WO2023107408A1 - Proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices - Google Patents

Proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023107408A1
WO2023107408A1 PCT/US2022/051886 US2022051886W WO2023107408A1 WO 2023107408 A1 WO2023107408 A1 WO 2023107408A1 US 2022051886 W US2022051886 W US 2022051886W WO 2023107408 A1 WO2023107408 A1 WO 2023107408A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
air
hydroxyl
housing
optics
generator
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/051886
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Roger Slotkin
Ralph T. KUBITZKI
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Radical Clean Solutions Ltd.
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Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US17/545,919 external-priority patent/US20230173127A1/en
Priority claimed from US17/674,763 external-priority patent/US20230173125A1/en
Priority claimed from US17/713,959 external-priority patent/US20230173126A1/en
Priority claimed from US17/826,555 external-priority patent/US20230173129A1/en
Priority claimed from US17/861,181 external-priority patent/US20230173130A1/en
Application filed by Radical Clean Solutions Ltd. filed Critical Radical Clean Solutions Ltd.
Publication of WO2023107408A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023107408A1/en

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    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L9/00Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L9/16Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using physical phenomena
    • A61L9/22Ionisation
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/14Plasma, i.e. ionised gases
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/08Radiation
    • A61L2/088Radiation using a photocatalyst or photosensitiser
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/08Radiation
    • A61L2/10Ultraviolet radiation
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/11Apparatus for generating biocidal substances, e.g. vaporisers, UV lamps
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/14Means for controlling sterilisation processes, data processing, presentation and storage means, e.g. sensors, controllers, programs
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/15Biocide distribution means, e.g. nozzles, pumps, manifolds, fans, baffles, sprayers
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/20Targets to be treated
    • A61L2202/25Rooms in buildings, passenger compartments
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/20Targets to be treated
    • A61L2202/26Textiles, e.g. towels, beds, cloths
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/11Apparatus for controlling air treatment
    • A61L2209/111Sensor means, e.g. motion, brightness, scent, contaminant sensors
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/13Dispensing or storing means for active compounds
    • A61L2209/134Distributing means, e.g. baffles, valves, manifolds, nozzles
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/16Connections to a HVAC unit
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/20Method-related aspects
    • A61L2209/21Use of chemical compounds for treating air or the like
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61LMETHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L9/00Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L9/16Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using physical phenomena
    • A61L9/18Radiation
    • A61L9/20Ultraviolet radiation
    • A61L9/205Ultraviolet radiation using a photocatalyst or photosensitiser

Definitions

  • the present invention relates use of a harmonic bio-mimicry nonchemical photonic process that results in the export of desired atmospheric hydroxyls at precisely the same rate as nature provides (2.6 million per cubic Centimeter - NASA), to neutralize toxic chemicals and pathogens in breathable air/surfaces in stationary or moving human occupied spaces.
  • UV delivery in the form of directing ultraviolet light on unsanitary surfaces as germicides, bactericides and viricides are disadvantageous because, upon exposure to breathable air in mass transit rail and road vehicles, as well as aircraft and related airborne vehicles, such as helicopters, seating fabrics in building interior ducts and wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces, the ultraviolet light compromises fabrics and doesn’t penetrate into crevices between, or in, passenger seats or flight deck seats, located in the flight deck, separately sealed away from the air of the passenger cabin, or in seating fabrics in mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building interior ducts and wall surfaces, in hydroponic greenhouses, in portable room-sized units and other human occupied spaces. Delivery of ultraviolet light for sanitation is limited because the ultraviolet light is only as effective as the actual line of sight of the ultraviolet waves.
  • the NASA device produces the hydroxyl in a photo catalytic oxidation (PCO) process, by emitting an ultraviolet irradiation of 254 nanometers as it interfaces with titanium dioxide (TiC ) plating.
  • PCO photo catalytic oxidation
  • TiC titanium dioxide
  • the hydroxyl is produced only at the interface site of contact at the surface of the TiCk.
  • the hydroxyl does not exit the airstream and does not have any downstream interaction.
  • Minimal airflow must be maintained at approximately 120 cfm.
  • Typical HVAC systems utilize faster air movement at approximately 2000 cfm and this would not allow for the theoretical hydroxyl to form.
  • the present invention uses airborne hydroxyl radical molecules, which are of very small molar size and can occupy almost any given space. They can occupy dark crevices that ultraviolet line of sight cannot get access to.
  • the present invention allows for a “Harmonic” of photonic UV frequencies to be applied within a hydroxyl producing reaction chamber.
  • the feed stock is ambient water vapor in air which will have relative humidity, this humidity is the feed stock for the reaction chamber to produce the atmospheric hydroxyl.
  • the present invention process is a totally green, environmentally friendly nonchemical process that results in the export of the desired atmospheric hydroxyl at precisely the same rate as nature provides, namely, at 2.6 million per cubic centimeter.
  • the atmospheric hydroxyl process begins by exposing ambient water vapor to special UV optics having hydroxyl activation portions made of medical grade pure quartz material.
  • the optics are designed to emit/irradiate Ultraviolet irradiation in the nanometer wavelength/Ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers, thereby producing the hydroxyls at the aforementioned quantity of 2.6 million hydroxyls per cubic centimeter, as provided in nature. This is a novel improvement over prior art NASA PCO based technology.
  • Hydroxyl are groups having the radical “-OH” and are represented by the symbol -OH or HO-, which can have a negative charge or be neutral.
  • the hydroxyl functional group includes one hydrogen atom which is covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
  • Hydroxyl radicals are very reactive, which react quickly to hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide molecules and other air impurities, such as volatile organic compounds, (VOC), virus, bacteria and fungi.
  • VOC volatile organic compounds
  • Many closed HVAC air systems can harbor microscopic bacteria, virus (i.e., Covid-19) and fungi.
  • aircraft and other airborne transportation vehicles such as helicopters, seat fabrics on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and wall surfaces, in hydroponic greenhouses, and other human occupied spaces, can harbor bacteria and virus in the separate, circulated air systems.
  • residential rooms in dwellings or assisted living communities can harbor bacteria and virus in the separate, circulated air systems.
  • the present invention is a unique and novel application method for the delivery of safe and natural hydroxyl radicals into breathable air volume containers such as agricultural hydroponic greenhouses and the agricultural plant contents therein, airline flight deck or passenger cabins, and the contents therein, seat fabrics on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building HVAC ducts and the breathable ambient or heated or cooled airflow contents therein.
  • breathable air volume containers such as agricultural hydroponic greenhouses and the agricultural plant contents therein, airline flight deck or passenger cabins, and the contents therein, seat fabrics on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building HVAC ducts and the breathable ambient or heated or cooled airflow contents therein.
  • breathable air volume containers such as agricultural hydroponic greenhouses and the agricultural plant contents therein, airline flight deck or passenger cabins, and the contents therein, seat fabrics on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building HVAC ducts and the breathable ambient or heated or cooled airflow contents therein.
  • To be considered as well are upholstered chair seats, benches, contact surfaces such as grab bars, handles in building
  • the atmospheric hydroxyl radicals are generated in closed multi-sided housing, preferably polygonal, having therein two or more parallel UV optics which are multi segmented with crystal, so that when enabled, the hydroxyl radicals are generated.
  • Hydroxyls are reactive and short lived, however the closed housing reaction chamber preferably has polygonal interior walls, so that the hydroxyl radicals will bounce against the walls so as to decontaminate within the reaction chamber as well as downstream in open air areas. Breathable air is then directed through the closed housing, so that the created and excited radicals will react quickly to air and surface impurities, such as pathogens and VOC’s, rendering them neutral.
  • the UV optics are tubular, medical grade pure quartz.
  • the optics are designed to emit/irradiate Ultraviolet irradiation in the nanometer wavelength/Ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers.
  • a multi wave 'Harmonic' is created via a multiwavelength nanometer configured optic irradiation.
  • This configuration results in the creation of the desired atmospheric hydroxyl within the hydroxyl generator reaction chamber, which is a multi-sided reaction chamber, designed in such a way as to optimize atmospheric downstream hydroxyl production, such as for example in a polygonal-shaped housing.
  • This multi-sided reaction chamber enables the desired atmospheric hydroxyl to be injected downstream to affect positive change.
  • the positive change is the control/neutralization of pathogens and VOC's.
  • the -OH formed hydroxyl molecule is the capacitor that donates electrons to the targeted pathogen, whereupon the pathogen is therefore neutralized by the 'Electron Voltage (eV')' capacitance carried by the hydroxyl.
  • the eV is donated at the point of contact with the pathogen.
  • VOC VOC’s are neutralized through the action of Bond Dissociation Energy (BDE).
  • BDE Bond Dissociation Energy
  • the capacitance of the charged hydroxyl is sufficient so as to take out of phase (decomposition) of any airborne molecular or compound structure.
  • phase VOC chemistry can be harmful, therefore out-of-phase atomic airborne structures are now neutral and cannot recombine.
  • the exception to this rule would be the recombination of water vapor, carbon dioxide and lastly oxygen (02).
  • This reaction sequence is essential to all life, in that water vapor feeds all life, and carbon dioxide (CO2) is necessary/essential for plant life and oxygen (02) is essential for air breathers such as humans, other animals and forms of living organisms.
  • CO2 carbon dioxide
  • 02 oxygen
  • the interior of the reaction chamber is custom designed to arrest UV light escaping and to maximize atmospheric hydroxyl discharge. Refraction color can come out of the unit with the generated, activated hydroxyls, but never direct UV light.
  • the polygonal shape of the reaction chamber enhances the total ability of the chamber to produce the desired atmospheric hydroxyl.
  • the present invention by using the polygon shaped reaction chamber, has categoricaily enhanced atmospheric hydroxyl production.
  • the interior chamber holding the reaction chamber is custom designed to arrest UV light escaping and to maximize atmospheric hydroxyl discharge. Refraction color can come out of the unit with the generated, activated hydroxyls, but never direct UV light.
  • the polygonal shape of the reaction chamber enhances the total ability of the chamber to produce the desired atmospheric hydroxyl.
  • a fan is necessary to pull the ambient air with water vapor into the polygonal hydroxyl generator with a UV quartz optics, so that the water vapor molecules become hydroxyl radicals and thereafter are pushed by the fan out of the self-contained and/or portable unit.
  • an air pressure safety switch is provided, so that when air flow is not detected, this unit will be dormant.
  • a Micro Switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when unit is in the ON/RUN position.
  • the atmospheric hydroxyls are lighter than air, so they are provided below plant growing media, such as of coconut fiber, vermiculite, etc., wherein the hydroxyls located from below flow up around the roots and growing media; being lighter than 02, the hydroxyls “drift upward”. They will not penetrate fluid or solids, so parts of the roots and media must be exposed to hydroxylated air, as opposed to being in fluid or soil.
  • This greenhouse installation also uses a 2 x 2 lamp array and has the same options as in the large building HVAC duct installation.
  • the agricultural hydroxyl generating units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remotecontrol pad or mobile phone.
  • Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation.
  • Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
  • the agricultural hydroponic hydroxyl generating unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
  • one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the HVAC system, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load.
  • AIRCRAFT DEVICE AND SYSTEM
  • Atmospheric Hydroxyl radical generators can be externally fastened to and otherwise added into aircraft air conduits, which, for safety reasons, provide breathable cabin air through a flexible (typically yellow) conduit from a remote source external to the aircraft, to avoid engaging the generator at the site of the aircraft tarmac.
  • Hydroxyl radicals (separately added to the breathable cabin air or flight deck air) are provided from the remote device and vectored into the cabin of the aircraft.
  • the remote source may be located in a separate unit located either in the airport terminal or in a remote, movable cart, located a distance away from the aircraft.
  • hydroxyl radicals are directed into the aircraft air supply conduit and then into the separate zones of air within the aircraft where for safety reasons, which include biological and chemical intrusion, the air in the flight deck is completely separate from the passenger cabin air. This may also include optionally the installation of generators of hydroxyls in flight deck or passenger cabin air circulation systems in the aircraft itself.
  • an apparatus for cleaning breathable air in an aircraft, preferably in separate flight deck and passenger compartments of the aircraft parked upon a tarmac, the apparatus including: a) a hydroxyl generator positioned at a distance away from the aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, the hydroxyl generator being positioned away from the aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near the aircraft; b) an air supply unit adjacent to the hydroxyl generator; c) a duct from the air supply unit for delivering breathable air separately into the flight deck and passenger compartments; d) a means for injecting a stream of hydroxyls from the hydroxyl generator into the breathable air within the duct for delivery of the breathable air separately into the flight deck and passenger compartments, respectively; and e) whereby the breathable air passing through duct is cleansed of the impurities before entering the respective separate flight deck and passenger compartments.
  • the hydroxyl generator includes a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, wherein the housing contains a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, the UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air for the respective flight deck and passenger compartments.
  • the air inlet at one end and the air outlet at an opposite end of the housing are provided for exposing ambient water vapor to the plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls.
  • the housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
  • the aircraft is connected by a passenger walkway corridor to a passenger terminal, which may include the air supply unit and hydroxyl generator, which are positioned adjacent each other within the passenger terminal.
  • the aforementioned duct being hollow and preferably flexible, is located outside of the passenger walkway between the terminal and the aircraft.
  • the air supply unit and hydroxyl generator may be located on a movable cart at a distance away from the aircraft,
  • the duct preferably includes at a distal end adjacent to the aircraft an air flow divider separating the breathable air from the duct separately into the flight deck compartment and into the passenger compartment.
  • the present invention also provides a method for cleaning breathable air in an aircraft interior, preferably in separate flight deck and passenger compartments of the aircraft, comprising the steps of: i) parking the aircraft parked on a tarmac; ii) positioning a hydroxyl generator at a distance away from the aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, the hydroxyl generator being positioned away from the aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near the aircraft; iii) placing an air supply unit adjacent the hydroxyl generator; iv) connecting a duct from the air supply unit to the aircraft for delivering breathable air separately into the flight deck and passenger compartments; v) injecting a stream of hydroxyls from the hydroxyl generator into the breathable air within the duct for delivery of the breathable air separately into the flight deck and the passenger compartments; vi) separating the breathable air into a divider for separately delivering the breathable air into the flight deck and passenger compartments
  • the air supply unit for the aircraft and the hydroxyl generator are positioned adjacent each other within the passenger terminal.
  • the air supply unit for the aircraft and the hydroxyl generator are located on a movable cart on the tarmac, positioned remotely at a distance away from the aircraft.
  • the building HVAC duct hydroxyl generating units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remotecontrol pad or mobile phone.
  • Safety features include a microswitch which will shut off from inadvertent opening if the reaction chamber device is “on” when it should be “off”.
  • the micro switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when the generating unit is in operational status.
  • Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation. Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
  • the building HVAC duct hydroxyl generating unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
  • an air pressure safety switch is provided, so that when air flow is not detected, this unit will be dormant.
  • a Micro Switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when unit is in the ON/RUN position.
  • the transit vehicle unit also has a unique Internal Air Baffling System, to promote the zig zag of air movement therein, to control light and prevent unwanted UV light from escaping so that the breathable air passes through the transit vehicle unit.
  • the unique device design does not allow for any UV light to exit the unit.
  • the transit vehicle units were targeted to emulate certain characteristics required within the hospital framework. Pathogen and VOC control is of paramount concern and is inherent within the design parameters of the hydroxyl generating device. Consideration was also made with regard to sound control, wherein low air flow volume of 110 cubic feet (cf) must be quieter than 30 decibels or below (Hospital Quiet).
  • the transit vehicle units also contain an optimal - UV light refraction tubular fan assembly, which draws in the incoming air into the hydroxyl generator chamber housing.
  • Baffles located in the transit vehicle and duct installed hydroxyl generators allow air through the hydroxyl generator but prevent exposed UV light from escaping.
  • the sole purpose of the baffles is to arrest any UV rays from escaping the device. Any direct line of sight to the UV source would cause a "Welders Flash" incident and may temporarily harm the eyes of the observer. This type of incident is simply not allowed and is part of the safety investigation of the validation bodies UL/CSA.
  • the transit vehicle units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remote-control pad or mobile phone.
  • Safety features include a microswitch which will shut off from inadvertent opening if the reaction chamber device is “on” when it should be “off’.
  • the micro switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when the generating unit is in operational status.
  • Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation.
  • Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
  • the transit vehicle unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
  • the transit vehicle hydroxyl generating units have the above features, but the optics may optionally be provided in a two optic array of a - b options, where “A” is on, but “B” is on if A fails.
  • the transit vehicle hydroxyl generator is a self-contained, small unit, a fan assembly is needed to send air in and out of the hydroxyl generator unit for transit vehicles.
  • one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the transit vehicle hydroxyl generator, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load.
  • the hydroxyl generator includes a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, wherein the housing contains a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, the UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air for the respective flight deck and passenger compartments, on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and other human occupied spaces.
  • the air inlet at one end and the air outlet at an opposite end of the housing are provided for exposing ambient water vapor to the plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls.
  • the housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
  • the portable room sized unit also has a unique Internal Air Baffling System, located within an exterior housing of the portable room-sized unit, but outside of the actual polygonal clamshell hydroxyl generator, to promote the zig zag of air movement therein, to control light and prevent unwanted UV light from escaping so that the breathable air passes through the portable room sized unit.
  • the unique device design does not allow for any UV light to exit the unit.
  • the portable room sized units also contain an optimal - UV light refraction tubular fan assembly, which draws in the incoming air into the hydroxyl generator chamber housing.
  • Baffles located in the portable and duct installed hydroxyl generators allow air through the hydroxyl generator but prevent exposed UV light from escaping.
  • the sole purpose of the baffles is to arrest any UV rays from escaping the device. Any direct line of sight to the UV source would cause a "Welders Flash" incident and may temporarily harm the eyes of the observer. This type of incident is simply not allowed and is part of the safety investigation of the validation bodies UL/CSA.
  • the portable room sized units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remote-control pad or mobile phone.
  • Safety features include a microswitch which will shut off from inadvertent opening if the reaction chamber device is “on” when it should be “off’.
  • the micro switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when the generating unit is in operational status.
  • Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation.
  • Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
  • the portable room sized unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
  • an air pressure safety switch is provided, so that when air flow is not detected, this unit will be dormant.
  • a Micro Switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when unit is in the ON/RUN position.
  • one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the HVAC system, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load.
  • the hydroxyl generator includes a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, wherein the housing contains a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, the UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air for the respective flight deck and passenger compartments, on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and other human occupied spaces.
  • the air inlet at one end and the air outlet at an opposite end of the housing are provided for exposing ambient water vapor to the plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls.
  • the housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a polygonal hydroxyl generator shown in a closed position.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of the hydroxyl generator of Figure 1 shown in partial cross section with an open view of the interior of the hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 3 is an end view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator of Figure 1 , with two UV optics for generating hydroxyl radicals.
  • Figure 4 is a cross sectional end view of an alternate embodiment for a hydroxyl generator, showing four UV hydroxyl generator optics within the polygonal hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 5 is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 1-3 and 4.
  • Figure 5A is a flow chart showing the electronic controls with respect to their position adjacent to the hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 5B is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator -used in hydroponic greenhouse applications shown in Figures 6 and 6A, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5B.
  • Figure 5C is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in HVAC building duct applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5C.
  • Figure 5D is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in Portable Room-Sized Unit applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5D, which include a proximity detector for safety reasons and a fan, such as a pulse width modulated fan, which regulates the air speed of the fan by regulating the voltage of the fan between on and off, to move air flow with air purifying generated hydroxyl radicals therethrough.
  • a fan such as a pulse width modulated fan, which regulates the air speed of the fan by regulating the voltage of the fan between on and off, to move air flow with air purifying generated hydroxyl radicals therethrough.
  • Figure 6 is a diagrammatic side view and cross section of a hydroponic greenhouse embodiment, using hydroxyl generators to provide hydroxyl radicals for growing plants.
  • Figure 6A is an end view and cross section taken along view lines 6A-6A shown in the hydroponic greenhouse embodiment of Figure 6.
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment for a greenhouse for using hydroxyl generators for treating plants.
  • Figure 8 is a diagrammatic side view in partial cross section of an aircraft embodiment, using hydroxyl generators located in the airport terminal, remote from the aircraft itself, to separately provide hydroxyl radicals respectively for the flight deck and for the passenger cabin.
  • Figure 9 is a diagrammatic side view in partial cross section of an alternate embodiment for an aircraft embodiment using hydroxyl generators located remote from the aircraft in a movable cart, to provide hydroxyl radicals separately for the flight deck and passenger cabin.
