US20220170651A1

US20220170651A1 - Method and system for air ventilation, sterilization and filtration

Info

Publication number: US20220170651A1
Application number: US17/457,121
Authority: US
Inventors: Wilson Martensen
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-12-01
Filing date: 2021-12-01
Publication date: 2022-06-02

Abstract

A stratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system for sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, the stratified air displacement system consisting of air circulation between one or more negative pressure air collection ducts, one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts and one or more filtration units wherein the air circulates through the biocide chamber passing through HEPA filters with exposure to UV-C germicidal lamps.

Description

PRIORITY UNDER 35 U.S.0 Section 119(e) & 37 C.F.R. Section 1.78

This nonprovisional application claims priority based upon the following prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application entitled Method And System For Air Ventilation, Sterilization And Filtration, Application No. 63/119,834 filed Dec. 1, 2020, in the name of Wilson Martensen, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present specification relates generally to a method and system for air ventilation, and more particularly to a stratified air displacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide cham ber.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art nor material to the presently described or claimed inventions, nor that any publication or document that is specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
It has been shown that for viruses, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus can be rendered inactive if it is directly illuminated by UV-C at the effective dose level. UV-C can play an effective role with other methods of disinfection, but it is essential that individuals be protected to prevent UV hazards to the eyes and skin as UV-C should not be used to disinfect the hands. [see IES Photobiology Committee. (2020). IES Committee Report: Germicidal Ultraviolet (GUV)—Frequently Asked Questions.]
To date, UV-C radiation has been effective against all corona viruses in all published investigations, although the absorption properties of the sample media reduced inactivation success. The calculated upper limit for the log-reduction median dose (in low absorbance media) is 10.6 mJ/cm², but the probably more precise estimation is 3.7 mJ/cm². [see GMS Hyg Infect Control. 2020; 15: Doc08.]
The effectiveness of UV-C as a direct disinfection is due to the energy absorbed by genetic material, thus limiting replication, and by absorption of other cellular or viral components such as proteins, thus limiting attachment and infectivity. UV-C photons can directly alter chemical bonds, affecting their structure and function, where photons are absorbed by DNA/RNA the resulting damage can inhibit the microorganism's ability to replicate, rendering it no longer infectious. [see Harm W. Biological effects of ultraviolet radiation. United Kingdom: University Press (1980)]
For sterilization and filtrations units, the technical specifications should give the UV-C irradiance at a fixed distance from the UV front of the device and the UV dose (irradiance multiplied by the exposure time in seconds) should be at least 40 mJ/cm²to inactivate viruses on perfectly flat and ideal surfaces. [see IUVA Ultraviolet Association. (n.d.). Advice for the selection and operation of equipment for the UV disinfection of air and surfaces.]
There is a need for an air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber that sterilizes and filters unpurified air and eliminates viruses and contaminates within a confined space for the health and safety of individuals within that confined space, more specifically, a system which creates a sterile indoor breathing air, maintains neutral relative room pressurization, conducive to room temperature regulation, promotes efficient air recirculation, delivers an effective clean air delivery rate (CADR), creates an additional localized air change cycle per hour and contains ethical means of handling contaminated air.
Accordingly, there remains a need for improvements in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a stratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system for sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, the stratified air displacement system consisting of air circulation between one or more negative pressure air collection ducts, one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts and one or more filtration units wherein the air circulates through the biocide chamber passing through HEPA filters with exposure to UV-C germicidal lamps.
According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a stratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system for sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, comprising: one or more air intake suction vents mounted in the upper room of an occupied zone coupled to one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts such that said unpurified air is drawn upwards into said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts wherein said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts delivers said unpurified air to a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via negative pressure; one or more air dampers coupled to a fresh air mixture duct further coupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct such that an optional fresh air source outside and for the process of capturing contaminated air directly from the point of sources of said confined space is drawn into said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber wherein said unpurified air is processed into purified and sterile air via said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber by means of the biocide chamber's aerodynamic specification meeting the completed UVC dosage requirement to kill and or inactivate airborne pathogens; one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts coupled to one or more fans such that said purified air is drawn out from said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber through said one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts and out into said confined space.
The high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber comprises: a plurality of sterilization cells, a plurality of UV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surface impact air foil grills, and one or more HEPA filters; and a plurality of modular frame components to expand and provide a longer air travel distance in Linear Flow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation (UVCGI), the module frame components comprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep air vanes.
According to a further embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, comprising: drawing unpurified air through one or more air intake suction vents mounted in the upper room of an occupied zone coupled to one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts such that said unpurified air is drawn upwards into said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts; delivering said unpurified air to a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via negative pressure via said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts; optionally drawing fresh air into said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via one or more air dampers coupled to a direction a fresh air mixture duct further coupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct; processing said unpurified air into purified and sterile air via said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber by means of the biocide chamber's aerodynamic specification meeting the completed UVC dosage requirement to kill and or inactivate airborne pathogens; returning said purified air to said confined space via one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts coupled to one or more fans such that said purified air is drawn out from said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber through said one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts.
The high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber comprises: a plurality of sterilization cells, a plurality of UV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surface impact air foil grills, and one or more HEPA filters; and a plurality of modular frame components to expand and provide a longer air travel distance in Linear Flow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation (UVCGI), the module frame components comprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep air vanes.
For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention have been described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. The features of the invention which are believed to be novel are particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings and detailed description.
Other aspects and features according to the present application will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of example only, embodiments of the invention, and how they may be carried into effect, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a system diagram of an air ventilation system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a system diagram of an air ventilation system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3A is an isometric view of the outer components of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3B is an isometric view of the inner components of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a sectional view of the inner components of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4B is an isometric view of the outer components of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4C is a rear view of the outer components of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5A is an exploded view of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is an isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D is a rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a sectional view of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6B is an isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a sectional view of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7B is an isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a sectional view of a biocide chamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8B is a sectional isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a sectional rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 10 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 11 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordance with an embodiment; and

