WO2021222880A1

WO2021222880A1 - Wearable and/or contact operated uv-c devices for viral and bacterial decontamination from surfaces

Info

Publication number: WO2021222880A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/030376
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jeffrey S. Gibson
Original assignee: Gibson Jeffrey S
Priority date: 2020-05-01
Filing date: 2021-05-01
Publication date: 2021-11-04
Also published as: EP4142809A4; US20210338867A1; EP4142809A1; MX2022013739A

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an overarching platform for safely and reliably decontaminating surfaces from microorganisms (including viruses, bacteria, molds, and the like). Such a platform utilizes a specific range of low UV radiation within the UV-C wavelengths (from 240-300 nm) generated by individual UV light emitting diodes (LEDs) pressure activated and/or operated by contact and/or sensed presence of a user. In such a configuration, a number of different surface-contacting devices may be provided that accord the desired level of microorganism decontamination basically on demand. Such devices, particularly if present as worn gloves, wiping cloths, and/or other like wearable/manipulated structures (external shoe covers, headwear, clothing, floor sweeping implements, for instance) provide passive cleaning results when used and contacting different surfaces, as well as constant self-decontamination potential when in use. Other devices, such as contacted structures (tablecloths, blankets, building materials, etc.) generate cleaning when contacted, as well.

Description

UNITED STATES PROVISIONAL PATENT APPLICATION

WEARABLE AND/OR CONTACT OPERATED UV-C DEVICES FOR VIRAL AND BACTERIAL DECONTAMINATION FROM SURFACES

Field of the Disclosure

Disclosed herein is an overarching platform for safely and reliably decontaminating surfaces from microorganisms (including viruses, bacteria, molds, and the like). Such a platform utilizes a specific range of low UV radiation within the UV-C wavelengths (from 240-300 nm) generated by individual UV light emitting diodes (LEDs) pressure activated and/or operated by contact and/or sensed presence of a user. In such a configuration, a number of different surface-contacting devices may be provided that accord the desired level of microorganism decontamination basically on demand. Such devices, particularly if present as worn gloves, wiping cloths, and/or other like wearable/manipulated structures (external shoe covers, headwear, clothing, floor sweeping implements, for instance) provide passive cleaning results when used and contacting different surfaces, as well as constant self decontamination potential when in use. Other devices, such as contacted structures (tablecloths, blankets, building materials, etc.) generate cleaning when contacted and/or presence of a person is sensed in close proximity thereto, or, conversely, when not in contact or in the presence of a person (to protect individuals from any potential harmful emissions), thus allowing for self-decontamination after contact. Such capabilities are attained through the utilization of layered structures with a plurality of properly spaced UV-C LEDs (light- emitting diodes) extending from an external layer of moisture-resistant, substantially nonporous (prevents water droplets from penetrating) material that may further be smooth, reflective, and isopropyl alcohol (IP A) -resistant, in order to allow for UV-C emissions to direct outwardly from the device for exposure to a contacted surface as well as over the entirety of the outer surface of the device itself. Below such an outer layer (with the UV-C LEDs spaced appropriately and provided with roughly 180 degrees of light emission therefrom for such outward and device surface exposure coverage) may be a pressure sensor in contact with a circuit (such as a flexible circuit to permit range of motion if a wearable device) and an MCU or like component for programmable control of the duration and power levels undertaken by the LEDs when activated. In wearable devices, a further inner layer may be provided, such as a fabric layer (for wicking moisture and insulating from heat generated by the LEDs when activated, thus for comfort for a wearer, as for gloves, clothing, headwear, and the like), a cushion layer (for protecting the LEDs from damage, as in shoe covers, which provide cleaning of the bottoms thereof in contact with floor surfaces when the user steps), and any type of other like heat shield layer (for tablecloths, blankets, even building materials, if desired). Such a multi-layer approach with the needed smooth reflective outer layer having the subject LEDs extending therefrom and therethrough provides the platform as noted above for such a protective and passive cleaning and self decontamination capability for all such target end uses that have heretofore been unexplored. Such devices as well as methods of utilization thereof are disclosed herein.

Background of the Art

The threat of contamination from microorganisms has existed for millenia. Whether through uncontrolled utilization of antibiotics, mutations, or other problematic scenarios, microbial infections have proven extremely difficult to control in certain situations. For instance, hospitals (and like environments) have suffered from potentially severe contamination of untreatable diseases, whether related to, as just some examples, Clostridia difficile (C. diff), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), certain strains of Eschericia coli (E. coli), and many other mutating bacteria. There exists currently a pandemic associated with coronaviruses (including COVID-19, and the like) that has no vaccine as protection let alone any definitive pharmacological remedies. Such examples of microbial infections have caused global concerns, leading to severe illnesses and highly unfortunate deaths within populations around the world. The best practices to currently handle such coronavirus outbreaks are quarantining in order to hopefully allow such microorganisms to lack further hosts and thus essentially die out over time. Otherwise, eradication of such microorganisms has proven extremely difficult in a widespread manner as transfer between individuals has appeared rather easy to accomplish. The above-noted bacterial strains have likewise proven hard to kill as growth and reproduction thereof is rapid and disinfection is not a simple process. Viruses, in particular are difficult to remove due to the structures thereof, having protein strands including certain replicating RNA and DNA that are well-protected by huffy layers of lipids that bind well to surfaces as well as prevent or at least serve as obstacles to penetration of chemical/pharmacological RNA/DNA disruptors. Similar issues exist in bacterial situations, particularly where the base organism only needs a food source to grow and reproduce, let alone such microorganisms (whether viral or bacterial, for that matter) have shown a propensity to mutate over time to evade certain chemical and/or pharmacological treatments. As such, many microorganisms have attained levels of resistance to certain pharmacological treatments, leading to microbes that replicate quickly and are not easily destroyed (such as, again, at the RNA/DNA level). Additionally, as alluded to above, the ability for such microorganisms to mutate in order to become immune to certain treatments (particularly chemical in nature) leaves limited options as to the control and/or eradication of such microbial concerns.