  • Figure 10 is a perspective view of hydroxyl generator for a building having a HVAC unit duct embodiment, to be installed within the building HVAC unit air flow duct, to provide hydroxyl radicals for ambient, heated or cooled breathable air flowing therethrough.
  • Figure 10A is a perspective view in partial cutaway of the polygonal hydroxyl generator shown in Figure 10.
  • Figure 10B is an end view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator of Figure 10, with two UV optics for generating hydroxyl radicals.
  • FIG 11 is a diagrammatic end view in cross section view of an alternate embodiment for a building with an HVAC unit duct, showing a hydroxyl generator with multiple pairs of optics, for treating breathable HVAC unit ambient, heated, or cooling air flowing therethrough.
  • Figure 12 is a diagrammatic environmental view in partial cross section of a building having a duct having a wall into which is installed a radical hydroxyl generator, wherein the duct is a part of a heating, ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit through which breathable air with water vapor flows.
  • HVAC heating, ventilation air conditioning
  • Figure 13 is a flow chart of a Wi-Fi network manager portal communicating with operation of the radical hydroxyl generator of Figures 10, 10A and 10B.
  • Figure 14 is a computer screen shot image of scanned Wi-Fi networks of Figure 13, and their associated signal strength.
  • Figure 15 is a computer screen shot image of data associated with the Wi-Fi network of Figure 13.
  • Figure 16 is a computer screen shot image of the operation of the Wi-Fi network of the radical hydroxyl generator of Figures 10, 10A and 10B.
  • Figure 17 is a close-up top plan view of a radical hydroxyl generator installed within a building duct as in Figure 12, with an arrow indicating air flow therethrough.
  • Figure 17A is a side elevation view of the radical hydroxyl generator installed within a building duct as in Figure 17.
  • Figure 18 is a front elevation view of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 17, and 17A, showing a rectangular cut out in a wall of the building HVAC unit duct, showing a vertical height of the duct opening and a lengthwise width of the duct opening, wherein an arrow indicated the direction of air flow with water vapor through the radical hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view from below of the hydroxyl generator being installed into the cut-out of the building HVAC unit duct wall as in Figures 17, 17A, and 18, showing the cut-out hole for insertion of the hydroxyl generator therethrough.
  • Figure 20 is a perspective view of the hydroxyl generator installed as in Figures 17, 17A, 18 and 19, where arrows indicate fasteners to be released for pivotable opening of the hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 20A is a perspective view from below, showing the pivoted opening of the clamshell configuration of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 17, 17A, 18, 19 20 and 20A, where the curved arrows indicate the pivoted opening of the clamshell housing of the hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 20B is a diagrammatic close-up detail view of the connection of the wiring of the optics located within the hydroxyl generator as in Figures 17,17A, 18, 19, 20 and 20A herein.
  • Figure 21 is a perspective view of an in-duct retrofit HVAC hydroxyl generator installable in a duct of an HVAC unit of a building, wherein a plug and electrical wire are provided for connection to a power supply of the building shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 22 is a front elevation view as in Figure 21 of the retrofit hydroxyl generator installed in a duct in a building.
  • Figure 22A is an exploded perspective view of a retrofit hydroxyl generator being installed in a wall of a building duct, as in Figures 21 and 22.
  • Figure 23 is a perspective environmental view of the hydroxyl generator in use in a transit vehicle, where the hydroxyl generator is shown in a self contained housing below a seat of the transit vehicle.
  • Figure 23A is a perspective view of the housing for the hydroxyl generator of Figure 23.
  • Figure 23B is a cross-sectional end view of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 23 and 23A showing the clamshell housing having oppositely placed optics within the self-contained housing and connected to the control box within the outer self- contained housing of the hydroxyl generator and where an inverter is provided to convert the normal 12 volt DC voltage from the vehicle power supply to AC power as required for the hydroxyl generator to operate.
  • Figure 23B also shows a fan unit in the housing to expel the newly purified air from the working operation of the polygonal hydroxyl generator unit and transferring the air through a grate in the outer self-contained housing of the hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 23C is a perspective view in partial open cutaway cross-sectional view, exposing the interior components including the horizontally oriented polygonal clamshell unit with light producing optics as in Figure 23B, the DC power supply input from the vehicle, and the DC to AC inverter for supplying AC power to the control box of the hydroxyl generator.
  • Figure 23D is a diagrammatic side view in cross-section of the hydroxyl generator for transit vehicles, showing the “S- curve” diversion of the airflow by light blocking baffles provided at the intake forward entry end and at the exit aft end of the hydroxyl generator housing, to block inadvertent eye damaging light emanating from the concealed optics in the hydroxyl generator housing, while air filters are also provided at the forward entry end and exit aft end of the hydroxyl generator housing, to filter out any dirt or undesirable airborne particles that might tend to degrade the sensitive medical grade pure quartz material of the optics.
  • Figure 23E is an exploded view of a stand-alone hydroxyl generator for transit vehicles with a three-pass air flow to limit UV light escape, where a clamshell hydroxyl generator reactor with a structural cover and an electronics cover, is insertable inside the housing in the open central area shown.
  • the air input side of the unit includes a fan to move air with water vapor therethrough, and a filter is provided to prevent dirt, dust and other contaminating particles from compromising the sensitive quartz surfaces of the UV optics, which create hydroxyl radicals when water vapor from incoming air contacts the UV from the optics within the hydroxyl generator reactor portion.
  • An exit grill is provided at the air exit end of the standalone hydroxyl generator, which is placed away from passenger standing or walking areas, within the confines of a transit vehicle, such as on the floor beneath one of more passenger seats in the transit vehicle.
  • Figure 23F is a side view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator reactor enclosure for transit vehicles, showing two UV producing optics and a light and air flow sensor board.
  • Figure 23G is a side view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator of Fig. 23E, showing the air entry fan and the undulated “S shaped” air flow of the incoming air around the centrally located hydroxyl generator reactor, then through the hydroxyl generator reactor, and finally around the hydroxyl generator reactor in a different direction out of the stand-alone hydroxyl generator for mass transit vehicles.
  • Figure 24 is a perspective environmental view of a portable room size hydroxyl generator located on the floor in a room with office or residential furniture.
  • Figure 24A is a perspective view of the portable room size hydroxyl generator mountable upon a wall of a room.
  • Figure 24B is a cross sectional perspective view of an alternate embodiment for a portable room size hydroxyl generator, showing interior components, including an air intake grate, a directional fan for pulling the intake air and sending it in an air flow in the direction of the arrows indicated through a vertically oriented clamshell hydroxyl generator housing, having optics therein as well as interior walls to facilitate the exiting of purified air out of the portable room size hydroxyl generator to the occupied room in which the generator is located, as well as showing filters at the air intake and air exit of the airstream to capture any dirt or undesirable particles, which could compromise the quartz lamp optics.
  • interior components including an air intake grate, a directional fan for pulling the intake air and sending it in an air flow in the direction of the arrows indicated through a vertically oriented clamshell hydroxyl generator housing, having optics therein as well as interior walls to facilitate the exiting of purified air out of the portable room size hydroxyl generator to the occupied room in which the generator is located, as well as showing filters
  • Figure 24B further shows baffles at the air intake and air exit of the unit to promote an “S” shaped configuration of the airstream within the unit to prevent any undesirable and dangerous glare from direct exposure of persons in the room from the intense light rays of the quartz lamp optics.
  • Figure 25 is a closeup perspective view of the airflow blower fan unit of the portable room size hydroxyl generator of Figures 24, 24A and 24B.
  • Figure 25A is a side view in cross section of a preferred embodiment for a portable room-sized hydroxyl generator having a housing with “S-shaped” conducts to promote an “S-shaped” flow of the air within the hydroxyl generator
  • the housing includes an air inlet and a filter to keep out dirt, dust and other contaminating particulates from entering and contaminating the optics within the centrally located hydroxyl generating reactor after which the air infused with hydroxyl radicals produced by contact or water vapor in the inlet air exposed to the UV light of the optics.
  • a curved baffle type air directing conduit moves the air in the S-shaped curvature through an exit compartment and exit grille to the room in which the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator stands upon casters or wheels or is alternatively mountable upon a wall (not shown) in the room being serviced by the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator unit.
  • Figure 25B is an exploded view of the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator as in Figure 25A, showing the housing of hydroxyl generator, with caster wheels, and a filter and baffle conduct inside the air inlet of the housing.
  • the hydroxyl generator reactor is also shown with an optic, fan and exit grille.
  • the word “may” is used in a permissive sense (/.e., meaning having the potential to, or being optional), rather than a mandatory sense (/.e., meaning must), as more than one embodiment of the invention may be disclosed herein.
  • the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to.
  • each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, and “A, B, and/or C” herein means all of the following possible combinations: A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B together; or A and C together; or B and C together; or A, B and C together.
  • any reference made throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature or characteristic described in connection therewith is included in at least that one particular embodiment.
  • Figure 1 shows a hydroxyl generator 1 , including a polygonal-shaped housing, including a bracket brace 14 for supporting crystal-spliced UV optics 12 and 13 within respective C-shaped spring clasps 12a and 13a, which are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 14, which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing, but staggered so that UV optic 12 is on a different side of the bracket 14 from the side on which UV optic 13 is located, wherein the crystal spliced UV optics 12 and 13 each have a length that runs substantially the entire length of the housing of the hydroxyl generator 1.
  • a preferred example for the crystal-spliced UV optics 12 and 13 is the GPH457T5L/4P UV Optic 4-pin Base 18” GPH457T5 of Light Spectrum Enterprises of Southampton; these optics 12 and 13 are typically 18 inches long and are made of quartz.
  • the tubular optics 12 and 13 are composed of pure Medical Grade quartz crystal in the portion of the optics which creates the hydroxyls.
  • the present invention adds additional frequencies to the pure crystal optics.
  • These tubular optics 12 and 13 generate ‘Harmonic’ bio-mimicry nonchemical process of the present invention which enables the production of desired atmospheric hydroxyls at a rate commensurate with the VOC/Bio loading in that particular space to be treated with the hydroxyls.
  • the optics 12 and 13 are preferably symmetrically positioned in the housing of the hydroxyl generator 1 , as shown in Figures 3 and 4 to operate most efficiently, but where in Figure 3 the crystal spliced UV optics 12 and 13 are staggered so that UV optic 12 is on a different side of the bracket brace 14 from the side on which UV optic 13 is located.
  • Figure 4 shows an alternate embodiment where there are two pairs of UV optics, namely 112,113 and 112a, 113a.
  • the UV optics 112, 113 are staggered to the right on one bottom side of the horizontal bracket brace 114, but are separated by upright bracket brace 114.
  • UV optics 112a and 113a are respectively staggered to the left on the opposite top side of the horizontal bracket brace 114, also separated from each other by upright bracket brace 114.
  • Optics pairs 112, 113 and 112a, 113a are supported within pairs of respective C-shaped spring clasps 112c, 113c and 112d, 113d, which pairs of optics 112, 113 and 112a, 113a are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 114, and which pairs of optics 112, 113 and 112a, 113a are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing 1.
  • the clamshell hexagon housing hydroxyl generator 1 has a clamshell configuration, including a clamshell top wall 2, upper side walls 7, 8, 9 and 10, fasteners 16a, 16b, a hinge at fastener 16a for opening the polygonal clamshell housing land a bottom clamshell portion, including a bottom wall 4 and angle- oriented walls 11 and 11a, whereby the polygon housing opens hinge 6 to expose the inside of the hydroxyl generator 1 for maintenance and/or repair.
  • the polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure can be removed from the air duct wall 40A for such maintenance and repair.
  • the hydroxyl generator also includes an adjacent electronic control box 20, which is attachable to the clamshell housing of the hydroxyl generator 1.
  • the electronic control box 20 is preferably located outside of the air path, which may be a duct or other conduit. It can alternatively be attached outside of the duct. It communicates with the UV optics wirelessly.
  • the reason for the polygon shape is that the hydroxyl generators generated by the crystal-spliced UV optics 12 and 13 are scattered upon being generated by the optics 12 and 13, but they dissipate quickly if not activated by contact with reflective non-absorbent surfaces inside the respective walls of the polygon.
  • the purpose of the polygon shape is that when the hydroxyl radicals are generated, they are emitted radially in all directions from the UV crystal-spliced optics 12 and 13 and normally would dissipate when scattered radially from the optics.
  • the hydroxyl radicals In order to permit the hydroxyl radicals to maintain their desired electron charge and ability to contact and inactivate mold, volatile organic compounds, pathogens, bacteria, virus, etc., they need to reflect and refract off of the reflective non-absorbent walls continuously, within the reaction chamber confined space.
  • the air inside the air duct/plenum 40a will contact the activated hydroxyl radicals with the end result of the neutralization of any impurities, such as VOCs, virus, bacteria, fungi, etc., in the air and surfaces.
  • impurities such as VOCs, virus, bacteria, fungi, etc.
  • radicals can penetrate any crevices in any area, such as in hydroponic greenhouse plant media growing vessels, such as between seats of aircraft, mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces, such as individual rooms with small self-contained hydroxyl generators, between the surfaces of seats and shelving, and anywhere where ultraviolet light by itself would not be capable of eradicating the undesirable VOCs, fungi, virus, bacteria, etc.
  • the polygon-shaped housing is strategically located within an air supply unit in an airport terminal building, or it can be located within a remote cart not located near the aircraft, on the tarmac of the airport, and preferably it may be provided in the air systems separately of an aircraft cabin, including the flight deck and the areas of the main cabin where passengers are seated. Therefore, the polygon shaped housings may also be strategically located in mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts, in individual rooms, and wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces
  • the inside of the polygon housing 1 is located below the field of vision within the sealed off plenum so that the ultraviolet (UV) crystal-spliced tubular optics 12 and 13 will not be exposed to the eyes of any observers. Therefore, while the hydroxyl radicals are being generated, the UV energy which create hydroxyl generation from optics 12 and 13 are completely sealed off so that when the optics 12 and 13 are operational, the UV light emanating therefrom will not penetrate outside of the polygonal housing.
  • Baffles optionally located outside of the hydroxyl generators, but in the vicinity of the hydroxyl generators, prevent the UV light from exposure to persons.
  • fibrous filters may be provided at input and outlet areas of the housing containing the hydroxyl generator portion with the UV optics, to capture any undesirable airborne particulates, such as dirt and dust and other particles which may compromise the sensitive quartz material of the UV optics.
  • Figure 4 shows an alternate embodiment for a four optic version, where polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure 101, having top wall 102, side walls 107, 108, 109, 110 of an upper shell, as well as lower walls 105, 111a, 111 b of the clamshell housing.
  • Figure 4 also shows the electronics control box 120.
  • the respective pairs of optics 112, 112 and 113, 113 are supported within respective pairs of C-shaped spring clasps, which are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 114, which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing 101.
  • Clamshell housing 101 is openable via hinge 106.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the network and electronics of the control box 20.
  • AC power 23 of 110 VAC is converted by converter 22 to low voltage 12 VDC, or else a low voltage battery alternatively delivers 12 VDC to a secure Key Switch 22a, to provide power to the Master Events Controller 20, which may have a microprocessor 21.
  • the Master Events Controller 20 also receives input from sensors, such as Air Flow Sensor 25, UV Light Sensor 26, Proximity Switch 27 (detecting opening of the enclosure), Timer 30 and Voltage Monitor Sensor 31 . These sensors provide Sensor Input to the Master Events Controller 20.
  • the Power Switching in the Master Events Controller 20 sends 12V Pulse Width Modulation data to a PWM Speed Controlled Fan 34, to send air through the hydroxyl generator unit 1 or 101 , or to stop the flow of air when needed for safety and maintenance situations.
  • the Power Switching also sends data via a Large Serve Outlet (LSO) to a Relay, which controls the Ballast 32, providing power to the Crystal UV Optics 12, which creates the needed hydroxyls within the hydroxyl generators 1 or 101.
  • the Master Events Controller 20 also has a Communications Output, which can send data via a Controller Area Network (CAN) to a Visual Display 29 for user feedback.
  • the Communications Output of the Master Events Controller 20 also sends digital data wirelessly as output to Status Feedback Units.
  • the Communications Output of the Master Events Controller 20 also sends Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® Signal output to Wireless input devices 28 for Wireless user feedback during use.
  • Figure 5A is a diagrammatic flow chart, showing the electronic control box 20 of Figures 1 , 2 and 3, which is also equivalent to the electronic control box 120 of Figure 4. Adjacent to the hydroxyl generator 1 or 101 , which in Figures 1-3, the hydroxyl generators are attached by one or more brackets 19 to the electronic control box 20. Similarly, the electronic control box 120 is attached by brackets 119 of Figure 4.
  • the control box 20 includes a microprocessor 21 for controlling the sensors and switches, which control the operation of the optics 12 and 13, or 112 and 113, of the hydroxyl generators 1 shown in Figures 1-3 and 4 respectively.
  • a power source being either a DC low-voltage battery 24, or an AC plug 23, to provide higher-voltage AC power.
  • a converter 22 can be provided to convert high-voltage AC to low-voltage DC power for operating any of the sensors and control elements within box 20.
  • Box 25 of Figure 5A discloses the detector 25 to detect whether airflow is on, so that the optics 12 and 13 will only be on after airflow is confirmed, so that they are not on when there is no airflow.
  • Box 26 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses the sensor 26 for detecting emitted light, and providing feedback to replace optics, including a secondary backup optic, which is also disclosed in box 26 of the flowchart of Figure 5A.
  • Box 27 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses a detector with a proximity switch 27 detecting opening of the enclosure, and thereafter used to turn off the optics 12 and 13, to protect people from being exposed to the possible harmful UV light emitted from the optics 12 and 13.
  • This detector with the proximity switch 27 shown in box 27 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A also includes a limit switch, a micro switch and sensors.
  • Box 28 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses the mobile phone application connection 28 for user feedback by wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth® communications, between the operator, the control box 20 and hydroxyl generator 1 itself, together with a timer.
  • the control box 20 also includes the LCD user feedback system 29, with a timer shown in box 29 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A with a timer, as well as a further timer 30 shown in box 30 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A, to provide feedback for regular maintenance.
  • the voltage and frequency of AC main supply sensor 31 is shown in box 31 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A
  • Box 32 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A shows the voltage and frequency of the monitor of the ballast power outfit 32.
  • Box 33 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses a fire sensor 33, which detects excess heat in the system.
  • Box 34 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses a real time clock 34 which controls any fans providing and activating the airflow through the polygon hydroxyl generators 1.
  • the primary source of power from the vehicle may be low voltage (12VDC) which can be accompanied by a DC/AC converter to convert the low voltage (12VDC) to higher 120V AC power to operate the hydroxyl generator within the mass transit vehicle.
  • the key switch (22a) can alternatively be positioned before the power supply (22);
  • the key switch (22a) can alternatively be a pushbutton
  • the power supply (22) can alternatively be included in the Master Events Controller (MEC) 20;
  • the power to the relay (not numbered) in Figure 5 can alternatively be provided by the Master Events Controller (MEC) 20 in Figure 5B.
  • MEC Master Events Controller
  • the hydroxyl generators can be used in greenhouses, for producing plants hydroponically, such as medicinal or other botanical plants, which are grown agriculturally inside a greenhouse.
  • the plants are mounted in the greenhouse on troughs and tables, typically hydroponically, where the roots are held in place by media, such as coconut fibers, vermiculite, perlite, growstones, rockwool, pine shavings, rice hulls, peat moss, soil, sand or other mineral materials, so that a portion of the roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid, for irrigation and fertigation, and the upper part of the roots are exposed to air, which is brought through with hydroxyl radicals from the hydroxyl generators.
  • media such as coconut fibers, vermiculite, perlite, growstones, rockwool, pine shavings, rice hulls, peat moss, soil, sand or other mineral materials, so that a portion of the roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid, for irrigation and fertigation, and the upper part of the roots are exposed
  • the greenhouse has a top roof area 300a, side walls 300b and 300c, and a base ground level 300d.
  • the greenhouse 300 is adjacent to a utility room 350, which has utility controls 320 for controlling the electronics and mechanics of the system, as well as a hydroponic fluid source 390, which provides the hydroponic fluid through a pipe conduit 360.
  • the pipe 360 has the lower parts of the roots and the media soaking in the fluid, with an upper portion of the roots and media being exposed to air of the plants 370, which have roots 370a held in place by media 370b.
  • the plants 370 are rooted in the pipe 360, with a stem portion of each plant 370 rising through a crevice 360a in the pipe 360, and a lower portion of the roots 370a being soaked in the hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, and an upper portion of the roots of 370a being exposed to air flowing out of the sock sleeve 340 into the pipe 360, through the crevice 360a, and in and around the pipe 360.
