein adjacent optical sensors have mutual distances (d2) between optical sensors selected from the range of at least 0.5 mm, for example, at least 2 mm, for example, at least 1 cm , for example, at least 4 cm, for example, in the range of 0.5-200 mm. In particular embodiments, the antifouling system comprises a plurality of subsets of light sources and optical sensors, each subset comprising one or more light sources and one or more optical sensors, each subset configured to provide said ultraviolet radiation from one or more light sources. in the subset depending on the optical sensor signal of one or more optical sensors in the subset. In additional embodiments, the antifouling system comprises a plurality of LEDs, wherein the LEDs are configured to generate said ultraviolet radiation, the LEDs comprise LED arrays, and the LED arrays of neighboring LEDs have mutual distances (d1) between light sources selected from the range of 0.5 -200 mm, and the anti-fouling system further comprises a plurality of optical sensors, wherein adjacent optical sensors have mutual distances (d2) between optical sensors selected from the range of at least 0.5 mm, for example, at least 2 mm, for example, at least 1 cm, for example, at least 4 cm, for example, in the range of 0.5-200 mm, and the system for combating biofouling contains a plurality of subsets of light sources and optical sensors, each subset contains one or more light sources and one or more optical sensors, and ka each subset is configured to provide said ultraviolet radiation from one or more light sources in the subset depending on an optical sensor signal of one or more optical sensors in the subset. In particular, d2>d1, for example, d2/d1>2.

In this regard, in particular embodiments, the implementation of the system may contain multiple emitting ultraviolet light sources. However, in other embodiments, the implementation of the system may contain one or more emitting ultraviolet light sources and one or more light sources that emit visible or infrared light. In particular embodiments, the latter may be used for internal reflection detection and/or for other purposes. However, in other particular embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of light sources, and one or more light sources is configured such that at least a portion of the light is internally reflected and can be detected by an optical sensor.

Therefore, in particular embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of light sources, wherein one or more light sources are configured to provide visible radiation and one or more other light sources are configured to provide ultraviolet radiation.

As already noted above, the system may also contain a plurality of light sources, with each light source mainly directed to a part of the radiation exit window. Thus, a large waveguide can be used. In such a case, a plurality of optical sensors can also be used, which allows targeted irradiation of the waveguide radiation exit window as well as targeted control of parts of the exit window, regardless of whether the higher organism touches the exit window or not. Therefore, in further specific embodiments, the anti-fouling system may comprise a plurality of light sources and a plurality of optical sensors configured as a plurality of subsets of one or more light sources and one or more optical sensors, with one or more light sources of each subset configured with the ability to emit radiation through the respective portions of the radiation output window, and the control system is configured to control one or more subsets independently of one or more other subsets.

As noted above, in a further aspect, the invention provides an object that is at least partially submerged in water during use, the object comprising an anti-fouling system as defined herein, wherein the ultraviolet emitting element is configured to be exposed to ultraviolet radiation during the time step of irradiating one or more of (i) a portion of the outer surface of said object and (ii) water adjacent to said portion of said outer surface. As noted above, the object, in particular, can be selected from the group consisting of a ship and a infrastructure object.

As used herein, the phrase "an object that, during use, is at least partially submerged in water" specifically refers to objects, such as ships and infrastructure, that are used in water. Therefore, during use, such an object will generally be in contact with water, such as a vessel in the sea, lake, canal, river or other body of water, etc. The expression "vessel" may, for example, refer to a boat or ship, etc., such as a sailing ship, tanker, cruise ship, yacht, ferry, submarine, etc. The expression "infrastructure" may in particular refer to water bodies that are generally located essentially immobile, such as a dam, a lock, a pontoon, a drilling rig, etc. The expression "infrastructure" can also refer to pipes (for example, to supply ocean water, for example, to a power plant) and other parts of (hydroelectric) power plants, such as cooling systems, turbines, etc. The expression "infrastructure" can also refer to a drilling rig. The expression "infrastructure" can also refer to a structure to use the energy of the tides, and/or to use the energy of waves, and/or to use the energy of ocean currents, etc.

The expression "outer surface" specifically refers to a surface that may be in physical contact with water. In the case of pipes, it may refer to one or more of the inner surface of the pipe and the outer surface of the pipe. Therefore, instead of the expression "outer surface", the expression "fouling surface" can also be used. In addition, in such embodiments, the expression "water level" can also refer to, for example, the fill level. In particular, the object is an object intended for aquatic (eg marine) use, i.e. for use at or near the sea or ocean. Such objects, during their use, are at least temporarily or substantially always at least partially in contact with water. The object may be at least partially submerged (below the water) during use, or may be substantially all the time submerged (below the water), such as in the case of a submarine. The invention can, for example, be applied to anti-fouling in water (eg offshore), to keep wet surfaces clean, offshore, underwater, on drilling platforms, etc.

Due to contact with water, biofouling can occur, associated with the above disadvantages. Biofouling occurs on the outer surface ("surface") of such an object. The surface of the (element) of the object to be protected may contain steel, but optionally may also contain another material, for example, selected from the group consisting of wood, polyester, composite material, aluminum, rubber, hypalon, PVC, fiberglass and etc. Therefore, instead of a steel case, the case may also be a PVC case or a polyester case, etc. Instead of steel, another iron material may also be used, such as (other) iron alloys.

In this document, the terms "fouling" or "biofouling" or "biofouling" are used interchangeably. Some examples of fouling are provided above. Biofouling can occur on any surface that is in or near water and temporarily exposed to water (or other electrically conductive aqueous fluid). Biofouling can occur on such a surface when the element is in or near water, eg (slightly) above the water level (eg, due to splashing water, eg, bow wave). Between the tropics, biofouling can occur in a matter of hours. Even at moderate temperatures, the first stages of fouling occur within a few hours; in the form of the first (molecular) level of sugars and bacteria.