FIG. 12 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordance with an embodiment.

Like reference numerals indicated like or corresponding elements in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The stratified air displacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber, in principle, functions as a vacuum air sterilizer and filter unit that can interrelate with existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and/or function as a standalone ventilation unit. The goal is to provide clean, fresh and sterile air by means of an effective UVC germicidal irradiation (UVCGI) dosage utilizing the maximum potential of UV-C germicidal properties, in a safe, cost effective manner without compromising occupant comfort and preventing cross room contamination in terms of stable pressure gradient, efficient thermal regulation and constant air circulation at the same time. It is a simple, cost effective and self-contained system that effectively collects air at a predetermined area of a room with identified high risk of contamination during pre-stratification stage. It does the process by ethical means of handling contaminated air without directly releasing possible contaminated air before it is sterile
FIG. 1 depicts a system diagram 100 of the stratified air displacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. In this embodiment, the stratified air displacement system consists of air circulation between one or more negative pressure air collection ducts 104, one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts 102 and one or more filtration units 110.
Pre-stratified air is collected by a direct air capture ventilation duct 112 and sent through the negative pressure air collection duct 104 where it undergoes accelerated thermal dynamic behavior. More specifically, the air pressure inside the negative pressure air collection ducts 104 has a negative relative to the room air pressure creating conducive air flow movement vis-a-vis the thermal plume/currents natural thermal dynamic behavior. It accelerates and redirects the airflow movement to target stagnant layer and or air pocket, vertically and diagonally away from its initial location through an air inlet suction vents that collects air in an upright airflow motion, preventing air saturation or volume build up and eliminating horizontal trajectory of air particulates like dust dander pollen mold and other common allergen including airborne pathogens or infectious agent that can cause illness or disease to room occupants who are in the line of travel or buoyancy path of aerosolized contaminants thus greatly reducing the risks of inhalation and or physical contact with aerosolized pathogen that are most likely to happen in the occupied zone.
A direct air capture ventilation duct 112 is employed for the process of capturing contaminated air directly from the point of sources, such as exhaled air from patients or with adapters used for mechanical ventilator air outlet attachment. The captured air will enter the direct air capture ventilation duct 112 and join the rest of the isolated air stream collected inside the negative pressure air collection ducts 104. A one way air damper 108, which is optional, calibrates the amount of airflow to the fresh air ventilation duct 114 for controlled percentage fresh air mixture intake requirement. Afresh air ventilation duct 114, also optional, may be employed for the process of delivering the percentage fresh air mixture intake requirement from either a direct open air source or from an existing conditioned air supply of an HVAC system, interlink to the negative pressure air collection duct 104 just before entering the sterilizing and filtration unit 110. The fresh air percentage will mix with the collected air from the room and form an isolated air stream that is drawn by vacuum into the sterilizing and filtration unit 110 biocide chamber.
An external in line fan 106 pulls up the fresh sterile and clean filtered air out and forces it into the positive pressure air return distribution ducts 102. The fan 106 is placed outside of the filtration unit 110 biocide chamber to optimize the shelf life of the UV-C lamps within, eliminating unnecessary vibration and by using established HVAC calculations the fans and dampers can be calibrated to balance the desired relative air pressurization, draft effects and temperature regulation in the room for occupant comfort while at the same time meeting the optimal performance of the filtration unit 110 to perform and maintain in the operational parameters of the recommended UV-C dosage for killing and inactivating airborne contaminants.
The positive pressure air return distribution ducts 102 may be laid out horizontally in the upper room ceiling running the full length of the room directly above the negative pressure air collection ducts 104, in the occupied zone; the numbers of ducts and directional airflow are likewise proportionate to the size of the room and subject to existing or non-existing HVAC ventilation requirement. The positive air pressure created by the fan 106 will force sterilized and filtered air into the positive pressure air return distribution duct 102 and release it out through several air diffusers that run the length of the duct/ducts on an upright 15° degree angle generating a throw that will blow towards the ceiling and a Coanda effect running parallel the same direction and interrelate with existing air supply diffusers if any, in the upper room of the occupied zone, it is the air supply distribution component with a post stratification air displacement action as the draft produced by the air velocity pressure would displace the stratified area in the upper room ceiling with sterilized and filtered air and maintain desirable room pressure gradients.