As such, the most reliable manner of treating such microorganisms may be the utilization of light, particularly outside the visible spectrum within the ultraviolet regions. UV light has been shown to disrupt any number of cellular structures, whether at the cellular or tissue level. Certain portions of the UV spectrum, UV-A and UV-B in particular, are well known for causing mammalian skin, for example, to gradually alter color and, at times shape, going so far as to mutating at certain phases to cause cancers (carcinomas and melanomas, at least). Far UV light (100-200 nm wavelengths) has been considered for such microbe disruptions, however such low wavelength light seems to actually provide to fast a capability, actually appearing to allow the disrupted DNA/RNA bonds to repair and/or reconnect after cleaving, thus allowing for the proteins to remain effective with only a slight possibility of disruption. Increased power levels and longer exposure may permit far UV some better results in this manner, except that such issues require power levels that can cause far worse results as human exposure that may result from such exposure times and power levels typically result in greater harm than benefit.

To the contrary, UV-C light is within a much lower range of wavelengths on the UV spectrum (from roughly 180-300nm) and, in similar fashion, is well known to cause cellular disruptions upon exposure, even at exposure times of very rapid duration (seconds and lower, for instance). A second or so of exposure, for instance, in known to cause burning to human skin, particularly at an elevated (and typically utilized) power level (100 watts, even as low as 100 mW), thus militating against widespread use. As a result, there is a need to provide certain controls and limits for UV-C light generators and lamps/lights to ensure such undesirable skin problems are avoided. Similarly, as with any UV light source, it is important to avoid eye exposure directly to such wavelengths have been known to cause intense burning and potential ophthalmic retinal damage (sometimes inoperable and permanent) if too prolonged an exposure occurs. Corneal absorption of UV rays may occur, but if the intensity and power levels of UV-C emissions are excessive, such a natural defense will not be of actual help. Even with such potential issues, the ability of UV-C light, in particular, to create disruptions of microorganism RNA/DNA is important as an alternative to standard chemical/pharmacological treatments. Coronaviruses, and COVID-19 as one definitive example, have rather transparent and thin huffy lipid layers that may be penetrated easily and well and thus allow for such low wavelength UV light to access u birder to, basically, destroy the proteins therein, preventing replication and thus effectively killing the virus. This capability may be effective with as little as 0.2mW of power from a distance of about 3.0 cm, in fact, allowing for a potential remedy to such a quickly replicating microorganism.

The basic problems with past UV-C applications have been the lack of protection for users in a manner that allows for controlled light emissions for microorganism exposure (and thus disruption of proteins, etc.) but with limited to no exposure of such potentially harmful UV-C light to the human user her- or him-self. Additionally, with the power levels needed to generate such UV-C light emissions at a distance from target surfaces, the generation of significant heat therefrom is harmful as well to a user, particularly if the light source is manipulated by hand for such a disinfecting purpose. For example, wand devices, and, for that matter, uncovered UV lamps, have been utilized in the past to provide some degree of UV treatment of microbes within certain environments (particularly within a limited atmosphere). Such devices, unfortunately, are provided are much too high a power level for UV-C to be safe for environmental exposure purposes. In any other words, the power levels typically associated with lamps and wands necessarily are of significantly high power levels in order to provide distance exposure kill capabilities for environmental treatments (100 watts, or as low as possibly 100 mW); for UV-C emissions, such power levels, though effective for microbial kill in such situations, is far too great for human skin and eye exposures to be of any interest for continuous usage. As such, these UV-C lamps/wands do not generally include any further protections for users from exposure thereto. Additionally, such wands/lamps require significant distances for decontamination purposes, except for the chance that a user scans such a UV light source over a surface. In such situations, however, distances and, for that matter, haphazard applications through random movements by the user, do not allow for treatment uniformity, leaving the target surface susceptible to further contamination thereafter due to a lack of complete and overall UV light coverage. A significantly close and uniform exposure distance (within a few centimeters, for instance) rather than a stationary light source or waved/moved UV wand (again lacking exposure protections for a user) would provide an overall benefit as needed for reliable and safe microbial eradication. To date, however, such a capability has not been provided within the pertinent art.

There thus is needed a more robust manner of providing surface decontaminations, specifically as it concerns viral and bacterial, at least, microorganisms that may reside thereupon and may be easily transferred to human hosts therefrom. Such a method of surface disinfecting/decontaminating may include a device that may be manipulated easily by a user, may be contacted with, wiped across, and/or otherwise directed toward, at close proximity, such a target surface, and provides protections from UV-C exposure to a user’s or bystander’s eyes and skin. To such a degree, then, the power potentially required to effectuate such microbe decontamination/disinfection is related to the distance required for microbe killing (RNA/DNA disruption, for instance), referred to as the radiant flux of the UV-C light source, and may be properly monitored to ensure maximum killing effect on microbes with a reduced propensity of, for instance, excess heat exposure for a user, particularly if such a device is hand-held and placed in such close proximity to the target surface. To date, unfortunately, there has been nothing provided within the art of interest (target surface decontamination, for example) that utilizes any type of device that meets such stringent requirements. Of interest may be a device that accords not only self-cleaning during actual use, but also passive cleaning capability of a target surface when utilized in relation to any type of potentially infected substrate (such as a glove having embedded UV-C light sources that allows for range of motion, gripping/carrying/wiping of surfaces, and thus functions to not only protect the user from infection, but transfers, passively, such decontamination capabilities to substrates/surfaces contacted therewith during use). Additionally, then, such a surface decontamination method may also include more active cleaning operations utilizing self- moving devices with UV-C light sources incorporated therein for directed, close proximity applications without need for either user manual controls and/or direct visibility of any UV-C light emissions for such a method to commence. To date, however, such a potentially desirable methodology has yet to be undertaken in such a fashion, particularly within the UV- C spectrum, ostensibly due to the aforementioned difficulties with human interaction with such low UV light treatments and the lack of controlled UV-C device activities that would be needed to overcome such human exposure issues.