The antifouling system comprises at least an ultraviolet emitting element. In addition, the anti-fouling system may include a control system (see also below), an electrical power source, and so on.

The term "antifouling system" can also refer to a plurality of such systems, optionally operably linked to one another, for example under the control of a single control system. Additionally, the anti-fouling system may comprise a plurality of such ultraviolet emitting elements. As used herein, the term "ultraviolet emitting element" can (thus) refer to a plurality of ultraviolet emitting elements. For example, in an embodiment, a plurality of ultraviolet emitting elements may be associated with the outer surface of the object, for example, with a housing, or may be included in such a surface (see also below), while, for example, the control system may be performed within the object, for example, in the control room or wheelhouse of a ship.

A surface or area on which fouling may occur is also referred to herein as a fouling surface. It can be, for example, the hull of a vessel and/or the radiation surface of the optical medium (see also below). To this end, the ultraviolet emitting element provides ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) which is used to prevent and/or remove bio-fouling. Ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light), in particular, at least contains ultraviolet radiation (also referred to as "ultraviolet light"). Therefore, the ultraviolet emitting element is particularly capable of providing ultraviolet radiation. In addition, the ultraviolet emitting element contains a light source. The term "light source" can also refer to multiple light sources, such as 2 to 200 (solid state) LED lights, although many more lights can also be used. Therefore, the expression "LED" can also refer to a plurality of LEDs. In particular, the ultraviolet emitting element may comprise a plurality of light sources. Therefore, as noted above, the ultraviolet emitting element contains one or more (solid-state) light sources. The LEDs may be organic LEDs or solid state LEDs (or a combination of such LEDs). In particular, the light source comprises solid state LEDs. Therefore, in particular, the light source comprises an ultraviolet LED configured to provide one or more of UV-A type light and UVC type light (see also below). UV-A light can be used to destroy cell walls, while UVC light can be used to destroy DNA. Therefore, the light source is particularly configured to provide ultraviolet radiation. In this document, the expression "light source" specifically refers to a solid state light source. The light source(s) may also include solid state laser(s).

In particular, the sensor is connected to a light source (or a plurality of light sources) with the ability to receive radiation. The expression "associated with the ability to receive radiation" means in particular that the light source and the sensor are connected to each other so that at least part of the radiation emitted by the light source can be received by the sensor through internal reflection (at the radiation exit window).

In particular, the light source or light sources are LEDs. Therefore, in embodiments, the anti-fouling system comprises a plurality of light sources, the light sources comprising LEDs. Alternatively or additionally, the light sources comprise solid state lasers.

Ultraviolet (UV) is the portion of electromagnetic light limited to the lower extreme of the visible wavelength and the X-ray range. The spectral range of ultraviolet light, by definition, is from about 100 to about 400 nm (1 nm=10 ^-9 m) and is invisible to the human eye. According to the CIE classification, the ultraviolet spectrum is divided into three ranges: UVA (long wavelength) from 315 to 400 nm; UVB (medium wave) from 280 to 315 nm; and UVC (shortwave) from 100 to 280 nm. In fact, many photobiologists often speak of skin reactions resulting from UV exposure as a weighted effect of wavelengths greater than and less than 320 nm, hence offering an alternative definition.

A strong bactericidal effect is provided by light in the shortwave UVC range. In addition, this type of light can also cause erythema (reddening of the skin) and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eye). For this reason, when using UV germicidal lamps, it is important to design systems to prevent leakage of UVC light and therefore eliminate these effects. In the case of submersible light sources, the absorption of ultraviolet light by water can be strong enough that leakage of UVC light is not a problem for people above the surface of the water. Therefore, in an embodiment, ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) comprises UVC type light. In yet another embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation comprises radiation selected from the wavelength range 100-300 nm, in particular 200-300 nm, eg 230-300 nm. Therefore, the ultraviolet radiation may in particular be selected from UVC type light and other ultraviolet radiation up to a wavelength of about 300 nm. Good results are achieved at wavelengths in the range of 100-300 nm, eg 200-300 nm.

As noted above, in embodiments, the ultraviolet emitting element may be configured to irradiate said ultraviolet radiation (during the irradiation step) to one or more of (i) said part of said outer surface and (ii) water adjacent to said part of said surface. outer surface. The expression "part" refers to a part of the outer surface of an object, such as a body or an airlock (door). However, the term "part" can also refer to substantially the entire outer surface, such as the outer surface of a housing or airlock. In particular, the outer surface may comprise a plurality of portions which may be irradiated with ultraviolet light from one or more light sources, or which may be irradiated with ultraviolet radiation from one or more ultraviolet emitting elements. Each ultraviolet emitting element may irradiate one or more parts. In addition, optionally, there may be parts that receive ultraviolet radiation from two or more ultraviolet emitting elements.

As a rule, in particular when it comes to water (eg, marine) objects, two main implementation options can be distinguished. One embodiment includes a portion of the outer surface irradiated with ultraviolet radiation in water between the light source and the ultraviolet emitting element (or in air while above water level), for example, in sea water, at least during the irradiation step. In such an embodiment, the part is specifically included in the "original" outer surface of the object. However, in yet another embodiment, the "original" outer surface may be extended by a module, in particular a relatively flat module that is attached to the "original" outer surface of an object (e.g., a ship's hull), whereby the module itself effectively forms the outer surface. For example, such a module may be associated with the hull of a ship, whereby the module forms the outer surface (at least part of it). In both embodiments, the UV emitting element specifically comprises an emitting exit surface (also see further below). However, in particular, in the latter embodiment, in which the ultraviolet emitting element may provide part of said outer surface, such a radiation exit window may provide a part (because the first part and the radiation exit window may substantially coincide; in particular, may be one surface).

