WO2000006209A2 - Method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects is accomplished by a system in which air is drawn in as a stream into the system and flows through ozone generating (8) and germicidal chambers (16). An ozone generating ultraviolet radiation source (12) disposed within the ozone chamber (8) emits UV radiation having a wavelength approximately 185 nanometers to irradiate the air and generate ozone. The ozone chamber is typically configured to include winding or other types of air flow paths to mix the ozone with the air. The ozonated air enters a germicidal chamber (16) including a germicidal UV radiation source (14) (e.g., emitting radiation having a wavelength of approximately 254 nanometers) that irradiates the ozonated air to destroy contaminants and to catalyse the ozone for enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING PURIFIED OR OZONE ENRICHED AIR TO REMOVE CONTAMINANTS FROM OBJECTS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/199,174, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Purifying Appliance Exhaust and Removing Contaminants from Objects", filed November 24, 1998, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/186,990, entitled "Method And Apparatus For Producing Purified Or Ozone Enriched Air To Remove Contaminants From Fluids", filed November 5, 1998, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/156,422, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Producing Purified or Ozone Enriched Air", filed September 18, 1998, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/932,101, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Removing Contaminants from a Contaminated Air Stream", filed September 17, 1997. In addition, this application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/094,574, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Producing Purified or Ozone Enriched Air to Remove Contaminants from Objects", filed July 29, 1998. The disclosures in the above-referenced patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Technical Field The present invention pertains to a method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects. In particular, the present invention pertains to a method and apparatus for exposing a contaminated air stream to ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from that air stream, and further pertains to application of the air stream to objects (e.g., body parts (e.g., hands, skin, wounds, etc.), toothbrushes, toilet seats, infant peripherals, etc.) to remove contaminants from those objects. In addition, the present invention pertains to exposing contaminated objects (e.g., liquids, body parts (e.g., hands), infant peripherals, etc.) to ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from those objects. OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to remove contaminants from air within a treated space without emitting ozone or ultraviolet radiation into that treated space endangering people and/or animals. It is another object of the present invention to control ozone concentration levels by utilizing a radiation source end-cap having various configurations to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation from the radiation source. Yet another object of the present invention is to utilize replaceable cartridges with a system for removing contaminants from an air stream to facilitate versatility and easy maintenance of the system. Still another object of the present invention is to remove contaminants from an air stream by exposing the air stream to ozone and germicidal radiation within a single treatment chamber. A further object of the present invention is to utilize ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from various objects, such as infant peripherals, toothbrushes, hands or any other items. Yet another object of the present invention is to produce purified or ozone enriched air, via a transportable device, for application to wounds or skin conditions on various portions of the human anatomy, or objects coming in contact with the human anatomy, such as toilet seats. Still another object of the present invention is to expose liquids to ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from those liquids. A further object of the present invention is to provide a self-cleaning toilet seat utilizing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from that toilet seat. The aforesaid objects are achieved individually and in combination, and it is not intended that the present invention be construed as requiring two or more of the objects to be combined unless expressly required by the claims attached hereto. According to the present invention, a method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects is accomplished by a system in which air is drawn in as a stream into the system housing toward its base and flows through an ozone generating chamber. An ozone generating ultraviolet (UV) radiation source disposed within the ozone chamber emits ultraviolet radiation having a wavelength of approximately 185 nanometers to irradiate the air and generate ozone which removes odor causing contaminants residing in the air stream as described below. The ozone chamber is typically configured to include winding or other types of air flow paths, or to induce a vortical air flow to reduce air through-flow velocity and maintain the air stream within the ozone chamber for a residence time sufficient for the ozone to mix with the air. Subsequent to traversing the ozone chamber, the air stream enters a germicidal chamber disposed adjacent the ozone chamber. The germicidal chamber may also be configured to have winding or other types of air flow paths, and includes a germicidal UV radiation source. The germicidal UV radiation source irradiates the air stream and destroys bacteria and other contaminants, while the emitted radiation further serves as a catalyst for the ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements residing in the air stream. The germicidal UV radiation source generates radiation having a wavelength of approximately 254 nanometers to destroy various contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses and mold spores, residing in the air stream. The radiation source typically includes a single combination UV radiation emitting bulb with different sections of the bulb emitting radiation of different respective wavelengths (e.g., 185 and 254 nanometers). The different sections of the bulb are disposed in the corresponding ozone and germicidal chambers. Alternatively, the radiation sources may all be implemented by separate independent bulbs emitting radiation having wavelengths of approximately 185 or 254 nanometers depending upon the chamber in which the bulb is disposed. The bulbs may be powered by a conventional AC ballast (for use in stationary areas), or a conventional DC ballast connected to a battery or other DC power source to enable the system to be portable and used in mobile environments (e.g., cars, boats, trucks, trailers, etc.). In addition, the combination bulb may further include end-caps of various configurations to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation and control ozone production. The resulting sterilized air from the germicidal chamber may pass through a catalytic converter disposed adjacent the germicidal chamber to remove ozone by either converting the ozone back to oxygen, or filtering the ozone from the air stream. An internal fan disposed adjacent the ozone chamber draws air into the system from the base and through the chambers. Alternatively, the system may include a single chamber for exposing the air stream to ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants therefrom as described above. A baffling arrangement may be utilized by the system to control air through-flow velocity. In particular, the system is substantially similar to, and functions in substantially the same manner as, the two chamber system described above, except that this system includes a series of baffles to form a serpentine path through the system. The baffles include an alternating pattern of openings that collectively direct an air stream in a winding pattern through the system chambers to remove contaminants from that air stream. Alternatively, the system may be configured to utilize a replaceable cartridge. Specifically, a stationary base is mounted in a desired area, whereby a replaceable cartridge is attached to the base. The base contains the system electrical components (e.g., fan, ballast, etc.), while the cartridge houses the ozone and germicidal chambers and radiation source. The cartridge may further be disposed in a plenum without the base or a fan. whereby the cartridge is connected to a power source and plenum air flow directs air through the system. The cartridge may be of various shapes and sizes and is periodically replaced, thereby facilitating versatility and easy maintenance of the system. The system may additionally be configured to remove contaminants from various objects (e.g., a user's hands, infant peripherals, etc.). In particular, the system for removing contaminants from objects includes a single treatment chamber having independent ozone generating and germicidal radiation sources. An object is inserted into the treatment chamber, whereby each radiation source is enabled for a predetermined time interval. The ozone generating radiation source initially generates ozone within the treatment chamber, while the germicidal radiation source is subsequently enabled to expose the object and produced ozone to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from the object. The system may be further utilized to remove contaminants from liquids by exposing the liquids to ozone and germicidal radiation. Specifically, a system ozone chamber produces ozone and includes a tortuous or winding path to enable the produced ozone to mix with the air. The ozonated air is injected into the liquid, while a system germicidal chamber exposes the ozonated liquid to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants therefrom. A combination radiation source is typically utilized to provide ozone generating and germicidal radiation within the chambers. The system may be disposed along various liquid passageways to purify drinking or other water (e.g., pool water). The system may be additionally utilized within a toothbrush holder to remove contaminants from toothbrushes prior to their use. Specifically, the system is similar to the systems described above and produces purified or ozone enriched air for application to toothbrush heads disposed within the holder. Alternatively, the purified air may be injected into liquid contained in the holder, whereby the toothbrush heads are immersed in the liquid. The purified or ozone enriched air removes contaminants from the toothbrush heads residing in the container. In addition, the system may be configured to be transportable for application of purified or ozone enriched air to portions of the human anatomy or objects coming in contact with the anatomy, such as toilet seats. The system is similar to the systems described above and includes an applicator to apply the produced air to the anatomy or object. Further, the system may be configured for use within a self-cleaning toilet seat that utilizes the purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from the seat. The above and still further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of specific embodiments thereof, particularly when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals in the various figures are utilized to designate like components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a view in elevation and partial section of a portion of an exemplary system of the type employed by the present invention to produce purified or ozone enriched air. Fig. 2 is a view in perspective of a combination ultra-violet (UV) radiation emitting bulb that emits ozone generating and germicidal radiation from different sections of the bulb and includes an end-cap having windows to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation according to the present invention. Fig. 3 is a view in perspective of an internal structure of a system for producing purified or ozone enriched air including a series of baffles forming a tortuous or seφentine air flow path through the system according to the present invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded view in perspective of an alternative embodiment of the system of Fig. 3. Fig. 5a is an exploded view in perspective of a system including a base and a replaceable cartridge having ozone and germicidal chambers and a radiation source for producing purified or ozone enriched air according to the present invention. Fig. 5b is a view in perspective of the rear portion of the cartridge of the system of Fig. 5a. Fig. 6 is a view in perspective of a cartridge component for forming the cartridge of the system of Fig. 5a. Fig. 7 is an exploded view in perspective and partial section of the cartridge of Fig. 5a diagrammatically illustrating the air flow path through the cartridge. Fig. 8 is a view in elevation and partial section of an alternative configuration for the cartridge of the system of Fig. 5a. Fig. 9 is a view in elevation and partial section of another configuration for the cartridge of the system of Fig. 5a. Fig. 10a is a view in perspective of the replaceable cartridge of Fig. 5a configured for use within plenums of vehicles or other locations (e.g., ducts) according to the present invention. Fig. 10b is a view in perspective of the rear portion of the cartridge of the system of Fig. 10a. Fig. 11 is a view in perspective of an end-cap for use with the cartridge radiation source of the system of Fig. 5 a according to the present invention. Fig. 12 is a view in perspective and partial section of the end-cap of Fig. 1 1. Fig. 13 is a view in elevation and partial section of the end-cap of Fig. 11 disposed within the cartridge of Fig. 5a to interface the cartridge radiation source according to the present invention. Fig. 14 is a view in elevation and partial section of a system having a single chamber for producing purified or ozone enriched air according to the present invention. Fig. 15 is a view in perspective and partial section of a system for removing contaminants from objects, such as infant related objects, utilizing ozone and germicidal radiation according to the present invention. Fig. 16 is a front view in elevation and partial section of the system of Fig. 15. Fig. 17 is a front view in elevation and partial section of an alternative configuration for the system of Fig. 15. Fig. 18 is an exploded view in perspective and partial section of a system utilizing ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from a user's hands according to the present invention. Fig. 19 is a side view in elevation and partial section of the system of Fig. 18. Fig. 20 is a view in perspective of a system for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from toothbrushes or other instruments according to the present invention. Fig. 21 is a view in elevation and partial section of the system of Fig. 20. Fig. 22 is a view in elevation and partial section of a system for producing purified or ozone enriched air for injection into a liquid to remove contaminants from toothbrushes or other instruments according to the present invention. Fig. 23 is a view in perspective and partial section of a filtration system for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from liquid according to the present invention. Fig. 24 is a view in elevation and partial section of the system of Fig. 23. Fig. 25 is a view in elevation and partial section of a system for producing purified or ozone enriched air and applying that air to various body parts according to the present invention. Fig. 26 is a view in elevation and partial section of a system for producing purified or ozone enriched air and applying that air to various object surfaces according to the present invention. Fig. 27 is a view in perspective of a toilet seat having a system to produce purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from a toilet seat surface according to the present invention. Fig. 28 is a view in elevation and partial section of the rear portion of the toilet seat of Fig. 27. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An exemplary system of the type employed by the present invention for removing contaminants from a contaminated air stream to produce purified and/or ozone enriched air is illustrated in Fig. 1. Briefly, system 2a includes a housing 5, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, an ultra-violet (UV) radiation source 36 (i.e., typically implemented by a combination ultraviolet radiation emitting bulb emitting ozone generating and germicidal radiation), a ballast (not shown), preferably conventional, for supplying current to radiation source 36, and an internal fan (not shown) for drawing air through the system. The radiation source may be implemented by a single bulb having an ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 emitting radiation at different wavelengths (i.e., approximately 185 and 254 nanometers) from the ozone and germicidal sections, respectively. Radiation source 36 is typically disposed toward the approximate center of the system such that ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 respectively reside within the ozone and germicidal chambers. However, any quantity (e.g., at least one) of radiation sources may be disposed in the system in any fashion with each ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 respectively positioned within the ozone and germicidal chambers. Alternatively, the radiation source may be implemented by independent bulbs (e.g., at least one of each of an ozone and germicidal bulbs) emitting radiation having corresponding ozone and germicidal wavelengths described above and respectively disposed at any suitable locations within the ozone and germicidal chambers. An air stream from a surrounding environment is drawn into the system through an air intake (not shown) via the internal fan and is directed by the internal fan and housing internal structure to flow into ozone chamber 8, typically disposed above and adjacent the internal fan and air intake. Ozone chamber 8 includes ozone section 12 of radiation source 36 and a tortuous or seφentine path 10 that serves to decrease air through-flow velocity (e.g.. the path increases residence time of an air stream within the ozone chamber, thereby decreasing velocity of the air stream through that chamber) and enhance ozone distribution within the air stream. Path 10 receives an air stream entering ozone chamber 8 from the approximate bottom center of the ozone chamber proximate ozone section 12 and transversely directs the air stream away from ozone section 12 toward the system housing. It is to be understood that the terms "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "back", "side", "horizontal", "vertical", "height", "width", "row" and "column" are used herein merely to facilitate descriptions of points of reference and do not limit the present invention to any specific configuration or orientation. Ozone section 12 emits ozone generating ultra-violet (UV) radiation (i.e., having a wavelength of approximately 185 nanometers) that produces ozone within the air stream, while path 10 reduces air through-flow velocity and enables the ozone to mix with the air stream to remove odor causing contaminants as described below. Once the air stream traverses path 10, the air stream exits the ozone chamber and enters germicidal chamber 16. Germicidal chamber 16 includes germicidal section 14 of radiation source 36 that emits germicidal ultra-violet (UV) radiation (i.e., having a wavelength of approximately 254 nanometers) to destroy bacteria and other contaminants residing within the air stream. Further, the germicidal radiation serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone and provides a synergetic effect of enhancing removal of odor causing elements from the air stream. This effect is mentioned in Barker, "Improving the Efficiency of Ozone in Odor Treatment by Activation with U.V. Light", Electricity Council Research Centre, March 1979, the disclosure of which is incoφorated herein by reference in its entirety. The resulting sterilized air from the germicidal chamber is exhausted from the system to the surrounding environment via a system exhaust (not shown). The intensity of radiation emitted in the ozone chamber may be adjusted in several manners to control ozone concentration. For example, radiation intensity may be controlled by selectively disabling or shielding a portion of ozone section 12 to regulate generation of ozone. Shielding of ozone section 12 may be accomplished via an end-cap 72 that regulates emission of ozone generating radiation from radiation source 36 as illustrated in Fig. 2. Specifically, radiation source 36 includes ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 as described above, ozone regulating end-cap 72 and a germicidal end-cap 78. Radiation source 36 is typically disposed within a system with ozone and germicidal sections 12, 14 respectively disposed in the ozone and germicidal chambers as described above. Germicidal end-cap 78 is substantially cylindrical and typically includes an open bottom portion with cross-sectional dimensions greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of radiation source 36 to receive the end of the radiation source adjacent germicidal section 14. End-cap 78 covers a slight portion of germicidal section 14, and may be of any size or shape. Ozone regulating end-cap 72 is substantially cylindrical and includes an open top portion with cross-sectional dimensions greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of radiation source 36 to receive the end of the radiation source adjacent ozone section 12. End-cap 72 may cover any portion of ozone section 12, may be of any size or shape and may be constructed of any suitable materials, such as plastic, that block or prevent passage of radiation from the ozone section. A series of openings or windows 74 are defined in end-cap 72 to regulate the amount of ozone generating radiation emitted in the ozone chamber (e.g., the amount of ozone generating radiation permitted to pass from the radiation source through the end-cap into the ozone chamber), thereby controlling ozone production. Windows 74 are substantially rectangular and are generally defined within end-cap 72 toward an end-cap upper portion. The windows are arranged about the end-cap exterior surface in a non-overlapping manner angularly spaced a slight distance from each other, and may include a glass or other radiation transparent covering. By way of example only, end-cap 72 includes four windows each having a width (e.g., transverse or shorter rectangular dimension) of approximately one-quarter of an inch. The remaining portions of end-cap 72 block radiation, thereby enabling windows 74 to regulate the amount of ozone generating radiation present within the ozone chamber and the quantity of ozone produced. Windows 74 may be of any size or shape, and may be disposed in any quantity (e.g., at least one) and in any fashion about end-cap 72 to facilitate emission of particular radiation intensities within the ozone chamber to produce desired ozone concentrations. In addition, end-cap 72 includes pins or prongs 76 that extend distally from the end-cap distal end to enable radiation source 36 to receive power from a ballast (not shown) within the system. The pins are typically substantially cylindrical, but may be of any shape or size and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The pins are generally implemented by any type of conventional pins that enable connection to a connector or power source. By way of example only, end-cap 72 includes four pins arranged in a box-like configuration of two rows and two columns, however, the end-cap may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of pins arranged on the end-cap in any fashion. Alternatively, end-cap 72 may include a ballast to directly provide power to the radiation source from the end-cap. System 2a described above may include various configurations to reduce air through-flow velocity and enhance distribution of ozone within the air stream. An exemplary embodiment of the system described above having an alternative configuration to reduce air through-flow velocity and enhance distribution of ozone within the air stream is illustrated in Fig. 3. Specifically, system 2b is similar to system 2a described above and includes a housing 5, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, a combination radiation source 36 having an ozone section 12 and a germicidal section 14, and an internal fan 22. Fan 22 draws an air stream from a surrounding environment into the system and directs the air stream into ozone chamber 8. Ozone chamber 8 is disposed adjacent fan 22 and includes ozone section 12 of radiation source 36 and a seφentine or tortuous air flow path 10 formed by a plurality of baffles 42, 44 to enhance distribution of ozone within the air stream. Ozone section 12 is typically is covered by end-cap 72 described above to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation within the ozone chamber and the amount of ozone produced. Path 10 within ozone chamber 8 is generally formed by three baffles (e.g., baffle 44 disposed between a pair of baffles 42), however, the path may be formed by any quantity (e.g., at least one) of baffles disposed within the ozone chamber in any fashion. Windows 74 of end-cap 72 are preferably disposed in the ozone chamber between two baffles positioned toward germicidal section 14. Two types of baffles are generally employed to form the air flow path. In particular, baffle 42 is substantially annular and includes an opening 84 defined toward the baffle center and a plurality of recesses or cut-out portions 46 disposed about the baffle peripheral edge. The baffle opening includes dimensions slightly greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of radiation source 36 to receive the radiation source. By way of example only, baffle 42 includes a cross- sectional dimension between non-recessed baffle portions of approximately five inches, and a cross-sectional dimension between baffle recesses 46 of approximately four inches. Thus, each baffle recess 46 extends from a peripheral baffle edge toward the baffle center for approximately one-half inch. Baffle 44 is substantially annular and includes an opening 86 defined toward the baffle center, whereby the opening generally includes dimensions substantially greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of the radiation source. By way of example only, baffle 44 includes a cross-sectional diameter of approximately five inches, while the baffle opening includes a cross-sectional diameter of approximately three inches. However, openings 84, 86 may be of any suitable size or shape. The substantially central openings 84, 86 defined in baffles 42, 44 receive radiation source 36, while an air stream alternately flows through recesses 46 of baffles 42 and substantially central opening 86 of baffle 44 to traverse the ozone chamber in a seφentine or tortuous manner. The distance between the first and third baffle (e.g., baffles 42) within ozone chamber 8 is approximately two inches. Radiation emitted through windows 74 spreads throughout the ozone chamber, thereby irradiating the air stream prior to the air stream entering the germicidal chamber. In effect, baffles 42, 44 enlarge the ozone chamber by directing the air stream in a seφentine manner, thereby lengthening the ozone chamber path and creating turbulence to mix the ozone with the air stream. Germicidal chamber 16 is disposed adjacent ozone chamber 8 and similarly includes a series of baffles 52, 54. Germicidal chamber baffles 52, 54 are disposed in an alternating fashion within the germicidal chamber and are separated by a distance greater than the separation distance of the baffles in the ozone chamber. Baffle 52 is substantially similar to baffle 42 described above, while baffle 54 is substantially similar to baffle 44 described above. The air stream flows in a seφentine manner through germicidal chamber baffles 52, 54 in substantially the same manner described above for ozone chamber baffles 42, 44, while being exposed to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from the air stream as described below. The air flow path through the germicidal chamber is typically formed by four baffles (e.g., two each of baffles 52, 54 alternately disposed preferably with baffle 54 initiating the baffle arrangement), however, the path may be formed by any quantity of baffles disposed within the germicidal chamber in any fashion. Additional baffles 64 are disposed beyond the radiation source (e.g., the radiation source length is less than the length of housing 5) between germicidal chamber 16 and a system exhaust in order to enable baffles 64 to maintain the emitted radiation within the system. Baffles 64 are substantially similar to baffles 44, 54 described above, whereby the system generally includes two baffles 64 to maintain emitted radiation within the system. However, the system may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of baffles 64 to handle the emitted radiation. It is to be understood that baffles 42, 44, 52, 54 and 64 may be of any shape or size, may be configured in any manner and may be constructed of any suitable materials to direct air flow in a tortuous manner through housing 5. Air flow through system 2b is described. Specifically, air enters system 2b via an air intake (not shown) and is directed by fan 22 into ozone chamber 8. The air stream traverses the seφentine path formed by baffles 42, 44 described above, whereby the air stream is exposed to ozone generating radiation emitted through end-cap windows 74 from ozone section 12 of radiation source 36. The ozone generating radiation produces ozone within the air stream, while the seφentine path formed by baffles 42, 44 enables the ozone to mix with the air steam. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16 and traverses the seφentine path formed by germicidal chamber baffles 52, 54 described above. The air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation from germicidal section 14 to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. Subsequent to the germicidal chamber, the sterilized air stream traverses additional baffles 64 and returns to the surrounding environment via a system exhaust. An alternative embodiment of the system of Fig. 3, especially for use as a wall unit, is illustrated in Fig. 4. Specifically, system 2c includes a housing 5, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, a combination radiation source (not shown), an exhaust vent 31 , a fan 22 and a ballast 4. Housing 5 is typically constructed of foam and includes front and rear components 5a, 5b that interface to form the system housing. Housing component 5a is generally semi- cylindrical having an open top portion and a partially closed bottom portion. A substantially rectangular recess 27 is disposed toward the bottom of housing component 5a and includes a generally semi-circular opening defined in the recess floor. A series of slots 68 are further defined and longitudinally spaced apart in the interior surface of housing component 5a with each slot extending in the direction of a housing component transverse axis along an interior perimeter of that housing component. Housing component 5b is in the form of a generally trapezoidal block having a substantially semi-circular channel 40 defined in the block. The channel extends in the direction of a block longitudinal axis, thereby providing the block with partially open top and bottom portions. A series of slots 69, substantially similar to slots 68, are defined and longitudinally spaced apart in the interior surface of channel 40 and extend in the direction of a channel transverse axis along an interior channel perimeter. The bottom portion of housing component 5b includes a substantially rectangular recess 60 having a generally semi-circular opening defined in the recess floor. Further, a substantially rectangular recess 66 is disposed in a block side wall toward the bottom portion of housing component 5b to house ballast 4. Housing components 5a, 5b interface to form a substantially cylindrical passageway to treat an air stream, while slots 68 and recess 27 of housing component 5a are respectively positioned coincident slots 69 and recess 60 of housing component 5b. Slots 68, 69 form receptacles to receive and secure baffles within the system that direct an air stream in a seφentine manner as described below. Recesses 27. 60 of the housing components form a substantially rectangular receptacle to receive fan 22, while the recess floor openings enable air to be drawn into and through the system by the fan. An external housing cover (not shown), typically constructed of plastic, is generally placed over housing 5. Ozone chamber 8 is disposed adjacent fan 22 and includes baffles 43, 44 that form a seφentine air flow path through the ozone chamber in a similar manner as described above for system 2b. The path through the ozone chamber is typically formed by three baffles (e.g., baffle 43 disposed between a pair of baffles 44), however, the baffles may be arranged in any fashion and may be of any quantity (e.g., at least one). Baffle 43 is substantially annular and includes an opening 85 defined toward the baffle center having dimensions slightly greater than the cross- sectional dimensions of the radiation source. Further, baffle 43 includes openings 77 defined about an exterior surface of baffle 43 toward the baffle peripheral edges, whereby the openings are arranged in a non-overlapping manner angularly spaced a slight distance from each other. Openings 77 are generally rectangular having curved edges along their longer rectangular dimension, however, the openings may be of any shape, size or quantity (e.g., at least one). The radiation source is substantially similar to radiation source 36 described above and is typically positioned such that ozone section 12 is disposed through the openings defined toward the centers of baffles 43, 44 as described above. Baffle 44 is substantially annular and includes an opening 86 substantially greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of the radiation source as described above. Air flows within the ozone chamber through opening 86 of baffle 44 and openings 77 of baffle 43, whereby baffles 44 direct air inward toward the radiation source, while openings 77 direct air outward toward passageway walls to form a seφentine air flow path through the ozone chamber. An air stream is directed into the ozone chamber via fan 22, whereby the air is exposed to ozone generating radiation as described above. The seφentine path formed by baffles 43, 44 enables generated ozone to mix with the air stream to remove odor causing contaminants as described below. Germicidal chamber 16 is disposed adjacent ozone chamber 8 and similarly includes baffles 53, 54 alternately arranged to form a seφentine path through the germicidal chamber in substantially the same manner described above. The germicidal chamber typically includes four baffles (e.g., two each of baffles 53, 54 alternately disposed preferably with baffle 53 initiating the baffle arrangement), however, the baffles may be arranged in any fashion and may be of any quantity (e.g., at least one). Baffle 53 is substantially similar to baffle 43 described above, while baffle 54 is substantially similar to baffle 44 described above. The air stream enters the germicidal chamber from ozone chamber 8, whereby the air stream traverses the seφentine path formed by baffles 53, 54 and is exposed to germicidal radiation from the radiation source germicidal section to remove contaminants as described below. Sterilized air exits the germicidal chamber and returns to the surrounding environment via exhaust vent 31. Exhaust vent 31 is typically substantially circular and includes a bulb holder 21 extending from the vent into the system to engage an end of the radiation source adjacent the germicidal section. Bulb holder 21 is generally cylindrical having cross-sectional dimensions slightly larger then the cross-sectional dimensions of the radiation source to receive the radiation source end. The exhaust and bulb holder vent permit placement and removal of the radiation source within the system and may be of any shape or size. Air flow through system 2c is described. The air flow path is substantially similar to the air flow path described above for system 2b (Fig. 3). Specifically, air enters the system via an air intake (not shown) and is directed into ozone chamber 8 by fan 22. The air stream traverses the alternating sequence of openings 86 of baffles 44 and openings 77 of baffle 43 to flow in a seφentine manner through the ozone chamber. Ozone generating radiation is emitted by the radiation source (not shown) to generate ozone within the air stream, while the seφentine path enables the ozone to mix with the air steam. The air and ozone mixture enters germicidal chamber 16 from the ozone chamber and traverses the alternating sequence of openings 86 of germicidal baffles 54 and openings 77 of baffles 53 to flow in a seφentine fashion through the germicidal chamber as described above. The air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The resulting sterilized air flows through exhaust vent 31 to return to the surrounding environment. A system employing a replaceable cartridge for producing purified or ozone enriched air is illustrated in Figs. 5a - 5b. Specifically, system 2d is similar to the systems described above and includes a base 102 for housing system electrical components (e.g., ballast, fan, etc.) and a cartridge 100a having ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16 and radiation source 36 (Fig. 7). Base 102 is typically disposed in an area containing air to be treated, while cartridge 100a is connected to the base to treat the air in the surrounding environment. The cartridge is preferably disposable and may be replaced as needed, while the base receives and interacts with the replaceable cartridges to remove contaminants from an air stream. Base 102 is typically substantially rectangular and includes dimensions greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of the cartridge to enable the base to receive the cartridge. The base houses the electrical components for system 2d and includes fans 22 (e.g., at least one fan) to direct air from a surrounding environment into cartridge 100a, a ballast 4 to provide current to the radiation source, a power receptacle 101 for facilitating connections between the cartridge and power sources (e.g., ballast), and any other electrical components needed by the system. Ballast 4 may be an A.C. ballast, whereby base 102 is connected to an A.C. power source, such as a conventional wall outlet jack. Alternatively, base 102 may include a D.C. ballast and either be connected to a vehicle power system or have a battery for powering the ballast. The power receptacle typically includes a series of pin receptacles to receive elongated pins 178 from a radiation source end-cap. The power receptacle may be implemented by any conventional or other receptacle, whereby the pin receptacles may be of any quantity, shape or size, and may be arranged in any fashion. Further, the base components (e.g., ballasts, power receptacles, etc.) may be of any quantity (e.g., at least one) and may be arranged in any fashion capable of performing their desired functions. Moreover, the base and cartridge each may be of any size or shape, and may be disposed in any fashion capable of enabling the base to provide power to and direct air through the cartridge. Cartridge 100a typically includes cartridge components 104 that interface to form the cartridge housing. Each cartridge component is configured to essentially implement half of the cartridge housing (e.g., two substantially identical cartridge components may be utilized to form the cartridge housing). The cartridge includes ozone and germicidal chambers and a radiation source, and is configured to direct air in a seφentine manner and to treat the air in substantially the same manner as the systems described above. The cartridge is typically constructed of plastic foam (e.g., polystyrene, expanded polypropylene foam, closed cell or packaging foam, heat seal foam, or foams from the group of polyvinyl aromatic hydrocarbons or any other foam), but may be constructed of any suitable materials. Further, the foam may be a combination of foams or treated with various liners or chemicals via vacuum metalizing or other techniques for handling of liquids, fire retardation or to increase foam capabilities (e.g., strength, tolerance to heat, cold, liquid, chemicals, etc.). An indicator 108, preferably a conventional light emitting diode (LED), is disposed on the cartridge toward the cartridge rear portion to indicate operation of the radiation source. The indicator generally receives power from receptacle 101 and monitors the radiation source. A sleeve 1 12 is typically disposed over and covers cartridge 100a, whereby the sleeve is generally constructed of cardboard, but may be constructed of any suitable materials. Cartridge component 104 for forming the cartridge housing is illustrated in Fig. 6. Specifically, cartridge component 104 is in the form of a rectangular block having side walls 128, 130 and a channel 114 extending in a direction of a block longitudinal axis. Channel 114 includes side walls 133, 135 and a series of walls 120, 122 alternately disposed and longitudinally separated by a slight distance within the channel. Wall 120 occupies the space between the bottom portions of channel side walls 133, 135 and extends from the channel floor toward the channel side wall upper edges. Wall 120 is configured with cut-away segments to form gaps between upper edge portions of wall 120 and the channel side walls to enable an air stream to traverse those gaps during treatment as described below. A generally semi-circular recess 124 is disposed toward the approximate center of the upper portion of wall 120 and extends from that upper portion inwardly toward the wall center. Recess 124 typically receives and secures the radiation source within the cartridge in close fitting relation. Wall 122 is similarly disposed between the channel side walls and extends in a direction of a channel transverse axis along the interior channel perimeter. A generally semi-circular recess 126 is disposed proximate the center of the upper edge portion of wall 122 and extends inwardly from that upper edge portion toward the wall bottom. Recess 126 includes dimensions greater than the dimensions of recess 124 to permit air flow through recess 126 during treatment as described below. Channel 114 typically includes seven walls (e.g., four walls 120 and three walls 122 disposed in alternating fashion with each wall 122 disposed between a pair of walls 120), whereby the first three walls typically form ozone chamber 8, while the remaining walls generally form germicidal chamber 16. However, the ozone and germicidal chambers may include any quantity of walls (e.g., at least one) arranged in any fashion. Block side walls 128, 130 are configured to enable cartridge components 104 to interlock, whereby a raised tab portion or step 134 is disposed toward the approximate center of side wall 128, while a corresponding recess 136 is disposed toward the approximate longitudinal center of the upper edge of side wall 130. The raised tab portion and recess include substantially the same dimensions such that the tab of one cartridge component snugly fits into the recess of another cartridge component to interlock the cartridge components and form the cartridge housing. However, the block may include any fastening devices or techniques to enable cartridge components to interlock. When cartridge components interface, the components form the internal structure of ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16 to remove contaminants from an air stream as illustrated in Fig. 7. Specifically, cartridge 100a is formed by two identical interlocking cartridge components 104 (Fig. 5a) and includes ozone chamber 8 and germicidal chamber 16. The cartridge components interface as described above, whereby edges of walls 120, 122 of each cartridge component are positioned coincident each other to respectively form walls 140, 142 that direct air flow through the cartridge. Wall 140 includes an opening 146 defined toward the approximate center of wall 140. Opening 146 is formed by recesses 124 of coincident edges of walls 120 and includes dimensions only slightly greater than or equal to the cross-sectional dimensions of radiation source 36 to receive ozone section 12 of the source. Openings 144 are defined in wall 140 toward the cartridge side walls to direct an air stream away from the radiation source as the air stream traverses the ozone chamber. Wall 142 includes an opening 148 defined toward the approximate center of wall 142. Opening 148 is formed by recesses 126 of coincident edges of walls 122 and includes dimensions substantially greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of radiation source 36 to direct the air stream toward the radiation source as the air stream traverses the ozone chamber. The sequence of walls 140, 142 within the ozone chamber directs the air stream to alternately flow with an outward flow component toward the cartridge side walls and then with an inward flow component toward the radiation source, thereby directing the air stream through the ozone chamber in a generally three-dimensional seφentine manner. Air entering the ozone chamber is exposed to ozone generating radiation that produces ozone within the air stream, whereby walls 140, 142 direct the air stream in a seφentine fashion to mix the ozone with the air stream to remove odor causing contaminants as described below. Ozone chamber 8 typically includes three walls (e.g., wall 142 disposed between a pair of walls 140), however, the ozone chamber may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of walls arranged in any fashion. Germicidal chamber 16 is disposed adjacent ozone chamber 8, whereby openings 146, 148 receive and secure germicidal section 14 within the germicidal chamber. The air and ozone mixture enters germicidal chamber 16 from ozone chamber 8 and is exposed to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants residing within the air stream as described below. Openings 148 of walls 142 and openings 144 of walls 140 direct the air stream to flow in a seφentine manner through the germicidal chamber in substantially the same manner described above, whereby sterilized air from the germicidal chamber returns to a surrounding environment via a system exhaust (not shown). Germicidal chamber 16 typically includes four walls (e.g., two each of walls 140, 142 disposed in an alternating fashion preferably with wall 142 initiating the arrangement), however, the germicidal chamber may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of walls arranged in any fashion. Operation of the system is described with reference to Figs. 5a, 5b and 7. Initially, base 102 is disposed in an appropriate location (e.g., room, vehicle, duct system, etc.). Cartridge 100a including radiation source 36 is connected to base 102 via receptacle 101 to provide power to the cartridge and direct air through the system. An air stream from a surrounding environment is directed into the system, via fan 22, and enters ozone chamber 8. The air stream is exposed to ozone generating radiation and traverses a seφentine air flow path formed by openings in walls 140, 142 as described above. The seφentine air flow path enables the ozone to mix with the air stream. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16 wherein the air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The air stream traverses the seφentine air flow path within the germicidal chamber formed by openings in walls 140, 142 and exits the system via a system exhaust. The base and cartridge may be of any shape or size to accommodate any sized areas or various applications. The cartridge described above may include various configurations to produce a seφentine air flow path and reduce through-flow velocity in the ozone chamber. An exemplary configuration for the cartridge to provide a seφentine air flow path is illustrated in Fig. 8. Specifically, cartridge 100b includes ozone chamber 8, germicidal chamber 16 and a pair of combination radiation sources 36 each having an ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 as described above. Cartridge side wall 128 (e.g., the leftmost side wall as viewed in Fig. 8) includes dividers 150 extending from that side wall toward side wall 130 (e.g., the rightmost side wall as viewed in Fig. 8), while side wall 130 includes dividers 152 extending from that side wall toward side wall 128. Dividers 150 each extend from side wall 128 for a distance slightly less than the distance between side walls 128, 130, thereby forming respective successive gaps between dividers 150 and side wall 130. Similarly, dividers 152 each extend from side wall 130 for a distance slightly less than the distance between side walls 128, 130, thereby forming respective gaps between dividers 152 and side wall 128. Dividers 150, 152 are interleaved to form successive passageways that collectively define a seφentine path 10 through the cartridge. A plurality of posts 138 are disposed along path 10 to reduce air through-flow velocity and generate turbulence within the flowing air. Radiation sources 36 extend in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the cartridge and are disposed toward the approximate center of the front and rear cartridge walls. Ozone chamber 8 generally occupies the portion of seφentine path 10 residing between a cartridge front wall and a divider 152 positioned closest to the front wall. An end-cap 72 is disposed over ozone section 12 of each radiation source, and includes windows (not shown) to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation and production of ozone. End-caps 72 interface base 102 (e.g., with plural ballasts) to supply power to the cartridge. Air enters ozone chamber 8 via an intake 154 defined in the cartridge front wall toward side wall 130, and is exposed to ozone generating radiation from ozone section 12 to produce ozone. The air stream traverses posts 138, disposed within the ozone chamber toward side wall 128, to reduce air through-flow velocity and enable the ozone to mix with the air. Germicidal chamber 16 effectively occupies the remaining portion of path 10 and similarly includes posts 138 or other forms of obstruction to reduce air through-flow velocity and generate turbulence in the flowing air. The air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation from each germicidal section 14 during traversal of the path within the germicidal chamber to remove contaminants from the air stream as described below. The resulting sterilized air stream exits the system and returns to the surrounding environment via an exhaust 156 defined in the cartridge rear wall toward side wall 128. Radiation sources 36 each include a germicidal end-cap 78 that receives an end of a corresponding radiation source 36 adjacent an associated germicidal section 14 to secure that radiation source in the cartridge. Air flow through cartridge 100b is described. Specifically, an air stream enters cartridge 100b via intake 154 and is directed into ozone chamber 8. The air stream is exposed to ozone generating radiation from ozone section 12 of each radiation source and produces ozone to remove odor causing contaminants as described below. The air stream traverses path 10 and posts 138 that enable the ozone to efficiently mix with the air stream. The air stream flows through path 10 and enters germicidal chamber 16 where the air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation from germicidal section 14 of each radiation source to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The air stream traverses path 10 and posts 138 and exits the system to the surrounding environment via exhaust 156. An alternative configuration for the cartridge is illustrated in Fig. 9. Specifically, cartridge 100c includes ozone chamber 8, germicidal chamber 16, and a pair of combination radiation sources 36 each having an ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 as described above. Cartridge side wall 130 (e.g., the rightmost side wall as viewed in Fig. 9) includes a divider 162 extending from that side wall toward side wall 128 (e.g., the leftmost side wall as viewed in Fig. 9). Divider 162 extends from side wall 130 for a distance slightly less than the distance between side walls 128, 130 to form a gap between divider 162 and side wall 128. A divider 158 extends from divider 162 toward the cartridge rear wall substantially in parallel to side wall 128. Divider 158 has a length slightly less than the distance between divider 162 and the cartridge rear wall to form a gap between divider 158 and the cartridge rear wall. A divider 160 extends from the cartridge rear wall toward divider 162 for a distance slightly less than the distance between the cartridge rear wall and divider 162 to form a gap between divider 160 and divider 162. The dividers form passageways through the cartridge that collectively define seφentine path 10. A plurality of posts 138 are disposed within path 10 to reduce air through- flow velocity and generate turbulence in the flowing air as described above. Radiation sources 36 extend in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the cartridge and are disposed between dividers 158, 160 toward the approximate center between side walls 128, 130. Ozone chamber 8 occupies the portion of path 10 between the cartridge front wall and divider 162. An end-cap 72 is disposed over ozone section 12 of each radiation source, and includes windows (not shown) to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation and production of ozone. End-caps 72 interface base 102 (e.g., with plural ballasts) to supply power to the cartridge. Air enters ozone chamber 8 via an intake 154 defined in the cartridge front wall toward side wall 130, and is exposed to ozone generating radiation from ozone section 12 to produce ozone. The air stream traverses posts 138 disposed along path 10 toward side wall 128 to reduce air through-flow velocity and enable the ozone to mix with the air. The portion of path 10 between divider 158 and side wall 128 essentially serves as a dwell time chamber to enable the ozone to mix with the air. Germicidal chamber 16 effectively occupies the remaining portions of path 10 subsequent to the dwell time chamber (e.g., the portions of path 10 between dividers 158 and 160 and between side wall 130 and divider 160). In other words, the germicidal chamber occupies the portions of path 10 capable of receiving germicidal radiation from germicidal section 14 of each radiation source. The germicidal chamber similarly includes posts 138 to reduce air through-flow velocity and generate turbulence in the air. The air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation from each germicidal section 14 during traversal of the path within the germicidal chamber to remove contaminants from the air stream as described below. Further, a conventional or other type of filter 198 may be disposed adjacent divider 162 to remove particulate or other contaminants from the air stream during traversal of the path. The resulting sterilized air stream exits the system and returns to the surrounding environment via exhaust 156 defined in the cartridge rear wall toward side wall 130. Radiation sources 36 each include a germicidal end-cap 78 that receives ends of respective radiation sources adjacent germicidal sections 14 to secure the radiation sources within the cartridge. Air flow through cartridge 100c is described. Specifically, an air stream enters cartridge 100c via intake 154 and is directed into ozone chamber 8. The air stream is exposed to ozone generating radiation from ozone section 12 of each radiation source and produces ozone. The air stream traverses the dwell chamber within path 10 and posts 138 that enable the ozone to mix with the air stream. The air stream flows through path 10 and enters germicidal chamber 16 where the air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation from germicidal section 14 of each radiation source to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The air stream traverses path 10 and posts 138 within the germicidal chamber, and exits the system to the surrounding environment via exhaust 156. A cartridge configured for use within plenums of vehicles or other locations (e.g., ducts of HVAC systems) is illustrated in Figs. 10a - 10b. Specifically, cartridge lOOd is substantially similar to and functions in substantially the same manner as the cartridges described above except that the cartridge includes a connector 106 to provide power to the cartridge. Cartridge 1 OOd may include any of the cartridge configurations described above (e.g., with plural connectors for Figs. 8 - 9), and is typically inserted within a plenum of a vehicle. Connector 106 interfaces a radiation source end-cap and extends to connect the cartridge to a vehicle or other power supply. The connector may be implemented by any conventional or other type of connector, and may be configured in any fashion (e.g., to handle multiple radiation sources) to facilitate connection between the cartridge and power source. Light indicator 108 may receive power from the power supply via connector 106. Cartridge lOOd is typically inserted within the plenum such that air flowing within the plenum directly flows through the cartridge. A fan may be disposed on the cartridge to assist in directing air through the cartridge, however, plenum air flow is generally sufficient to enable treatment of the air stream by the cartridge. An air stream enters the cartridge, whereby the air stream traverses the cartridge ozone and germicidal chambers to facilitate removal of odor causing and other contaminants from the air stream in substantially the same manner described above. A radiation source end-cap for use with a cartridge to insulate the cartridge from radiation source temperatures is illustrated in Figs. 1 1 - 12. Specifically, end-cap 164 includes a bulb receptacle 166, a support 170 and a flange 172. Bulb receptacle 166 is generally cylindrical having an open top portion to receive an end of a radiation source. The bulb receptacle includes a series of grooves 174 defined in the receptacle exterior surface and extending in the direction of a receptacle longitudinal axis. Similarly, a series of ridges 176 are defined in the interior surface of bulb receptacle 166 coincident grooves 174 and extend in the direction of a receptacle longitudinal axis. The bulb receptacle includes cross-sectional dimensions substantially similar to the cross-sectional dimensions of the radiation source such that ridges 176 extend from the receptacle interior surface to snugly receive an end of the radiation source. The bulb receptacle typically covers the ozone section and includes air vents 180 to permit cooling of the radiation source. The bulb receptacle may be constructed of any suitable materials capable of blocking radiation, and includes windows 74 as described above to regulate emission of ozone generating radiation and production of ozone. By way of example only, bulb receptacle 166 has a height of approximately one and three-quarters inches with an inner cross-sectional dimension of slightly greater than one-half inch. Bulb receptacle 166 is disposed toward the approximate center of a top surface of support 170, whereby pins 178 extend from the distal end of receptacle 166 into the support interior to facilitate power connections for the radiation source. The receptacle generally includes four pins typically arranged in a box-like configuration of two rows and two columns with the pin rows separated by a distance of approximately 0.3 inches, however, the receptacle may include any quantity of pins arranged in any fashion. Support 170 is generally cylindrical, and includes an open bottom portion to enable access to the pins. The support has cross-sectional dimensions greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of receptacle 166. The support top surface interfaces the support side surfaces in such a manner to form a rounded junction or intersection. Flange or ledge 172 is disposed toward the bottom of the support approximately one and one-half inches from the support top surface, and extends from and about the support exterior surface. Support 170 is typically inserted within a receptacle in a cartridge, whereby flange 172 secures the end- cap in place, while support 170 elevates or provides sufficient distance between the cartridge and portion of the radiation source having substantial temperatures. Operation of a radiation source and end-cap is described with reference to Fig. 13. Initially, an end of a radiation source 36 is inserted into bulb receptacle 166 of end-cap 164. Support 170 is typically inserted within an opening formed in a cartridge toward the cartridge rear wall (e.g., opening 146 in wall 140 (Fig. 7)). Flange 172 serves as a stop to secure the radiation source in that opening. Connector 106 of cartridge lOOd may be inserted into the open bottom portion of support 170 to interface pins 178 or, alternatively, pins 178 may be elongated to extend beyond the end-cap to interface receptacle 101 of base 102 (e.g., cartridge 100a) in order to provide power to the respective cartridges. Support 170 provides sufficient distance between the end of the radiation source and the cartridge housing, whereby the end of the radiation source typically incurs substantial temperatures. Essentially, the end-cap maintains heat generated by the