Furthermore, any such device for UV-C emissions-based decontamination may be problematic with a material that absorbs the light rather than reflects the same outwardly. Additionally, if a material is present that exhibits wrinkles, folds, etc., even if reflective, may cause pockets of light collection, rather than complete reflective capabilities. Such an issue may also be detrimental as the overall device may not function as needed in such a respect, leaving discrete areas on its surface susceptible to contamination· As well, a material that does not prevent moisture from contacting circuitry and LED sources may prove damaging to the device. As a result, any system involving such UV-C sources may require a material that accords a moisture barrier in addition to the other physical characteristics noted above. A properly small and thin device, at least in terms of layers of materials, to accord flexibility for a user without appreciable level of tearing, breaking or otherwise compromising the dimensional stability thereof, would likewise be attractive for such an important purpose. To date, the industries involved are devoid of such a possible system for microbe decontamination·

The present disclosure, however, overcomes such prior deficiencies and provides a suitable, reliable, and safe platform of different types of devices and methods for target surface decontamination/disinfecting purposes.

Summary of the Disclosure.

To overcome the above-noted deficiencies exhibited by standard high power level UV-C wands and lamps, it has been realized that devices of different types and structures, as well as for different target surfaces, may provide the necessary level of microbial kill while protecting humans from skin and eye exposure possibilities. To that end, embodiments provided herein are directed to a platform of UV-C LED light sources which may be programmable and may also be used in conjunction with ultrasonic vibrations including sounds waves passing through a vacuum tube in order to increase sound wave amplification, thus enhancing the UV-C power requirement to provide microorganism kill rates at lower power levels. Such light sources may thus operate within ranges of power and generally within a wavelength range from 240-300, preferably from 240-280 nm, more preferably from 250-280 nm, potentially most preferably about 254, within the UV-C spectrum, at least. Such wavelengths have now been found to accord the highest level of viral and bacterial disruption while allowing for power levels to be set at proper measures to alleviate any potential harm to a human user (if, for instance, such a device is hand-held or operated to any degree requiring human skin to be within a certain distance therefrom the light source itself) as well as in a suitable configuration to reduce any propensity for eye exposure by such a human user and/or bystander during utilization. End uses of such a base platform include, without limitation, gloves, hand- manipulated cleaning cloths, shoe covers, shirts, blouses, hospital gowns, headwear, tablecloths, shirt covers, seat covers (such as for automobiles, trucks, buses, taxis, and the like), pants, leggings, athletic shorts, athletic pants, stockings, socks, building walls, doors and door covers, blankets, bedsheets, furniture covers, placemats, curtains, wall coverings, upholstery, steering wheel covers, basically any type of cover implement or surface that may be provided with water-proof/moisture-resistant, substantially nonporous outer layer materials (that may further be smooth, reflective, and IPA-resistant, as well) and embedded UV-C emission sources (LEDs, fiber optics, and combinations thereof, as examples), as well as a power source and MCU or like component to program/control UV-C emission times, durations, and power levels. Fiber optics may be provided as typically manufactured or, alternatively, through three-dimensional printing. Such devices would also thus include a type of component that allows for determination of pressure in order to activate either the entirety of the UV-C source therefor or selected discrete areas thereof within the device, or, alternatively, a sensor (photoelectric cell, as one non-limiting example) to indicate the presence of a person (or persons) or a surface within a certain proximity of the device, or, conversely, the movement away from the device of a person (or persons). Such a sensor capability thus allows for the device to activate either upon presence detection of a person or surface or activation once a person (or possibly a surface) is no longer within a certain proximity thereof. In this manner, then, the ability to provide decontamination upon pressure indication or presence indication allows for the UV-C source to activate and provide disinfection upon contact or close proximity location and, if desired, for a certain duration of UV-C emission thereover. This permits the device cleaning capability of a contacted surface, certainly, as well as continued sequential cleaning of the device surface thereafter such contact is made (to, as noted herein, create a continuous disinfection device for both contacted surfaces and itself). With a device that senses movement away from its surface, such a device thus allows for decontamination of the device subsequent to contact or close proximity location of a person (or thing that may be decontaminated and thus may be able to communicate such a microbial thereto). In this manner, such a device exhibits a capability of decontamination itself for a duration after such a contact/close location such a person or thing to best ensure such a device (and surface thereof that may then come into contact with another person or thing) is free from contamination sufficiently to prevent any infection therefrom.

To accomplish such results, the disclosed device herein includes the utilization of a UV-C emission source (between 240 and 300 nm, preferably from about 240-280 nm, more preferably from about 250-280 nm, and most preferably from about 254-280 nm (with 254, 260, and 280 nm possibly further preferred). Additionally, these UV-C sources are provided as LEDs and/or fiber optic structures in order to allow for controlled trajectories of the emissions thereof as well as to control the power levels needed for robust and effective microbial decontamination results as well as complete coverage of the device in terms of UV- C emissions for device decontamination purposes. A power source is thus also of necessity, such as a battery pack, capacitor, and the like, that may be rechargeable as needed, and provides the necessary wattage for such UV-C emissions for microbial exposure (and thus kill rates). Furthermore, the disclosed device must include a means for control of UV-C source power levels, activation and deactivation operations, and time duration of active emissions upon activation (and until deactivation). For this purpose, an MCU or circuit board (such as, for maneuverability, if necessary, a flexible circuit board that will allow for electrical contact and control while permitting free range of movement for the user/wearer, again, as needed for such a possible end use) as noted above, may be present within the device and programmed to act and react appropriately in relation to activation and deactivation operations as well as power levels exhibited by such UV-C sources and for durations that accord sufficient kill rate capabilities. Also required for such device operations and complete decontamination capabilities, particularly as it concerns effective UV-C emission exposure to contacted surfaces as well as device surfaces in total, is a surface material that exhibits reflectivity of UV-C emissions (as opposed to any appreciable degree of UV-C absorption), is smooth to prevent any deflection or nonuniform emissions from UV- C sources, is waterproof and/or moisture-resistant and substantially nonporous (as noted herein, such a term requires a barrier water droplet penetration but potential water vapor from escaping) (to protect electronic components from potentially damaging moisture), and exhibits a high tensile strength to prevent deleterious rips, tears, and/or breakages thereof that may compromise the effectiveness of the system as a whole. Such a material is needed to impart the needed UV-C exposure capabilities of the device through a potentially preferred uniform and smooth reflective surface that surrounds portions of such UV-C sources (such as tended LEDs and optical fibers) but safely and sufficiently seals such UV-C components to prevent undesirable moisture from introduction thereunder from the device surface. The smooth, reflective surface provided by such an intermittently presence material thus allows for the UV-C emissions to emanate from the device as well as shine/emit over the device surface to ensure exposure to any microbes on the device surface and/or contacted surface to which the device may be applied as the UV-C sources are activated. As noted above, any nonuniform surface may cause problems with collected emissions in discrete areas of the device surface, thus limiting the capability for full device surface decontamination· A lack of reflectivity would likewise create problems as absorption of the emissions would reduce the capability of the device from killing microbes as needed or, possibly worse, require increased power levels to ensure, if possible, sufficient exposure to enough UV-C emissions occurs for such a purpose. Any such power level increase would compromise the safety aspects of the system disclosed herein. Additionally, then, the uniform, smooth, reflective material must retain its dimensional structure and stability while in use to best ensure, again, that no appreciable level of compromise of UV-C exposure, particularly at acceptable low power levels (for, again, safety levels for continued human utilization). Thus, a high tensile strength polymeric material is needed for such a purpose. As examples, potentially preferred, there are included polytetrafluoroethane polymers (such as GORE-TEX), flashspun highly-oriented polyethylene fibers (such as TYVEK), biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (such as MYLAR), styrene-butadiene block copolymer structures (such as KRATON), and other materials that are aluminized, at least (or other metallic coating/integration, including, without limitation, gold, silver, platinum, and the like, transition metals). Furthermore, for such possible reflectivity, the material should include a metallized coating or at least structural presence. Such a metallized component imparts reflectivity for the material as a metallic presence accords a non-absorptive quality thereto. The reflective material may be provided in rolls and provided with openings (punched, needled, etc.) and either placed over suitable UV-C sources or such UV-C sources introduced therethrough; in either option, the UV-C sources (LEDs, fiber optics, combinations, etc.) extend from the reflective material for surface emission capability. If desired, as well, such a material may be supplied around individual UV-C source extensions, rather than completely populating a single layer alone.