Therefore, in an embodiment, the ultraviolet emitting element is attached to said outer surface. In another further specific embodiment, the radiation exit window of the antifouling system is formed as part of said outer surface. Therefore, in some embodiments, the implementation of the object may include a vessel containing a housing, and emitting ultraviolet radiation element is attached to the specified body. The term "radiation exit window" can also refer to a plurality of radiation exit windows (see also below).

In both general embodiments, the ultraviolet emitting element is configured to irradiate said ultraviolet radiation (during the irradiation step) to water adjacent to said portion of said outer surface. In embodiments in which the module itself actually forms the outer surface, the ultraviolet emitting element is at least configured to irradiate said ultraviolet radiation (during the irradiation step) to said portion of said outer surface since it is actually part of said outer surface, and, optionally also water adjacent to said portion of said outer surface. Thus, biological fouling can be prevented and/or reduced.

In an embodiment, a significant area of the surface to be protected that must be kept free of fouling, preferably the entire surface to be protected, such as the hull of a ship, may be coated with a layer that emits germicidal light ("anti-fouling light"), in particular ultraviolet light.

In yet another embodiment, ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) may be applied to the surface to be protected through a waveguide, such as a fiber.

Therefore, in an embodiment, the anti-fouling lighting system may comprise an optical medium, the optical medium comprising a waveguide, such as an optical fiber, configured to deliver said ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) to the anti-fouling surface. The surface of, for example, a waveguide from which ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) emerges is also referred to herein as the radiation surface. As a rule, this part of the waveguide can be at least temporarily immersed in water. Due to the release of ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) from the radiation surface, an element of an object which during use is at least temporarily exposed to a liquid (eg sea water) can be irradiated and therefore protected from fouling. However, the radiation surface itself can also be protected from fouling. This effect is exploited in some embodiments of an ultraviolet emitting element containing an optical medium, as described below.

Optical media embodiments are also described in WO 2014188347. The embodiments disclosed in WO 2014188347 are also incorporated herein by reference as they are combined with a control unit and/or water switch, as well as other embodiments described in WO 2014188347. this document.

As noted above, the invention can also be used for objects other than water (eg, marine) objects, such as (door) handles, etc.

As noted above, the ultraviolet emitting element may in particular comprise an ultraviolet radiation exit window. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the ultraviolet emitting element comprises an ultraviolet exit window, wherein the ultraviolet emitting element is particularly configured to provide said ultraviolet radiation after said ultraviolet exit window of said ultraviolet emitting element. Such an exit window for ultraviolet radiation may be an optical window through which radiation exits the ultraviolet emitting element. Alternatively or additionally, the UV exit window may be a waveguide surface. Therefore, ultraviolet radiation can be supplied in the ultraviolet emitting element to the waveguide and exit the element through (part of) the surface of the waveguide. As also noted above, in embodiments, the radiation exit window can optionally be made as part of the outer surface of the object. Another variant of the expression "output" can be the expression "output".

In particular, the (solid-state) light source at least switches between the first UV level and the second UV level, wherein the first UV level is greater than the second UV level (and the second UV level is less than the first UV level, or may be equal to zero). Therefore, in an embodiment, the light source may be turned off and may be turned on (during the emitting step). In addition, optionally, between these two steps, the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation can also be adjusted, for example, by stepwise or continuous control of the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, the light source is specifically controlled (and thus the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation is controlled).

In (aquatic (eg, marine)) embodiments, the anti-fouling system is particularly configured to deliver ultraviolet radiation to a portion of an object or water adjacent to that portion. This in particular implies that ultraviolet radiation is used during the irradiation step. Therefore, there may optionally also be periods during which no UV radiation is applied at all. This can (thus) be associated not only with, for example, the control system switching one or more ultraviolet emitting elements, but also, for example, with predetermined settings, such as day and night or water temperature, etc. For example, in an embodiment, ultraviolet radiation is applied in a pulsed manner.

Therefore, in a specific embodiment or aspect, the anti-fouling system is configured to prevent or reduce bio-fouling on the surface of an object that is at least temporarily exposed to water during use by providing anti-fouling light (i.e. . ultraviolet radiation) to the specified fouling surface or water adjacent to it. In particular, the anti-fouling system may be configured to deliver said anti-fouling light through an optical medium to said anti-fouling surface, the ultraviolet emitting element further comprising (ii) said optical medium configured to receive at least part of ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light), and the optical medium contains a radiation surface configured to provide at least a part of said ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light). In addition, specifically, the optical medium contains one or more of a waveguide and an optical fiber, and ultraviolet (anti-fouling light) specifically contains one or more of UVB-type light and UVC-type light. These waveguides and the optical medium are not discussed in detail in this document.

The optical medium may also be provided in the form of a (silicone) film for application to the surface to be protected, the film comprising at least one light source for generating anti-fouling light and a sheeted optical medium for distributing ultraviolet radiation in the film. In embodiments, the film has a thickness on the order of a few millimeters to several centimeters, such as 0.1-5 cm, such as 0.2-2 cm. In embodiments, the film is substantially unrestricted in any direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, to provide a substantially large film having dimensions on the order of several tens or hundreds of square meters. The film may be substantially sized in two orthogonal directions perpendicular to the film thickness direction to provide an antifouling tile; In another embodiment, the film is substantially limited in size in only one direction, perpendicular to the film thickness direction, to provide an elongated strip of antifouling film. Therefore, the optical medium as well as the ultraviolet emitting element can be provided in the form of a tile or a strip. The tile or strip may contain a (silicone) film.