  • the hydroponic fluid 370e is provided through the hydroponic fluid pipe 360.
  • the polygonal-shaped hydroxyl generators 310 are produced in an enclosed air duct, which is preferably a fan 351 , and produces an airflow into an air duct 330, which emanates horizontally from the fan 351 , or other air source, then makes an upward 90-degree turn, through an air duct portion 330a, which then turns at 90 degrees horizontally at an upper portion of the utility room 350 through a horizontal portion 330b, within which is located the hydroxyl generator, just before a further downward air duct portion 330c emanates downward to the level of trough 334 inside 'the greenhouse, so that the air from the downward portion 330c of the air duct is then sent horizontally through a flexible sock sleeve 340, having multiple upper apertures 341 to permit the radical hydroxyl flows below and then around the hydroponic fluid pipe, and then contacting the air and plant roots 370a of the plants 370, within the media, such as the coconut fiber 370b.
  • an enclosed air duct which is
  • an overhead mister hose 365 may be provided in case the plants are not hydroponically bred.
  • the hydroxyls whether they are blown or pumped through the root system and media in the greenhouse trough in the hydroponic growing system in the greenhouse, the hydroxyl radicals are exposed to the portions of the roots 370a and growing media 370b, so that they can be misted exposed therein while being irrigated and/or fertigated, either hydroponically, or alternatively within conventional soil media.
  • the greenhouse 300 is connected to the utility room 350.
  • the hydroxyl generators are installed in a strategic position at the top of the air duct 330b, before the hydroxylated air is sent downward through portion 330c of undulating air duct 330 spanning from utility laboratory room 350 and greenhouse 300 and then the air filled with hydroxyls is sent to the flexible sock sleeve 340, having upper apertures 341 for release of the hydroxyls to intermingle with the plant roots 370a of the hydroponically grown plants 370 located above the parallel troughs 334 of greenhouse 300.
  • Flexible sock sleeve 340 is tapered to decrease in diameter towards its distal end, to accommodate for air pressure loss, due to decreasing air flow through the length of the flexible sock sleeve 340.
  • Figure 6A shows a detailed view of the hydroxyl flexible sleeve 340, with hydroxyls 302 therein and the arrows indicate the flow of the hydroxyls around the lower portion of the pipe with the fertigation and irrigation fluids for the hydroponics where the lower levels of the roots 370a are provided, but where the upper level of the roots exposed to air within the media 370b are then exposed to the hydroxyls of the plants 370.
  • the trough 334 is shown below the flexible sock sleeve 340.
  • the hydroxyls are introduced into air surrounding exposed roots, leaves, stems, vascular or phloem tissues of the plant.
  • a greenhouse 400 includes hydroxyl generators 410 and 411 , which are provided either adjacent to an intake fan 451 for airflow through and out the greenhouse 400 through exhaust fan 451 and/or motorized or pressurized shutter outlets 480, 481 .
  • a trough 434 is provided for the plants and there may be a drip irrigation hose 470 with apertures for irrigation of hydroponic growing media 470c of the roots 470a of plants 470, where the hydroxyls less generated by hydroxyl generator 411 will mingle within the air exposed portions of the roots and in the media 470b of the plants 470.
  • Optional hydroxyl generator 410 can be located at the intake fan for sending the hydroxyls through the airflow of the greenhouse 400 in areas above the plants.
  • the hydroxyl generators shown in Figures 1-7 will inactivate any VOCs or pathogens, such as virus, bacteria or fungi, anywhere in the air of the hydrogenic greenhouse buildings.
  • the hydroxyl generators are provided so that the hydroxyl radicals will flow adjacent to and through the media of the plants being farmed therein.
  • the hydroxyl generators 510 are remotely positioned away from the aircraft 501 on the tarmac 502, to reduce the possibility of sparks near the aircraft 501 , and the hydroxyls are delivered from a remote location near the air supply unit 520 within the airport terminal 504, as in Figure 8, through a flexible conduit tubing 540 to an input 550 or from a remotely positioned movable cart 525 on the tarmac 502 away from the aircraft 501 , through a flexible tubing conduit 545 to inlet 550 of the aircraft 501 itself, as in Figure 9.
  • hydroxyl generator 510 (polygonal-shaped) is positioned in a unit in the airport terminal 504, near the air supply unit 525 in the terminal 504.
  • Figure 9 shows the alternate embodiment where the hydroxyl generator 515 located in a movable cart 525 having air outlet 530, remotely positioned away from the aircraft 501 on the tarmac 502.
  • Figures 8 and 9 also show the walkway corridor 503 from the terminal to the airplane 501.
  • FIG. 12 shows a diagrammatic environmental view in partial cross section of a building having a duct 650 having a wall 651 into which is installed a radical hydroxyl generator, wherein the duct is a part of a heating, ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit through which breathable air with water vapor flows.
  • HVAC heating, ventilation air conditioning
  • Figure 5C similar to the block diagram of Figure 5B, is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in HVAC building duct applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5C.
  • air flow duct 650 having walls 651 , etc., where the duct 650 is connected to a HVAC unit 630, which provides respective heated, ambient, or cooled breathable air.
  • An air purification hydroxyl producing unit 601 as in Figures 10, 10A and 10B, is provided inside of duct 650, so that water vapor in air flowing therethrough will contact with the light emanating from optics 612, 613, ’and upon contact therewith, will generate hydroxyl radicals to purify the air within building duct 650.
  • an air purification hydroxyl producing unit 601a as in Figure 11, with multiple pairs of optics 612, 613, 612a, 613a, etc., could be also provided inside of duct 650, so that water vapor in air flowing therethrough will contact with the light emanating from multiple pairs of optics 612, 613, 612a, 613a, etc., upon contact therewith, will also generate hydroxyl radicals to purify the air within building duct
  • FIGS 10, 10A and 10B show a building duct 650 with a support wall 651 , having an HVAC unit duct hydroxyl generator 601 , similar to hydroxyl generator 1 shown in Figures 1-3 with a pair of optics 612, 613.
  • Figure 11 shows an alternate embodiment, similar to the hydroxyl generator as in Figure 4, for a hydroxyl generator 601 A with two pairs of oppositely situated optics , attached to duct wall
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a has a hinged polygonal shaped housing 603, which is openable in a hinged clamshell configuration, with a upper portion 625 of clamshell housing 603 having holes for attachment fasteners at a distal end 625a of upper portion 625, connected to a structural bracket 619 attached to front frame 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a and separated by a hinge 626 at its proximal edge from a stationary bottom portion 627 of the clamshell housing 603 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 also includes the polygonal-shaped clamshell housing 603, including a bracket brace 614 for supporting crystal-spliced UV optics 612 and 613 within respective fasteners, such as C-shaped spring clasps 612a and 613a, which are each respectively mounted on brackets 614, 615 and which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing, but staggered so that UV optic 612 is on a different side of brackets 614, 615 from the side on which UV optic 613 is located.
  • the crystal spliced UV optics 612 and 613 each have a length that runs substantially the entire length of the housing of the hydroxyl generator 601 .
  • crystal-spliced UV optics 612 and 613 is also the GPH457T5L/4P UV Optic 4-pin Base 18” GPH457T5 of Light Spectrum Enterprises of Southampton, which optics 612 and 613 are typically 18 inches long and are made of quartz.
  • the tubular optics 612 and 613 are also composed of pure Medical Grade quartz crystal in the portion of the optics which creates the hydroxyls. The present invention adds additional frequencies to the pure crystal optics.
  • tubular lamp optics 612 and 613 of Figure 10, 10A and 10B generate ‘Harmonic’ bio-mimicry nonchemical process of the present invention enables the production of desired atmospheric hydroxyls at a rate commensurate with the VOC/Bio loading in that particular space to be treated with the hydroxyls.
  • two pairs of optics 612, 612 and 613, 613 may be employed in polygonal shaped hydroxyl generator 601a of Figure 11, similar to hydroxyl generator 100 with two pairs of optics 112, 112, 113 and 113 as in Figure 4.
  • the optics 612 and 613 are preferably symmetrically positioned in the housing of the hydroxyl generator 601 , as shown in Figure 10, 10A and 10B to operate most efficiently, where in Figure 10B the crystal spliced UV optics 612 and 613 are staggered so that UV optic 612 is on a different side of the bracket brace 614 from the side on which UV optic 613 is located.
  • UV optics 612, 612a of polygonal hydroxyl generator 601a are similarly staggered to the right on one bottom side of the horizontal bracket brace 614a, but are separated by upright bracket brace 614a.
  • UV optics 613 and 613a are respectively staggered to the left on the opposite top side of the horizontal bracket brace 614a, also separated from each other by upright bracket brace 614a.
  • Optics pairs 612, 612a and 613, 613a of Figure 11 are supported within pairs of respective fasteners, such as C-shaped spring clasps 612c, 613c and 612d, 613d, which pairs of optics 612, 612a and 613, 613a are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 614a, and which pairs of optics 612, 612a and 6113, 613a are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the hinged clamshell hexagon housing 601a.
  • respective fasteners such as C-shaped spring clasps 612c, 613c and 612d, 613d, which pairs of optics 612, 612a and 613, 613a are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 614a, and which pairs of optics 612, 612a and 6113, 613a are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the hinged clamshell hexagon housing 601a.
  • the clamshell hexagon housing hydroxyl generator 601 has a clamshell configuration, including a clamshell top wall 602, upper side walls 607, 608, 609 and 610, a hinge 606 for opening the polygonal clamshell housing 601 and a bottom clamshell portion, including a bottom wall 604 and angle-oriented walls 611 and 611a, whereby the polygon housing opens hinge 606 to expose the inside of the hydroxyl generator 601 for maintenance and/or repair within building duct 650.
  • polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure can be removed from the air duct wall 651 for such maintenance and repair, but only when power is shut off, so that maintenance personnel are not exposed to visually harmful beams from optics 612 and 613.
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 also includes an adjacent electronic control box 620, which is attachable to the clamshell housing of the hydroxyl generator 601 , or provided in the vicinity thereof.
  • the electronic control box 620 is preferably located outside of the air path, which may be the building HVAC unit duct or other conduit, where it can optionally be attached outside of the duct 650, wherein the control box 620 communicates with the UV optics 612, 613 wirelessly ( or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration).
  • the reason for the lengthwise extending polygon shape of the clamshell reactor housing 601 is that the hydroxyls generated by the crystal-spliced UV optics 612 and 613 could be scattered upon being generated by the optics 612 and 613, and theoretically dissipated quickly, if not activated by constant repetitive contact with reflective non-absorbent surfaces inside the respective walls of the polygonal shaped housing of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
  • the purpose of the polygon shape is that when the hydroxyl radicals are generated, they are emitted radially in all directions from the UV crystal- spliced optics 612 and 613 and normally would dissipate when scattered radially from the optics 612 and 613 ( or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration).
  • the hydroxyls need to reflect and refract off of the reflective non-absorbent interior walls of hydroxyl generator 601 continuously, within the reaction chamber confined space of its respective polygonal shape, which may be hexagonal, octagonal or any other polygonal shape.
  • hydroxyl radicals are emitted to the breathable air of the human inhabited building, they can penetrate any crevices in any area of the building interior having HVAC unit duct 650, such as between seats of building interior furniture, between the surfaces of building room desks; and cabinets, or in any crevice where ultraviolet light by itself would not be capable of eradicating the undesirable VOCs, fungi, virus, bacteria, etc.
  • the polygon-shaped housing 601 is strategically located within an air duct wall of building duct 650, which can be in a building which has sub walls extending to various rooms in the building 600.
  • the inside of the polygon housing 601 is located below the field of vision within the sealed off plenum so that the ultraviolet (UV) crystal-spliced tubular optics 612 and 613 will not be exposed to the eyes of any observers. Therefore, while the hydroxyl radicals are being generated, the UV energy which create hydroxyl generation from optics 612 and 613 are completely sealed off so that when the optics 612 and 13 are operational, and the UV light emanating therefrom will not penetrate outside of the polygonal housing.
  • UV ultraviolet
  • Figure 11 also shows the alternate embodiment for hydroxyl generator 601a, similar to hydroxyl generator 100 of Figure 4, for a four optic version, where polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure 601a, having top wall 602, side walls 607, 608, 609, 610 of an upper shell, as well as lower walls 605, 611a, 611b of the clamshell housing 601 A.
  • Figure 11 also shows the electronics control box 620.
  • the respective pairs of optics 612, 612a and 613, 613a are supported within respective pairs of fasteners, such as C-shaped spring clasps 612a and 613a, which are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 614, which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing 601a.
  • Clamshell housing 601a is openable via hinge 606.
  • the hydroxyl generators 601 or 601a shown in the multi-story building 600 of Figure 12, provide clean air in the duct 650 in connection with the heating, ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit through which breathable air with water vapor flows, where the water vapor molecules generate the hydroxyl radicals for cleaning heated, ambient, or cooled air with the building 600.
  • HVAC heating, ventilation air conditioning
  • the radical hydroxyl generators 601 , 601a installed in building ducts 650 of buildings 600 of Figures 10, 10A, 10B, 11 and 12 are capable of destroying 99.99% (4-Log) of biological contaminants (bacterial, fungal, and viral), ensuring a clear operation of the heated, ambient, or cooled air produced by the HVAC unit 630 of building 600 shown in Figure 12.
  • the radical hydroxyl generating system provides all the benefits of mother-nature’s natural air purification in the atmosphere, but now located in the indoor environments, such as in building 600 that people live in.
  • hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a For installation of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a into a building duct 650, the installer must first ensure that there is adequate clearance for service. If a humidifier is present, the hydroxyl generator 601 should be installed in the airstream before the humidifier Furthermore, any plastic components should be shielded from direct UV exposure.
  • the installer must turn off all power to the HVAC unit 630 in the building duct 650, before installation or maintenance procedures.
  • hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is ready for installation, it must be set up with a Wi-Fi system 28 communicating with the control box 20 of Figures 5, 5A and 5B.
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a As shown in Figure 12, after properly installing the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a into a wall 651 of the building duct 650 for the HVAC unit 630, it is plugged into a wall outlet and powered on , such as, for example by using a pushbutton (for example colored red) on a front panel. With the pushbutton pressed and the unit plugged in, the red pushbutton should illuminate. If the red pushbutton does not illuminate, it must be checked to ascertain if the unit is plugged in.
  • a pushbutton for example colored red
  • a Wi-Fi hotspot will automatically be generated.
  • the installer goes to the WiFi settings on any smartphone or computer.
  • a password such as for example “utsisgreat”.
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is connected to the Wi-Fi network Upon connecting to the network, a Wi-Fi Manager portal with instructions (see Figure 13) will automatically open.
  • the installer presses the instruction “Configure Wi-Fi”. This will open the portal page such in the screen shot image of Figure 14 This page of Figure 14 shows all the scanned networks and their associated signal strength.
  • the installer then enters the credentials of a local Wi-Fi network into the two text input boxes at the bottom of the digital screen page labeled as “SSID” and “Password.”
  • An indicator light preferably yellow, is provided on the front panel of each hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a. During normal operation, this light should be off. A blinking light indicates a problem with the hydroxyl generating optics A solid light would indicate that the unit is not connected to Wi-Fi. Network 28 of Figures 5, 5A and 5B.
  • Figure 15 a screenshot that is used to remotely check the status of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a in question.
  • Runtime Time the bulbs have been ON for. This value can be reset.
  • Airflow Speed Speed of air going through unit
  • Figure 16 is a computer screen shot image of the operation of the Wi-Fi network of the radical hydroxyl generator of Figures 10, 11 and 12, being installed in a building duct wall 651 or building duct 650.
  • Figure 16 also displays power status, diagnostics LED, hydroxyl generation status, run times, reset run times, air flow speed and an option to remove the device.
  • a rectangular opening must be cut to provide access to the hydroxyl generator 601’s or 601 s’s operative chamber, namely its clamshell housing 603 with light producing optics 612, 613 arranged therein, (or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration).
  • a duct opening cut out 652 is made within a duct wall 651 of the building duct 650 associated with the HVAC unit 630 of building 600.
  • a first determination must be made to ensure that there is enough cross sectional volume to accommodate the clamshell housing 603 of the hydroxyl generator and its connected structural bracket 619, to fit within the building duct 650, to allow for constant air flow within the duct 650 frontal operation of the HVAC unit 630 connected to building duct 650 of building 600.
  • Figure 17 is a cross sectional top plan view from above of the duct 650, having a wall 651 into which the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is inserted through a cutout 652 of the duct wall 651 of duct 650.
  • Figure 17A is a side view of the clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a installed within a building duct but showing a minimal installation depth of 12 inches into the building duct 650 of building 600.
  • the control box 620 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is maintained outside of the duct 650 by a front structural wall 640 that is larger than the cutout 652 of wall 651 of building duct 650 provided for insertion of the polygonal clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
  • Fastener holes are provided within front structural wall 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a, for insertion of fasteners such as threaded bolts with reciprocating rotatable nuts, to attach front structural wall 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a to the wall 651 of building duct 650.
  • Wall 651 of building duct 650 includes the cutout insertion hole 652 for insertion of the clamshell housing 603 therein.
  • a structural brace 619 also located within the confines of duct 650, separates the clamshell housing 603 from the inside of front structural wall 640 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
  • the arrow “A” of Figure 17 indicates the direction of air flow through the clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
  • the first step is to check the air flow orientation.
  • Figure 18 is a front elevation view of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a of Figures 12, 17 and 17A, showing a rectangular cut out 652 in a wall 651 of the building HVAC unit duct 650, showing a vertical height of the duct opening and a lengthwise width of the duct opening, wherein the arrow “A” indicates the direction of air flow with water vapor through the radical hydroxyl generator.
  • the opening 652 is cut into the wall 651 of building duct 650 , and fastener holes , such as 3/16” holes, are drilled to insert the fasteners, such as screws or nuts and bolts, to fix the hydroxyl generator 601 or 602a device in position for installation.
  • a cutting instrument such as a saw (or mechanical scissors) the opening 652 is cut into the wall 651 of building duct 650 , and fastener holes , such as 3/16” holes, are drilled to insert the fasteners, such as screws or nuts and bolts, to fix the hydroxyl generator 601 or 602a device in position for installation.
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is placed in position so the lighting chamber with the light generating optics are completely inside the duct line and not visible from the outside of the duct 65O.
  • the user then install the fasteners, such as crews or nuts and bolts , around the external flange of the front panel 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a
  • Figure 19 shows typical height of 5.5 inches and length of 22 inches of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601 a.
  • the voltage should be 115V AC operation voltage.
  • the user For use in other countries: the user must check local voltage before install and operation.
  • This installed hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a located within the building duct 650 can be operated remotely by using the app, after the Wi-Fi settings of the aforementioned Figures 13-16 are first configured .
  • the user initially finds and installs the app on either the Apple or Android marketplace, then follow the steps that will guide the user through the connectivity process.
  • the optics 612, 613 (or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration) should be replaced after two years of operation. But this can be reduced depending on operational conditions.
  • the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a must be removed from the duct line within building duct 650, by doing the reverse procedure of installation. For example, first the user must unscrew the fasteners, such as three thumb-screws at the top edge of the chamber, encompassing the clamshell housing 603, to release the hinged top portion half 625 of the structure as in Figures 20 and 20A from the fixed bottom portion 627, and then open the chamber of the clamshell housing 603 as shown opened up in Figure 20A.
  • the fasteners such as three thumb-screws at the top edge of the chamber, encompassing the clamshell housing 603, to release the hinged top portion half 625 of the structure as in Figures 20 and 20A from the fixed bottom portion 627, and then open the chamber of the clamshell housing 603 as shown opened up in Figure 20A.
  • the user should periodically clean the optics , using a rag with alcohol to remove the dirt that may coverthem.
  • the user wipes the surface with a rag. It is strongly recommended that the user does not handle the optics without gloves, as a clean optic enhances the product performance.
  • Figure 21 shows an in-duct retrofit HVAC hydroxyl generator 680 installable in a duct of an HVAC unit of a building 600, wherein a plug and electrical wire are provided for connection to a power supply of the building 600 shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 22 shows the front view of the retrofit hydroxyl generator 680 installed in a wall of the duct 650 in the building 600, such as building 600 of Figure 12, where the arrows “B” reflect the air flow and the orientation of retrofit hydroxyl generator in the same direction as arrow “B”.
  • Figure 22A is an exploded perspective view of the retrofit hydroxyl generator 680 being installed in a wall of a building duct 650 of building 600, as in Figures 21 and 22.