radiation source away from the foam cartridge housing, while the air vents permit air to pass over and cool the extreme temperatures of the bulb. In other words, the end-cap raises the hot bulb away from the foam cartridge housing to prevent substantial temperatures of the radiation source from affecting the housing. Although the systems described above and in the aforementioned patent applications typically include an ozone and germicidal chamber, these systems may alternatively include a single chamber to treat an air stream as illustrated in Fig. 14. Specifically, system 2e includes a housing 5, radiation source 36 having ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 as described above, a treatment chamber 19, an internal fan (not shown), an air intake 30 and an air exhaust 39. The radiation source is disposed within treatment chamber 19 with ozone section 12 positioned toward air intake 30, and germicidal section 14 disposed toward air exhaust 39. Treatment chamber 19 generally includes a seφentine path extending along ozone section 12, however, the path may extend along either or both of the ozone and germicidal sections of radiation source 36. For example, the seφentine path may be formed by baffles or dividers as described above. The treatment chamber includes cross-sectional dimensions substantially similar to intake 30 along ozone section 12, whereby the chamber dimensions subsequent to the ozone section initially expand and remain relatively constant along a majority of germicidal section 14. The chamber dimensions along the remaining portion of the germicidal section contract to the dimensions of exhaust 39, while the chamber dimensions along the exhaust remain relatively constant. In other words, the chamber includes narrow dimensions toward, and wider dimensions between, the intake and exhaust. In operation, air enters intake 30 and is directed by a fan (not shown) into treatment chamber 19. The air flows along a seφentine path adjacent ozone section 12, whereby the ozone section emits ozone generating radiation to produce ozone within the air stream. The seφentine path enables the ozone to mix with the air stream. Air subsequently traverses germicidal section 14, whereby the air is exposed to germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The seφentine path may extend along the germicidal section, whereby the air is exposed to the germicidal radiation during traversal of the seφentine path. The sterilized air exits treatment chamber 19, and returns to a surrounding environment via exhaust 39. Purified and/or ozone enriched air may be utilized in various applications to remove contaminants from objects, especially objects associated with infants and young children (e.g., pacifiers, bottle nipples, thermometers, teething or other toys, etc.). A system for removing contaminants from objects utilizing ozone and germicidal radiation is illustrated in Figs. 15 - 16. Specifically, system 2f includes a treatment chamber 23 having an ozone generating radiation source 116 and a germicidal radiation source 62. The system includes substantially rectangular top and bottom walls 125, 127, front and rear walls 129, 131, and side walls 111, l lδ that form a box-like housing 105 and collectively define a system interior. A door 190 may be disposed on front wall 129 to facilitate placement and removal of objects within the system. Sources 62, 116 are generally disposed in the upper portion of the system substantially in parallel to each other, and extend from the front to the rear of the system. Alternatively, the housing may include a door disposed on top wall 125 with the ozone generating and germicidal radiation sources extending from the top toward the bottom of the housing. A fan 22 is disposed proximate ozone radiation source 1 16 to direct air toward that source to generate ozone. A soaking chamber 1 10 is disposed adjacent ozone radiation source 1 16 to enable generated ozone to mix with the air. A divider 115 extends from the system top wall toward the chamber floor to isolate the ozone source and soaking chamber from the germicidal radiation source, while dividers 121, 123 extend between housing side wall 1 1 1 and divider 1 15 to define and isolate the soaking chamber. The soaking chamber typically includes a winding or other type of path 10 to enhance distribution of ozone within the air stream as described above. The path is formed by a series of interleaved dividers 1 17, 1 19 directing the air stream in a seφentine fashion. In particular, dividers 117 each extend from divider 115 toward side wall 1 1 1. The length of each divider 1 17 is less than the distance between side wall 11 1 and divider 1 15 to form respective gaps between divider 117 and that side wall. Similarly, divider 119 extends from side wall 11 1 toward divider 115. The length of divider 1 19 is less than the distance between side wall 111 and divider 1 15 to form a gap between divider 119 and divider 115. Divider 119 is disposed between dividers 117 to form successive passageways collectively defining seφentine path 10, whereby the gaps enable air to traverse succeeding passageways. Opening 191 is defined in wall 121 toward divider 115, while opening 192 is defined in divider 123 toward side wall 111. The openings enable the air stream to traverse path 10 and treat an object residing on the treatment chamber floor. The ozone flows with the air stream toward the object to facilitate removal of odor causing contaminants from the object. Subsequently, the object is exposed to germicidal radiation from germicidal radiation source 62 to remove bacteria and other contaminants from the object. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the object as described above. The system may include a microprocessor or other control circuitry to initiate power to fan 22 and ozone radiation source 116 for a predetermined time interval to enable generation of ozone as described above. Upon expiration of the predetermined interval, power is disabled to fan 22 and ozone radiation source 116 to prevent ozone generation. The ozone concentration may thus be controlled based on the length of this interval. Germicidal radiation source 62 is initiated subsequent to expiration of the ozone generation interval to expose the object to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from the object as described above. The germicidal source is similarly activated for a predetermined time interval, and then disabled to permit removal of the object from the system. An alarm or other indicator may be disposed on the system to indicate completion of the treatment. The ozone generation and germicidal intervals and other parameters may be programmed into the system via a control panel 132 typically disposed adjacent door 190. System 2f typically includes a D.C. ballast for powering the radiation sources in order to be transportable and/or utilized in various vehicles (e.g., cars, boats, trucks, buses, trains, etc.) or other remote areas. The D.C. ballast may receive power from conventional batteries, or vehicle cigarette lighters or power systems to enable the system to be utilized at various remote locations. An alternative embodiment for removing contaminants from objects utilizing ozone enriched air is illustrated in Fig. 17. System 2g is similar to system 2f except that a combination radiation source 36 is utilized to produce ozone enriched air for removing contaminants from objects. Specifically, system 2g includes a treatment chamber 23 for exposing objects to ozone enriched air, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, radiation source 36 and fan 22. System 2g includes substantially rectangular top and bottom walls 125, 127, front and rear walls (not shown), and side walls 111, 118 that form a box-like housing and collectively define a system interior. A door may be disposed on the front wall (not shown) to facilitate placement and removal of objects within the system. Ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16 are generally disposed in the upper portion of the system adjacent each other and extend between system housing side walls 1 11, 118. A wall 73 extends from side wall 11 1 toward side wall 118 for a distance slightly less than the distance between the side walls, thereby forming a gap between wall 73 and system side wall 118. The gap enables treated air to enter treatment chamber 23. Ozone chamber 8 includes section 12 of radiation source 36 and a series of overlapping dividers 48, 71. Divider 48 extends from system top wall 125 toward wall 73, while divider 71 extends from wall 73 toward system top wall 125. Dividers 48, 71 have lengths less than the distance between top wall 125 and wall 73 to form respective gaps between divider 48 and wall 73, and between divider 71 and top wall 125. Dividers 48, 71 form succeeding passageways that collectively define seφentine path 10, whereby the gaps enable the air to traverse succeeding passages. An air stream enters the system via an air intake (not shown) defined in the system housing and is directed into ozone chamber 8 by fan 22 disposed adjacent the air intake. The air stream traverses seφentine path 10, whereby the air stream is exposed to ozone generating radiation that produces ozone within the air stream. The seφentine path enables the ozone to mix with the air stream. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16. The germicidal chamber includes germicidal section 14 emitting germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. Additional overlapping dividers 49, 75 are disposed within the germicidal chamber to direct the air stream in a seφentine fashion and prevent the germicidal radiation from entering the treatment chamber. Divider 49 extends from top wall 125 toward wall 73, while divider 75 extends from wall 73 toward top wall 125. Dividers 49, 75 have lengths less then the distance between top wall 125 and wall 73, whereby respective gaps are foimed between divider 49 and wall 73, and between divider 75 and top wall 125. The dividers form succeeding passageways that collectively direct air in a seφentine fashion, whereby the gaps enable air to traverse succeeding passages. The overlapping arrangement of dividers 49, 75 prevent germicidal radiation from entering the treatment chamber. The purified or ozone enriched air enters the treatment chamber to remove contaminants from objects disposed within the treatment chamber. The system may include a microprocessor or other control circuitry to initiate and disable power to fan 22 and radiation source 36 to produce purified or ozone-enriched air for a predetermined time interval. The ozone concentration within the air steam may be controlled in various manners as described above. An alarm or other indicator may be disposed on the system to indicate completion of treatment, while treatment intervals and other parameters may be programmed into the system via a control panel (not shown) as described above. Ozone enriched and/or purified air may be applied to hands to remove contaminants from the hands in preparation of hand care (e.g., a manicure, applying nail polish, or other care) or food products as illustrated in Figs. 18 - 19. Specifically, system 2h has a configuration substantially similar to system 2f described above and includes a treatment chamber 23 having an ozone generating radiation source 116 and a germicidal radiation source 62. The system typically includes top and bottom walls 125, 127, front and rear walls 129, 131 and side walls 111, 118 that form a box-like housing and collectively define a system interior. Front wall 129 typically includes openings 24 to facilitate placement and removal of hands 26 within the system. Alternatively, the housing may include several smaller openings for placement and removal of individual fingers within the system. A person typically inserts their hands through openings 24 into the system treatment chamber for a short time interval to enable ozone and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from the hands in substantially the same manner described above. Openings 24 generally include flaps 25 that form a seal with hands 26 to enable entry and removal of hands 26 within treatment chamber 23, while preventing ozone from escaping the system. Radiation sources 116, 62 are generally disposed in the upper portion of the system substantially in parallel to each other and extend between side walls 111, 118. A fan 22 is disposed proximate ozone radiation source 116 to direct an air stream toward that source to generate ozone. A soaking chamber 110 may be disposed adjacent ozone radiation source 1 16 to enable generated ozone to mix with the air stream. A divider 1 15 extends from top wall 125 toward the treatment chamber floor to isolate the ozone generating radiation source and soaking chamber from the germicidal radiation source, while dividers 121, 123 extend between rear wall 131 and divider 1 15 to define and isolate the soaking chamber. The soaking chamber may include a winding or other type of path 10 to enhance distribution of ozone within the air stream as described above. The path is foimed by a series of interleaved dividers 1 17, 119 directing the air stream in a seφentine fashion. In particular, dividers 1 17 each extend from divider 1 15 toward rear wall 131. The length of each divider 1 17 is less than the distance between rear wall 131 and divider 115 to form respective gaps between dividers 117 and rear wall 131. Divider 1 19 extends from system rear wall 131 toward divider 115, and includes a length less than the distance between rear wall 131 and divider 115 to form a gap between divider 1 19 and divider 115. Divider 119 is disposed between dividers 117 to form successive passageways collectively defining seφentine path 10, whereby the gaps enable the air to traverse succeeding passages. An opening 191 is defined in wall 121 toward divider 115, while an opening 192 is defined in wall 123 toward rear wall 131. The openings enable the air stream to traverse path 10 to treat the hands residing toward the treatment chamber floor. The ozone flows with the air stream toward hands 26 to facilitate removal of odor causing contaminants from the hands. Subsequently, hands 26 are exposed to germicidal radiation from germicidal radiation source 62 for a short time interval to remove bacteria and other contaminants from the hands. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the hands as described above. The system may include a microprocessor or other control circuitry to initiate power to fan 22 and ozone radiation source 116 for a predetermined time interval to enable generation of ozone as described above. Upon expiration of the predetermined interval, power is disabled to fan 22 and ozone radiation source 116 to prevent ozone generation. The ozone concentration may thus be controlled based on the length of this interval. Germicidal radiation source 62 is initiated subsequent to expiration of the ozone generation interval to expose hands 26 to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants as described above. The germicidal source is similarly activated for a predetermined time interval, and then disabled to permit removal of hands 26 from the system. An alarm or other indicator may be disposed on the system to indicate completion of the treatment. The ozone generation and germicidal periods and other parameters may be programmed into the system via a control panel (not shown). Alternatively, system 2h may include the single combination radiation source configuration described above for system 2g to remove contaminants from hands via ozone enriched air in substantially the same manner described above. Ozone enriched or purified air may be further utilized to remove contaminants from toothbrushes or other instruments within a holder as illustrated in Figs. 20 - 21. Specifically, system 2i includes a housing 7, an instrument chamber 18, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16 and an internal fan 22. Housing 7 is generally frusto-conical and similar in shape to a drinking cup with a top surface 28 having openings 33 for receiving a toothbrush 20 or other instrument (e.g., thermometers, tweezers, etc.). Openings 33 each include flaps 35 that form a seal with toothbrush 20 to maintain purified or ozone enriched air within the housing. A divider 29 isolates instrument chamber 18 from the purified air portion of the system and provides a surface to enable a head 37 of toothbrush 20 to rest. Divider 29 includes an opening 34 to permit the purified or ozone enriched air to enter instrument chamber 18 and remove contaminants from the toothbrush or other instrument. The purified air portion of system 2i is disposed below divider 29 toward the bottom of housing 7. The purified air portion includes ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, combination radiation source 36 and fan 22. The system functions in substantially the same manner described above to generate purified or ozone enriched air. Specifically, air enters system 2i via air intake or slots 38 defined in housing 7 toward the housing bottom. The air is directed through the system via fan 22 disposed adjacent slots 38. Ozone chamber 8 is disposed adjacent fan 22 and includes overlapping dividers 41 , 79 that form a seφentine path 10 between divider 29 and the housing bottom. In particular, divider 41 extends from divider 29 toward the housing bottom, while divider 79 extends from the housing bottom toward divider 29. The length of divider 41 is less than the distance between divider 29 and the housing bottom to a form gap between divider 41 and the housing bottom. Similarly, the length of divider 79 is less than the distance between divider 29 and the housing bottom to form a gap between divider 79 and divider 29. The dividers form successive passageways collectively defining the seφentine path, whereby the gaps enable the air stream to traverse succeeding passages. An air stream traverses path 10, whereby ozone section 12 irradiates the air to produce ozone. The seφentine path enables the ozone to mix with the air stream. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16 wherein the air stream is exposed to germicidal radiation. Germicidal chamber 16 is disposed adjacent ozone chamber 8 and includes germicidal section 14 of radiation source 36 that emits germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream to produce purified or ozone enriched air. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. It is to be understood that the ozone concentration of the resulting air stream may be controlled in various manners as described above. The ozone enriched or purified air enters instrument chamber 18 via opening 34 in divider 29 to remove contaminants from toothbrush head 37 or other instrument. An alternative embodiment for removing contaminants from toothbrushes or other instruments by injecting ozone into water is illustrated in Fig. 22. System 2j is substantially similar to system 2i described above except that instrument chamber 18 includes water or other liquid and divider 29 has a nozzle to inject the ozone enriched air into the water. Specifically, system 2j includes housing 7, instrument chamber 18, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, combination radiation source 36 and fan 22 each as described above. A divider 29 isolates the instrument chamber from the purified air portion and serves to maintain water and support toothbrush head 37 within the instrument chamber. Divider 29 further includes a nozzle 51 disposed proximate opening 34 defined in that divider. The nozzle injects ozone enriched air received from opening 34 into the water residing within instrument chamber 18 to remove contaminants from the toothbrush head as described above. An air stream enters system 2j via air intake or slots 38 and is directed through the system via fan 22. The air stream enters ozone chamber 8, wherein the air is exposed to ozone generating radiation from ozone section 12 to generate ozone as described above. The air stream traverses seφentine path 10, formed by dividers 41, 79 as described above, to enable the ozone to mix with the air stream to facilitate removal of odor causing contaminants. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16 wherein the air is irradiated by germicidal section 14 to remove bacteria and other contaminants from the air stream as described above. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The resulting purified or ozone enriched air traverses opening 34 in divider 29 and is injected into the instrument chamber water via nozzle 51. The ozone removes contaminants from the water and toothbrush head 37 or other instrument. For an example of injecting gasses, such as ozone, into liquids via nozzles, reference is made to U.S. Patent Nos. 4,382,866 (Johnson), 4,491,551 (Johnson), 4,562,014 (Johnson), 4,563,286 (Johnson et al) and 4,655,933 (Johnson et al), the disclosures of which are incoφorated herein by reference in their entireties. Further, the purifying characteristics of ozone enriched air may be utilized to purify liquids, or bodies of liquids, such as pool water residing within a pool, as illustrated in Figs. 23 - 24. System 2k is similar to and functions in a similar manner as the systems described above except that the air and ozone mixture from the ozone chamber is injected into a liquid, while the germicidal chamber exposes the ozone injected liquid to germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from the liquid. Specifically, system 2k includes a housing 3, an inlet 93, an outlet 95 and a channel or liquid passage 56 disposed between the inlet and outlet to enable liquid to flow from the inlet through the system to the outlet. Housing 3 is typically substantially rectangular, but may be of any size or shape and may be constructed of any suitable materials (e.g., plastics). The housing includes ozone chamber 8, germicidal chamber 16 and combination radiation source 36 that each function in substantially the same manner as described above. The housing further includes a fan (not shown) and other electrical components (not shown, e.g., ballast, wiring) that draw air through the system and provide power to radiation source 36, respectively. The ballast may be implemented by an A.C. ballast connected to a power line, or a D.C. ballast connected to a battery disposed within the system. Radiation source 36 includes ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 as described above, and is disposed within housing 3 such that ozone section 12 and germicidal section 14 reside within ozone chamber 8 and germicidal chamber 16, respectively. System 2k is typically disposed adjacent a pool 11 or other liquid source and receives pool water through a filter opening 9 generally disposed in a pool side wall. Hoses 6 extend between the pool and inlet 93, and between the pool and outlet 95 to enable the system to receive contaminated pool water from and return purified pool water to the pool. The hoses are attached to the system via respective pipeline section ends 99 and connectors 97. Connectors 97 may be implemented by any conventional or other connectors forming a liquid tight seal. Liquid flows from pool 11 into channel 56 of system 2k via inlet 93. Channel 56 extends between inlet 93 and outlet 95 to direct liquid through the system. The system purifies the liquid during traversal of channel 56, and directs the liquid back to pool 11 via outlet 95 to enable the purified liquid to flow to the pool as described below. Ozone chamber 8 is disposed proximate the liquid flow within channel 56 and includes slots 15 defined in housing side wall 55 disposed between housing top and bottom walls toward inlet 93. The slots are defined in side wall 55 toward an upper portion of the ozone chamber to receive an air stream from a surrounding environment. The slots may be of any quantity (e.g., at least one) or size and are formed to enable an air stream to enter the system, while maintaining ultra-violet (UV) radiation emitted from ozone section 12 within the ozone chamber. An internal fan (not shown) is typically disposed proximate slots 15 and is utilized to draw air into the system and through the ozone chamber. Ozone chamber 8 further includes interleaved dividers 45, 47 that form a tortuous or seφentine path 10. In particular, divider 45 extends from a divider 57 disposed adjacent the germicidal chamber and extending between top and bottom housing walls. Divider 45 extends from divider 57 toward ozone chamber side wall 55, while dividers 47 each extend from side wall 55 toward divider 57. The length of divider 45 is slightly less than the distance between side wall 55 and divider 57 to form a gap between divider 45 and side wall 55. Similarly, the lengths of dividers 47 are each slightly less than the distance between side wall 55 and divider 57 to form respective gaps between dividers 47 and divider 57. Dividers 45, 47 form successive passageways that collectively define seφentine path 10, whereby the gaps enable the air stream to traverse succeeding passages. An air stream enters the ozone chamber via slots 15 and is exposed to radiation emitted from ozone section 12 to generate ozone within the air stream. The air stream subsequently traverses path 10, whereby the generated ozone mixes with the air stream as described above. The path and/or intensity of radiation emitted by ozone section 12 may be adjusted to produce a desired ozone concentration as described above. The ozone enriched air is injected into the liquid flow within channel 56 via a nozzle 91. The nozzle is disposed toward inlet 93 within a passage of path 10 disposed adjacent channel 56, and injects the ozone enriched air into the liquid to remove contaminants from the liquid as described below. The liquid flow in combination with nozzle 91 mix the ozone enriched air with the liquid. The ozone chamber typically has a greater portion extending along channel 56 than the germicidal chamber to enable the liquid to flow within channel 56 prior to treatment within the germicidal chamber, thereby facilitating mixing of the ozone enriched air with the liquid. For an example of injecting gases into liquids via nozzles, reference is made to the aforementioned U.S. Patent Nos. 4,382,866 (Johnson), 4,491 ,551 (Johnson), 4,562,014 (Johnson), 4,563,286 (Johnson et al) and 4,655,933 (Johnson et al). Subsequent to injection of ozone enriched air into the liquid flowing within channel 56, the liquid flows toward germicidal chamber 16. Germicidal chamber 16 is disposed adjacent ozone chamber 8 and proximate the liquid flowing within channel 56 to expose that liquid to germicidal radiation emitted from germicidal section 14. Germicidal chamber 16 includes a radiation transparent floor 59, preferably constructed of glass or plastic, to maintain liquid within channel 56 (e.g., prevent liquid from entering the germicidal chamber), while enabling germicidal radiation from germicidal section 14 to remove contaminants from the liquid. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the injected ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of contaminants from the liquid as mentioned in the above-referenced Barker document. The purified water is returned to pool 1 1 via hoses 6 extending from outlet 95. In addition, system 2k may include filters to remove particles from the water, and pumping mechanisms to maintain sufficient water flow or pressure through the system and to circulate pool water through the system at adequate rates. The flow rate typically depends on the chlorine concentration utilized, whereby the lower the chlorine concentration utilized, the higher the flow rate required through the system. System 2k may be adapted to purify water flowing within various pipes or other conduits for various applications. For example, the system may be disposed within pipelines to purify and/or ozonate tap water within homes and other establishments, or drinking water for water fountains. In addition, the system may accommodate appliances utilizing water, such as dishwashers or washing machines, to provide purified or ozonated water for enhanced removal of contaminants from objects (e.g., clothes, dishes, silverware, etc.). Further, the system may be implemented with independent radiation sources, whereby the germicidal radiation source may be disposed within the liquid flow in channel 56. Purified or ozone enriched air may be applied to object exterior surfaces or skin to remove contaminants from those surfaces as illustrated in Fig. 25. Specifically, system 2m includes a housing 50, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, combination radiation source 36 and applicator shield 65. Housing 50 is substantially cylindrical, tapering inward toward the housing upper portion and extending therefrom for a slight distance. Applicator shield 65 is generally conical and is disposed on the tapered portion of housing 50. The shield dimensions expand as the shield extends transversely from the housing, whereby the shield aperture is typically placed over a body part or other surface to direct purified or ozone enriched air over that surface (e.g., cuts, wounds, etc.) to remove contaminants. Housing 50 further includes an air intake or slots 17 defined in the housing floor, whereby a fan 22 disposed adjacent the air intake directs an air stream into and through the system. The air stream enters the system and is directed into ozone chamber 8 disposed adjacent fan 22. The ozone chamber includes ozone section 12 of radiation source 36 and upper and lower ozone dividers 61 , 70. Lower divider 70 is disposed toward fan 22 and isolates the ozone chamber from the fan. The lower ozone divider is substantially annular with a substantially central opening defined therein to receive ozone section 12, and includes a generally cylindrical guide 83 disposed at the opening periphery toward the ozone section. Guide 83 extends from lower divider 70 toward upper divider 61. Upper divider 61 is disposed toward germicidal chamber 16 and is substantially annular with a substantially central opening defined therein to receive radiation source 36. The upper divider isolates the ozone chamber from the germicidal chamber and includes a generally cylindrical guide 81 disposed at the upper divider peripheral edge toward the housing wall. Guide 81 extends from upper divider 61 toward lower divider 70. Guide 83 is disposed within the confines of guide 81, whereby guides 81, 83 each have lengths less than the distance between the upper and lower dividers to form gaps between guide 81 and lower divider 70, and between guide 83 and upper divider 61. Guides 81, 83 form successive passages that collectively define seφentine path 10, whereby the gaps enable the air stream to traverse succeeding passages. Ozone section 12 emits ozone generating radiation to produce ozone within the air stream. The air stream traverses path 10 to enable the ozone to mix with the air stream. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16. The germicidal chamber includes ozone section 14 of radiation source 36 to emit germicidal radiation within the germicidal chamber. The germicidal radiation removes bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The ozone enriched air flows toward applicator shield 65, whereby a fan 63 disposed proximate a shield opening directs the air through shield 65. The shield aperture is typically placed over a surface or body part of interest to direct the ozone enriched air over that surface to remove contaminants. The system typically includes a power switch and associated circuitry (e.g., ballast, batteries, etc.) to enable the system to produce ozone enriched air. Further, the shield may include a valve (not shown) to control flow of air through the shield. The valve may be enabled to permit air flow through the system when the power switch is activated, or may include a separate switch to regulate air flow through the shield. Purified or ozone enriched air may be utilized to sanitize various objects susceptible to contamination by germs, such as toilet seats, as illustrated in Fig 26. System 2n is substantially similar to system 2m described above except that the system includes an intake shield to recycle contaminated air through the system after removing contaminants from a surface. Specifically, system 2n includes a housing 50, ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, combination radiation source 36, applicator shield 65 and intake shield 67. Housing 50 is substantially cylindrical, tapering inward toward the housing upper portion and extending therefrom a slight distance as described above. The housing further includes intake shield 67 and applicator shield 65, each extending transversely from that tapered portion. Applicator shield 65 is substantially similar to the applicator shield described above, and is generally conical with the shield dimensions expanding as the shield extends transversely from housing 50. Intake shield 67 is substantially similar to applicator shield 65, but includes smaller dimensions, whereby the intake shield is disposed within the applicator shield. The applicator shield directs the ozone enriched air onto a surface, while the intake shield draws air from that surface back into the system as described below. Housing 50 further includes an air intake or slots 17 defined in the housing floor where a fan 22 disposed proximate the intake directs an air stream into and through the system. The air stream enters the system and is directed by fan 22 into ozone chamber 8 disposed adjacent the fan. The ozone chamber is substantially similar to the ozone chamber described above for system 2m, and includes ozone section 12 of radiation source 36 and upper and lower ozone dividers 61 , 70 having guides 81, 83 that form seφentine path 10 as described above. However, lower divider 70 covers the cross-sectional area of housing 50 except for a channel 58 extending along a housing wall described below. Ozone section 12 emits ozone generating radiation to produce ozone within the air stream, while the air stream traverses path 10 to enable the ozone to mix with the air. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16. The germicidal chamber includes germicidal section 14 of radiation source 36 that emits germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. The resulting ozone enriched air flows toward applicator shield 65, whereby a fan 63 directs air through the applicator shield aperture to an object surface. The air flows around intake shield 67 and is drawn through the intake shield, via a fan 159, after interacting with the object surface to remove contaminants. Hose or channel 58 extends from intake shield 67 along an interior housing wall toward the housing bottom, whereby the contaminated air mixes with incoming air and is directed to flow back into ozone chamber 8 via fan 22. The intake shield essentially maintains ozone within the system and prevents the ozone from accumulating on the object surface. The system typically includes a power switch and associated circuitry (e.g., ballast, batteries, etc.) to enable the system to produce ozone enriched air. Further, the applicator and intake shields may include valves (not shown) to control flow of air through those shields. The valves may be enabled by a system power switch, or individual switches to control the respective valves to regulate flow through the shields. Alternatively, purified or ozone enriched air may be generated within a toilet seat for automatic sanitization as illustrated in Figs. 27 - 28. Specifically, the toilet seat includes a base 92, a seat plate 80 and a system 2p for generating purified or ozone enriched air. System 2p includes ozone and germicidal chambers 8, 16, combination radiation source 36 and fan 22. Base 92 is generally 'U'-shaped in the form of a conventional toilet seat having a relatively linear rear portion. The base includes side and bottom walls that collectively define a channel to enable air flow. The rear portion of base 92 houses system 2p to produce ozone enriched air. Fan 22 is disposed adjacent slots 82 defined in a base rear portion side wall to direct an air stream through the system. An air stream enters system 2p and is directed by fan 22 into ozone chamber 8 disposed adjacent the fan. Ozone chamber 8 has a configuration substantially similar to the ozone chamber described above for system 2g (Fig. 17) and includes ozone section 12 of radiation source 36 and walls 48, 71 forming a seφentine path 10 as described above. The air is exposed to ozone generating radiation emitted by ozone section 12, whereby the radiation produces ozone within the air stream. The seφentine path enables the ozone to mix with the air stream. The air stream subsequently enters germicidal chamber 16 disposed adjacent ozone chamber 8. The germicidal chamber has a configuration substantially similar to the germicidal chamber described above for system 2g (Fig. 17) and includes germicidal section 14 of radiation source 36 to emit germicidal radiation within the germicidal chamber, and walls 49, 75 that baffle the emitted radiation to maintain the radiation within the germicidal chamber. The germicidal radiation removes bacteria and other contaminants from that air stream. The germicidal radiation further serves as a catalyst for the produced ozone to facilitate enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream as described above. System 2p includes a top wall 88 disposed above the ozone and germicidal chambers, and side walls 94, 96 respectively disposed adjacent the ozone and germicidal chambers to isolate those chambers within the base. Top wall 88 includes dimensions slightly less then the combined length of the ozone and germicidal chambers to form a gap between the top wall and side wall 96. The ozone enriched air traverses walls 49, 75 to subsequently flow between wall 75 and side wall 96 and through the gap to enter the base channel. Seat plate 80 has the shape of the base and is disposed on the upper portions of the base side walls to cover the base channel. The seat plate includes a plurality of openings or pores 94 to enable the ozone enriched air to seep out of the base channel and remove contaminants from the seat plate. The system typically includes a microprocessor or other control and accompanying circuitry (e.g., ballast, batteries, etc.) to periodically enable the system to sanitize the toilet seat. Further, the system may include a power switch to enable sanitization of the toilet seat. The switch essentially enables operation for a predetermined time interval to permit ozone enriched air to seep out of the pores and remove contaminants. The ozone concentration of the air may be controlled in various manners as described above. Moreover, a fan 90 may be disposed toward the gap between top wall 88 and side wall 96, or at any other suitable location to direct ozone enriched air through the base channel for sanitization of the toilet seat. It will be appreciated that the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings represent only a few of the many ways of implementing a method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects. The systems described above may be of any shape or size, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The ballasts for the radiation sources may be implemented by any conventional DC (e.g., for portable systems) or AC ballast or other circuitry to supply cunent to the radiation sources. Further, the systems described above may include or be connected to any type of ballast or power source to energize the radiation sources, and include any conventional or other corresponding connectors or circuitry. The radiation source may be implemented by a single bulb or device capable of emitting radiation at the prescribed wavelengths, or independent sources each emitting radiation at a specified wavelength. The systems may include any quantity of radiation sources (e.g., at least one) of any shapes disposed in any manner within the systems. The internal fans may be implemented by any quantity of any conventional or other types of fans or devices for drawing air through the system, such as a fan, blower or device to create a differential pressure in the system to cause air flow through the system. The fan or other devices may be disposed in the systems in any manner capable of directing air through those systems. Further, the fan or devices may include variable flow rates to cause air to flow through the systems at various rates. For example, larger areas may require greater flow rates to enable air within these larger areas to be rapidly and efficiently treated by the systems. The fans or other devices may be disposed in or external of the systems described above in any manner capable of directing air through the systems. The slots or air intakes may be of any quantity, shape or size, and be disposed at any suitable locations to permit air to enter the systems. The air flow path of the systems described above may be any path having any configuration capable of reducing air through-flow velocity and enabling the ozone to mix with the air. The ozone chamber may include a portion of the germicidal section of the radiation source to combine the effects of both types of radiation to enhance removal of contaminants. Further, the systems described above may include a catalytic converter or other filter disposed adjacent the germicidal chamber or at any other suitable location to remove ozone from the air stream. The various ozone and germicidal chamber configurations described above may be of any size or shape, may be oriented in any fashion, may be implemented by any suitable materials, may utilize any of the radiation sources described above, and may be implemented in any of the systems described above. Further, the combination radiation sources described above may include any proportion of ozone section to germicidal radiation section, whereby the ozone section includes a lesser portion of the source than the germicidal section for the various configurations. The combination and independent radiation sources described above may be configured to emit radiation at any desired wavelengths. The systems described above may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of ozone and germicidal chambers, whereby each chamber may have any suitable configuration, shape or size. Further, the systems described above may include a single chamber exposing fluid to ozone and germicidal radiation. Moreover, the systems described above may utilize any quantity of independent radiation sources of any shape or size within each chamber, or any quantity of combination radiation sources of any shape or size having a plurality of sections with each section disposed in and emitting radiation at an appropriate wavelength for a corresponding chamber. In addition, the components of the systems described above may be arranged in any fashion. The ozone-regulating end-caps may include slots, windows or other openings of any quantity (e.g., at least one), shape or size, arranged in any fashion on the end-cap. Further, the slots, windows or other openings of the end-caps may include a radiation transparent covering. It is to be understood that the ozone-regulating end-cap may include any pattern of openings to control emission of ozone generating radiation and production of ozone. Moreover, the ozone- regulating end-caps may include mechanisms for alignment of the end-cap for connections. The ozone-regulating end-caps may be constructed of any suitable materials, may be utilized with independent, combination or other radiation sources, and may be attached to the those sources via any conventional or other fastening techniques (e.g., friction fit, fasteners, etc.). The systems employing baffles may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of baffles within the ozone and germicidal chambers to direct air flow through the systems, and any quantity of additional baffles to maintain radiation within the systems. The radiation limiting baffles may be disposed within the germicidal chamber or at any other suitable location. The baffles may each include various configurations or openings of any quantity (e.g., at least one), shape or size, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The cartridges described above may be of any shape or size, and may include any quantity of ozone and germicidal chambers, radiation sources or other system electrical or other components. The radiation sources may be implemented by combination bulbs or independent radiation sources emitting radiation at particular wavelengths. The cartridge ozone and germicidal chambers may include any configurations that reduce through- flow velocity through the system. The posts may be of any quantity, shape or size, may be constructed of any suitable materials, and may be disposed in any fashion in the chambers. The chambers may alternatively include any type of obstacle or mechanism to reduce through-flow velocity. The cartridges are preferably disposable and periodically replaced, however, a base and cartridge may be implemented as an integral disposable unit. The base may be of any shape or size, include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of ballasts, fans or other electrical or system components arranged in any fashion, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The cartridges may each be constructed as a single unit or be formed from any quantity of the same or different components. A base and cartridge may be disposed at any suitable location to treat fluids. The cartridges are preferably constructed of foam, but may be constructed of any suitable materials. The cartridges may further be utilized without the base and include a connector for receiving power, whereby a cartridge is disposed within a fluid flow that flows through the cartridge, such as in a plenum or duct. The cartridge radiation source end-cap may be of any shape or size capable of displacing the bulb a sufficient distance from the cartridge wall, and may be utilized in any of the cartridge or other system embodiments described above. The cartridge end-cap windows or openings may include a radiation transparent covering, while the cooling vents may be of any quantity, shape or size, and may be defined in the end-cap at any locations. The end-cap may be constructed of any suitable materials, and may be attached to the radiation source via any conventional or other fastening techniques (e.g., friction fit, fasteners, etc.). A cartridge with connector may be disposed at any suitable location, such as within walls, ceilings, vehicle plenums, ducts or