In this regard, in particular embodiments, the implementation of the waveguide element may contain one or more of glass, silicone and light-transmitting polymer.

In an embodiment, the ultraviolet emitting element comprises a two-dimensional array of light sources for generating ultraviolet radiation, and the optical medium is configured to distribute at least a portion of the ultraviolet radiation from the two-dimensional array of light sources in the optical medium to provide a two-dimensional distribution of ultraviolet radiation emerging from the light emitting surface. lighting module. The two-dimensional grid of light sources may be in the form of a wire mesh structure, a close-packed structure, a row/column structure, or any other suitable regular or irregular structure. The physical distance between adjacent light sources in a grid may be fixed throughout the grid or may vary, for example, depending on the light output power required to provide an anti-fouling effect, or depending on the location of the ultraviolet emitting element on the surface/surface to be protected, which must remain clean (eg locations on a ship's hull). Advantages of providing a two-dimensional grid of light sources include that ultraviolet radiation can be generated in the vicinity of areas protected by ultraviolet irradiation and that this reduces loss in the optical medium or light guide and improves light distribution uniformity. Preferably, the ultraviolet radiation is generally evenly distributed over the radiation surface; this reduces or even prevents poorly illuminated areas where fouling may otherwise occur, and also reduces or prevents wasted energy by over-illuminating other areas with more light than needed to combat fouling. In an embodiment, the grid is included in the optical medium. In yet another embodiment, the mesh may be included in the (silicone) film.

In addition, in the embodiment, the optical medium can be located near (including, optionally, can be attached) to the protected surface and associated with the ability to receive ultraviolet light, and the optical medium has a thickness direction perpendicular to the protected surface, and two orthogonal directions of the optical medium , orthogonal to the thickness direction, parallel to the surface to be protected, wherein the optical medium is configured to provide an ultraviolet light propagation path such that the ultraviolet light propagates in the optical medium in at least one of two orthogonal directions orthogonal to the thickness direction, and such that, at locations along surfaces of the optical medium, corresponding parts of the ultraviolet light exit the optical medium.

In a further aspect, the invention also provides a method for combating (biological) fouling of (part of) the outer surface of an object. Such an object includes a waveguide element, which may be in the form of a plate, such as an operating table or a cutting board for a kitchen, and may also be in another form, such as a door handle, or a toilet handle to control the toilet (flush), or a handle crane, etc. The toilet seat may also include a waveguide member, etc. The invention can also be used to reduce biofouling on (parts of) operating room walls. In this regard, in additional aspects or embodiments, the invention also provides an object containing the system defined herein, and the object contains an external surface, and the radiation exit window is made in the form of at least part of the external surface, and the object is selected from the group containing table, operating table, washroom wall, operating room wall and kitchen wall.

Therefore, in embodiments, a table, operating table, washroom wall, operating room wall, or kitchen wall may comprise the waveguide element described herein.

The light source may be made external to such an object, and the radiation may be supplied to the waveguide element, for example, through an optical fiber. In other embodiments, the implementation of the light source is built into the waveguide element.

As used herein, the expression "object" may, in particular embodiments, also refer to a construct of (different) objects that, in particular, are operatively connected to one another.

In yet another additional aspect, the invention also provides a method for controlling the output of radiation from a waveguide element to the outside of the waveguide element, the radiation at least comprising ultraviolet radiation, the method comprising detecting an internal reflection intensity (I) of the internal reflected radiation inside the waveguide element and reducing the intensity of the radiation (of the light source providing radiation, at least containing ultraviolet radiation) depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value of the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time.

In particular embodiments, an object may be an object that is at least temporarily exposed to water during use, the method comprising: providing an anti-fouling system as defined herein to the object, generating ultraviolet radiation ( during use of the object), optionally, depending on one or more of (i) a feedback signal and (ii) a timer for (periodically) changing the intensity of ultraviolet radiation (anti-fouling light) and supply said ultraviolet radiation (during the step irradiation) to (part of) the outer surface. Such a feedback signal may be provided by a sensor. Thus, the method may further include the step of reducing the intensity of the radiation depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value of the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time, as well as further actions determined in relation to the system.

In yet another additional aspect, the invention also provides a method of providing an anti-fouling system for an object, the method comprising providing an anti-fouling system with a waveguide element for an object, as further defined in the appended claims. In particular, the object may be at least temporarily exposed to harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, during use of the object. Therefore, in embodiments, the implementation of the waveguide element can be attached to the object to provide an object containing the waveguide element.

In embodiments, the invention also provides a method for providing an anti-fouling system to an object that is at least temporarily exposed to water during use, the method comprising providing, for example, integrating into the object and/or attaching to an external surface , an anti-fouling system for an object, such as a ship, with a waveguide element configured to deliver said ultraviolet radiation to one or more portions of the outer surface of the object and water adjacent to said portion (during use), as further defined in the attached claims. In particular, the waveguide element is attached to the outer surface or may be provided as a (first) part of the outer surface.

The expressions "visible", "visible light" or "visible radiation" refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 380-780 nm.

In additional embodiments, levels of fouling on different areas of the antifouling surface can be determined and can be separately adjusted.

In additional embodiments, the tracking occurs in real time and the fouling signal from the sensor is used to control the UV radiation of the antifouling system.

Therefore, anti-fouling radiation specifically includes ultraviolet radiation. The radiation used for sensor detection (reflection, scattering, luminescence) may be one or more of ultraviolet, visible and infrared radiation, i.e., in particular, essentially any radiation in the range from about 200 to about 1500 nm.