  • the present invention enables the hydroxyl radical generator 601, 601a or 680 to disperse hydroxyl radicals throughout all areas served by the air conditioning or heating system 630 of a building duct 650 of a building 600.
  • the installation takes only minutes, plugs in or can be hard-wired for easy connection and operates simultaneously with the air handling system in a building such as a home, building offices, industrial facilities, etc.
  • the hydroxyl generators for building ducts of buildings 600 shown in Figures 1-22A will inactivate any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or pathogens, such as virus, bacteria, or fungi, anywhere in the air of the buildings and/or having the controls of Figures 5, 5A, 5B and/or 5C TRANSIT VEHICLE EMBODIMENT
  • VOCs volatile organic compounds
  • pathogens such as virus, bacteria, or fungi
  • Figures 23, 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, 23E, 23F and 23G show a self-contained units 700 and 792 which can be provided within the passenger and/or cargo area 780 of a transit vehicle, which will have a smaller interior volume for producing the optimal number of hydroxyls generated to purify the air/surfaces and crevices/creases within the aforesaid areas.
  • a self-contained hydroxyl generator 700 for a transit vehicle includes a generator chamber housing 701 , which is mounted inside a transit vehicle.
  • Figure 23 shows the generator housing 701 located on the floor of the vehicle below a passenger seat where the hydroxyl generator 700 is provided in a confined space area, such as a passenger cabin with seats or a cargo container with or without shelving.
  • the transit vehicle Since the transit vehicle generates low voltage 12 DC for vehicle accessories (lights, wipers, cell phone chargers, etc.), the DC power is now converted to AC by an inverter 728 to power the optics and fans of the self-contained hydroxyl generator 700.
  • the transit vehicle generator 700 also includes the polygon generator chamber housing 701, which has inside the optics 712, 713, which react with water vapor within incoming airflow to produce hydroxyl radicals which are excited by exposure to the interior polygonal walls of the generator 700.
  • the transit vehicle hydroxyl generator 700 also includes an air intake 719, as well as a partition and closed compartment space 720 for the electronics, and an air blower 740 which blows and pressurizes air to the chamber of the hydroxyl generator 701.
  • Front frame 721 is provided for controls and the air intake 719 is provided on one of the walls of the housing 701 , enclosing the clamshell shaped polygonal hydroxyl generator unit 711, which is enclosed within housing 701.
  • the clamshell shaped polygonal hydroxyl generator unit 711 is preferably made of aluminum, or other suitable material.
  • the clamshell shaped polygonal hydroxyl generator unit 711 has side walls 717a, 717b, top wall 717c and bottom wall 717d, as well as rear wall 717e and front cover 717f.
  • the aluminum cover 717c When the aluminum cover 717c is removed, it provides easy access for optic cleaning and/or replacement of the optics of the hydroxyl generator 700, which can be taken out and opened along its clamshell hinge 716.
  • the air is passed through the intake, blown by the blower 740, then through the polygonal generator chamber housing 701 and out through an air outlet 718.
  • the blower 740 is mounted by a mount 741 to the exterior housing 701 of the hydroxyl generator 700.
  • Figure 23D shows a side view in cross-section of the hydroxyl generator 700 for transit vehicles, showing the “S- curve” diversion of the incoming and outgoing airflow “A”, which diversion is achieved by light blocking baffles 760a and 760b, where one or more staggered baffles 760a, 760b are at the air flow exit portion of the hydroxyl generator housing 701 fortransit vehicles and one or more staggered baffles 760a, 760b are at the airflow entry point of the hydroxyl generator housing 701.
  • the staggered baffles 760a, 760b are configured to block inadvertent eye damaging light emanating from the hydroxyl generator housing, especially for curious short children or leased service dogs for people in need of canine assistance while traveling in a transit vehicle, who might tend to stare and look at the hydroxyl generator 700, located on the floor under a passenger seat of the passenger cabin 780 of a transit vehicle.
  • Figure 23D also shows filters 770a and 770b, which are provided at the air flow entry and exit locations within the hydroxyl generator housing 701 , to protect the optics 712, 713 etc. from contamination by airborne dirt and other particles which might accompany the incoming air flow and which may degrade the hydroxyl activation portions of the optics 712, 713, etc., which are made of sensitive medical grade pure quartz material.
  • the hydroxyl generators shown in Figures1-23D will inactivate any VOCs or pathogens, such as virus, bacteria or fungi, anywhere in the air of the transit vehicles 780.
  • Figure 23E is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment for a stand-alone hydroxyl generator 792 in a housing 791 for a transit vehicle with a three-pass air flow to limit UV light escape, where a clamshell hydroxyl generator reactor 792 with a structural cover 793 and an electronics cover 794, is insertable inside the housing 791 in the open central area shown.
  • the air input side of the hydroxyl generator housing 791 includes a fan 795 to move air with water vapor therethrough, and a filter 796 is provided to prevent dirt, dust and other contaminating particles from compromising the sensitive quartz surfaces of the UV optics 799, 799a, which create hydroxyl radicals when water vapor from incoming air contacts the UV from the optics 799, 799a within the hydroxyl generator reactor portion 792 in an enclosure 792a having a light and air flow sensor board 798.
  • An exit grill 797 is provided at the air exit end of the stand-alone hydroxyl generator 792, which is placed away from passenger standing or walking areas, within the confines of a transit vehicle, such as on the floor beneath one of more passenger seats in the transit vehicle.
  • Figure 23F is a side view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator reactor enclosure 792a, showing two UV producing optics 799, 799a and a light and airflow sensor board 798 attached thereto.
  • Figure 23G is a diagrammatic side view in cross section of the air flow within the hydroxyl generator 792 of Fig. 23E, showing the air entry fan and the undulated “S shaped” airflow of the incoming air around the centrally located hydroxyl generator reactor, then through the hydroxyl generator reactor, and finally around the hydroxyl generator reactor in a different direction out of the stand-alone hydroxyl generator for mass transit vehicles.
  • Figures 24 to 25B show polygon hydroxyl generators 800, which are removably positioned for lower power needs in smaller confined areas, such as individual rooms in a building or schoolhouse or nursing home.
  • Figure 24 shows a portable room sized unit 800 which can be provided, which will have a smaller interior volume for producing the optimal number of hydroxyls generated to purify the air/surfaces and crevices/creases within the aforesaid areas.
  • a portable hydroxyl generator 800 includes a generator chamber housing 801 , which is mounted on a bottom wall, 819a including casters or wheels 845, 845a, 845b and 845c on the bottom for moving the hydroxyl generator 800 around in a confined space area, such as an individual room.
  • Figure 5D is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in Portable Room-Sized Unit applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5D, which include a proximity detector for safety reasons and a fan, such as a pulse width modulated fan, which regulates the air speed of the fan by regulating the voltage of the fan between on and off, to move airflow with air purifying generated hydroxyl radicals therethrough, .
  • a fan such as a pulse width modulated fan, which regulates the air speed of the fan by regulating the voltage of the fan between on and off, to move airflow with air purifying generated hydroxyl radicals therethrough, .
  • the unit 800 can be devoid of movable wheels or casters, but can be mounted upon a wall 890( not shown).
  • the movable generator 800 also includes the housing polygon generator chamber housing 801, which houses therein a clamshell housing having a polygonal chamber 830, which has inside the UV light emitting optics 812, 813.
  • Baffles 820 and 820a are located inside of the portable housing 801, but outside of clamshell housing chamber 830 with optics 812, 813 to limit any leaking of UV light from the crystal-spliced tubular optics 812, 813, which upon being engaged will generate the hydroxyl radicals flowing nearby.
  • the unit 800 also includes an air intake 840 and air exit 841 , as well as a partition and space for the electronics 820, an air blower 850 which blows and pressurizes air to the chamber of the hydroxyl generator 830.
  • Front bezel 821 is provided for controls and the air intake 840 is provided on one of the walls 819c of the aluminum unit 801 , enclosing the housing generator 830 housing optics 812, 813 therein.
  • the aluminum housing 801 or other suitable material, has side walls, a top wall and bottom wall 819a, as well as a rear wall and front cover (not shown).
  • the aluminum cover When the aluminum cover is removed, it provides easy access for optic cleaning and/or replacement of the enclosed, sealed clamshell hydroxyl generator 830, which can be taken out and opened along its clamshell hinge 806.
  • the air is passed through the intake, blown by the blower 850, then through the polygonal generator chamber housing 830 and out through an air outlet 841.
  • the blower 850 is mounted by a mount 851 within the housing 801.
  • Figure 24B also shows a side perspective view in cross-section of the hydroxyl generator 800 for residential home use, showing the “S- curve” diversion of the incoming and outgoing airflow “A”, which diversion is achieved by light blocking baffles 860 and 860a, where one or more staggered baffles 860a are at the air flow exit portion 840 of the hydroxyl generator housing 801 for residential rooms, and also with one or more staggered baffles 860 are at the air flow entry point 840 of the hydroxyl generator housing 801.
  • the staggered baffles 860 and 860a are configured to block inadvertent eye damaging light emanating from the optics within the polygonal optics bearing clamshell hydroxyl generator housing 830, especially for curious short children or leased service dogs for people in need of canine assistance while visiting in a residential building room, who might tend to stare and look at the hydroxyl generator 800, located on the floor of the room.
  • Figure 24B also shows dirt and particulate-capturing filters 890, 890a at the air intake 840 and air exit 841 of the airstream to capture any dirt or undesirable particles in the air, whether part of the air stream or adjacent air surrounding the portable room sized hydroxyl generator 800, which could compromise the quartz lamp optics 812, 813.
  • Figure 25 shows one example of an airflow blower fan unit of the portable room size hydroxyl generator of Figures 24, 24A and 24B.
  • any shape or configuration for an air moving fan structure can be employed .
  • FIG. 25A and 25B For example a preferred embodiment for a portable room sized hydroxyl generator is shown in drawing Figures 25A and 25B.
  • Figure 25A is a side view in cross section of a preferred embodiment for a portable room-sized hydroxyl generator 900 having a housing 911 with “S-shaped” conducts to promote an “S-shaped” flow of the air within the hydroxyl generator 900
  • the housing 911 includes an air inlet 901 and a filter 902 to keep out dirt, dust and other contaminating particulates from entering and contaminating the optics 906, 907 within the centrally located hydroxyl generating reactor 905 after which the air infused with hydroxyl radicals produced by contact or water vapor in the inlet air exposed to the UV light of the optics 906, 907.
  • a curved baffle type air directing conduit 908 moves the air in the S-shaped curvature through an exit compartment 909 and exit grille 910 to the room in which the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator 900 stands upon casters or wheels 845, 845 or is alternatively mounting upon a wall in the room being serviced by the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator unit 900.
  • FIG 25B is an exploded view of the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator 900 as in Figure 25A, showing the housing 911 of hydroxyl generator 900, with caster wheels 845, 845 and a filter 902 and baffle 914 inside the air inlet of the housing 911.
  • the hydroxyl generator reactor 905 is also shown with a cover 905a removed, an optic 906, fan 903 an exit grille 910. CONCLUSION
  • the hydroxyl generator systems of the present invention are designed to neutralize and destroy virus’ everywhere safely and effectively, while purifying and sanitizing breathable heated, ambient, or cooled air emanating from a source and neutralizing up to 99.9999% of tested virus, including Covid -19 virus.
  • the present invention also helps occupants an occupied space who are afflicted with asthma and airborne allergies, including full air and surface protection, including in crevices between other surfaces.
  • hydroxyl generator systems of the present invention can be placed in any environment where pristine air is required, in a state of the art technology that is chemical free, safe for people, pets and plants.
  • certain terms and visual depictions are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be construed by the terms used or illustrations depicted, beyond what is shown in the prior art, since the terms and illustrations are exemplary only, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention.

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Abstract

A system for decontaminating/neutralizing breathable air and surfaces in an occupied enclosed space, i.e., hydroponic greenhouses, aircraft, rail and road vehicles, in building ducts, or rooms, includes mounting an atmospheric hydroxyl radical generator along an inside surface of an occupied space having respective air inlets and air outlets. The hydroxyl radical generator includes a polygonal housing supporting a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics medical grade pure quartz, which emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating and neutralizing atmospheric chemicals and pathogens in breathable air and surfaces. The hydroxyl radicals contact the walls of the reaction chamber housing. The hydroxyl radicals become created and excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, virus, bacteria and fungi, rendering them inactivated and neutral. The breathable air passes through the polygonal housing and is decontaminated and neutralized of impurities before entering the occupied enclosed space.

Description

PROACTIVE AIR/SURFACE DECONTAMINATION SYSTEM AND DEVICES
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates use of a harmonic bio-mimicry nonchemical photonic process that results in the export of desired atmospheric hydroxyls at precisely the same rate as nature provides (2.6 million per cubic Centimeter - NASA), to neutralize toxic chemicals and pathogens in breathable air/surfaces in stationary or moving human occupied spaces.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Ultraviolet light (UV) delivery in the form of directing ultraviolet light on unsanitary surfaces as germicides, bactericides and viricides are disadvantageous because, upon exposure to breathable air in mass transit rail and road vehicles, as well as aircraft and related airborne vehicles, such as helicopters, seating fabrics in building interior ducts and wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces, the ultraviolet light compromises fabrics and doesn’t penetrate into crevices between, or in, passenger seats or flight deck seats, located in the flight deck, separately sealed away from the air of the passenger cabin, or in seating fabrics in mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building interior ducts and wall surfaces, in hydroponic greenhouses, in portable room-sized units and other human occupied spaces. Delivery of ultraviolet light for sanitation is limited because the ultraviolet light is only as effective as the actual line of sight of the ultraviolet waves.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Methods of producing Atmospheric Hydroxyls
In the field of physics there are, to date, only a few processes in a device that generates an atmospheric hydroxyl that purportedly are useful in removing contaminants from breathable air. In theory the NASA device produces the hydroxyl in a photo catalytic oxidation (PCO) process, by emitting an ultraviolet irradiation of 254 nanometers as it interfaces with titanium dioxide (TiC ) plating. In theory, the hydroxyl is produced only at the interface site of contact at the surface of the TiCk. The hydroxyl does not exit the airstream and does not have any downstream interaction. Minimal airflow must be maintained at approximately 120 cfm. Typical HVAC systems utilize faster air movement at approximately 2000 cfm and this would not allow for the theoretical hydroxyl to form.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description of the Drawings. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
In contrast, the present invention uses airborne hydroxyl radical molecules, which are of very small molar size and can occupy almost any given space. They can occupy dark crevices that ultraviolet line of sight cannot get access to. The present invention allows for a “Harmonic” of photonic UV frequencies to be applied within a hydroxyl producing reaction chamber. The feed stock is ambient water vapor in air which will have relative humidity, this humidity is the feed stock for the reaction chamber to produce the atmospheric hydroxyl.
This action is called “Bio-Mimicry”. The present invention process is a totally green, environmentally friendly nonchemical process that results in the export of the desired atmospheric hydroxyl at precisely the same rate as nature provides, namely, at 2.6 million per cubic centimeter. The atmospheric hydroxyl process begins by exposing ambient water vapor to special UV optics having hydroxyl activation portions made of medical grade pure quartz material. The optics are designed to emit/irradiate Ultraviolet irradiation in the nanometer wavelength/Ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers, thereby producing the hydroxyls at the aforementioned quantity of 2.6 million hydroxyls per cubic centimeter, as provided in nature. This is a novel improvement over prior art NASA PCO based technology.
Hydroxyl are groups having the radical “-OH” and are represented by the symbol -OH or HO-, which can have a negative charge or be neutral. The hydroxyl functional group includes one hydrogen atom which is covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. Hydroxyl radicals are very reactive, which react quickly to hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide molecules and other air impurities, such as volatile organic compounds, (VOC), virus, bacteria and fungi. Many closed HVAC air systems can harbor microscopic bacteria, virus (i.e., Covid-19) and fungi.
For example, aircraft and other airborne transportation vehicles, such as helicopters, seat fabrics on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and wall surfaces, in hydroponic greenhouses, and other human occupied spaces, can harbor bacteria and virus in the separate, circulated air systems.
Also, residential rooms in dwellings or assisted living communities can harbor bacteria and virus in the separate, circulated air systems.
Therefore, the present invention is a unique and novel application method for the delivery of safe and natural hydroxyl radicals into breathable air volume containers such as agricultural hydroponic greenhouses and the agricultural plant contents therein, airline flight deck or passenger cabins, and the contents therein, seat fabrics on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building HVAC ducts and the breathable ambient or heated or cooled airflow contents therein. To be considered as well are upholstered chair seats, benches, contact surfaces such as grab bars, handles in building wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces.
In the present invention, the atmospheric hydroxyl radicals are generated in closed multi-sided housing, preferably polygonal, having therein two or more parallel UV optics which are multi segmented with crystal, so that when enabled, the hydroxyl radicals are generated. Hydroxyls are reactive and short lived, however the closed housing reaction chamber preferably has polygonal interior walls, so that the hydroxyl radicals will bounce against the walls so as to decontaminate within the reaction chamber as well as downstream in open air areas. Breathable air is then directed through the closed housing, so that the created and excited radicals will react quickly to air and surface impurities, such as pathogens and VOC’s, rendering them neutral.
The UV optics are tubular, medical grade pure quartz. The optics are designed to emit/irradiate Ultraviolet irradiation in the nanometer wavelength/Ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers.
A multi wave 'Harmonic' is created via a multiwavelength nanometer configured optic irradiation. This configuration results in the creation of the desired atmospheric hydroxyl within the hydroxyl generator reaction chamber, which is a multi-sided reaction chamber, designed in such a way as to optimize atmospheric downstream hydroxyl production, such as for example in a polygonal-shaped housing. This multi-sided reaction chamber enables the desired atmospheric hydroxyl to be injected downstream to affect positive change. The positive change is the control/neutralization of pathogens and VOC's.
The -OH formed hydroxyl molecule is the capacitor that donates electrons to the targeted pathogen, whereupon the pathogen is therefore neutralized by the 'Electron Voltage (eV')' capacitance carried by the hydroxyl. The eV is donated at the point of contact with the pathogen.
VOC’s are neutralized through the action of Bond Dissociation Energy (BDE). The capacitance of the charged hydroxyl is sufficient so as to take out of phase (decomposition) of any airborne molecular or compound structure. In Phase VOC chemistry can be harmful, therefore out-of-phase atomic airborne structures are now neutral and cannot recombine. The exception to this rule would be the recombination of water vapor, carbon dioxide and lastly oxygen (02).
This reaction sequence is essential to all life, in that water vapor feeds all life, and carbon dioxide (CO2) is necessary/essential for plant life and oxygen (02) is essential for air breathers such as humans, other animals and forms of living organisms.
Because exposure of the UV light is problematic for human eyes, the interior of the reaction chamber is custom designed to arrest UV light escaping and to maximize atmospheric hydroxyl discharge. Refraction color can come out of the unit with the generated, activated hydroxyls, but never direct UV light.
Available hydrogen is low in our natural environment, so one must add electron rings to obtain optimal amplitude as opposed to adding hydrogen for increased hydroxyl production.
The polygonal shape of the reaction chamber enhances the total ability of the chamber to produce the desired atmospheric hydroxyl.
It is essential that the atmospheric hydroxyls be produced by the exposure of ambient water vapor within a confined refractive generator chamber housing to prevent diminution of the atmospheric hydroxyls. In contrast, SanUVox, by using outward facing reflectors but no confined generator chamber housing, causes a drastic diminution of the desired hydroxyl production.
In contrast the present invention, by using the polygon shaped reaction chamber, has categoricaily enhanced atmospheric hydroxyl production.
Because exposure of the UV light is problematic for human eyes, the interior chamber holding the reaction chamber is custom designed to arrest UV light escaping and to maximize atmospheric hydroxyl discharge. Refraction color can come out of the unit with the generated, activated hydroxyls, but never direct UV light.
Available hydrogen is low in our natural environment, so one must add electron rings to obtain optimal amplitude as opposed to adding hydrogen for increased hydroxyl production.
The polygonal shape of the reaction chamber enhances the total ability of the chamber to produce the desired atmospheric hydroxyl.
However, in small environments, such as in a self-contained unit in a transit vehicle (passenger rail, passenger bus, trucking cargo shipping, etc.), or in a portable room size self-contained unit (movable with casters or wheels, or stationary mounted to a room surface, such as a wall), a fan is necessary to pull the ambient air with water vapor into the polygonal hydroxyl generator with a UV quartz optics, so that the water vapor molecules become hydroxyl radicals and thereafter are pushed by the fan out of the self-contained and/or portable unit.