An air sterilization and filter cycle is completed as sterilized and filtered air is released back into the room from the positive pressure air return distribution ducts 102 through its air diffuser vents with a steady and constant operation an efficient and effective log dosage factor for airborne pathogen inactivation will be achieved and an ideal indoor air quality maintained in a balanced (minimal thermal loss), self-contained ventilation with filtration system that provide thermal comfort through a conducive air flow and air circulation cycle that utilize the real time sterilizing benefits of UV-C lamps in a safe and non-intrusive manner allowing room occupants to work, perform travel and live a healthy and productive life with some sense of normalcy back in these challenging time of pandemic.
The process causes an anti-stratification by air displacement using positive pressure to force sterilized and filtered air to be released on an upright 15 degree angle towards the ceiling in the upper room of the occupied zone, interrelating with existing air supply diffusers if any or act as the sterile and filtered fresh air return supply on standalone operation. It prevents air saturation or volume buildup of air particulates like dust dander pollen mold and other common allergen including airborne pathogens or infectious agent inside the upper room of the occupied zone. The sterile and filtered air return maintains desirable room pressure gradients and is also conducive to room air circulation via accelerated air displacement method, accelerating the natural thermal dynamic behavior of plumes and or current for efficient and cost effective room air thermal regulation.
In some embodiments, the stratified air displacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber can be integrated into an existing HVAC system. Its protractile design may accommodate higher air volume capacity for larger floor area such as, but not limited to, hospital emergency room/critical care wards, quarantine facilities, school classrooms, restaurants, buses, trains, planes, dentist offices/clinics, office buildings, gyms and event venues/halls.
FIG. 2 depicts a system diagram 200 of the stratified air displacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. This embodiment displays multiple fans 106 for each of the negative pressure air collection duct 104 and the positive pressure air return distribution duct 102.
The negative pressure air collection duct 104 begin the air cycle process in the upper room ceiling; it is placed horizontally running the full length of the room directly above the occupied zone, the number and sizing of ducts are proportionate relative to a given room dimensional area, obtainable as per HVAC calculations. It has a negative relative to the room air pressure which creates conducive air flow movement vis-a-vis the thermal plume/currents natural thermal dynamic behavior. It accelerates and redirects the airflow movement to target stagnant layer and or air pocket at pre-stratification stage, vertically and diagonally away from its initial location where the risk of inhalation and or physical contact are most likely in the occupied zone.
The pre-stratified air will enter the negative pressure air collection duct 104 through an air inlet suction vent and collects air in an upright airflow motion thus greatly reducing if not completely eliminating horizontal trajectory of air particulates like dust dander pollen mold and other common allergen including airborne pathogens or infectious agent that can cause illness or disease to room occupants who is in the line of travel or buoyancy path of aerosol contaminants.
The external in line fans 106 facilitate sterilized and filtered volume of air is being drawn up and forced out into the positive pressure air return distribution duct 102 which is located directly above the negative pressure air collection duct 104.
FIG. 3A depicts an isometric view 300 a of the outer components of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds. The filtration unit 110 shown comprises a plurality of high-efficiency particulate absorbing filters, referred to herein as a HEPA filter 302, for trapping and removing a minimum of 99.95% of particles with a diameter of 0.3 μm or greater. Each HEPA filter 302 is inserted into individual cartridge doors 306 and may be easily removed and replaced after prolonged use. Each cartridge door 306 is inserted and housed into individual cartridge slots 312.
An air intake vent 310 and an air outlet vent 308 are shown at the exterior of the filtration unit 110 to draw in air present in the surroundings and release air that is purified by the filtration unit 110. A plurality of UV-C lamp breech doors 304 are as present along the exterior of the filtration unit 110, to provide access to UV-C lamps within for replacement and maintenance. In some embodiments, a plurality of switch and light indicators are present for applications such as, but not limited to, a power switch and power indicator, burnt lamp switch and burnt lamp indicator, filter performance indicator, fan power switch and fan performance indicator.