As long as sufficient reflectivity is provided for each UV-C source to reflect across a region of the subject device surface (and sufficient amounts of such UV-C sources are present for surface decontamination entirely if all such sources are activated, the reflectivity material may be present in any such way to ensure target surface disinfection is possible. Additionally, however, such a material in this manner also imparts electrical conductivity that allows for facilitation of circuits between a power source, an MCU, and a sensor (pressure, photoelectric cell, IR, and the like, as examples) for the entire device to function properly and easily. Additionally, the system and thus the subject device may also include layers beneath the external UV-C source/reflective material surface portion and the pressure sensor/photoelectric cell, etc., portion, including, without limitation, a lower waterproof material (such as a rubber, rubber- like, or like insulator material, the same reflective material as noted above, and any other like waterproof material (including possible waterproofed fabrics, as non-limiting examples), and a lower layered material that, depending on the end use, may impart wicking, heat-shielding, cushioning, or other like properties to the device. Such a lower material may thus include a wicking fabric (thin cotton for an internal glove component, for instance, that provides a manner of removing sweat from the wearer’s hand, provides general comfort to the wearer, and acts as a potential heat shield to reduce potential harmful or uncomfortable effects of heat generated by the UV-C source during activation thereof), a cushioning foam, foam rubber, and the like (to act as a heat shield/insulator as well as to reduce pressure on the external LEDs/fiber optics as the device may be pressed on a contacted surface, such as, for instance, a hard floor with a shoe cover device), and possibly a roughened substrate that allows for placement of such a device on a surface and facilitated retention thereon (such as a bottom layer of a tablecloth device that ensures continued contact with a table surface, or a lower chair cover layer that allows for the device to remain in contact with the seat and does not easily slip therefrom).

Such a multi-layered device thus can be provided in any number of structures all with the capability of according such desired and effective UV-C emission exposure to a contacted surface and/or its own surface for a reliable, safe, and effective manner of decontamination of any number of surfaces and continuous disinfection of itself.

As it concerns the MCU capabilities described above, such activation/deactivation is provided through the utilization of different types of sensor components, as outlined above. Basically, a pressure sensor, which may be provided in relation to each UV-C LED location (which may include an LED as its base UV-C source), may be utilized to activate the UV-C source upon depression or other action in relation thereto. Thus, as one non-limiting example, a user may have a glove with multiple LEDs present and a pressure sensor component within an internal layer of such a glove. Upon any deformation of such a sensor layer, the MCU may then activate the LEDs thereon at the glove surface, indicating the glove is being utilized to contact a certain surface (such as, lift a box, touch a table or chair, grab a steering wheel, as non-limiting examples). Such a sensor may then return to its normal state thereafter in order to indicate the external contact has ended and thus the MCU may then deactivate the UV-C source until the pressure sensor is deformed at a later time (and then the MCU may then activate the LEDs again, and so on). Alternatively, the MCU may sense such a pressure deformation signal and activate the LEDs for a set duration of time (from 2 seconds up to, for example, 4 minutes), at which time deactivation is programmed and occurs. Such pressure sensing/deformation may also be programmed to allow for such LEDs to remain lit after pressure is not sensed after initial deformation occurs, as well. Further pressure sensing in relation to already lit LEDs may then extend the duration of LED activation for the full programmed timeframe in relation to such a second (or subsequent) sensor deformation. If desired, however, the system may allow for localized pressure sensor deformation and the MCU may only activate a certain LED or set (or collection) of LEDs, such as within a certain localized geography of the device (within the range of actual contact of the device or within a range local area thereof) at which point the MCU may activate such a limited amount of LEDs for decontamination either as long as contact is made or, as above, for a certain duration as programmed, etc.. In this manner, then, the device may include a single MCU for all such control/programming purposes, or the device may include a plurality of MCUs in relation to certain numbers of the LEDs present for such localized controls. Additionally, IR sensors may also be included to sense human skin presence in order to, if needed, control power levels of the UV-C sources and/or to deactivate such a device if skin is too close (in order, either way, to best ensure, if needed, that damage to human skin or eyes, for that matter, is reduced significantly through such capabilities). If desired, the system disclosed herein, and thus the glove device as disclosed in myriad possible ways, may also include at least one accelerometer to allow for positional sensor capabilities as a manner of indicating the user’s or device’s orientation as activated in relation to a contacted surface or to itself. Furthermore, another possible inclusion is a Bluetooth and/or RFID component that allows for the system and/or device to communicate with any number of external programs/apps/others in relation to any number of monitored considerations (telemetry, location monitoring, potential microbial presence level increases/decreases, power levels utilized, basically any metric desired for measurability and/or safety monitoring and/or any other capability of interest). Such tracking and communication capability also allow for network tracking and other like issues, as well, for monitoring of usage of multiple devices to potentially assess hot spots of microbial activity that may require further involvement.