For safety, an air pressure safety switch is provided, so that when air flow is not detected, this unit will be dormant. A Micro Switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when unit is in the ON/RUN position. GREENHOUSE HYDROPONIC DEVICE AND SYSTEM
In hydroponic or other greenhouses, as in Nature, the atmospheric hydroxyls are lighter than air, so they are provided below plant growing media, such as of coconut fiber, vermiculite, etc., wherein the hydroxyls located from below flow up around the roots and growing media; being lighter than 02, the hydroxyls “drift upward”. They will not penetrate fluid or solids, so parts of the roots and media must be exposed to hydroxylated air, as opposed to being in fluid or soil. This greenhouse installation also uses a 2 x 2 lamp array and has the same options as in the large building HVAC duct installation.
The agricultural hydroxyl generating units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remotecontrol pad or mobile phone.
Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation.
Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
The agricultural hydroponic hydroxyl generating unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
Building HVAC units in general have the above features, but where the optics are provided in a two optic array of a - b options, where “A” is on, but “B” is on if A fails.
In large environments such as in large building ducts, warehouses, large hydroponic greenhouses, no fan assembly is needed because the HVAC system has its own air movement capability.
In a double optic option one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the HVAC system, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load. AIRCRAFT DEVICE AND SYSTEM:
Atmospheric Hydroxyl radical generators can be externally fastened to and otherwise added into aircraft air conduits, which, for safety reasons, provide breathable cabin air through a flexible (typically yellow) conduit from a remote source external to the aircraft, to avoid engaging the generator at the site of the aircraft tarmac. Hydroxyl radicals (separately added to the breathable cabin air or flight deck air) are provided from the remote device and vectored into the cabin of the aircraft. The remote source may be located in a separate unit located either in the airport terminal or in a remote, movable cart, located a distance away from the aircraft. This is an improvement over the cleanup of aircraft flight deck or cabin air and cabin surfaces, which is usually done with inadequate delivery of UV light from a portable cart, which can only disinfect exposed surfaces, not the general volume of breathable air and the crevices between seats and other surfaces, as well as behind grab bars and other semi-hidden surfaces. However, for security purposes, in the present invention hydroxyl radicals are directed into the aircraft air supply conduit and then into the separate zones of air within the aircraft where for safety reasons, which include biological and chemical intrusion, the air in the flight deck is completely separate from the passenger cabin air. This may also include optionally the installation of generators of hydroxyls in flight deck or passenger cabin air circulation systems in the aircraft itself.
In the aircraft embodiment, an apparatus is provided for cleaning breathable air in an aircraft, preferably in separate flight deck and passenger compartments of the aircraft parked upon a tarmac, the apparatus including: a) a hydroxyl generator positioned at a distance away from the aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, the hydroxyl generator being positioned away from the aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near the aircraft; b) an air supply unit adjacent to the hydroxyl generator; c) a duct from the air supply unit for delivering breathable air separately into the flight deck and passenger compartments; d) a means for injecting a stream of hydroxyls from the hydroxyl generator into the breathable air within the duct for delivery of the breathable air separately into the flight deck and passenger compartments, respectively; and e) whereby the breathable air passing through duct is cleansed of the impurities before entering the respective separate flight deck and passenger compartments.
The hydroxyl generator includes a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, wherein the housing contains a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, the UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air for the respective flight deck and passenger compartments. The air inlet at one end and the air outlet at an opposite end of the housing are provided for exposing ambient water vapor to the plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls. Preferably, the housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
The aircraft is connected by a passenger walkway corridor to a passenger terminal, which may include the air supply unit and hydroxyl generator, which are positioned adjacent each other within the passenger terminal.
The aforementioned duct, being hollow and preferably flexible, is located outside of the passenger walkway between the terminal and the aircraft.
Alternatively, the air supply unit and hydroxyl generator may be located on a movable cart at a distance away from the aircraft,
The duct preferably includes at a distal end adjacent to the aircraft an air flow divider separating the breathable air from the duct separately into the flight deck compartment and into the passenger compartment.
The present invention also provides a method for cleaning breathable air in an aircraft interior, preferably in separate flight deck and passenger compartments of the aircraft, comprising the steps of: i) parking the aircraft parked on a tarmac; ii) positioning a hydroxyl generator at a distance away from the aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, the hydroxyl generator being positioned away from the aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near the aircraft; iii) placing an air supply unit adjacent the hydroxyl generator; iv) connecting a duct from the air supply unit to the aircraft for delivering breathable air separately into the flight deck and passenger compartments; v) injecting a stream of hydroxyls from the hydroxyl generator into the breathable air within the duct for delivery of the breathable air separately into the flight deck and the passenger compartments; vi) separating the breathable air into a divider for separately delivering the breathable air into the flight deck and passenger compartments; and, vii) whereby the breathable air passing through duct is cleansed of the impurities before separately entering the flight deck and passenger compartments.
In one embodiment of this method, the air supply unit for the aircraft and the hydroxyl generator are positioned adjacent each other within the passenger terminal. In an alternate embodiment of this method the air supply unit for the aircraft and the hydroxyl generator are located on a movable cart on the tarmac, positioned remotely at a distance away from the aircraft.
BUILDING DUCT HVAC DEVICE AND SYSTEM
The building HVAC duct hydroxyl generating units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remotecontrol pad or mobile phone.
Safety features include a microswitch which will shut off from inadvertent opening if the reaction chamber device is “on” when it should be “off”. The micro switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when the generating unit is in operational status.
Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation. Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
The building HVAC duct hydroxyl generating unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
Building HVAC units in general have the above features, but where the optics are provided in a two optic array of a - b options, where “A” is on, but “B” is on if A fails.
No fan assembly is needed because the HVAC system has its own air movement capability. In a double optic option one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the HVAC system, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load.
For safety, an air pressure safety switch is provided, so that when air flow is not detected, this unit will be dormant. A Micro Switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when unit is in the ON/RUN position.
TRANSIT VEHICLES DEVICE AND SYSTEM
The transit vehicle unit also has a unique Internal Air Baffling System, to promote the zig zag of air movement therein, to control light and prevent unwanted UV light from escaping so that the breathable air passes through the transit vehicle unit. The unique device design does not allow for any UV light to exit the unit.
The transit vehicle units were targeted to emulate certain characteristics required within the hospital framework. Pathogen and VOC control is of paramount concern and is inherent within the design parameters of the hydroxyl generating device. Consideration was also made with regard to sound control, wherein low air flow volume of 110 cubic feet (cf) must be quieter than 30 decibels or below (Hospital Quiet).
The transit vehicle units also contain an optimal - UV light refraction tubular fan assembly, which draws in the incoming air into the hydroxyl generator chamber housing. Baffles located in the transit vehicle and duct installed hydroxyl generators allow air through the hydroxyl generator but prevent exposed UV light from escaping. The sole purpose of the baffles is to arrest any UV rays from escaping the device. Any direct line of sight to the UV source would cause a "Welders Flash" incident and may temporarily harm the eyes of the observer. This type of incident is simply not allowed and is part of the safety investigation of the validation bodies UL/CSA.
The transit vehicle units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remote-control pad or mobile phone.
Safety features include a microswitch which will shut off from inadvertent opening if the reaction chamber device is “on” when it should be “off’. The micro switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when the generating unit is in operational status.
Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation.
Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
The transit vehicle unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
The transit vehicle hydroxyl generating units have the above features, but the optics may optionally be provided in a two optic array of a - b options, where “A” is on, but “B” is on if A fails.
Because the transit vehicle hydroxyl generator is a self-contained, small unit, a fan assembly is needed to send air in and out of the hydroxyl generator unit for transit vehicles. Where optionally there is provided a double optic option, one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the transit vehicle hydroxyl generator, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load.
The hydroxyl generator includes a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, wherein the housing contains a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, the UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air for the respective flight deck and passenger compartments, on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and other human occupied spaces. The air inlet at one end and the air outlet at an opposite end of the housing are provided for exposing ambient water vapor to the plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls. Preferably, the housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls. PORTABLE ROOM-SIZED DEVICE AND SYSTEM
The portable room sized unit also has a unique Internal Air Baffling System, located within an exterior housing of the portable room-sized unit, but outside of the actual polygonal clamshell hydroxyl generator, to promote the zig zag of air movement therein, to control light and prevent unwanted UV light from escaping so that the breathable air passes through the portable room sized unit. The unique device design does not allow for any UV light to exit the unit.
The portable room sized units were targeted to emulate certain characteristics required within the hospital framework. Pathogen and VOC control is of paramount concern and is inherent within the design parameters of the hydroxyl generating device. Consideration was also made with regard to sound control, wherein low air flow volume of 110 cubic feet (cf) must be quieter than 30 decibels or below (Hospital Quiet).
The portable room sized units also contain an optimal - UV light refraction tubular fan assembly, which draws in the incoming air into the hydroxyl generator chamber housing. Baffles located in the portable and duct installed hydroxyl generators allow air through the hydroxyl generator but prevent exposed UV light from escaping. The sole purpose of the baffles is to arrest any UV rays from escaping the device. Any direct line of sight to the UV source would cause a "Welders Flash" incident and may temporarily harm the eyes of the observer. This type of incident is simply not allowed and is part of the safety investigation of the validation bodies UL/CSA. The portable room sized units also have communications capabilities, so that the Hydroxyl Generating Device can interface with a remote-control pad or mobile phone.
Safety features include a microswitch which will shut off from inadvertent opening if the reaction chamber device is “on” when it should be “off’. The micro switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when the generating unit is in operational status.
Anti-Vibration G-Force Mitigation Clips are installed, such as spring clips which operate in only one directional installation.
Reactor Rod Safety is paramount, for prevention of Reactor Rod displacement and breakage.
The portable room sized unit also includes custom designed noise reduction adhesive pads, and strategically placed self-adhesive sound/vibration reduction material wall insulation to mitigate sound and vibration.
Building HVAC units have the above features, but where the optics are provided in a two optic array of a - b options, where “A” is on, but “B” is on if A fails.
No fan assembly is needed in large building ducts having hydroxyl generators, because the large building duct HVAC system has its own air movement capability. However, fan assemblies are needed for portable home-sized hydroxyl generators, to pull air therein from the surrounding room and push it out into the room with purified hydroxyl filled air.
For safety, an air pressure safety switch is provided, so that when air flow is not detected, this unit will be dormant. A Micro Switch shuts down all systems should the device be opened when unit is in the ON/RUN position.
In a double optic option one optic may be on to create the hydroxyl radical and the existing HVAC fan directs the hydroxyls with the dual optic availability, should there be an abnormal intrusion of VOCs' or pathogens into the HVAC system, then the sensor would alert the hydroxyl device and the second optic would then come online in order to neutralize the threat load.
In summary the hydroxyl generator includes a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, wherein the housing contains a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, the UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air for the respective flight deck and passenger compartments, on mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and other human occupied spaces. The air inlet at one end and the air outlet at an opposite end of the housing are provided for exposing ambient water vapor to the plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls. Preferably, the housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention can best be understood in connection with the following drawings, which are not deemed to be limiting in scope.
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a polygonal hydroxyl generator shown in a closed position.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the hydroxyl generator of Figure 1 shown in partial cross section with an open view of the interior of the hydroxyl generator.
Figure 3 is an end view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator of Figure 1 , with two UV optics for generating hydroxyl radicals.
Figure 4 is a cross sectional end view of an alternate embodiment for a hydroxyl generator, showing four UV hydroxyl generator optics within the polygonal hydroxyl generator.
Figure 5 is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 1-3 and 4.
Figure 5A is a flow chart showing the electronic controls with respect to their position adjacent to the hydroxyl generator.
Figure 5B is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator -used in hydroponic greenhouse applications shown in Figures 6 and 6A, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5B.
Figure 5C is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in HVAC building duct applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5C.
Figure 5D is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in Portable Room-Sized Unit applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5D, which include a proximity detector for safety reasons and a fan, such as a pulse width modulated fan, which regulates the air speed of the fan by regulating the voltage of the fan between on and off, to move air flow with air purifying generated hydroxyl radicals therethrough.
Figure 6 is a diagrammatic side view and cross section of a hydroponic greenhouse embodiment, using hydroxyl generators to provide hydroxyl radicals for growing plants.
Figure 6A is an end view and cross section taken along view lines 6A-6A shown in the hydroponic greenhouse embodiment of Figure 6.
Figure 7 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment for a greenhouse for using hydroxyl generators for treating plants.
Figure 8 is a diagrammatic side view in partial cross section of an aircraft embodiment, using hydroxyl generators located in the airport terminal, remote from the aircraft itself, to separately provide hydroxyl radicals respectively for the flight deck and for the passenger cabin.
Figure 9 is a diagrammatic side view in partial cross section of an alternate embodiment for an aircraft embodiment using hydroxyl generators located remote from the aircraft in a movable cart, to provide hydroxyl radicals separately for the flight deck and passenger cabin.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of hydroxyl generator for a building having a HVAC unit duct embodiment, to be installed within the building HVAC unit air flow duct, to provide hydroxyl radicals for ambient, heated or cooled breathable air flowing therethrough.
Figure 10A is a perspective view in partial cutaway of the polygonal hydroxyl generator shown in Figure 10.
Figure 10B is an end view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator of Figure 10, with two UV optics for generating hydroxyl radicals.
Figure 11 is a diagrammatic end view in cross section view of an alternate embodiment for a building with an HVAC unit duct, showing a hydroxyl generator with multiple pairs of optics, for treating breathable HVAC unit ambient, heated, or cooling air flowing therethrough. Figure 12 is a diagrammatic environmental view in partial cross section of a building having a duct having a wall into which is installed a radical hydroxyl generator, wherein the duct is a part of a heating, ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit through which breathable air with water vapor flows.
Figure 13 is a flow chart of a Wi-Fi network manager portal communicating with operation of the radical hydroxyl generator of Figures 10, 10A and 10B.
Figure 14 is a computer screen shot image of scanned Wi-Fi networks of Figure 13, and their associated signal strength.
Figure 15 is a computer screen shot image of data associated with the Wi-Fi network of Figure 13.
Figure 16 is a computer screen shot image of the operation of the Wi-Fi network of the radical hydroxyl generator of Figures 10, 10A and 10B.
Figure 17 is a close-up top plan view of a radical hydroxyl generator installed within a building duct as in Figure 12, with an arrow indicating air flow therethrough.
Figure 17A is a side elevation view of the radical hydroxyl generator installed within a building duct as in Figure 17.
Figure 18 is a front elevation view of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 17, and 17A, showing a rectangular cut out in a wall of the building HVAC unit duct, showing a vertical height of the duct opening and a lengthwise width of the duct opening, wherein an arrow indicated the direction of air flow with water vapor through the radical hydroxyl generator.
Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view from below of the hydroxyl generator being installed into the cut-out of the building HVAC unit duct wall as in Figures 17, 17A, and 18, showing the cut-out hole for insertion of the hydroxyl generator therethrough.
Figure 20 is a perspective view of the hydroxyl generator installed as in Figures 17, 17A, 18 and 19, where arrows indicate fasteners to be released for pivotable opening of the hydroxyl generator.
Figure 20A is a perspective view from below, showing the pivoted opening of the clamshell configuration of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 17, 17A, 18, 19 20 and 20A, where the curved arrows indicate the pivoted opening of the clamshell housing of the hydroxyl generator. Figure 20B is a diagrammatic close-up detail view of the connection of the wiring of the optics located within the hydroxyl generator as in Figures 17,17A, 18, 19, 20 and 20A herein.
Figure 21 is a perspective view of an in-duct retrofit HVAC hydroxyl generator installable in a duct of an HVAC unit of a building, wherein a plug and electrical wire are provided for connection to a power supply of the building shown in Figure 12.
Figure 22 is a front elevation view as in Figure 21 of the retrofit hydroxyl generator installed in a duct in a building.
Figure 22A is an exploded perspective view of a retrofit hydroxyl generator being installed in a wall of a building duct, as in Figures 21 and 22.
Figure 23 is a perspective environmental view of the hydroxyl generator in use in a transit vehicle, where the hydroxyl generator is shown in a self contained housing below a seat of the transit vehicle.
Figure 23A is a perspective view of the housing for the hydroxyl generator of Figure 23.
Figure 23B is a cross-sectional end view of the hydroxyl generator of Figures 23 and 23A showing the clamshell housing having oppositely placed optics within the self-contained housing and connected to the control box within the outer self- contained housing of the hydroxyl generator and where an inverter is provided to convert the normal 12 volt DC voltage from the vehicle power supply to AC power as required for the hydroxyl generator to operate. Figure 23B also shows a fan unit in the housing to expel the newly purified air from the working operation of the polygonal hydroxyl generator unit and transferring the air through a grate in the outer self-contained housing of the hydroxyl generator.
Figure 23C is a perspective view in partial open cutaway cross-sectional view, exposing the interior components including the horizontally oriented polygonal clamshell unit with light producing optics as in Figure 23B, the DC power supply input from the vehicle, and the DC to AC inverter for supplying AC power to the control box of the hydroxyl generator.
Figure 23D is a diagrammatic side view in cross-section of the hydroxyl generator for transit vehicles, showing the “S- curve” diversion of the airflow by light blocking baffles provided at the intake forward entry end and at the exit aft end of the hydroxyl generator housing, to block inadvertent eye damaging light emanating from the concealed optics in the hydroxyl generator housing, while air filters are also provided at the forward entry end and exit aft end of the hydroxyl generator housing, to filter out any dirt or undesirable airborne particles that might tend to degrade the sensitive medical grade pure quartz material of the optics.
Figure 23E is an exploded view of a stand-alone hydroxyl generator for transit vehicles with a three-pass air flow to limit UV light escape, where a clamshell hydroxyl generator reactor with a structural cover and an electronics cover, is insertable inside the housing in the open central area shown. The air input side of the unit includes a fan to move air with water vapor therethrough, and a filter is provided to prevent dirt, dust and other contaminating particles from compromising the sensitive quartz surfaces of the UV optics, which create hydroxyl radicals when water vapor from incoming air contacts the UV from the optics within the hydroxyl generator reactor portion. An exit grill is provided at the air exit end of the standalone hydroxyl generator, which is placed away from passenger standing or walking areas, within the confines of a transit vehicle, such as on the floor beneath one of more passenger seats in the transit vehicle.
Figure 23F is a side view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator reactor enclosure for transit vehicles, showing two UV producing optics and a light and air flow sensor board.
Figure 23G is a side view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator of Fig. 23E, showing the air entry fan and the undulated “S shaped” air flow of the incoming air around the centrally located hydroxyl generator reactor, then through the hydroxyl generator reactor, and finally around the hydroxyl generator reactor in a different direction out of the stand-alone hydroxyl generator for mass transit vehicles.
Figure 24 is a perspective environmental view of a portable room size hydroxyl generator located on the floor in a room with office or residential furniture.
Figure 24A is a perspective view of the portable room size hydroxyl generator mountable upon a wall of a room.
Figure 24B is a cross sectional perspective view of an alternate embodiment for a portable room size hydroxyl generator, showing interior components, including an air intake grate, a directional fan for pulling the intake air and sending it in an air flow in the direction of the arrows indicated through a vertically oriented clamshell hydroxyl generator housing, having optics therein as well as interior walls to facilitate the exiting of purified air out of the portable room size hydroxyl generator to the occupied room in which the generator is located, as well as showing filters at the air intake and air exit of the airstream to capture any dirt or undesirable particles, which could compromise the quartz lamp optics. Figure 24B further shows baffles at the air intake and air exit of the unit to promote an “S” shaped configuration of the airstream within the unit to prevent any undesirable and dangerous glare from direct exposure of persons in the room from the intense light rays of the quartz lamp optics.
Figure 25 is a closeup perspective view of the airflow blower fan unit of the portable room size hydroxyl generator of Figures 24, 24A and 24B.
Figure 25A is a side view in cross section of a preferred embodiment for a portable room-sized hydroxyl generator having a housing with “S-shaped” conducts to promote an “S-shaped” flow of the air within the hydroxyl generator The housing includes an air inlet and a filter to keep out dirt, dust and other contaminating particulates from entering and contaminating the optics within the centrally located hydroxyl generating reactor after which the air infused with hydroxyl radicals produced by contact or water vapor in the inlet air exposed to the UV light of the optics. A curved baffle type air directing conduit moves the air in the S-shaped curvature through an exit compartment and exit grille to the room in which the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator stands upon casters or wheels or is alternatively mountable upon a wall (not shown) in the room being serviced by the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator unit.