FIG. 3B depicts an isometric view 300 b of the inner components of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds. The filtration unit 110 is shown comprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep air vanes 316, airfoil light trap vents 322, surface impact broil vent grills 320 and germicidal UV-C lamps 318. The filtration unit 110 also contains an internal built in fan 314. In some embodiments, the built in fan 314 is a centrifugal fan. The 180 degree corner sweep air vane 316 may be composed of a copper material, which has a natural antibacterial/antiviral properties. The 180 degree corner sweep air vanes 316 help to maintain desirable air flow in duct bends inside the biocide chamber where upon impact, air particulate in aerosolized form are spread on the 180 degree corner sweep air vanes 316 Copper surface further adding exposure and UV-C broiling and sterilizing opportunity. The surface impact broil surface impact broil vent grill 320 is optional and it provides surface impact and broil opportunity but when removed doubles the intensity of the overlapping UV-C germicidal irradiation (UVGI).
FIG. 4A depicts a sectional view 400 a of an alternative configuration of the inner components of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable processing up to 48 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.
FIG. 4B depicts an isometric view 400 b of an alternative configuration of the outer components of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The filtration unit 110 is shown comprising additional components from FIG. 3A such as a direct air capture ventilation nozzle 402 and a fresh air mixture ventilation nozzle 404.
Direct air capture ventilation nozzle 402 and fresh air mixture ventilation nozzle 404 are provision for either air hose or air duct attachment point to interlink and facilitate the process of capturing contaminated air directly from the point of sources and fresh air ventilation duct 114 for percentage fresh air mixture intake requirement from either a direct open air source or from an existing conditioned air supply of an HVAC system respectively.
FIG. 4C depicts a rear view 400 c of an alternative configuration of the outer components of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 5A depicts an exploded view 500 a of a basic unit of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds. The filtration unit 110 is shown comprising additional components from
FIG. 3A and FIG. 4B such as an air inlet nozzle and box 502 and an air outlet nozzle and box 504.
The collected air mixture enters through the air inlet nozzle and box 502 featuring an optional multi-layer and staggered airfoil light trap vents 322 with the leading edge of the airfoil facing opposite the winds air flow direction allowing a smooth laminar air flow for the collected air volume into the centralized filtration unit 110 biocide chamber whilst the same surface area relative to the max thickness of the airfoils act as a light trap using shadowing method significantly blocking visible light from illuminating beyond the airfoil light trap vents 322.
Once inside the sterilization and filtration unit 110 biocide chamber, the isolated air will navigate through a maze composed of typically four (4) sterilizing or curing cells that incorporates four (4) germicidal UV-C lamps 318 running horizontal at the upper and bottom room of the biocide chamber with a surface impact broil vent grills 320 running parallel the germicidal UV-C lamps 318 in the middle of the first three curing cells.
The sterilization process immediately begins as the isolated air is exposed and flows across the germicidal UV-C lamp 318 and once again upon impact on the surface impact broil vent grills 320, which provides a physical surface and multi-boundary layer particulate impaction and broil opportunity on both sides of the surface impact broil vent grills 320, this process is repeated in each of the first three (3) curing cells.
Proper dosage is an integral objective of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber's function, with low-pressure mercury germicidal UV-C lamps 318, which has its main (>90%) emission at a strong wavelength of 254 nm means it does not produce ozone, moreover the 254 nm germicidal wavelength will destroy ozone and while doing so meets the dosage requirement by providing a platform for sterilizing with a time factor to the equation (irradiance multiplied by the exposure time in seconds) inside the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber's folded ruler type and proactively purposed aerodynamic internal ducting system, incorporating 180° degree u-turn corner sweep air vanes 316 for smooth air flow through duct corners with airfoil inspired grills, vents and louvers allowing it to have a protractile and compact body where air travels a distance (20 ft′+) from air inlet to air outlet of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber, in a volume area of (48 ft³or more) drawn by a high-efficiency fan (240CFM +) with an airflow velocity unit of 120 ft/min we achieve a close to 10 seconds exposure time under a proportionate photon coverage and optimal overlapping UV-C irradiation on each of the four sterilization from 254 nm wavelength germicidal UV-C lamp 318 source.
Air velocity (distance traveled per unit of time) is usually expressed in Linear Feet per Minute (LFM). By multiplying air velocity by the cross section area of a duct, you can determine the air volume flowing past a point in the duct per unit of time. Volume flow is usually measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). Air Changes per Hour (ACH or ACPH) of an air purifier determines how many times the device can exchange the whole volumetric air from a specific sized room in an hour. To calculate the Air Changes per Hour, there are two requirements. The first one is the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of the air purifier, and the second one is the dimensions of the room using the air purifier.