Such photoelectric cells/IR sensors may also be implemented for the converse capabilities noted above of the platform system disclosed herein. For example, a tablecloth and/or chair/seat cover may be provided at a restaurant table including the required components noted above (UV-C sources arranged and configured to provide coverage of the entirety of the surface of the tablecloth and/or chair/seat cover for complete decontamination thereof when activated), a power source, an MCU (or multiple MCUs), a smooth, reflective, uniform, high tensile strength material surrounding the UV-C sources at the device surface (and allowing the UV-C source to extend therefrom for such emissions to expose the surface thereof), a plurality of photoelectric cells or like presence sensors as indicators of the presence of a person in a certain proximity of the device itself, and a lower layer for comfort, retention improvement, etc., as desired. The sensor thus may indicate the moment a person or persons leaves the subject table (including the tablecloth and/or seat/chair covers) such that upon such movement, the sensor(s) notifies the MCU which, in turn, may activate the UV-C source(s) to decontaminate the device surface in order to ensure that any microbial contamination has been handled leaving the tablecloth and/or chairs/seats disinfected (if they had been infected, of course) and ready for the next person(s) to access the same table and chairs/seats without fear of contamination. Certainly, in such a possible instance, a restaurateur may first clean the tablecloth and/or chairs/seats to remove food crumbs, stains, other typical messes left by patrons, and the device(s) may then activate subsequent to such an initial cleaning. With the waterproof capabilities of the reflective surface material, and the sealed external UV-C sources in place, any such initial cleaning (even with an aqueous, alcohol, and/or other type of cleaner) will not affect the device(s) to any degree and such presence-sensing system components provide an effective means to ensure safe utilization of the table and chairs in such a manner.

With such end uses as extensively noted above, again, such may activate/deactivate in different ways and manners, but the ability to impart such decontamination/disinfection capabilities are rooted within the utilization of UV-C sources coupled with reflective, uniform, high tensile strength surface materials and sensors and MCUs with suitable power sources, for such automated cleaning results. The utilization of such reflective materials with the UV-C sources in this manner further allows for sufficient emissions to cause microbial DNA/RNA disruptions as needed for such decontamination purposes while safely applying such close proximity UV-C light with control to limit the power levels required for maximum kill rates, thereby imparting a safe and effective process allowing human utilization without undue or appreciable harm to skin or eyes as a result. Such LEDs may be of any suitable type that allow for UV-C emissions (such as with silver and silica bulbs, particularly with emanations at a full 180 degrees from the source); fiber optics may be of any polymer type that can withstand such power generation and UV-C emissions (including windows of fused silica, etc., at 45 degrees orientation to withstand such physical thresholds safely and effectively).

Thus, in each of these possible alternatives within the overarching surface cleaning platform, the device accords sufficient UV-C cleaning/killing power with, again, proper safeguards in place to protect a user and/or bystander from any unwanted exposure to such low wavelength light sources.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Fig. 1 shows a graphical representation and explanation of the efficacy of utilizing UV-C sources for viral kill capabilities.

Fig. 2 shows a possible embodiment through a cross-sectional representation of a multi-layer device with UV-C LED sources for a glove or like clothing article.

Fig. 3 shows a possible embodiment through a cross-sectional representation of a multi-layer device with UV-C optical fiber sources for a decontamination article.

Fig. 4 shows a possible embodiment through a cross-sectional representation of a device.

Fig. 5 shows a possible embodiment through a different cross-sectional representation of a device.

Fig. 6 shows a possible embodiment through a different cross-sectional representation of a device.

Fig. 7 shows a possible embodiment of a glove device.

Figs. 8 and 9 show a possible embodiment of a different glove device.

Figs. 10 and 11 show a possible embodiment of a different glove device.

Fig. 12 shows a possible embodiment of a shoe cover device. Figs. 13 and 13A show a possible embodiment of a seat/chair cover device.

Fig. 14 shows a possible embodiment of a tablecloth device.

Figs. 15 and 16 show a possible embodiment of a clothing article device.

Fig. 17 shows a possible embodiment of a wall-based device.

Figs. 18 and 18A show a possible embodiment of a wiping cloth device.

Figs. 19 and 19A show a possible embodiment of a blanket device.

Fig. 20 shows a flow chart for an embodiment of a potential glove device system.

Description of the Drawings and Preferred Embodiments

As noted above, the overarching platform for UV-C microorganism treatment capabilities covers a range of different devices/articles. Without any limitation intended, the following descriptions present a number of different systems/devices that accord such antimicrobial capabilities while ensuring safety for users simultaneously.

Fig. 1 of the drawings provides a graphical representation of the capability of a particular comparison of coronavirus eradication between UV-C, UV-A, gamma irradiation, and no irradiation. The platform disclosed herein includes the utilization of UV-C LED sources that generate a power that shows effective coronavirus penetration and thus disruption of RNA/DNA within the protein possible embodiment of a glove device s thereof to prevent replication (effectively causing such a microorganism to remain solitary and therefore die off as the bonds within the RNA and/or DNA thereof are broken). Fig. 1 shows a distance of 3 cm from a coronavirus treated surface with a power level of 4016 pW/cm² as an example of efficacy in killing a coronavirus. The comparative UV-A and gamma irradiation attempts appeared to leave the subject coronavirus intact at similar power levels. Most interesting of all was that the lack of any irradiation left similar results as for the UV-A and gamma irradiation samples. These Fig. 1 results thus show the capabilities of utilizing a certain power of UV-C (254 nm) wavelength light sources within 3 cm of a coronavirus sample surface. Such efficacy is extremely important, and thus the knowledge that power levels and distances considerations (radiant flux measurements) allows for proper treatment regimens to be developed. Additionally, the time required to evince effectiveness as to coronavirus kill is relatively of short duration, particularly at 3 cm distance. Closer distances and higher power levels allows for quicker eradication in combination; alternatively, even with closer distance alone, marked improvements are possible as well. This disclosure thus provides different manners of utiliz65ing such knowledge for coronavirus (and other microorganism) eradication methods and devices that accord users such effective capabilities while simultaneously providing sufficient protection for hand manipulation and control thereof. Such a possibility in the coronavirus treatment industry, at least, has yet to be provided in such a manner, opening up significant possibilities of improving safety and protections from such potentially deadly microorganisms through simple cleaning methods and processes. Considering the potential for depletion of sanitizing formulations and fluids, let alone the possibility of viral and/or bacterial mutations to grow immunity to such treatments, the safe and reliable utilization of UV-C for such eradication efforts is of substantial benefit.