Figure 25B is an exploded view of the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator as in Figure 25A, showing the housing of hydroxyl generator, with caster wheels, and a filter and baffle conduct inside the air inlet of the housing. The hydroxyl generator reactor is also shown with an optic, fan and exit grille.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
As used throughout this specification, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (/.e., meaning having the potential to, or being optional), rather than a mandatory sense (/.e., meaning must), as more than one embodiment of the invention may be disclosed herein. Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to.
The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” may be open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, and “A, B, and/or C” herein means all of the following possible combinations: A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B together; or A and C together; or B and C together; or A, B and C together.
Also, the disclosures of all patents, published patent applications, and nonpatent literature cited within this document are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. However, It is noted that the citing of any reference within this disclosure, i.e., any patents, published patent applications, and non-patent literature, is not an admission regarding a determination as to its availability as prior art with respect to the herein disclosed and claimed apparatus/method.
Furthermore, any reference made throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature or characteristic described in connection therewith is included in at least that one particular embodiment.
Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Therefore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of any particular aspect of an embodiment disclosed herein may be combined in any suitable manner with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.
Figure 1 shows a hydroxyl generator 1 , including a polygonal-shaped housing, including a bracket brace 14 for supporting crystal-spliced UV optics 12 and 13 within respective C-shaped spring clasps 12a and 13a, which are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 14, which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing, but staggered so that UV optic 12 is on a different side of the bracket 14 from the side on which UV optic 13 is located, wherein the crystal spliced UV optics 12 and 13 each have a length that runs substantially the entire length of the housing of the hydroxyl generator 1. A preferred example for the crystal-spliced UV optics 12 and 13 is the GPH457T5L/4P UV Optic 4-pin Base 18” GPH457T5 of Light Spectrum Enterprises of Southampton; these optics 12 and 13 are typically 18 inches long and are made of quartz. The tubular optics 12 and 13 are composed of pure Medical Grade quartz crystal in the portion of the optics which creates the hydroxyls. The present invention adds additional frequencies to the pure crystal optics. These tubular optics 12 and 13 generate ‘Harmonic’ bio-mimicry nonchemical process of the present invention which enables the production of desired atmospheric hydroxyls at a rate commensurate with the VOC/Bio loading in that particular space to be treated with the hydroxyls.
In contrast to the medical grade quartz tubular optics, it is noted that total glass tubes cannot be used when generating UV. The glass would simply be vaporized. Some companies use a fusion of glass and quartz crystal, which is not optimal as the glass portion creates a frequency that actually attracts contaminants. This problematic action neutralizes the desired UV action. Such a fusion lamp of glass and quartz crystal is cheaper to produce, however the poor performance of the lamp would be the end result.
Other similar Medical Grade quartz tubed UV optics can be used. The optics 12 and 13 are preferably symmetrically positioned in the housing of the hydroxyl generator 1 , as shown in Figures 3 and 4 to operate most efficiently, but where in Figure 3 the crystal spliced UV optics 12 and 13 are staggered so that UV optic 12 is on a different side of the bracket brace 14 from the side on which UV optic 13 is located. Figure 4 shows an alternate embodiment where there are two pairs of UV optics, namely 112,113 and 112a, 113a. The UV optics 112, 113 are staggered to the right on one bottom side of the horizontal bracket brace 114, but are separated by upright bracket brace 114. Likewise, UV optics 112a and 113a are respectively staggered to the left on the opposite top side of the horizontal bracket brace 114, also separated from each other by upright bracket brace 114. Optics pairs 112, 113 and 112a, 113a are supported within pairs of respective C-shaped spring clasps 112c, 113c and 112d, 113d, which pairs of optics 112, 113 and 112a, 113a are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 114, and which pairs of optics 112, 113 and 112a, 113a are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing 1.
The clamshell hexagon housing hydroxyl generator 1 has a clamshell configuration, including a clamshell top wall 2, upper side walls 7, 8, 9 and 10, fasteners 16a, 16b, a hinge at fastener 16a for opening the polygonal clamshell housing land a bottom clamshell portion, including a bottom wall 4 and angle- oriented walls 11 and 11a, whereby the polygon housing opens hinge 6 to expose the inside of the hydroxyl generator 1 for maintenance and/or repair. In addition, the polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure can be removed from the air duct wall 40A for such maintenance and repair. The hydroxyl generator also includes an adjacent electronic control box 20, which is attachable to the clamshell housing of the hydroxyl generator 1. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the electronic control box 20 is preferably located outside of the air path, which may be a duct or other conduit. It can alternatively be attached outside of the duct. It communicates with the UV optics wirelessly. The reason for the polygon shape is that the hydroxyl generators generated by the crystal-spliced UV optics 12 and 13 are scattered upon being generated by the optics 12 and 13, but they dissipate quickly if not activated by contact with reflective non-absorbent surfaces inside the respective walls of the polygon. The purpose of the polygon shape is that when the hydroxyl radicals are generated, they are emitted radially in all directions from the UV crystal-spliced optics 12 and 13 and normally would dissipate when scattered radially from the optics. In order to permit the hydroxyl radicals to maintain their desired electron charge and ability to contact and inactivate mold, volatile organic compounds, pathogens, bacteria, virus, etc., they need to reflect and refract off of the reflective non-absorbent walls continuously, within the reaction chamber confined space. As atmospheric hydroxyls are being activated by being created and excited in back-and- forth activity, the air inside the air duct/plenum 40a will contact the activated hydroxyl radicals with the end result of the neutralization of any impurities, such as VOCs, virus, bacteria, fungi, etc., in the air and surfaces.
Furthermore, once these radicals are emitted, they can penetrate any crevices in any area, such as in hydroponic greenhouse plant media growing vessels, such as between seats of aircraft, mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts and wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces, such as individual rooms with small self-contained hydroxyl generators, between the surfaces of seats and shelving, and anywhere where ultraviolet light by itself would not be capable of eradicating the undesirable VOCs, fungi, virus, bacteria, etc. In the aircraft environment, the polygon-shaped housing is strategically located within an air supply unit in an airport terminal building, or it can be located within a remote cart not located near the aircraft, on the tarmac of the airport, and preferably it may be provided in the air systems separately of an aircraft cabin, including the flight deck and the areas of the main cabin where passengers are seated. Therefore, the polygon shaped housings may also be strategically located in mass transit rail and road vehicles, in building ducts, in individual rooms, and wall surfaces and other human occupied spaces
As shown in the end view of Figure 3, the inside of the polygon housing 1 is located below the field of vision within the sealed off plenum so that the ultraviolet (UV) crystal-spliced tubular optics 12 and 13 will not be exposed to the eyes of any observers. Therefore, while the hydroxyl radicals are being generated, the UV energy which create hydroxyl generation from optics 12 and 13 are completely sealed off so that when the optics 12 and 13 are operational, the UV light emanating therefrom will not penetrate outside of the polygonal housing. Baffles, optionally located outside of the hydroxyl generators, but in the vicinity of the hydroxyl generators, prevent the UV light from exposure to persons. Additionally, fibrous filters may be provided at input and outlet areas of the housing containing the hydroxyl generator portion with the UV optics, to capture any undesirable airborne particulates, such as dirt and dust and other particles which may compromise the sensitive quartz material of the UV optics. There is no restriction regarding the active flow of the hydroxyls inside the hydroxyl generator 1 and no interference with the excitement of the hydroxyls produced by the exposure of ambient water vapor within the polygon shaped housing with the UV optics 12 and 13 irradiating light that causes the -OH radicals to form.
Figure 4 shows an alternate embodiment for a four optic version, where polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure 101, having top wall 102, side walls 107, 108, 109, 110 of an upper shell, as well as lower walls 105, 111a, 111 b of the clamshell housing. Figure 4 also shows the electronics control box 120. The respective pairs of optics 112, 112 and 113, 113, are supported within respective pairs of C-shaped spring clasps, which are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 114, which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing 101. Clamshell housing 101 is openable via hinge 106.
Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the network and electronics of the control box 20. Initially AC power 23 of 110 VAC is converted by converter 22 to low voltage 12 VDC, or else a low voltage battery alternatively delivers 12 VDC to a secure Key Switch 22a, to provide power to the Master Events Controller 20, which may have a microprocessor 21. The Master Events Controller 20 also receives input from sensors, such as Air Flow Sensor 25, UV Light Sensor 26, Proximity Switch 27 (detecting opening of the enclosure), Timer 30 and Voltage Monitor Sensor 31 . These sensors provide Sensor Input to the Master Events Controller 20. Power Switching in the Master Events Controller 20 sends 12V Pulse Width Modulation data to a PWM Speed Controlled Fan 34, to send air through the hydroxyl generator unit 1 or 101 , or to stop the flow of air when needed for safety and maintenance situations. The Power Switching also sends data via a Large Serve Outlet (LSO) to a Relay, which controls the Ballast 32, providing power to the Crystal UV Optics 12, which creates the needed hydroxyls within the hydroxyl generators 1 or 101. The Master Events Controller 20 also has a Communications Output, which can send data via a Controller Area Network (CAN) to a Visual Display 29 for user feedback. The Communications Output of the Master Events Controller 20 also sends digital data wirelessly as output to Status Feedback Units. The Communications Output of the Master Events Controller 20 also sends Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® Signal output to Wireless input devices 28 for Wireless user feedback during use.
Figure 5A is a diagrammatic flow chart, showing the electronic control box 20 of Figures 1 , 2 and 3, which is also equivalent to the electronic control box 120 of Figure 4. Adjacent to the hydroxyl generator 1 or 101 , which in Figures 1-3, the hydroxyl generators are attached by one or more brackets 19 to the electronic control box 20. Similarly, the electronic control box 120 is attached by brackets 119 of Figure 4.
In the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A, related to the electrical block diagram of Figure 5, the control box 20 includes a microprocessor 21 for controlling the sensors and switches, which control the operation of the optics 12 and 13, or 112 and 113, of the hydroxyl generators 1 shown in Figures 1-3 and 4 respectively. There is also a power source being either a DC low-voltage battery 24, or an AC plug 23, to provide higher-voltage AC power. When the AC is used, a converter 22 can be provided to convert high-voltage AC to low-voltage DC power for operating any of the sensors and control elements within box 20. Box 25 of Figure 5A discloses the detector 25 to detect whether airflow is on, so that the optics 12 and 13 will only be on after airflow is confirmed, so that they are not on when there is no airflow. Box 26 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses the sensor 26 for detecting emitted light, and providing feedback to replace optics, including a secondary backup optic, which is also disclosed in box 26 of the flowchart of Figure 5A. Box 27 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses a detector with a proximity switch 27 detecting opening of the enclosure, and thereafter used to turn off the optics 12 and 13, to protect people from being exposed to the possible harmful UV light emitted from the optics 12 and 13. This detector with the proximity switch 27 shown in box 27 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A also includes a limit switch, a micro switch and sensors. Box 28 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses the mobile phone application connection 28 for user feedback by wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth® communications, between the operator, the control box 20 and hydroxyl generator 1 itself, together with a timer. The control box 20 also includes the LCD user feedback system 29, with a timer shown in box 29 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A with a timer, as well as a further timer 30 shown in box 30 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A, to provide feedback for regular maintenance. The voltage and frequency of AC main supply sensor 31 is shown in box 31 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A, Box 32 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A shows the voltage and frequency of the monitor of the ballast power outfit 32. Box 33 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses a fire sensor 33, which detects excess heat in the system. Box 34 of the diagrammatic flow chart of Figure 5A discloses a real time clock 34 which controls any fans providing and activating the airflow through the polygon hydroxyl generators 1.
In the mass transit vehicle applications, where a self-contained hydroxyl generator is located on the floor below a passenger seat, the primary source of power from the vehicle may be low voltage (12VDC) which can be accompanied by a DC/AC converter to convert the low voltage (12VDC) to higher 120V AC power to operate the hydroxyl generator within the mass transit vehicle.
In the alternate embodiment shown in block diagram Figure 5B, there are disclosed therein shown the following differences of block diagram Figure 5B from block diagram Figure 5, wherein in block diagram Figure 5B the following features are shown:
1 . The key switch (22a) can alternatively be positioned before the power supply (22);
2. The key switch (22a) can alternatively be a pushbutton;
3. The power supply (22) can alternatively be included in the Master Events Controller (MEC) 20;
4. The user feedback display (29) of Figure 5 is not needed in Figure 5B, because the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® communication works with a mobile application;
5. The PWM Speed controlled fan (34) of Figure 5 is not needed, because the hydroxyl generator 1 will be located in an existing duct with moving air; and,
6. The power to the relay (not numbered) in Figure 5 can alternatively be provided by the Master Events Controller (MEC) 20 in Figure 5B.
EXAMPLES:
AGRICULTURAL HYDROPONIC GREENHOUSE EMBODIMENT
In the preferred agricultural hydroponic embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 6A, the hydroxyl generators can be used in greenhouses, for producing plants hydroponically, such as medicinal or other botanical plants, which are grown agriculturally inside a greenhouse. The plants are mounted in the greenhouse on troughs and tables, typically hydroponically, where the roots are held in place by media, such as coconut fibers, vermiculite, perlite, growstones, rockwool, pine shavings, rice hulls, peat moss, soil, sand or other mineral materials, so that a portion of the roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid, for irrigation and fertigation, and the upper part of the roots are exposed to air, which is brought through with hydroxyl radicals from the hydroxyl generators. For example, in Figure 6, hydroxyl generator 310 (polygonal-shaped) is positioned in the greenhouse 300 in an air duct 330.
The greenhouse has a top roof area 300a, side walls 300b and 300c, and a base ground level 300d. The greenhouse 300 is adjacent to a utility room 350, which has utility controls 320 for controlling the electronics and mechanics of the system, as well as a hydroponic fluid source 390, which provides the hydroponic fluid through a pipe conduit 360. The pipe 360 has the lower parts of the roots and the media soaking in the fluid, with an upper portion of the roots and media being exposed to air of the plants 370, which have roots 370a held in place by media 370b. The plants 370 are rooted in the pipe 360, with a stem portion of each plant 370 rising through a crevice 360a in the pipe 360, and a lower portion of the roots 370a being soaked in the hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, and an upper portion of the roots of 370a being exposed to air flowing out of the sock sleeve 340 into the pipe 360, through the crevice 360a, and in and around the pipe 360. The hydroponic fluid 370e is provided through the hydroponic fluid pipe 360. The polygonal-shaped hydroxyl generators 310 are produced in an enclosed air duct, which is preferably a fan 351 , and produces an airflow into an air duct 330, which emanates horizontally from the fan 351 , or other air source, then makes an upward 90-degree turn, through an air duct portion 330a, which then turns at 90 degrees horizontally at an upper portion of the utility room 350 through a horizontal portion 330b, within which is located the hydroxyl generator, just before a further downward air duct portion 330c emanates downward to the level of trough 334 inside 'the greenhouse, so that the air from the downward portion 330c of the air duct is then sent horizontally through a flexible sock sleeve 340, having multiple upper apertures 341 to permit the radical hydroxyl flows below and then around the hydroponic fluid pipe, and then contacting the air and plant roots 370a of the plants 370, within the media, such as the coconut fiber 370b. Optionally, an overhead mister hose 365 may be provided in case the plants are not hydroponically bred. In any case, the hydroxyls, whether they are blown or pumped through the root system and media in the greenhouse trough in the hydroponic growing system in the greenhouse, the hydroxyl radicals are exposed to the portions of the roots 370a and growing media 370b, so that they can be misted exposed therein while being irrigated and/or fertigated, either hydroponically, or alternatively within conventional soil media. In this version, the greenhouse 300 is connected to the utility room 350. The hydroxyl generators are installed in a strategic position at the top of the air duct 330b, before the hydroxylated air is sent downward through portion 330c of undulating air duct 330 spanning from utility laboratory room 350 and greenhouse 300 and then the air filled with hydroxyls is sent to the flexible sock sleeve 340, having upper apertures 341 for release of the hydroxyls to intermingle with the plant roots 370a of the hydroponically grown plants 370 located above the parallel troughs 334 of greenhouse 300. Flexible sock sleeve 340 is tapered to decrease in diameter towards its distal end, to accommodate for air pressure loss, due to decreasing air flow through the length of the flexible sock sleeve 340.
Figure 6A shows a detailed view of the hydroxyl flexible sleeve 340, with hydroxyls 302 therein and the arrows indicate the flow of the hydroxyls around the lower portion of the pipe with the fertigation and irrigation fluids for the hydroponics where the lower levels of the roots 370a are provided, but where the upper level of the roots exposed to air within the media 370b are then exposed to the hydroxyls of the plants 370. The trough 334 is shown below the flexible sock sleeve 340. The hydroxyls are introduced into air surrounding exposed roots, leaves, stems, vascular or phloem tissues of the plant.
In an alternate embodiment in a non-hydroponic system, as shown in Figure 7, a greenhouse 400 includes hydroxyl generators 410 and 411 , which are provided either adjacent to an intake fan 451 for airflow through and out the greenhouse 400 through exhaust fan 451 and/or motorized or pressurized shutter outlets 480, 481 . A trough 434 is provided for the plants and there may be a drip irrigation hose 470 with apertures for irrigation of hydroponic growing media 470c of the roots 470a of plants 470, where the hydroxyls less generated by hydroxyl generator 411 will mingle within the air exposed portions of the roots and in the media 470b of the plants 470. Optional hydroxyl generator 410 can be located at the intake fan for sending the hydroxyls through the airflow of the greenhouse 400 in areas above the plants.
The hydroxyl generators shown in Figures 1-7 will inactivate any VOCs or pathogens, such as virus, bacteria or fungi, anywhere in the air of the hydrogenic greenhouse buildings.
In addition, in the greenhouse embodiment, the hydroxyl generators are provided so that the hydroxyl radicals will flow adjacent to and through the media of the plants being farmed therein. AIRCRAFT EMBODIMENT
In the preferred aircraft embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the hydroxyl generators 510 are remotely positioned away from the aircraft 501 on the tarmac 502, to reduce the possibility of sparks near the aircraft 501 , and the hydroxyls are delivered from a remote location near the air supply unit 520 within the airport terminal 504, as in Figure 8, through a flexible conduit tubing 540 to an input 550 or from a remotely positioned movable cart 525 on the tarmac 502 away from the aircraft 501 , through a flexible tubing conduit 545 to inlet 550 of the aircraft 501 itself, as in Figure 9.
For example, in Figure 8, hydroxyl generator 510 (polygonal-shaped) is positioned in a unit in the airport terminal 504, near the air supply unit 525 in the terminal 504.
Figure 9 shows the alternate embodiment where the hydroxyl generator 515 located in a movable cart 525 having air outlet 530, remotely positioned away from the aircraft 501 on the tarmac 502.
Figures 8 and 9 also show the walkway corridor 503 from the terminal to the airplane 501.
BUILDING DUCT HVAC EMBODIMENT
In the building duct environmental view of Figure 12, a multi-story building 600 is shown in partial cutaway cross section. Figure 12 shows a diagrammatic environmental view in partial cross section of a building having a duct 650 having a wall 651 into which is installed a radical hydroxyl generator, wherein the duct is a part of a heating, ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit through which breathable air with water vapor flows. Secondary air flow ducts are shown at the manifold joints with the main air duct 650.
Figure 5C, similar to the block diagram of Figure 5B, is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in HVAC building duct applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5C.
As also shown in Figure 12, air flow duct 650 having walls 651 , etc., where the duct 650 is connected to a HVAC unit 630, which provides respective heated, ambient, or cooled breathable air. An air purification hydroxyl producing unit 601 as in Figures 10, 10A and 10B, is provided inside of duct 650, so that water vapor in air flowing therethrough will contact with the light emanating from optics 612, 613, ’and upon contact therewith, will generate hydroxyl radicals to purify the air within building duct 650. Similarly, an air purification hydroxyl producing unit 601a as in Figure 11, with multiple pairs of optics 612, 613, 612a, 613a, etc., could be also provided inside of duct 650, so that water vapor in air flowing therethrough will contact with the light emanating from multiple pairs of optics 612, 613, 612a, 613a, etc., upon contact therewith, will also generate hydroxyl radicals to purify the air within building duct
650 of the building 600 shown in Figure 12.