Air Changes per Hour=(CADR in cfm×60)/(L×W×H)
High Intensity Light UV-C Dosage—A constant UV-C germicidal input of 51 W/m²from two (2) 75 watts UV-C lamps with exposure time of 8 seconds inside high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber ducting system achieve the recommended 5 mw/cm²for 8 seconds or 40 mJ/cm²to inactivate the virus however, by removing the surface impact broil vent grill the overlapping UVCGI coverage is multiplied by four (4) thereby increasing to double the irradiance value of 5 mw/cm²to 10 mw/cm²that with an 8 second exposure time a dosage of 80 mJ/cm²is achieved.
A plurality of true HEPA filters 302 is purposely placed in between and parallels the upper and lower 254 nm UVC germicidal UV-C lamps 318 irradiating both side of the true HEPA filters 302 inside the sterilization (curing) cell for continual sterilization and guarantee the HEPA filter 302 is not a viable source of infectious agents during real time operation and does not pose any hazard to the technician during filter replacement and/or high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber unit maintenance. It is housed in a cartridge compartment that can be accessed from the outside of the machine; it also features a safety power shut down function for when the cartridge compartment door is open. The HEPA filters 302 are certified to remove 99.97% of all microscopic particles as small as 0.3 microns in size thus a sterilized and filtered air is produced in the process inside the 4th and last sterilization (curing) cell.
The fresh, sterile and filtered air is eventually drawn out through the air outlet vents 310, having the same multi-layer and staggered airfoil light trap vents 322 with the leading edge of the airfoil facing opposite the wind air flow direction allowing a smooth laminar air flow, with the wide surface area relative to the max thickness of the airfoil acting as a light trap using shadowing method significantly blocking visible light illuminating beyond the airfoil light trap vents 322 of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber.
The collected air volume will be subjected to a multistage sterilization and a final true HEPA filtration process where it would enter the first of four (4) sterilization (curing) cells that make up the whole centralized biocide chamber, each sterilization (curing) cell has a 10 f³volume capacity where air volume would first travel down and be irradiated across a section of (2) ea. 254 nm germicidal UV-C lamps 318 which is a part of four (4) ea. 254 nm germicidal UV-C lamps 318 purposely laid out horizontally, two (2) ea. lamps on the upper chamber and two (2) ea. lamps in the bottom chamber, perpendicular through four sterilization (curing) cells for proportionate photon coverage and optimal overlapping UV-C irradiation on each of the four sterilization (curing) cells, after which the air will go through the first surface impact broil vent grill 320 that would function as a physical impact and multi-boundary layer surface filter. After passing through the surface impact broil vent grills 320 it will again be irradiated across a section of (2) ea. 254 nm germicidal UV-C lamps 318, this process is repeated three (3) more times in a wave like motion through a 24′ long duct folded with a 180° degree multiple u-turn corner sweep air vanes 316 to minimize both static and velocity pressure loss allowing efficient 48 ft³volume air flow @ 240 cfm within a compact 2×4×6 ft. high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber.
The high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber collects air at identified at pre-determined area with high risk of contamination and then sterilize with low-pressure mercury lamp, which has its main (>90%) emission at 254 nm with the UV dose (irradiance multiplied by the exposure time in seconds) achieved inside the high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber without exposing in room occupants to UV-C light in real time operation.
In some embodiments, the sterilization and filtration unit 110 may consist of a frameless construction in which the body is used as a structural member, for simple disassembly for transportation and through door delivery access. Other components within the sterilization and filtration unit 110 may include, electrical wiring and associated components, sensors and testing apparatuses, actuators, rolling wheels and rolling wheel stands.
FIG. 5B depicts a sectional view 500 b of a basic unit of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 5C depicts an isometric view 500 c of a basic unit of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 5D depicts a rear view 500 d of a basic unit of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 6A depicts a sectional view 600 a of a linear extended high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable for ventilation, filtration and sterilization of an area of 80 ft³or less.
FIG. 6B depicts an isometric view 600 b of a linear extended high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 6C depicts a rear view 600 c of a linear extended high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 7A depicts a sectional view 700 a of a side mount extended high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable for processing up to 96 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.