In particular, any action described herein can be performed using an artificially created device. For example, the expression "detection" may refer to detection by a sensor, or the expression "detection", or the like. may refer to the definition by the processor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described solely by way of example with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which respective reference numerals designate respective parts, and in which:

Fig. 1a-1h schematically illustrate some general aspects;

Fig. 2a-2c schematically illustrate some embodiments and variations;

Fig. 3a-3b schematically illustrate some additional embodiments and variations;

Fig. 4a-4b schematically illustrate some additional embodiments and variations;

Fig. 5a-5b schematically illustrate some possible plots; and

Fig. 6a-6b schematically illustrate some additional aspects.

The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Fig. 1a schematically illustrates an embodiment of an anti-fouling system 200 that includes an ultraviolet emitting element 210. The ultraviolet emitting element 210 includes an ultraviolet exit window 230 . The ultraviolet emitting element 210 at least partially encloses a light source 220 configured to provide ultraviolet radiation 221. Three light sources 220 are illustrated here by way of example. Here, the ultraviolet emitting element 210 is in the form of a waveguide with elements built into it. Therefore, light sources 220 are built into the waveguide. The window 230 output of ultraviolet radiation is configured to transmit at least part of the ultraviolet radiation 221 of the source 220 of the light. The window 230 output of ultraviolet radiation contains the rear side 231 of the window, here directed to the source (sources) of light, and the front side 232 of the window. The ultraviolet emitting element 210 also at least partially encloses an optical sensor 310 configured to detect radiation 421 emitted from the front side 232 of the window. Here, the sensor 310 is also integrated into the waveguide. The sensor 310 is configured to provide a corresponding optical sensor signal corresponding to the radiation 421 emitted from the front side. Furthermore, the antifouling system 200 is further configured to provide said ultraviolet radiation 221 depending on said optical sensor signal. Radiation 421 may include one or more of light source emission 221 scattering (due to biofouling on the window front side 232), light source emission 221 reflection (on the window back side 231), and biofouling luminescence (on the window front side 232 ), denoted by the reference position 5.

In particular, the emission 421 includes reflection of the emission 221 of the light source (if all of the emission is not output).

Here, in the schematically illustrated embodiment, one type of light source is used to provide the anti-fouling radiation 221 and to the sensor control loop 310; however, this is not required. Reference numeral 305 refers to the electronics or control (see also below) for controlling the emission 221 of the light sources 220 in dependence on the optical sensor 310. Here, the control may refer to one or more of intensity control and spectral distribution control. The combination of sensor 310 and a light source that generates radiation that is used directly or indirectly, for example, through reflection, scattering, luminescence, is also referred to herein as a sensor system. The light source is also referred to as the sensor system source in this document.

The expression "control" specifically refers to determining the behavior or control of the operation of a light source, in particular one or more of an intensity and a spectral distribution, in particular at least an intensity.

It should be noted that the embodiment schematically illustrated in FIG. 1b, as well as other embodiments described herein and/or illustrated herein, include a radiation emitting element, in particular here an ultraviolet radiation emitting element 220, which encloses at least partially or even substantially completely the light source. and sensor.

Fig. 1b-1d schematically illustrate embodiments of an object 10 which, during use, is at least partially submerged in water 2, see water level 13. The object 10, such as a ship or a lock, see also below, further comprises an anti-fouling system 200 comprising an ultraviolet emitting element 210, in particular for delivering ultraviolet radiation 221 to a portion 111 of the outer surface 11 of the object 10, such as a hull or body parts. Shown here are two embodiments in which the antifouling system 200, or in particular the ultraviolet emitting element 210, is part of the outer surface and therefore actually forms part of the outer surface (FIG. 1a), or in which the ultraviolet emitting element element 210 is configured to irradiate the outer surface and does not necessarily form part of the outer surface, such as the hull of a ship (FIG. 1c). For example, object 10 is selected from the group consisting of vessel 1 and infrastructure object 15 (see also below).

The ultraviolet emitting element 210 comprises one or more light sources 220 and thus in particular can be configured to irradiate said ultraviolet radiation 221 in the step of irradiating one or more of (i) said portion 111 of said outer surface 11 and (ii ) of water adjacent to said portion 111 of said outer surface 11. In a first variation, in particular, the embodiment shown in FIG. 1c, and in the latter variation, in particular, both embodiments shown in FIGS. 1b-1c are applied. However, it should be noted that when the outer surface of the ultraviolet emitting member 210 is formed as the outer surface of the object 10, of course, the portion 111 is irradiated by the ultraviolet 21 by itself.

Therefore, the ultraviolet emitting element 210 comprises an ultraviolet exit window 230, and the ultraviolet emitting element 210 is configured to provide said ultraviolet radiation 221 after said ultraviolet exit window 230 of said ultraviolet emitting element 210.

In particular, the light source 220 is at least adjustable between a first UV level and a second UV level, wherein the first UV level is greater than the second UV level (and the second UV level is less than the first UV level (including , for example, zero level).

As noted above, the expression "vessel" indicated by reference 1 may refer, for example, to a ship or boat (reference 10a in Fig. 1d), etc., such as a sailing vessel, tanker, cruise ship, yacht, ferry, submarine (reference 10d in FIG. 1d), etc., as schematically shown in FIG. 1d. The expression "infrastructure" denoted by reference 15 may, in particular, refer to waterworks generally located essentially immobile, such as a dam/lock (reference numerals 10e/10f in Fig. 1d), a pontoon (reference numeral 10c in Fig. 1d), a drilling rig (reference numeral 10b in Fig. 1d), etc.

Fig. 1e schematically illustrates in more detail an embodiment of an antifouling system 200, here by way of example including an embedded control system 300 and an embedded sensor 310.