Figures 10, 10A and 10B show a building duct 650 with a support wall 651 , having an HVAC unit duct hydroxyl generator 601 , similar to hydroxyl generator 1 shown in Figures 1-3 with a pair of optics 612, 613. Figure 11 shows an alternate embodiment, similar to the hydroxyl generator as in Figure 4, for a hydroxyl generator 601 A with two pairs of oppositely situated optics , attached to duct wall
651 of building duct 650 of building 600 herein. The hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a has a hinged polygonal shaped housing 603, which is openable in a hinged clamshell configuration, with a upper portion 625 of clamshell housing 603 having holes for attachment fasteners at a distal end 625a of upper portion 625, connected to a structural bracket 619 attached to front frame 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a and separated by a hinge 626 at its proximal edge from a stationary bottom portion 627 of the clamshell housing 603 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
As further shown in Figures 10, 10A and 10B, the hydroxyl generator 601 also includes the polygonal-shaped clamshell housing 603, including a bracket brace 614 for supporting crystal-spliced UV optics 612 and 613 within respective fasteners, such as C-shaped spring clasps 612a and 613a, which are each respectively mounted on brackets 614, 615 and which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing, but staggered so that UV optic 612 is on a different side of brackets 614, 615 from the side on which UV optic 613 is located. The crystal spliced UV optics 612 and 613 each have a length that runs substantially the entire length of the housing of the hydroxyl generator 601 . Similar to optics 12 and 13 of Figures 1-3, a preferred example for the crystal-spliced UV optics 612 and 613 is also the GPH457T5L/4P UV Optic 4-pin Base 18” GPH457T5 of Light Spectrum Enterprises of Southampton, which optics 612 and 613 are typically 18 inches long and are made of quartz. The tubular optics 612 and 613 are also composed of pure Medical Grade quartz crystal in the portion of the optics which creates the hydroxyls. The present invention adds additional frequencies to the pure crystal optics. Similar to optics 2 and 13 of Figures 1-3, the tubular lamp optics 612 and 613 of Figure 10, 10A and 10B generate ‘Harmonic’ bio-mimicry nonchemical process of the present invention enables the production of desired atmospheric hydroxyls at a rate commensurate with the VOC/Bio loading in that particular space to be treated with the hydroxyls.
Likewise, as shown in Figure 11 , in certain power situations, instead of using a pair of oppositely positioned optics 612 and 613 upon a brace 614, in certain situations two pairs of optics 612, 612 and 613, 613 may be employed in polygonal shaped hydroxyl generator 601a of Figure 11, similar to hydroxyl generator 100 with two pairs of optics 112, 112, 113 and 113 as in Figure 4.
Other similar Medical Grade quartz tubed UV optics can be used in the building HVAC unit ducting of Figures 10 and 12. For example, the optics 612 and 613 are preferably symmetrically positioned in the housing of the hydroxyl generator 601 , as shown in Figure 10, 10A and 10B to operate most efficiently, where in Figure 10B the crystal spliced UV optics 612 and 613 are staggered so that UV optic 612 is on a different side of the bracket brace 614 from the side on which UV optic 613 is located.
In the alternate embodiment shown in Figure 11 , where there are two pairs of UV optics, namely 612, 612a and 613, 613a within hydroxyl generator 601A., the UV optics 612, 612a of polygonal hydroxyl generator 601a are similarly staggered to the right on one bottom side of the horizontal bracket brace 614a, but are separated by upright bracket brace 614a. Likewise, as also shown in Figure 11 , UV optics 613 and 613a are respectively staggered to the left on the opposite top side of the horizontal bracket brace 614a, also separated from each other by upright bracket brace 614a.
Optics pairs 612, 612a and 613, 613a of Figure 11 are supported within pairs of respective fasteners, such as C-shaped spring clasps 612c, 613c and 612d, 613d, which pairs of optics 612, 612a and 613, 613a are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 614a, and which pairs of optics 612, 612a and 6113, 613a are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the hinged clamshell hexagon housing 601a.
Similar to the clamshell polygonal configurations of hydroxyl generators 1 and 100 of Figures 1-3 and 4, the clamshell hexagon housing hydroxyl generator 601 has a clamshell configuration, including a clamshell top wall 602, upper side walls 607, 608, 609 and 610, a hinge 606 for opening the polygonal clamshell housing 601 and a bottom clamshell portion, including a bottom wall 604 and angle-oriented walls 611 and 611a, whereby the polygon housing opens hinge 606 to expose the inside of the hydroxyl generator 601 for maintenance and/or repair within building duct 650.
In addition, the polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure can be removed from the air duct wall 651 for such maintenance and repair, but only when power is shut off, so that maintenance personnel are not exposed to visually harmful beams from optics 612 and 613.
Similar to hydroxyl generator 1 of Figures 1-3, the hydroxyl generator 601 also includes an adjacent electronic control box 620, which is attachable to the clamshell housing of the hydroxyl generator 601 , or provided in the vicinity thereof. Alternatively, the electronic control box 620 is preferably located outside of the air path, which may be the building HVAC unit duct or other conduit, where it can optionally be attached outside of the duct 650, wherein the control box 620 communicates with the UV optics 612, 613 wirelessly ( or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration).
The reason for the lengthwise extending polygon shape of the clamshell reactor housing 601 is that the hydroxyls generated by the crystal-spliced UV optics 612 and 613 could be scattered upon being generated by the optics 612 and 613, and theoretically dissipated quickly, if not activated by constant repetitive contact with reflective non-absorbent surfaces inside the respective walls of the polygonal shaped housing of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
Therefore, the purpose of the polygon shape is that when the hydroxyl radicals are generated, they are emitted radially in all directions from the UV crystal- spliced optics 612 and 613 and normally would dissipate when scattered radially from the optics 612 and 613 ( or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration). But, in order to permit the hydroxyl radicals to maintain their desired electron charge and ability to contact and inactivate mold, volatile organic compounds, pathogens, bacteria, virus, etc., the hydroxyls need to reflect and refract off of the reflective non-absorbent interior walls of hydroxyl generator 601 continuously, within the reaction chamber confined space of its respective polygonal shape, which may be hexagonal, octagonal or any other polygonal shape. As atmospheric hydroxyls are being activated by being created and excited in back-and- forth activity within the polygonal shaped hydroxyl generator 601 , and upon existing therefrom, the humid molecules of air inside the air duct/plenum 651 will contact the activated hydroxyl radicals flowing out of the hydroxyl generator 601 , with the end result of the neutralization of any impurities, such as VOCs, virus, bacteria, fungi, etc., in the air and surfaces.
Furthermore, once these hydroxyl radicals are emitted to the breathable air of the human inhabited building, they can penetrate any crevices in any area of the building interior having HVAC unit duct 650, such as between seats of building interior furniture, between the surfaces of building room desks; and cabinets, or in any crevice where ultraviolet light by itself would not be capable of eradicating the undesirable VOCs, fungi, virus, bacteria, etc. The polygon-shaped housing 601 is strategically located within an air duct wall of building duct 650, which can be in a building which has sub walls extending to various rooms in the building 600.
As also shown in the end view of Figure 11 , the inside of the polygon housing 601 is located below the field of vision within the sealed off plenum so that the ultraviolet (UV) crystal-spliced tubular optics 612 and 613 will not be exposed to the eyes of any observers. Therefore, while the hydroxyl radicals are being generated, the UV energy which create hydroxyl generation from optics 612 and 613 are completely sealed off so that when the optics 612 and 13 are operational, and the UV light emanating therefrom will not penetrate outside of the polygonal housing. There is no restriction regarding the active flow of the hydroxyls inside the hydroxyl generator 601 and no interference with the excitement of the hydroxyls produced by the exposure of ambient water vapor within the polygon shaped housing of hydroxyl generator 601 , with the UV optics 612 and 613 irradiating light that causes the -OH radicals to form. During maintenance, the optics are completely turned off, so that no UV light will emanate out of the polygonal shaped hydroxyl generator 601.
Figure 11 also shows the alternate embodiment for hydroxyl generator 601a, similar to hydroxyl generator 100 of Figure 4, for a four optic version, where polygon hydroxyl generator enclosure 601a, having top wall 602, side walls 607, 608, 609, 610 of an upper shell, as well as lower walls 605, 611a, 611b of the clamshell housing 601 A. Figure 11 also shows the electronics control box 620. The respective pairs of optics 612, 612a and 613, 613a, are supported within respective pairs of fasteners, such as C-shaped spring clasps 612a and 613a, which are each respectively mounted on bracket brace 614, which are mounted parallel lengthwise to each other inside the clamshell hexagon housing 601a. Clamshell housing 601a is openable via hinge 606.
The hydroxyl generators 601 or 601a shown in the multi-story building 600 of Figure 12, provide clean air in the duct 650 in connection with the heating, ventilation air conditioning (HVAC) unit through which breathable air with water vapor flows, where the water vapor molecules generate the hydroxyl radicals for cleaning heated, ambient, or cooled air with the building 600.
The radical hydroxyl generators 601 , 601a installed in building ducts 650 of buildings 600 of Figures 10, 10A, 10B, 11 and 12 are capable of destroying 99.99% (4-Log) of biological contaminants (bacterial, fungal, and viral), ensuring a clear operation of the heated, ambient, or cooled air produced by the HVAC unit 630 of building 600 shown in Figure 12. The radical hydroxyl generating system provides all the benefits of mother-nature’s natural air purification in the atmosphere, but now located in the indoor environments, such as in building 600 that people live in.
For installation of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a into a building duct 650, the installer must first ensure that there is adequate clearance for service. If a humidifier is present, the hydroxyl generator 601 should be installed in the airstream before the humidifier Furthermore, any plastic components should be shielded from direct UV exposure.
The installer must turn off all power to the HVAC unit 630 in the building duct 650, before installation or maintenance procedures.
Wi-Fi CONFIGURATION
Additionally, once the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is ready for installation, it must be set up with a Wi-Fi system 28 communicating with the control box 20 of Figures 5, 5A and 5B.
As shown in Figure 12, after properly installing the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a into a wall 651 of the building duct 650 for the HVAC unit 630, it is plugged into a wall outlet and powered on , such as, for example by using a pushbutton (for example colored red) on a front panel. With the pushbutton pressed and the unit plugged in, the red pushbutton should illuminate. If the red pushbutton does not illuminate, it must be checked to ascertain if the unit is plugged in.
To set up the Wi-Fi network, as shown in drawing Figures 13,14,15 and 16 once the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is powered on and not connected to a local Wi-Fi network, a Wi-Fi hotspot will automatically be generated. To connect the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a to a local Wi-Fi network, the installer goes to the WiFi settings on any smartphone or computer. In the list of available networks, there will be a hotspot network with a name that starts with an identifier, such as, for example, “HVAC Unit #xx”. Using a password, such as for example “utsisgreat”., the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is connected to the Wi-Fi network Upon connecting to the network, a Wi-Fi Manager portal with instructions (see Figure 13) will automatically open.
In the Wi-Fi Manager there will be three options: “Configure WI-FI”, “Info” and “Exit”. To continue setting up the unit to a local Wi-Fi network, the installer presses the instruction “Configure Wi-Fi”. This will open the portal page such in the screen shot image of Figure 14 This page of Figure 14 shows all the scanned networks and their associated signal strength. The installer then enters the credentials of a local Wi-Fi network into the two text input boxes at the bottom of the digital screen page labeled as “SSID” and “Password.” After inserting the Wi-Fi credentials, the installer clicks the “SAVE” button shown i8n the screenshot image of Figure 14, to finish the configuration and close the Wi-Fi Manager portal. If the input credentials are correct, the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a will connect to the network and will turn off its hotspot. It is noted that the aforementioned Wi-Fi setup is only required during initial installation or after Wi-Fi credential change.
An indicator light, preferably yellow, is provided on the front panel of each hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a. During normal operation, this light should be off. A blinking light indicates a problem with the hydroxyl generating optics A solid light would indicate that the unit is not connected to Wi-Fi. Network 28 of Figures 5, 5A and 5B.
Figure 15 a screenshot that is used to remotely check the status of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a in question. In the top right corner of the page the user clicks on the “Select Device” dropdown menu of Figure 14 and select the name of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a being tested.
This will open a page similar to the one shown in Figure 15. This page would be populated with real-time data sent by the selected hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a with the following data displayed on the page:
Device Name:
Power Status: Green - ON; Red - Error; White - OFF
Diagnostic LED: White - No Errors; Blinking Red - Problem with Hydroxyl Bulb(s)
Runtime: Time the bulbs have been ON for. This value can be reset.
Airflow Speed: Speed of air going through unit
Figure 16 is a computer screen shot image of the operation of the Wi-Fi network of the radical hydroxyl generator of Figures 10, 11 and 12, being installed in a building duct wall 651 or building duct 650. Figure 16 also displays power status, diagnostics LED, hydroxyl generation status, run times, reset run times, air flow speed and an option to remove the device.
The following shows possible solutions for the problems the user may encounter during the operation of the hydroxyl radical generator in building ducts.
1 -Product is not turning on: Check power source and if the voltage is adequate verify if lamps connectors are attached to the lamps. Note, this last step will require device removal.
2-Product cannot connect to the app: Check your internet connection, check if you are using the latest version of the app. Install the latest version, if needed.
3- Constant replacement of lamps due to malfunctioning: Check your air system for debris. If a humidifier is present, install the device in the air stream before it. Search for defects before installing the lamps. Contact lamp supplier for more troubleshooting or further actions. 4-Smells during operation: Check for possible contact of UV light with plastic materials inside the chamber or its vicinity.
BUILDING DUCT DEVICE INSTALLATION
As shown in Figures 17-22A, in order to install the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a in a duct 650 of a building 600 with an HVAC unit 630, s, a rectangular opening must be cut to provide access to the hydroxyl generator 601’s or 601 s’s operative chamber, namely its clamshell housing 603 with light producing optics 612, 613 arranged therein, (or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration).
A duct opening cut out 652 is made within a duct wall 651 of the building duct 650 associated with the HVAC unit 630 of building 600. A first determination must be made to ensure that there is enough cross sectional volume to accommodate the clamshell housing 603 of the hydroxyl generator and its connected structural bracket 619, to fit within the building duct 650, to allow for constant air flow within the duct 650 frontal operation of the HVAC unit 630 connected to building duct 650 of building 600.
Figure 17 is a cross sectional top plan view from above of the duct 650, having a wall 651 into which the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is inserted through a cutout 652 of the duct wall 651 of duct 650. Figure 17A is a side view of the clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a installed within a building duct but showing a minimal installation depth of 12 inches into the building duct 650 of building 600.
The control box 620 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is maintained outside of the duct 650 by a front structural wall 640 that is larger than the cutout 652 of wall 651 of building duct 650 provided for insertion of the polygonal clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a. Fastener holes are provided within front structural wall 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a, for insertion of fasteners such as threaded bolts with reciprocating rotatable nuts, to attach front structural wall 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a to the wall 651 of building duct 650. Wall 651 of building duct 650 includes the cutout insertion hole 652 for insertion of the clamshell housing 603 therein. A structural brace 619, also located within the confines of duct 650, separates the clamshell housing 603 from the inside of front structural wall 640 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a. The arrow “A” of Figure 17 indicates the direction of air flow through the clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a. During installation of the clamshell housing 603 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a, the first step is to check the air flow orientation. This is important for the operation of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a located within the cut out 652 of the mounting duct wall 651 of building duct 650., which follows the indications in the device (see arrow “A”) to match the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601 a’s orientation to the duct line air flow of building duct 650.
Figure 18 is a front elevation view of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a of Figures 12, 17 and 17A, showing a rectangular cut out 652 in a wall 651 of the building HVAC unit duct 650, showing a vertical height of the duct opening and a lengthwise width of the duct opening, wherein the arrow “A” indicates the direction of air flow with water vapor through the radical hydroxyl generator.
In a typical installation of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a within duct wall 651 of building duct 650, the following typical dimensions required for installation:
Horizontal hole pitch: H = 4.65”
Vertical hole pitch: V = 3.75”
Rectangular opening for installation: 22” x 5.5”
Using a cutting instrument, such as a saw (or mechanical scissors) the opening 652 is cut into the wall 651 of building duct 650 , and fastener holes , such as 3/16” holes, are drilled to insert the fasteners, such as screws or nuts and bolts, to fix the hydroxyl generator 601 or 602a device in position for installation.
As shown in the exploded view of Figure 19, the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a is placed in position so the lighting chamber with the light generating optics are completely inside the duct line and not visible from the outside of the duct 65O.The user then install the fasteners, such as crews or nuts and bolts , around the external flange of the front panel 640 of hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a Although sizes may vary, Figure 19 shows typical height of 5.5 inches and length of 22 inches of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601 a.
OPERATION OF THE HYDROXYL RADICAL GENERATOR IN BUILDING DUCTS Switching on/off:
For use in switching on/off the USA, the voltage should be 115V AC operation voltage.
For use in other countries: the user must check local voltage before install and operation.
The user then presses the main switch to turn the hydroxyl generator on/off.
This installed hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a located within the building duct 650, can be operated remotely by using the app, after the Wi-Fi settings of the aforementioned Figures 13-16 are first configured . The user initially finds and installs the app on either the Apple or Android marketplace, then follow the steps that will guide the user through the connectivity process. For UV light optic servicing of optics 612, 613, before servicing the interior of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a, the user must make sure it is switched off and disconnected from power source, to avoid injuries to the eyes of the user if exposed to intense lighting from optics 612, 613, ( or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration) or to exposure of the user to live electric current.
Usually, the optics 612, 613 ( or to optics 612, 612a, 613, 613a of a four bulb configuration) should be replaced after two years of operation. But this can be reduced depending on operational conditions.
To get access to the lighting chamber within the clamshell polygonal housing 603 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a, the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a must be removed from the duct line within building duct 650, by doing the reverse procedure of installation. For example, first the user must unscrew the fasteners, such as three thumb-screws at the top edge of the chamber, encompassing the clamshell housing 603, to release the hinged top portion half 625 of the structure as in Figures 20 and 20A from the fixed bottom portion 627, and then open the chamber of the clamshell housing 603 as shown opened up in Figure 20A.
As shown in Figure 20B, to replace the optics 612, 613 , the user must unplug the sockets from the optics (red and yellow cables) from the terminals. The user then reconnects the cables after replacing the optics within the clamshell housing 603 of the hydroxyl generator 601 or 601a.
For routine maintenance, the user should periodically clean the optics , using a rag with alcohol to remove the dirt that may coverthem. To clean aluminum parts, the user wipes the surface with a rag. It is strongly recommended that the user does not handle the optics without gloves, as a clean optic enhances the product performance.
Figure 21 shows an in-duct retrofit HVAC hydroxyl generator 680 installable in a duct of an HVAC unit of a building 600, wherein a plug and electrical wire are provided for connection to a power supply of the building 600 shown in Figure 12.
Figure 22 shows the front view of the retrofit hydroxyl generator 680 installed in a wall of the duct 650 in the building 600, such as building 600 of Figure 12, where the arrows “B” reflect the air flow and the orientation of retrofit hydroxyl generator in the same direction as arrow “B”.
Figure 22A is an exploded perspective view of the retrofit hydroxyl generator 680 being installed in a wall of a building duct 650 of building 600, as in Figures 21 and 22.
Designed to easily install at the manifold of the HVAC duct system the present invention enables the hydroxyl radical generator 601, 601a or 680 to disperse hydroxyl radicals throughout all areas served by the air conditioning or heating system 630 of a building duct 650 of a building 600. The installation takes only minutes, plugs in or can be hard-wired for easy connection and operates simultaneously with the air handling system in a building such as a home, building offices, industrial facilities, etc.
The hydroxyl generators for building ducts of buildings 600, shown in Figures 1-22A will inactivate any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or pathogens, such as virus, bacteria, or fungi, anywhere in the air of the buildings and/or having the controls of Figures 5, 5A, 5B and/or 5C TRANSIT VEHICLE EMBODIMENT
Figures 23, 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, 23E, 23F and 23G show a self-contained units 700 and 792 which can be provided within the passenger and/or cargo area 780 of a transit vehicle, which will have a smaller interior volume for producing the optimal number of hydroxyls generated to purify the air/surfaces and crevices/creases within the aforesaid areas. Such a self-contained hydroxyl generator 700 for a transit vehicle includes a generator chamber housing 701 , which is mounted inside a transit vehicle.
For example, Figure 23 shows the generator housing 701 located on the floor of the vehicle below a passenger seat where the hydroxyl generator 700 is provided in a confined space area, such as a passenger cabin with seats or a cargo container with or without shelving.
Since the transit vehicle generates low voltage 12 DC for vehicle accessories (lights, wipers, cell phone chargers, etc.), the DC power is now converted to AC by an inverter 728 to power the optics and fans of the self-contained hydroxyl generator 700.