For room size up to 15′ ft.×20′ ft. with a×10′ ft. ceiling (3,000 ft³) Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of 750 CFM will produce an air velocity unit value of 375 ft/min (LFM) flowing inside the 96 ft³linear extended filtration unit 110 and 96 ft³side mount extended filtration unit 110 48′ ft. long internal duct and achieving 15 ACH (air changes/hour) thus maintaining a maximum exposure time of 7.7 seconds multiplied by proportionate photon coverage and optimal overlapping germicidal UV-C irradiation which has its main (>90%) emission at 254 nm to meet UV-C dosage requirement to sterilize the air including inactivating viruses. The 96 ft³extended model filtration unit 110 offers 2 modular assembly options relative to available room dimension and or floor space requirement. It takes approximately 4 minutes to clean the room air.
FIG. 7B depicts an isometric view 700 b of a side mount extended high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 7C depicts a rear view 700 c of a side mount extended high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 8A depicts a sectional view 800 a of a high capacity combination assembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable for processing up to 192 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.
For room size up to 20′ ft.×28′ ft. with a 10′ ft. ceiling (5,600 ft³) and up to 192 ft³high capacity combination assembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber with Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of 1400 CFM producing an air velocity unit value of 700 ft/min (LFM) flowing inside the filtration unit 110 96′ ft. internal duct length and achieving 15 ACH (air changes/hour) thus maintaining a maximum exposure time of 8.2 seconds multiplied by proportionate photon coverage and optimal overlapping germicidal UV-C irradiation which has its main (>90%) emission at 254 nm to meet UV-C dosage requirement to sterilize the air including inactivating viruses. It takes approximately 4 minutes to clean the room air.
FIG. 8B depicts a sectional isometric view 800 b of a high capacity combination assembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 8C depicts a sectional rear view 800 c of a high capacity combination assembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
FIG. 9 depicts a restaurant application 900 of an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment would be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.
FIG. 10 depicts a medical or dental operatory room application 1000 of a ductless, standalone plug and play high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment would be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³or less air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.
FIG. 11 depicts a classroom application 1100 of a stratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The other filtration units 110 presented previously can be applied within this system to allow for suitable for processing up to 48 ft³to up to 192 ft³air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.
FIG. 12 depicts a public transportation application 1200 of a commuter roof mounted assembly of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The same depictions can also be utilized for purpose of an in room upper ceiling mounted re circulating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.
In a 12′ ft.×12′ ft. with a 10′ ft. ceiling room (1,440 ft³) Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of 360 CFM will produce an air velocity unit value of 180 ft/min (LFM) flowing inside the upright ductless, the ductless and the basic up to 48 ft³filtration units 110, as well as the commuter roof mounted up to 48 ft³filtration unit 110 24′ ft. internal duct and achieving 15 ACH (air changes/hour) thus maintaining a maximum exposure time of 8 seconds, multiplied by proportionate photon coverage and optimal overlapping germicidal UV-C irradiation which has its main (>90%) emission at 254 nm to meet UVC dosage requirement to sterilize the air including inactivating viruses.
It takes approximately 4 minutes to clean the room air.
It should also be noted that the steps described in the method of use can be carried out in many different orders according to user preference. The use of “step of” should not be interpreted as “step for”, in the claims herein and is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). It should also be noted that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design preference, user preferences, marketing preferences, cost, structural requirements, available materials, technological advances, etc., other methods are taught herein.
The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary and numerous modifications, variations and rearrangements can be readily envisioned to achieve substantially equivalent results, all of which are intended to be embraced within the spirit and scope of the invention. Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientist, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application.
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Certain adaptations and modifications of the invention will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the presently discussed embodiments are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A stratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system for sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, comprising:

one or more air intake suction vents mounted in the upper room of an occupied zone coupled to one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts such that said unpurified air is drawn upwards into said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts wherein said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts delivers said unpurified air to a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via negative pressure;

one or more air dampers coupled to a fresh air mixture duct further coupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct such that an optional fresh air source outside and for the process of capturing contaminated air directly from the point of sources of said confined space is drawn into said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber wherein said unpurified air is processed into purified and sterile air via said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber by means of the biocide chamber's aerodynamic specification meeting the completed UVC dosage requirement to kill and or inactivate airborne pathogens; and

one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts coupled to one or more fans such that said purified air is drawn out from said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber through said one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts and out into said confined space;

wherein said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber comprises:

a plurality of sterilization cells, a plurality of UV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surface impact air foil grills, and one or more HEPA filters; and

a plurality of modular frame components to expand and provide a longer air travel distance in Linear Flow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation (UVCGI), the module frame components comprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep air vanes.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the biocide chamber processes up to 48 ft³of air volume during a 6 to 8 second period.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the biocide chamber further comprises one or more surface impact broil vent grills.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the modular frame components of the biocide chamber further comprises one or more airfoil light trap vents wherein a leading edge of each airfoil faces opposite wind air flow direction.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a direct air capture ventilation nozzle and a fresh air mixture ventilation nozzle.

6. The system of claim 1, comprising four sterilization cells, each of the four sterilization cells comprising a true HEPA filter and two UV-C germicidal lamps, with one of the two UV-C germicidal lamps mounted on each airflow side of the true HEPA filter.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein each UV-C germicidal lamp is provided as a single UV-C lamp passing through all four sterilization cells.

8. A method of sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, comprising:

drawing unpurified air through one or more air intake suction vents mounted in the upper room of an occupied zone coupled to one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts such that said unpurified air is drawn upwards into said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts;

delivering said unpurified air to a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via negative pressure via said one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts;

optionally drawing fresh air into said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via one or more air dampers coupled to a fresh air mixture duct further coupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct;

processing said unpurified air into purified and sterile air via said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber by means of the biocide chamber's aerodynamic specification meeting the completed UVC dosage requirement to kill and or inactivate airborne pathogens;

returning said purified air to said confined space via one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts coupled to one or more fans such that said purified air is drawn out from said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber through said one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts;

wherein said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide cham ber com prises:

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the biocide chamber processes up to 48 ft³of air volume during a 6 to 8 second period.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the biocide chamber further comprises one or more surface impact broil vent grills.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the modular frame components of the biocide chamber further comprises one or more airfoil light trap vents wherein a leading edge of each airfoil faces opposite wind air flow direction.

12. The method of claim 8, wherein the fresh air mixture duct further and the direct air capture ventilation duct further comprise a direct air capture ventilation nozzle and a fresh air mixture ventilation nozzle.

13. The method of claim 8, wherein the step of processing said unpurified air comprises passing the unpurified air through a set of four sterilization cells, each of the four sterilization cells comprising a true HEPA filter and two UV-C germicidal lamps, with one of the two UV-C germicidal lamps mounted on each side of the true HEPA filter.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein each UV-C germicidal lamp is provided as a single UV-C lamp passing through all four sterilization cells.