Fig. 2 shows a multi-layer structure of a possible embodiment of a device disclosed herein 1 including UV-C LEDs 2 extending outward from a Mylar surface 3. Such a configuration allows for the Mylar to reflect the emission from the LED outwardly for other surface exposure/contact as well as across the surface of the Mylar itself for disinfection thereof. Below are a pressure pad 4 for sensor communication as to deformation and activation capabilities, a lower Mylar layer 5 for moisture barrier purposes from a cotton bottom layer 6 that may be present within, for example, a glove or clothing article for comfort, heat-shielding, and moisture wicking. Fig. 3 shows a different embodiment multi- layer structure 7 with a single UV-C LED 8 (although more than one may be present, even a pod of 2-4, for instance, within a region of a device, if desired) that has radiating therefrom a plurality of optical fibers 9 that are covered with a Mylar material 8A. The optical fibers lead to extend at different locations within he Mylar 8A with emissions 9A that are provided through windows that are disposed at 45 degrees from the fibers themselves and are comprised of materials such as fused silica, fumed silica, quartz, diamond, and the like, in order to allow for such reflectors to withstand the power levels associated with UV-C generation. Such flexible fiber optics allow for certain maneuverable characteristics of the device as well as effective surface decontamination and exposure to contacted other surfaces. A pressure pad 8B is present for sensor purposes as above, as is a lower layer for moisture barrier and/or conductivity as needed.

Fig. 4 shows an embodiment structure 10 with UV-C LEDs 12, a Mylar layer 14 (through which the LEDs 12 extend), a pressure sensor 16, a second lower moisture barrier layer 18 (could be Mylar, rubber, etc.), and a lower layer 20 for comfort (polyester, rubber, etc.). Fig. 5 shows a different embodiment structure 30 with UV-C LEDs 32 extending through a Mylar layer 34, a pressure sensor layer 36, and a cushion layer 38 (such as a foam rubber). Fig. 6 shows another possible embodiment structure 40 including UV-C LEDs 42 extending from a Mylar layer 44, photoelectric cells 46, a lower barrier layer 48, and a lower roughened layer for surface retention purposes. All of these structures 10, 30, 40 show device surface capabilities for decontamination of device surfaces layers 14, 34, 44 by the UV-C sources when activated.

Fig. 7 shows a glove 60 with strategic layout having an outer layer 62 with embedded LEDs 64, 66 provided in pairs on the outer layer 62. The LEDs are provided with wavelengths at either 260 nm at 10mW/cm² or 280 nm at 12 mW/cm² for maximum kill and protective power rates. (The kill wavelengths in this respect may be based on different microorganisms for kill rates; in this situation they are based on a vims equivalent). 280 nm light spectrum showed the best efficacy of logio inactivation but significantly less inactivation efficacy than that of 260 nm irradiation (i.e., 1.1 vs. 1.6 logio reduction for 5 mJ/cm² of UV fluence, P=0.01). At 280 nm light spectrum, the other viruses showed relatively low performance with logio reduction range of 0.5 - 0.8. The 5 mJ/cm² of UV dose using 260 nm LED can provide at least 1-logio inactivation of all the enteroviruses. Preferred dose in 5 minutes is 25 mJ/cm². For 280 nm dose you need 4 times the dose. Measured output at 280 nm is 12.5 mJ/cm². Minimum would be 4 diodes per cm2. Optimal would be 4 diodes per cm² with an output of 10 mW per diode at 280 nm. At the same dose one would need 2 diodes at 10 mW/cm² over 5 minutes with a log deactivation rate utilizing 260 nm LEDs. It may require 4 diodes at 10 mW/cm² per LED over five minutes with a log deactivation over 5 minutes utilizing 280 nm LEDs or, alternatively, 2 diodes diagonal offset at 12 mW per LED. Since the deactivation of vims is logarithmic one may still have significant deactivation within a minute or some, as well.

Figs, 8, 9, 10, and 11 show glove embodiments 70, 90 in relation to the disclosure herein. In Figs. 8 and 9, the glove 70 includes an MCU 80 near the wrist with multiple UV-C LEDs 78 to cover the entirety of the palmar regions thereof (where contact with surfaces and objects typically occur). Included are cut-outs 74, 76 for tactile sensation capabilities and circuit locations. A power source 84 is also present with a further circuit board 82 for communication between components. Sensors underneath (as in Fig. 2, at least, above) allow for contact with a surface to activate the MCU to operate the LEDs 78 for decontamination of a target surface/object. In Figs. 10 and 11, a similar approach is followed with the glove 90 including multiple UV-C LEDs 98 and cutouts 94, 96 for tactile purposes, as well as multiple circuit boards 100 for localized controls (and thus activation at specific LEDs 98 as sensors are deformed through contact) A power source 102 allows for such activation as the circuits indicate. If desired, either glove structure 70, 90 may also include LEDs or fiber optics (or both) on the distal sides thereof to allow for complete decontamination of the gloves continuously. Additionally, such a fiber optics outlay may be implemented instead of solely LEDs, if desired.

Furthermore, then, the glove may include an inner layer of a fabric for comfort to the wearer/user, whether within the fingers or within the palmar region of the user’s hand. The distal part of the glove may be outfitted with a further flexible circuit board as well as a power source (rechargeable battery, for example, as non- limiting). As the power levels for such LED lights and IR sensors, for that matter, is extremely low, recharging may not require a significant amount of time. Such rechargeability may be undertaken with an electrical cord plug-in device, USB port structure, or even placement of the glove on a recharging station. The circuit board may also include a monitoring capability to track the power levels and possible replacement needs of UV-C light sources on occasion.