Fig. 1f schematically illustrates the outer surface 11 of the object 10, such as the wall of a ship or the wall of a piece of infrastructure, as an example with a plurality of ultraviolet emitting elements 210 (here associated with the hull 21 of the ship 1). Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of operably linked or independently operating antifouling systems 200 may be used.

Fig. 1f also schematically illustrates an embodiment in which the antifouling system 200 comprises a plurality of ultraviolet radiation emitting elements 210 (with a plurality of light sources), a plurality of radiation exit windows 230, and a plurality of said portions 111, the plurality of light sources 220 being configured to provide of the specified ultraviolet radiation 221 through the specified set of windows 23 of the radiation output to the specified set of parts 111, the specified set of parts 111 is made at different heights of the object 10, and the control system 300 is configured to individually control the light sources 220 depending on the specified input information. For example, in an embodiment, the control system 300 may be configured to individually control the light sources 220 depending on the position of the portions 111 of the outer surface 11 relative to the water.

Fig. 1g schematically illustrates an embodiment in which ship 1, as an embodiment of object 10, comprises a plurality of anti-fouling systems 200 and/or one or more such anti-fouling systems 200 comprising a plurality of ultraviolet emitting elements 210. Depending on the height of the particular antifouling system 200 and/or the height of the ultraviolet emitting elements 210, for example relative to the water (water level), appropriate ultraviolet emitting elements 210 may be included.

Fig. 1h illustrates a wire mesh embodiment in which light sources 210, such as UV LEDs, are arranged in a grid and connected in a series of parallel connections. The LEDs can be mounted in nodes using soldering, gluing or any other known electrical connection technology for connecting LEDs to wire meshes. One or more LEDs may be located in each node. Either direct current or alternating current actuation can be realized. If AC current is used, then a pair of LEDs in an anti-parallel configuration can be used. One skilled in the art will appreciate that each node may use more than one pair of LEDs in an anti-parallel configuration. The actual size of the wire mesh and the distance between the UV LEDs in the mesh can be adjusted by stretching the harmonic design. The wire mesh can be embedded in the optical medium. Particularly active preventive measures have been described above where the anti-fouling system 200 disables or disables specific ultraviolet emitting elements 210 or specific light sources 220 depending on water contact, sensor signal, and so on. However, alternatively or additionally, warning signals or messages can also be used to warn a person of danger.

Fig. 2a schematically illustrates a variation in which internal reflection (or total internal reflection TIR) is used as input to sensor 310, respectively. The internal reflection may decrease as the biofouling 5 increases. Here, as an example, the light source 220 is used, which is also used to generate ultraviolet radiation as anti-fouling light (in the sensor system); however, an alternative light source may also be used (see also Fig. 2c). Fig. 2a also includes, by way of example, a blocking element or physical barrier, denoted 217, which is configured to prevent the emission of the light source, denoted 221, from directly reaching the sensor 310.

As schematically illustrated in FIG. 2a, the waveguide element 1210 is configured to receive at least a portion of the radiation 221 and to radiate at least a portion of the radiation 221 to the outside of the waveguide element 1210 through the radiation exit window 230 . In addition, the waveguide element may be configured to internally reflect part of the radiation 221 on the window 230 of the radiation exit. This reflected radiation can be measured by sensor 310.

Fig. 2b schematically illustrates an embodiment using biofouling luminescence 5. The luminescence can be in the visible and/or infrared spectrum. The excitation can be implemented using the light source 220 or an alternative light source (see also Fig. 2c).

Here, as an example, a housing is schematically illustrated with a separate radiation exit window 230 instead of the waveguide plate used in many other schematic drawings. Therefore, the ultraviolet emitting element may be a plate module with one or more corresponding elements at least partially or even completely incorporated therein. However, the ultraviolet emitting element may also include a casing enclosing at least partially or even completely one or more respective elements. One or more respective elements at least comprise a light source, which is configured to provide radiation from the light source, in particular ultraviolet radiation.

Fig. 2c schematically illustrates an embodiment in which system 200 comprises a second light source 280 configured to generate one or more of visible and infrared radiation, herein referred to as second light source light 281, and in which optical sensor 310 is configured to detect one or more of visible and infrared radiation and providing said respective sensor signal. Here, two second light sources 280 are used as examples, for example, to provide different types of light, such as blue and green, or visible and infrared, etc. Optical sensor 310 may be configured to detect one or more of visible and infrared radiation and provide said corresponding sensor signal.

It should be noted that, in addition, when visible or infrared radiation is required as input to the sensor system, light sources 220 configured to provide ultraviolet radiation 221 and one or more of visible and infrared radiation can also be used.

The anti-fouling system 200 may further include a control 320 configured to adjust the sensor signal in response to the UV intensity of the light source 220. The control element 320 may also be configured to minimize changes in the UV intensity of the light source 220, as schematically illustrated in FIG. 3a. In embodiments, a control element 320 may be included in a control system 300 (not illustrated in this schematic drawing).

Let's turn to Fig. 2a-2c and 3a-3b and other embodiments described herein but not illustrated, the light source and sensor are specifically provided on one side of the radiation exit window 230. Let's turn to Fig. 2a-2c and 3a-3b and other embodiments described herein but not illustrated, the light source and sensor are specifically provided on one side of the back side 231 of the window.

Additionally, it should be noted that (thus) the light source and the optical sensor can be integrated in the light emitting element, in particular in a waveguide, for example a silicone waveguide.

The waveguide, in particular, contains a radiation-transmitting material, such as glass, quartz, (fused) quartz, silicone, fluoropolymer, etc.