other locations. The systems for removing contaminants from objects having a single treatment chamber may be programmed to treat objects for any desired time intervals, and may include any quantity of combination or independent radiation sources arranged in any fashion. The combination radiation sources may include any proportion of ozone section to germicidal radiation section, while the combination and independent radiation sources may be configured to emit radiation of any desired wavelengths. The systems may be of any size or shape to accommodate various objects, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The soaking and ozone chambers may include any suitable configuration or path to mix the ozone with the air stream. The systems may treat any type of object, such as food, kitchen utensils, instruments, infant peripherals or any other items. The systems may include any quantity or type of door or other device enabling entry of objects, whereby the door may be disposed at any location. The systems may alternatively employ any conventional or other techniques of enabling placement and removal of objects within the systems. The systems may include any conventional or other control pad and processor or control circuitry to control system operation as described above. The system for removing contaminants from hands may be of any shape or size, may be programmed to treat the hands for any desired time intervals, and may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of combination or independent radiation sources of any shape or size disposed and/or arranged within the system in any fashion. The combination radiation sources may include any proportion of ozone section to germicidal radiation section, while the combination and independent radiation sources may be configured to emit radiation of any desired wavelengths. The system may include any quantity of openings (e.g., at least one) to accommodate any quantity of hands during a treatment cycle. The openings defined in the system housing may be of any shape or size, and may be defined at any suitable locations in any of the system housing walls. The openings may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of flaps, or other devices to maintain ozone and radiation within the system. The soaking, ozone and germicidal chambers may include any suitable configurations to treat the air stream, such as the configurations described above or disclosed in the above-mentioned patent applications. Further, the soaking chamber path may include any path or other configuration capable of reducing air through-flow velocity and enabling the ozone to mix with the air. A path of this type may be similarly disposed in the ozone and germicidal chambers. The system may include any conventional or other control pad and processor or control circuitry to control system operation as described above. The systems for removing contaminants from toothbrushes or other instruments may be of any shape or size, and may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of ozone or germicidal chambers having any quantity of combination or independent radiation sources of any shape or size disposed and/or ananged within the system in any fashion. The combination radiation sources may include any proportion of ozone section to germicidal radiation section, while the combination and independent radiation sources may be configured to emit radiation of any desired wavelengths. The holders may be of any shape or size, may be constructed of any suitable materials, and may include any quantity of openings (e.g., at least one) to accommodate any quantity of instruments or other objects. The openings defined in the holders may be of any shape or size, and may be defined at any suitable locations in the holders. The openings may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of flaps, or other devices to maintain ozone and radiation within the system. The ozone and germicidal chambers may include any suitable configurations to treat the air stream. Further, the ozone chamber path may include any path or other configuration capable of reducing air through-flow velocity and enabling the ozone to mix with the air. A path of this type may be similarly disposed in the ozone and germicidal chambers. The system employing liquid may inject the ozonated air into water or other liquid contained in the holder for removing contaminants from the instruments or other objects. The components of the systems may be arranged in the housings in any fashion. The system for removing contaminants from liquids may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of ozone and germicidal chambers and any quantity (e.g., at least one) of combination or independent radiation sources of any shape or size arranged in any fashion. The ozone chamber may include any suitable configuration to mix ozone with the air stream, while the germicidal chamber may include any configuration to expose the liquid to germicidal radiation. Further, the germicidal radiation source may be disposed at any location, such as within the liquid channel, to expose the liquid to germicidal radiation. The liquid channel may be of any shape or size and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The germicidal chamber may include any radiation transparent material disposed at any suitable location to enable the radiation source to irradiate the liquid in the channel. The ozone and germicidal chambers may be configured and disposed within the systems in any suitable fashion. The system may be of any size or shape to accommodate various sized fluid transports, and may be connected to the transports via any conventional or other fastening techniques. The ozone injecting nozzle may be implemented by any conventional or other device for injecting ozone into liquid. The filter may be disposed at any location within the system to remove particles or other matter from the liquid. The filter may be of any quantity, shape or size, and may be implemented by any conventional or other type of filter for removing particles. The system may be disposed at any suitable location along a fluid transport. The system may be configured to produce ozonated liquid for application to various items. The ozone concentration may be controlled by regulating either or both of the ozone generating and germicidal radiation. The system may be utilized with any type of applicator at any location to ozonate water or other liquid from a liquid supply for application of the ozonated liquid to various objects. The system components may be arranged in the housing in any fashion. The systems for applying purified or ozone enriched air to objects (e.g., skin, wounds, toilet seats) may be of any shape or size, and may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of ozone and/or germicidal chambers having any quantity of combination or independent radiation sources of any shape or size disposed and/or ananged within the system in any fashion. The combination radiation sources may include any proportion of ozone section to germicidal radiation section, while the combination and independent radiation sources may be configured to emit radiation of any desired wavelengths. The housings may be of any shape or size and may include any quantity of slots of any shape or size to permit air to enter the system. The applicator and intake shields may be of any quantity, shape or size, may be disposed on the housings at any suitable locations, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The ozone and germicidal chambers may include any suitable configurations to treat the air stream. Further, the ozone chamber path may include any path or other configuration capable of reducing air through-flow velocity and enabling the ozone to mix with the air. A path of this type may be similarly disposed in the ozone and germicidal chambers. The recycling system may include any quantity of return channels of any shape or size disposed at any suitable locations to recycle contaminated air into that system. The channel may be implemented by a hose or other tubular member constructed of any suitable materials. The components of the systems may be arranged in the housings in any fashion. The toilet seat system may be of any shape or size, may be constructed of any suitable materials, and may include any quantity (e.g., at least one) of ozone or germicidal chambers having any quantity of combination or independent radiation sources of any shape or size disposed and/or arranged within the system in any fashion. The combination radiation sources may include any proportion of ozone section to germicidal radiation section, while the combination and independent radiation sources may be configured to emit radiation of any desired wavelengths. The seat plate may include any quantity of openings (e.g., at least one) of any shape or size and disposed at any locations to apply the air to the toilet seat surface. The ozone and germicidal chambers may include any suitable configurations to treat the air stream. Further, the ozone chamber path may include any path or other configuration capable of reducing air through-flow velocity and enabling the ozone to mix with the air. A path of this type may be similarly disposed in the ozone and germicidal chambers. The system may similarly be utilized within other objects for cleaning. The system components may be arranged in the toilet seat in any fashion. The system may be programmed to clean the seat at any desired intervals. Ozone concentration of ozone enriched air produced by the systems described above may be controlled in various fashions. For example, the residence time of an air stream within the ozone and germicidal chambers may be adjusted to produce a desired ozone concentration. The residence time may be controlled via configuration of the ozone chamber air flow path, controlling air flow within a vortex chamber, adjusting the size of the chambers or any other techniques, such as those disclosed above and by way of example in the aforementioned patent applications. It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but may be implemented in any manner that utilizes ozone generation in combination with a configuration that reduces air through-flow velocity to enable the ozone to mix with the air, and germicidal radiation to remove bacteria and other contaminants, while serving as a catalyst for the ozone to enhance removal of odor causing elements. Further, the present invention is not limited to the specific applications disclosed herein, but rather, may be utilized for any application employing or producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from air streams or objects. From the foregoing description it will be appreciated that the invention makes available a novel method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects wherein objects are exposed to ozone enriched air or a combination of ozone enriched air and germicidal radiation to remove contaminants from those objects. Having described prefened embodiments of a new and improved method and apparatus for producing purified or ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from objects, it is believed that other modifications, variations and changes will be suggested to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings set forth herein. It is therefore to be understood that all such variations, modifications and changes are believed to fall within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An instrument holder utilizing ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from instruments comprising: an air intake to receive an air stream from a smrounding environment; an instrument chamber for receiving an instrument; an ozone chamber having an ozone generating radiation source for irradiating the air stream to produce ozone within the air stream, and ozone distribution means for increasing residence time of said air stream in said ozone chamber to enable the produced ozone to thoroughly mix and ozonate the air stream; a germicidal chamber for receiving said air stream from said ozone chamber and including a germicidal radiation source for irradiating the air stream to remove contaminants and to catalyze the produced ozone for enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream to produce ozone enriched air; air flow control means for directing the air stream to flow from said air intake through said ozone and germicidal chambers; and a flow passage to direct said ozone enriched air from said germicidal chamber into said instrument chamber to interact with and remove contaminants from said instrument.

2. The instrument holder of claim 1 wherein said instrument is a toothbrush.

3. The instrument holder of claim 1 wherein: said instrument chamber contains liquid and at least a potion of said instrument is immersed in said liquid; and said flow passage includes a nozzle for injecting said ozone enriched air into said liquid to remove contaminants from said instrument.

4. A system for producing purified or ozone enriched air for application to an object surface comprising: an air intake to receive an air stream from a surrounding environment; air flow control means for directing the air stream to flow through said system; an ozone chamber including an ozone generating radiation source for irradiating the air stream to produce ozone, and ozone distribution means for increasing residence time of said air stream in said ozone chamber to enable the produced ozone to thoroughly mix with and ozonate the air stream; a germicidal chamber for receiving said air stream from said ozone chamber and including a germicidal radiation source for irradiating the air stream to remove contaminants and catalyze the produced ozone to enhance removal of odor causing elements from the air stream to produce purified or ozone enriched air; and an applicator for interfacing and applying said purified or ozone enriched air to said object surface.

5. The system of claim 4 further including: an applicator intake for directing air applied by said applicator from said object surface back into said system for recycling; and a tubular member to transport said air from said applicator intake to said ozone chamber to be treated by said system.

6. A toilet seat utilizing ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from a toilet seat surface comprising: a base having a channel defined therein; a seat plate having a plurality of pores defined therein and positioned to cover said base; and a system for producing ozone enriched air to remove contaminants from a seat plate surface, wherein said system is disposed in said base channel and includes: an air intake to receive an air stream from a smrounding environment; air flow control means for directing the air stream to flow through said system; an ozone chamber having an ozone generating radiation source for irradiating the air stream to produce ozone within the air stream, and ozone distribution means for increasing residence time of said air stream in said ozone chamber to enable the produced ozone to thoroughly mix and ozonate the air stream; a germicidal chamber for receiving said air stream from said ozone chamber and including a germicidal radiation source for irradiating the air stream to remove contaminants and to catalyze the ozone for enhanced removal of odor causing elements from the air stream to produce ozone enriched air; and a flow passage to direct said ozone enriched air into said base channel for traversal of said pores to remove contaminants from said seat plate surface.