Such a UV-C light emitting glove may be utilized by a user/wearer to wipe/clean surfaces or grip/carry articles as needed with any contact with other surfaces or articles imparting microorganism disinfection/decontamination through passive activity (any contact imparts such results, in other words) with active capabilities through actual movement of the glove over any target surface. With the gloves further providing self-decontamination as the LEDs extend through an outer layer or simply from the gloves themselves and thus cover the entirety of the outer surface thereof as well as any targeted surface/article simultaneously, these gloves may be provided as a complete means to ensure decontamination continuously for effective microorganism kill purposes. The extended LEDs also provide grip properties for a user due to extended structures thereof and their close proximity to one another as embedded therein. Such may make it easier to grip external surfaces for carrying, etc. Thus, such a complete glove with UV-C LED integration therein provides the greatest sterilization of surfaces picked up therewith, such as, without limitation, boxes, packages, mailings, papers, flatware and dishware, drinking vessels, remote controls, computers, keyboards, musical instruments, keys, arms, ammunition, furniture, grocery products, basically anything that may be held and./or transported while being manually held a/d/or carried with such a glove implement. As well, any surface that may be contacted with such an implement may be decontaminated/sterilized, as well, including, again, without limitation, table tops, floors, doors, doorknobs, windows, walls, steering wheels, dashboards, radar screens, computer screens, pilot controls, boat controls, furniture, staircases, railings, escalators, elevators, basically any surface that exists and may be contacted (including any carried articles as alluded to above) in such a manner. Such articles, products, surfaces, may further relate to anything repeatedly touched by multiple individuals, and may include, again, without limitation, anything related to supply chain and logistics concerns, as well. The list is thus endless and may help immeasurably in reducing the spread of microorganisms through passive as well as potentially active utilization thereof.

A standard inner cloth glove may be utilized, as well, with a vulcanization process to attach electronics (circuit board, and the like, flexible preferably) followed by the introduction of precut pieces of outer layer material with precut holes (approximately 1 mm in diameter, preferably) sized to be less than the UV-C LED diameter which can then be attached using a second vulcanizing process. Then the outer component edges can be stitched in place, allowing for multiple points of attachment of critical parts without limiting movement capability for the user/wearer. This configuration also provides shielding of the electronic components from moisture and the individual user/wearer from generated heat from the LEDs, as well as protection from sharp edges and electrical conduction. Such a glove can thus further protect a user/wearer from having to touch his or her face during use thereof as such a glove will not burn skin but still can not only allow for sterilization of any touched body areas, but also continuously decontaminates itself to prevent any introduction of microorganisms in such a manner to any other surface (including one’s own face). The hands may easily infect surfaces therefore providing the opportunity for pathogen transmission to noninfected individuals. Removing the transmission vector is key, which is accomplished with this glove device. Existing air cleansing systems can provide air cleaning. Simple cloth masks reduce direct droplet transmission to just inches. The most dangerous vector which is the hand which infected surfaces and provides a transmission vector for the non-infected individual who touches an infected surface and the touches their face is removed using self -sterilizing gloves with UV-C LEDs as now disclosed.

As it concerns the preferred distance of UV-C LED exposure to contaminated surfaces, a 1 millimeter (mm) to 3 centimeter (cm) is workable, particularly to reduce the chances of harm to user’s, as well as reducing the amount of power required to produce maximum kill rates with lowered potential for user injury. Certainly, the closer the proximity to the target surface, the better for such a purpose (thus 1 mm is preferred for such a reason, limiting the potential for escape of UV-C emissions due to the glove being so close to and placed or even pressed downward thereto). Furthermore, with pressure applications, as noted above, the LEDs may activate (tactile pressure sensors, again) and remain on for sufficient time to deliver such emissions for maximum kill rates. As such, a range of 3 seconds activation time to as much as 5 (or more) minutes may be permitted before the MCU (flexible circuit board “brains” of the glove device) automatically causes shut down, particularly if pressure does not continue. Such a range of activation times is necessary to ensure the MCU does not continue turn on/off continuously (such as if a user applies pressure, lifts it up, then again applies pressure to a surface in a repetitive, if not also haphazard sequence). The ability to remain on thus allows for the MCU to not experience too much in the way of activation/deactivation to prolong useful life thereof such a glove as well as reduce heat generated thereby unnecessarily, allowing for greater life as well as maximum comfort for the user.

The gloves may thus be provided within a complete kit for a full UVC- sterilization box concept, including such gloves, charging capability therefore such gloves, as well as a means (through the gloves or a sterilizing box) to sterilize a soft cloth mask, and UV-C eyewear protection as a precaution to prevent eye damage if the UV-C gloves were used improperly and/or haphazardly.

Other articles may be utilized in a similar fashion with LEDs of proper wavelength emissions implemented therein to impart microorganism kill capabilities both on external surfaces and on the article itself (self-decontamination) with suitable power levels for protection to a user’s skin and eyes.

A shoe cover 200 is provided in Fig. 12 with a bag portion 212, a hoop 214 to close the bag around a shoe 210 and a bottom layer 216 that may include, as an example, the structure of Fig. 5, above with a cushioning foam rubber to reduce the chance of LED 218 harm. The cover 200 may activate as the user steps on a floor 220, allowing for continuous cleaning of the floor as well as the cover itself.

Figs. 13 and 13A show a seat/chair cover 220 with a similar fiber optic structure as in Fig. 3. A back portion and a seat portion all include the fiber optic 226 decontamination capability to provide coverage of a chair/seat 228. With a photoelectric cell used, as a user rises and walks away, the decontamination may start over the entire device surface. LEDs may be used in addition or as a substitute, of course.