Fig. 4a schematically illustrates an embodiment of an anti-fouling system 200 comprising a plurality of light sources 220. Here, the light sources 220 comprise LEDs 225. The LEDs comprise LED arrays 226. The LED arrays 226 of adjacent LEDs 225 have mutual distances d1 between the light sources, in particular selected from the range of 0.5-200 mm. As shown, the antifouling system 200 further comprises a plurality of optical sensors 310. Adjacent optical sensors have mutual distances d2 between optical sensors, in particular selected from a range of at least 4 cm, for example, in the range of 10-100 cm. Here antifouling system 200 comprises a plurality of subsets 330 of light sources 220 and optical sensors 310, with each subset 330 comprising one or more light sources 220 and one or more optical sensors 310. In particular, each subset 330 is configured to provide a specified ultraviolet emission 221 of one or more light sources 220 in subset 330 depending on the optical sensor signal of one or more optical sensors 310 in subset 330. The control system may be included in one or more elements 210, or may be provided, for example, a central control system 300 , schematically shown in paragraph dashed square. It should be noted that the control system 300 can also be removed from the elements 210.

Fig. 4b schematically illustrates an embodiment in which the light source 220, i.e. here is a solid state light source, designed as a sensor. To do this, the electronics or control 305 may be turned on so that the solid state light source functions as sensor 310. Optionally, this light source may be electronically controlled or control 305 to switch between the detection stage and the emission stage.

Electronics or control element 305 may be included in control system 300 (not illustrated here).

Fig. 5a schematically illustrates a graph with time on the x-axis, light intensity for anti-fouling on the left y-axis (solid line denoted by F1), and a sensor signal on the right y-axis that detects reflected light (dotted curve denotes signal, with dotted curve denoted reference position I1). When an object, such as a person, touches the radiation exit window (waveguide surface) for some time, there is a sudden decrease in the internal reflected light, for example, at time t1. Shortly thereafter, the control system reduces the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation. Here, the intensity drops to zero at time t2. As the object moves away from the waveguide, here at time t3, the internal reflected light increases, as can be seen, the increase occurs to essentially the original level I1. Shortly thereafter, at time t4, the ultraviolet radiation intensity increases to essentially the original level F1. The difference in time (between t1 and t2 or t3 and t4 respectively) can be very small since the control system can respond substantially immediately (eg when the control time is kept to a minimum).

Fig. 5b schematically illustrates a similar example, but with some modifications. Here it is clear that the biofouling increases as the internal reflection I1 decreases. This increase can be tried to stop also by increasing the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation F1 (on the time scale shown, this does not seem to have the desired effect yet). Contact with a person or other object may have the same result as above. However, in this schematic example as an example, the ultraviolet radiation intensity F1 does not drop to zero. As the object moves away, the UV intensity may increase to a level that can be related to the measured internal reflection intensity I1, according to a predetermined ratio between the UV intensity and the internal reflection intensity.

Since the ultraviolet radiation F1 changes, it is obvious that in the examples in FIG. 5a and 5b, the first and second thresholds have been reached.

In embodiments, upon reaching the first threshold, the system may also provide one or more of an audio signal, a light signal, and a vibration signal. This can warn the higher organism, touching the exit window of the radiation. The light signal in particular refers to essentially one or more of visible and infrared radiation, in particular to at least visible radiation.

Fig. 6a schematically illustrates a system also including a user interface 340. In embodiments, the user interface may be a graphical user interface. The user interface, in particular, may be external to the waveguide element 1210, although this is not required.

Fig. 6b very schematically illustrates a bathroom with a toilet including a toilet seat, a sink with a faucet and a faucet handle, and a door with an inside handle and an outside handle. Here, by way of example, an inner handle, an outer handle, a faucet handle, and a toilet seat are objects that are defined herein.

In embodiments, the light may be re-turned on after a predetermined time; or at best, after observing a similar but negative stage of withdrawal. This assumes that the object touching the surface has been removed.

In embodiments, depending on the size of the UV-protected surface, a plurality of sensors may be incorporated along with separate UV activation. Thus, it is possible to locally turn off the source of ultraviolet radiation in response to a local "violation".

This idea can favorably influence any "active surface" using ultraviolet radiation from a biological "safety point of view". Examples include doorknobs in public toilets, cutting boards in the kitchen, hospital equipment or tables used in operating rooms, etc.

The expression "essentially" in this document, for example, in the expressions "essentially the whole world" or "essentially consists", will be clear to a person skilled in the art. The expression "substantially" may also include variations with the expressions "as a whole", "completely", "entirely", etc. Therefore, in embodiments, the adverb "substantially" may also be omitted. When applicable, the expression "substantially" may also refer to 90% or more, such as 95% or more, in particular 99% or more, in particular 99.5% or more, including 100%. The expression "comprise" also includes variations in which the expression "contains" means "consists of". The expression "and/or", in particular, refers to one or more elements specified before and after the expression "and/or". For example, the phrase "element 1 and/or element 2" and similar phrases may refer to one or more of element 1 and element 2. The expression "comprising" in an embodiment may refer to the expression "consisting of", but in another embodiment also may refer to "comprising at least certain species and optionally one or more other species".

In addition, the expressions "first", "second", "third", etc. in the description and claims are used to distinguish between like elements and not necessarily to describe sequential or chronological order. It should be understood that the expressions used in this way are interchangeable in appropriate circumstances, and that the embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in other sequences than those described or illustrated herein.

The devices in this document, among other things, are described during operation. A person skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to methods of operation or devices in operation.

It should be noted that the above described embodiments are illustrative and do not limit the invention, and that a person skilled in the art can develop many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any parenthetical references are not to be construed as limiting the claims. The use of the verb "comprise" and its derivatives does not preclude the presence of elements or steps other than those set forth in a claim. Specifying an element in the singular does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The invention can be implemented by means of hardware containing several different elements, and by a properly programmed computer. In a claim describing an apparatus and listing several means, some of these means may be implemented by the same hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are listed in mutually distinct dependent claims does not mean that the combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

The invention further relates to a device comprising one or more of the features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further relates to a method or process comprising one or more of the features described in the description and/or shown in the accompanying drawings.

The various aspects discussed in this patent document may be combined to provide additional benefits. In addition, certain features may form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

Claims (21)

1. A system (200) for combating biological fouling, comprising: a waveguide element (1210) containing a radiation exit window (230), moreover, the waveguide element (1210): (a) is configured to receive radiation (221), and the radiation ( 221) at least contains ultraviolet radiation, and (b) is configured to emit at least a portion of the radiation (221) to the outside of the waveguide element (1210) through the radiation exit window (230), and (c) is configured to internally reflect a portion of the radiation (221) on the window (230) of the output of radiation; at least one optical sensor (310) configured to detect the intensity (I) of the internal reflection of the internal reflected radiation (221); a control system (300) operatively coupled to the optical sensor and configured to reduce the radiation intensity (221) depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value of the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time. 2. System (200) according to claim 1, in which the control system (300) is configured to reduce the intensity of radiation (221) only when a predetermined second threshold value of increasing the intensity (I) of internal reflection with over time, and in which the predetermined first threshold for reducing the intensity of internal reflection over time is a decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection detected by the optical sensor (310) by at least 1% in a maximum of 1 second. 3. System (200) according to claim 1, in which the given first threshold value is selected from the range 0.1%/s≤|ΔI/Δt|≤100%/s, where ΔI is the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection in percent, and ΔI<0%, Δt is the time period, for which such a decrease in ΔI occurs, with Δt being a maximum of 1 second. 4. System (200) according to any one of paragraphs. 1 and 3, in which the control system (300) is configured to increase the intensity of radiation (221) depending on a predetermined second threshold value for increasing the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time. 5. System (200) according to any one of paragraphs. 2, 3 (with reference to item 2) and 4, in which the predetermined second threshold value is selected from the range of 0.1%/s≤|ΔI/Δt|≤400%/s, where ΔI is the increase in the intensity (I) of the internal reflections in percent, and ΔI>0%, Δt - the period of time for which there is such an increase in ΔI, and Δt is a maximum of 1 second. 6. The system (200) according to claim 5, in which the control system is configured to reduce radiation (221) depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value for reducing the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time to the first level of radiation intensity (221), exceeding 0 W, and an increase in radiation (221) depending on a given second threshold increase in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time up to a given second level of radiation intensity (221), and a given second level of radiation intensity (221) is in the range + /-10% of the radiation intensity level (221) before decreasing to the first radiation intensity level (221). 7. The system (200) according to claim 6, wherein the system (200) is configured to emit at least a portion of the radiation (221) to the outside of the waveguide element (1210) in accordance with a predetermined ratio between the radiation intensity (221) and the intensity (I) of the internal reflection detected by the optical sensor (310) and the predetermined second radiation intensity level (221) is the radiation intensity level (221) associated with the intensity (I) of the internal reflection detected by the optical sensor (310). 8. System (200) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, containing a user interface (340), wherein the control system (300) further comprises a security procedure, so that after a decrease in the radiation intensity (221) due to reaching a predetermined first threshold value of the intensity (I) of internal reflection, the radiation intensity (221) can be increased only by command via the user interface (340). 9. System (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, the system further comprising: at least one light source (220) configured to provide radiation (221). 10. The system (200) according to any of the previous paragraphs, containing a plurality of light sources (220) and a plurality of optical sensors (310), made in the form of a plurality of subsets (330) of one or more light sources (220) and one or more optical sensors ( 310), moreover, one or more light sources (220) of each subset (330) are configured to emit radiation (221) through the corresponding parts of the radiation output window (230), and the control system (300) is configured to control one or more subsets ( 330) independently of one or more other subsets (330). 11. Object (10) in need of preventing or reducing biological fouling, containing the system (200) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-10, wherein the object (10) contains the outer surface (11), and the radiation exit window (230) is made in the form of at least a part of the outer surface (11), and the object is selected from the group containing a door handle, a faucet handle, a toilet handle, a toilet seat, a railing, a kitchen cutting board and a medical device. 12. Object (10) in need of preventing or reducing biological fouling, containing the system (200) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-10, wherein the object (10) contains the outer surface (11), and the radiation exit window (230) is made in the form of at least a part of the outer surface (11), and the object is selected from the group containing a table, an operating table, a sterile room wall, an operating room wall and a kitchen wall. 13. Object (10) in need of preventing or reducing biological fouling, which during use is at least partially immersed in water, and the object (10) contains a system (200) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-10, moreover, the waveguide element (1210) is configured to be irradiated with radiation (221) during the stage of irradiating one or more of (i) part (111) of the outer surface (11) of the specified object (10) and (ii) water located next to the specified part (111) of the specified outer surface (11), and the object (10) is selected from the group consisting of the vessel (1) and the infrastructure object (15). 14. A method for controlling the output of radiation (221) from the waveguide element (1210) to the outside of the waveguide element (1210), radiation (221), wherein the radiation (221) at least contains ultraviolet radiation, the method comprising the steps of detecting intensity (I ) internal reflection of the internal reflected radiation (221) inside the waveguide element (1210) and reduce the intensity of the radiation (221) depending on the achievement of a predetermined first threshold value of the decrease in the intensity (I) of internal reflection over time. 15. The use of the system according to any one of paragraphs. 1-10 in an object (10) for combating biofouling, and the object is selected from the group consisting of a ship and an infrastructure object that has a water application.

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