Fig. 14 shows a tablecloth embodiment 230 over a table 234, 236 with a similar fiber optic capability as in Fig. 3. The emissions 238 thus decontaminate the surface 232 as a user rises and moves away after use. Again, LEDs may be utilized as well or as substitutes. With any such presence-based activation device, including the seat/chair covers above, and any other like decontaminating system based on the movement away from such a device by an individual, at least, there may also be provided a programming capability within the MCU/circuit board, etc., within the device that allows for intermittent activation of the UV-C source(s) for surface disinfection based on a set duration of time subsequent to deactivation. In this manner, the system allows for continuous decontamination of the device surface in case environmental microbes potentially land on and reside on the device due to an extended time period after UV-C source activation has occurred due to the movement away by an individual (or individuals) from the device itself. Any other type of similar end use may operate in the same general way, of course, as programming of the MCU/circuit board may permit such a result. Additionally, with tracking capabilities of activation/deactivation monitoring permitted through RFID/Bluetooth, etc., components that may be present and utilized within the device, as well, remote intermittent activation may be permitted, too, as a user may be notified as to the time interval duration after decontamination has ended subsequent to the presence of an individual as indicated by the photoelectrical cell sensor (as one non-limiting example). In such a situation, a user may actually, in the case of a restaurant table, for instance, remotely activate the UV-C sources on the tablecloth, seat covers, even placemats, as separate or system-functioning self-decontaminating device, just prior to a host or hostess seating a person or group. In any case, the capability of automated self-decontamination, whether upon movement away therefrom or additionally after a set duration of time once deactivation occurs, or further through possible remote monitoring and activation on demand, is possible within this disclosed system in relation to such self- disinfecting devices.

Figs. 15 and 16 show a clothing article (shirt) 310 with LEDs 322 extending from a Mylar material 316 (like in Fig. 2) and a power source 320 to control activation. Such may be activated and deactivated on demand by the user. Fiber optics and sensors may also be employed.

Fig. 17 shows a wall 1200 device with a sheet rock base 1210 a sensor panel 1214, a Mylar material surface 1216, and multiple LEDs 1218 (fiber optics may also be implemented, of course). A photoelectric cell may sense the presence or movement away by a person, and pressure sensors may indicate contact with the surface, as well. In either event, the device may decontaminate its surface just as discussed herein throughout (and the structure over the sheet rock 1210 may be the same as in Figs. 2, 4, or 5).

Figs. 18 and 18A show a wiping cloth 1400 having UV-C LEDs 1410, a Mylar surface 1412, the extending LEDs 1410 from the Mylar 1412, a pressure layer 1414, and a top fabric layer 1416 (in which may be present a power source and an MCU). Upon contact with a surface, the LEDs activate as discussed herein. They may remain on until pressure is gone or for a set amount of time. Such thus can also decontaminate the surface about contact rather than just a contacted surface during activation.

Figs. 19 and 19A show a blanket 1420 having LEDs 1422, a Mylar surface 1430, photoelectric cells 1424 as indicators of presence of a user, an MCU 1426, and a top fabric surface 1428. Again, after use, the device may clean itself when a user not longer is present.

Fig. 20 shows a flow chart for the utilization of a glove device system 2000. A first step is the provision of a glove device 2002 (as noted in any of Figs. 7-11, above) followed by contact with a subject external surface 2004 that activates the UV-C light source of the glove device 2006 (either in total across the entirety of the device 2008, or individually as pressure is sensed at each UV-C light source location 2010, or within a region associated with a group of UV-C light sources and a pressure sensor therein). Such activation thus allows for exposure and decontamination of the contacted external surface 2012 and simultaneously and subsequently the surface of the glove device 2014. Thus, provided herein is an overarching platform to provide complete capabilities of decontamination of any type of surface with any type of suitable wearable or manipulatable device. Such may be utilized for carrying boxes and materials, wiping hard surfaces (walls, tables, computer keyboards, etc., the list is endless), wiping food surfaces (including, for example, meat within slaughterhouses, and butcher shops, again the list is extremely long), floors, furniture, bathroom fixtures, kitchen sinks and counters, myriad things may be treated in such a manner, basically. Any surface that can be contacted by a person or object may also be incorporated and used with the base layered structured disclosed herein for decontamination capabilities. With such a platform, complete LED-based UV-C decontamination methods and procedures (and devices, of course) are provided that undertake the maximum amount of decontamination possible for specific end uses with the maximum amount of safety and comfort for user and bystanders.

It should be understood that various modifications within this disclosure's scope can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit thereof.

Therefore, it is wished that this disclosure be defined by the scope of the appended claims as broadly as the prior art will permit and given the specification if need be.

Claims

1. A solid article comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes embedded therein to provide external and surface exposure to UV-C radiation between 240 and 300 nm wavelengths, said article further comprising an external surface waterproof, moisture-resistant, substantially nonporous, and alternatively substantially smooth material through which said plurality of light emitting diodes extend outwardly.

2. The solid article of claim 1 wherein comprises at least one control component selected from the group of at least one flexible circuit, at least one MCU, and a combination thereof, wherein said at least one control component is programmable for control of duration of UV-C emissions duration, control of UV-C light source power levels, and control of activation of UV-C light sources in relation to pressure application on a surface by a user or close proximity to an external surface.

3. The solid article of claim 1 wherein said external surface material exhibits a tensile strength of at least 5,000 psi.

4. The solid article of claim 1 wherein said article comprises a pressure sensor component underneath said external material.

5. The solid article of claim 2 wherein said article comprises a pressure sensor component underneath said external material.

6. A method of eradicating microbes from an object surface, said method comprising the steps of: i) providing a solid article of claim 1 ; and ii) contacting said solid article with said object surface; wherein the voltage for light emitting diode UV-C light generation is limited to a 100 mW maximum.

7. A method of eradicating microbes from an object surface, said method comprising the steps of: i) providing a solid article of claim 2; and ii) contacting said solid article with said object surface; wherein the voltage for light emitting diode UV-C light generation is limited to a 100 mW maximum.

8. A method of eradicating microbes from an object surface, said method comprising the steps of: i) providing a solid article of claim 3; and ii) contacting said solid article with said object surface; wherein the voltage for light emitting diode UV-C light generation is limited to a 100 mW maximum.

9. A method of eradicating microbes from an object surface, said method comprising the steps of: i) providing a solid article of claim 4; and ii) contacting said solid article with said object surface; wherein the voltage for light emitting diode UV-C light generation is limited to a 100 mW maximum.

10. A method of eradicating microbes from an object surface, said method comprising the steps of: i) providing a solid article of claim 5; and ii) contacting said solid article with said object surface; wherein the voltage for light emitting diode UV-C light generation is limited to a 100 mW maximum.