The transit vehicle generator 700 also includes the polygon generator chamber housing 701, which has inside the optics 712, 713, which react with water vapor within incoming airflow to produce hydroxyl radicals which are excited by exposure to the interior polygonal walls of the generator 700. The transit vehicle hydroxyl generator 700 also includes an air intake 719, as well as a partition and closed compartment space 720 for the electronics, and an air blower 740 which blows and pressurizes air to the chamber of the hydroxyl generator 701. Front frame 721 is provided for controls and the air intake 719 is provided on one of the walls of the housing 701 , enclosing the clamshell shaped polygonal hydroxyl generator unit 711, which is enclosed within housing 701. The clamshell shaped polygonal hydroxyl generator unit 711 is preferably made of aluminum, or other suitable material. The clamshell shaped polygonal hydroxyl generator unit 711 has side walls 717a, 717b, top wall 717c and bottom wall 717d, as well as rear wall 717e and front cover 717f. When the aluminum cover 717c is removed, it provides easy access for optic cleaning and/or replacement of the optics of the hydroxyl generator 700, which can be taken out and opened along its clamshell hinge 716. The air is passed through the intake, blown by the blower 740, then through the polygonal generator chamber housing 701 and out through an air outlet 718. The blower 740 is mounted by a mount 741 to the exterior housing 701 of the hydroxyl generator 700.
Figure 23D shows a side view in cross-section of the hydroxyl generator 700 for transit vehicles, showing the “S- curve” diversion of the incoming and outgoing airflow “A”, which diversion is achieved by light blocking baffles 760a and 760b, where one or more staggered baffles 760a, 760b are at the air flow exit portion of the hydroxyl generator housing 701 fortransit vehicles and one or more staggered baffles 760a, 760b are at the airflow entry point of the hydroxyl generator housing 701. The staggered baffles 760a, 760b are configured to block inadvertent eye damaging light emanating from the hydroxyl generator housing, especially for curious short children or leased service dogs for people in need of canine assistance while traveling in a transit vehicle, who might tend to stare and look at the hydroxyl generator 700, located on the floor under a passenger seat of the passenger cabin 780 of a transit vehicle.
Figure 23D also shows filters 770a and 770b, which are provided at the air flow entry and exit locations within the hydroxyl generator housing 701 , to protect the optics 712, 713 etc. from contamination by airborne dirt and other particles which might accompany the incoming air flow and which may degrade the hydroxyl activation portions of the optics 712, 713, etc., which are made of sensitive medical grade pure quartz material.
The hydroxyl generators shown in Figures1-23D will inactivate any VOCs or pathogens, such as virus, bacteria or fungi, anywhere in the air of the transit vehicles 780.
Figure 23E is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment for a stand-alone hydroxyl generator 792 in a housing 791 for a transit vehicle with a three-pass air flow to limit UV light escape, where a clamshell hydroxyl generator reactor 792 with a structural cover 793 and an electronics cover 794, is insertable inside the housing 791 in the open central area shown. The air input side of the hydroxyl generator housing 791 includes a fan 795 to move air with water vapor therethrough, and a filter 796 is provided to prevent dirt, dust and other contaminating particles from compromising the sensitive quartz surfaces of the UV optics 799, 799a, which create hydroxyl radicals when water vapor from incoming air contacts the UV from the optics 799, 799a within the hydroxyl generator reactor portion 792 in an enclosure 792a having a light and air flow sensor board 798. An exit grill 797 is provided at the air exit end of the stand-alone hydroxyl generator 792, which is placed away from passenger standing or walking areas, within the confines of a transit vehicle, such as on the floor beneath one of more passenger seats in the transit vehicle.
Figure 23F is a side view in cross section of the hydroxyl generator reactor enclosure 792a, showing two UV producing optics 799, 799a and a light and airflow sensor board 798 attached thereto. Figure 23G is a diagrammatic side view in cross section of the air flow within the hydroxyl generator 792 of Fig. 23E, showing the air entry fan and the undulated “S shaped” airflow of the incoming air around the centrally located hydroxyl generator reactor, then through the hydroxyl generator reactor, and finally around the hydroxyl generator reactor in a different direction out of the stand-alone hydroxyl generator for mass transit vehicles.
PORTABLE ROOM-SIZED GENERATOR EMBODIMENT
Figures 24 to 25B show polygon hydroxyl generators 800, which are removably positioned for lower power needs in smaller confined areas, such as individual rooms in a building or schoolhouse or nursing home. Figure 24 shows a portable room sized unit 800 which can be provided, which will have a smaller interior volume for producing the optimal number of hydroxyls generated to purify the air/surfaces and crevices/creases within the aforesaid areas. Such a portable hydroxyl generator 800 includes a generator chamber housing 801 , which is mounted on a bottom wall, 819a including casters or wheels 845, 845a, 845b and 845c on the bottom for moving the hydroxyl generator 800 around in a confined space area, such as an individual room.
Figure 5D is a block diagram of the electronic controls of the hydroxyl generator used in Portable Room-Sized Unit applications, or in other applications requiring the electronic controls of Figure 5D, which include a proximity detector for safety reasons and a fan, such as a pulse width modulated fan, which regulates the air speed of the fan by regulating the voltage of the fan between on and off, to move airflow with air purifying generated hydroxyl radicals therethrough, .
Alternatively, the unit 800 can be devoid of movable wheels or casters, but can be mounted upon a wall 890( not shown).
Shown in Figure 24B, the movable generator 800 also includes the housing polygon generator chamber housing 801, which houses therein a clamshell housing having a polygonal chamber 830, which has inside the UV light emitting optics 812, 813. Baffles 820 and 820a are located inside of the portable housing 801, but outside of clamshell housing chamber 830 with optics 812, 813 to limit any leaking of UV light from the crystal-spliced tubular optics 812, 813, which upon being engaged will generate the hydroxyl radicals flowing nearby. The unit 800 also includes an air intake 840 and air exit 841 , as well as a partition and space for the electronics 820, an air blower 850 which blows and pressurizes air to the chamber of the hydroxyl generator 830. Front bezel 821 is provided for controls and the air intake 840 is provided on one of the walls 819c of the aluminum unit 801 , enclosing the housing generator 830 housing optics 812, 813 therein. The aluminum housing 801 , or other suitable material, has side walls, a top wall and bottom wall 819a, as well as a rear wall and front cover (not shown). When the aluminum cover is removed, it provides easy access for optic cleaning and/or replacement of the enclosed, sealed clamshell hydroxyl generator 830, which can be taken out and opened along its clamshell hinge 806. The air is passed through the intake, blown by the blower 850, then through the polygonal generator chamber housing 830 and out through an air outlet 841. The blower 850 is mounted by a mount 851 within the housing 801.
Figure 24B also shows a side perspective view in cross-section of the hydroxyl generator 800 for residential home use, showing the “S- curve” diversion of the incoming and outgoing airflow “A”, which diversion is achieved by light blocking baffles 860 and 860a, where one or more staggered baffles 860a are at the air flow exit portion 840 of the hydroxyl generator housing 801 for residential rooms, and also with one or more staggered baffles 860 are at the air flow entry point 840 of the hydroxyl generator housing 801. The staggered baffles 860 and 860a are configured to block inadvertent eye damaging light emanating from the optics within the polygonal optics bearing clamshell hydroxyl generator housing 830, especially for curious short children or leased service dogs for people in need of canine assistance while visiting in a residential building room, who might tend to stare and look at the hydroxyl generator 800, located on the floor of the room.
Figure 24B also shows dirt and particulate-capturing filters 890, 890a at the air intake 840 and air exit 841 of the airstream to capture any dirt or undesirable particles in the air, whether part of the air stream or adjacent air surrounding the portable room sized hydroxyl generator 800, which could compromise the quartz lamp optics 812, 813.
Figure 25 shows one example of an airflow blower fan unit of the portable room size hydroxyl generator of Figures 24, 24A and 24B. However, any shape or configuration for an air moving fan structure can be employed .
For example a preferred embodiment for a portable room sized hydroxyl generator is shown in drawing Figures 25A and 25B.
Figure 25A is a side view in cross section of a preferred embodiment for a portable room-sized hydroxyl generator 900 having a housing 911 with “S-shaped” conducts to promote an “S-shaped” flow of the air within the hydroxyl generator 900 The housing 911 includes an air inlet 901 and a filter 902 to keep out dirt, dust and other contaminating particulates from entering and contaminating the optics 906, 907 within the centrally located hydroxyl generating reactor 905 after which the air infused with hydroxyl radicals produced by contact or water vapor in the inlet air exposed to the UV light of the optics 906, 907. A curved baffle type air directing conduit 908 moves the air in the S-shaped curvature through an exit compartment 909 and exit grille 910 to the room in which the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator 900 stands upon casters or wheels 845, 845 or is alternatively mounting upon a wall in the room being serviced by the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator unit 900.
Figure 25B is an exploded view of the portable room-sized hydroxyl generator 900 as in Figure 25A, showing the housing 911 of hydroxyl generator 900, with caster wheels 845, 845 and a filter 902 and baffle 914 inside the air inlet of the housing 911. The hydroxyl generator reactor 905 is also shown with a cover 905a removed, an optic 906, fan 903 an exit grille 910. CONCLUSION
The hydroxyl generator systems of the present invention are designed to neutralize and destroy virus’ everywhere safely and effectively, while purifying and sanitizing breathable heated, ambient, or cooled air emanating from a source and neutralizing up to 99.9999% of tested virus, including Covid -19 virus. The present invention also helps occupants an occupied space who are afflicted with asthma and airborne allergies, including full air and surface protection, including in crevices between other surfaces.
The hydroxyl generator systems of the present invention can be placed in any environment where pristine air is required, in a state of the art technology that is chemical free, safe for people, pets and plants. In the foregoing description, certain terms and visual depictions are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be construed by the terms used or illustrations depicted, beyond what is shown in the prior art, since the terms and illustrations are exemplary only, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention.
It is further known that other modifications may be made to the present invention, without departing the scope of the invention, as noted in the appended Claims.

Claims

47 WHAT IS CLAIMED:
1. An atmospheric hydroxyl generator comprising: a polygon shaped housing having a plurality of flat walls having reflective non-absorbent inside surfaces; a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics mounted parallel to each other on a bracket brace within said housing for generating atmospheric hydroxyl radicals within said walls, said bracket brace extending lengthwise in, and diagonally across, said housing, and supported on opposite sides thereof by a pair of oppositely facing sidewalls; whereby exposure of ambient water vapor within said polygon shaped housing, with said plurality of said UV optics irradiating light causes said atmospheric hydroxyl radicals to form; said housing having an inlet and an outlet for flow therethrough of breathable air; and said UV optics being tubular, having medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating/neutralizing impurities including VOC, virus, bacteria and fungi in said breathable air, whereby atmospheric hydroxyl radicals created and excited within said walls, become sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated/neutral.
2. The hydroxyl generator of claim 1 in which said optics are mounted on opposite sides of said bracket brace and staggered from each other.
3. The hydroxyl generator of claim 2 in which each optic is mounted in a C- shaped clasp for ease of replacement.
4. The hydroxyl generator of claim 3 in which said reflective, non-absorbent surfaces are aluminum.
5. The hydroxyl generator of claim 4 further comprising baffles arranged outside of said housing in such a manner that said UV optics are not exposed to eyes of any observers because of potentially harmful effects of such exposure.
6. A method of purifying breathable air comprising the steps of: 48 providing a polygon shaped housing having a plurality of flat walls having reflective non-absorbent inside surfaces; said housing comprising a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics mounted parallel to each other on a bracket brace within said housing for generating atmospheric hydroxyl radicals within said walls, said bracket brace extending lengthwise in, and diagonally across, said housing, and supported on opposite sides by a pair of oppositely facing sidewalls; whereby exposure of ambient water vapor within said polygon shaped housing, with said plurality of said UV optics irradiating light causes said atmospheric hydroxyl radicals to form; providing said housing with an inlet and an outlet for flow therethrough of breathable air; and in which said UV optics being tubular, having medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for z deactivating/neutralizing impurities including VOC, virus, bacteria and fungi in said breathable air, whereby atmospheric hydroxyl radicals created and excited within said walls, become sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated/neutral.
7. The method of claim 6 in which said optics are mounted on opposite sides of said bracket brace and staggered from each other.
8. The method of claim 7 in which each optic is mounted in a C-shaped clasp for ease of replacement.
9. The method of claim 8 in which said reflective, non-absorbent surfaces are aluminum.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising baffles arranged outside of said housing arranged in such a manner that said UV optics are not exposed to eyes of any observers because of potentially harmful effects of such exposure.
11. A control system for and in combination with a hydroxyl generator comprising: said control system comprising a master events controller receiving input from sensors within said hydroxyl generator; 49 said sensors including an air flow sensor for detecting air flow through said hydroxyl generator, a light sensor for detecting UV light, and a voltage monitor sensor; and said master events controller also having:
(a) a power supply for sending data via a relay for providing power to UV lamp optics within said hydroxyl generator; and
(b) a communication output comprising a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® signal output with wireless user feedback and a digital output with an LED status feedback; and whereby exposure of ambient water vapor in breathable air to optics irradiating UV light within said hydroxyl generator causes atmospheric hydroxyl radicals to form, said hydroxyl radicals deactivating/neutralizing impurities including VOC, virus, bacteria and fungi in breathable air.
12. The combination of claim 11 in which said hydroxyl generator comprises a polygon shaped housing having a plurality of flat walls having reflective nonabsorbent inside surfaces, a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics mounted parallel to each other on a bracket brace within said housing for generating atmospheric hydroxyl radicals within said walls, said bracket brace extending lengthwise in, and diagonally across, said housing, and supported on opposite sides thereof by a pair of oppositely facing sidewalls and having an inlet and an outlet for flow therethrough of breathable air, and said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers.
13. The combination of claim 12 in which said master events controller is inside of a control box mounted on an outer surface of a wall, said housing for said hydroxyl generator being mounted on an inner surface of said wall adjacent said control box.
14. The combination of claim 13 in which said control box includes a microprocessor for controlling said sensors and switches which control operation of the lamp optics, including the turning off of said UV lights when said housing is opened to protect people from being exposed to UV light.
15. The combination of claim 14 in which said control box also contains a 50 power source for said hydroxyl generator.
16. The combination of claim 15 in which said control box also includes a timer to provide feedback for regular maintenance.
17. The combination of claim 11 having a fire sensor for detecting excess heat.
18. The combination of claim 11 having a fan control for providing and activating airflow through said hydroxyl generator.
19. The combination of claim 15 in which said power source is either a DC low voltage battery or an AC power plug.
20. The combination of claim 19 having an on/off key power switch.
21. The combination of claim 20 in which said key power switch is a push button switch.
22. A method for controlling operation of a hydroxyl generator comprising the steps of: providing a control system comprising a master events controller receiving input from sensors within said hydroxyl generator; using said sensors to detect air flow through said hydroxyl generator, presence of UV light, and providing a voltage monitor; providing in said master events controller:
(a) a power supply for sending data via a relay for providing power to UV lamp optics within said hydroxyl generator; and
(b) a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® signal output and wireless user feedback and a digital output with an LED status feedback; and whereby exposure of ambient water vapor in breathable air to optics irradiating UV light within said hydroxyl generator causes atmospheric hydroxyl radicals to form, said hydroxyl radicals deactivating/neutralizing impurities including VOC, virus, bacteria and fungi in breathable air.
23. The method of claim 22 in which said hydroxyl generator comprises a polygon shaped housing having a plurality of flat walls having reflective nonabsorbent inside surfaces, a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics mounted parallel to each other on a bracket brace within said housing for generating atmospheric hydroxyl radicals within said walls, said bracket brace extending lengthwise in, and diagonally across, said housing, and supported on opposite sides thereof by a pair of oppositely facing sidewalls and having an inlet and an outlet for flow therethrough of breathable air, and said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold in said breathable air, whereby said hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said walls, become sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated.
24. The method of claim 23 in which said master events controller is inside of a control box mounted on an outer surface of a wall, said housing for said hydroxyl generator being mounted on an inner surface of said wall adjacent said control box.
25. The method of claim 24 in which said control box includes a microprocessor for controlling said sensors and switches which control operation of the lamp optics, including the turning off of said UV lamp optics when said housing is opened to protect people from being exposed to UV light.
26. The method of claim 25 in which said control box also contains a power source for said hydroxyl generator.
27. The method of claim 26 in which said control box also includes an LCD display feedback system and said timer to provide feedback for regular maintenance.
28. The method of claim 22 having a fire sensor for detecting excess heat.
29. The method of claim 22 having a fan control for providing and activating airflow through said hydroxyl generator.
30. The method of claim 26 in which said power source is either a DC low voltage battery or an AC power plug.
31 . The method of claim 30 in which said power source has an on/off key power switch.
32. The method of claim 31 in which said key power switch is a push button switch.
33. An agricultural greenhouse for producing plants hydroponically comprising: a building structure having a first room containing one or more troughs containing media for holding roots of plants in place and wherein said roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, upper parts of said roots being exposed to air; a pipe for circulating hydroponic fluid into said troughs; an air duct containing a hydroxyl generator extending into said room for delivering air through said hydroxyl generator to said roots; said hydroxyl generator comprising a polygon shaped housing having multiple side walls with reflective non-absorbent inside surfaces, containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics mounted parallel to each other within and extending lengthwise within said generator, said housing having an air inlet at one end and an air outlet at an opposite end for exposing ambient water vapor to said plurality of spaced crystal- spliced UV lamp optics, said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold in said breathable air, hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said walls, becoming sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated; a flexible sock sleeve within each trough under said media having multiple upper apertures to permit hydroxyl flows below and around said hydroponic fluid pipe and then contacting the air and plant roots of the plants within the media; and whereby said impurities present anywhere in said first room are inactivated; said plants being rooted in said pipe, a stem portion of each plant rising through a crevice in said pipe, a lower portion of said roots of each said plant being soaked in said hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, and an upper portion of said roots of each said plant being exposed to said air flowing out of said sock sleeve, through said crevice, and in and around said pipe.
34. The agricultural greenhouse of claim 33 further comprising a utility room adjacent said first room in which said air duct originates along with a fan to produce air flow in said duct and through said hydroxyl generator, said utility room also including controls for said air flow, hydroxyl generator operation and flow of 53 hydroponic fluid to said agricultural greenhouse.
35. The agricultural greenhouse of claim 34 further comprising said agricultural greenhouse having a top roof area, side walls, and a base at ground level, said agricultural; greenhouse having a hydroponic fluid source, which provides the hydroponic fluid through a pipe conduit, said pipe having upper and lower portions, wherein said lower portion contains said hydroponic fluid, media and lower parts of said roots soaking in the fluid in said lower portion of said pipe, said pipe having an upper air-filled portion containing upper portions of the roots and media being exposed to air for the plants being held in place in said upper portion of said fluid pipe by media.
36. The agricultural greenhouse of claim 33 wherein said polygonal-shaped hydroxyl generators are located in an enclosed undulating air duct, having a fan producing an airflow into an air duct emanating horizontally from said fan, said air duct making an upward turn, thence turning horizontally at an upper portion of said utility room through a horizontal portion within which is located said hydroxyl generator, said air duct making a downward air duct portion emanating downward to a level of a trough located inside said agricultural greenhouse, wherein air from said downward portion of said air duct is then sent horizontally through said flexible sock sleeve having multiple upper apertures to permit the radical hydroxyl flows below and thence around said hydroponic fluid pipe, and then contacting the air and plant roots of the plants within said media.
37. The agricultural greenhouse as in claim 33 wherein the roots of said plants are held in place by media selected from the group consisting of coconut fibers, vermiculite, perlite, growstones, rockwool, pine shavings, rice hulls, peat moss, soil or sand, wherein a portion of the roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid, for irrigation and fertigation, and the upper part of the roots are exposed to air containing hydroxyl radicals produced from said hydroxyl generator.
38. A method of operating a hydroponic installation comprising the steps of: circulating hydroponic fluid through a pipe in troughs in a first room of a building structure wherein said troughs contain media for holding roots of plants in place and wherein said roots are soaked in said hydroponic fluid for irrigation and 54 fertigation, upper parts of said roots being exposed to air; passing air through a hydroxyl generator in an air duct for delivery to said plants, said hydroxyl generator comprising a polygon shaped housing having multiple side wails with reflective non-absorbent inside surfaces, containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics mounted parallel to each other within and extending lengthwise within said generator, said housing having an air inlet at one end and an air outlet at an opposite end for exposing ambient water vapor to said crystal-spliced UV lamp optics, said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating impurities including chemicals and pathogens including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold in said air, with hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within and reflected against said walls, becoming sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated; circulating said air from said duct through a flexible sock sleeve within each trough under said media having multiple upper apertures to permit hydroxyl flows below and around said pipe and then contacting the air and plant roots of the plants within the media; said plants being rooted in said pipe, a stem portion of each plant rising through a crevice in said pipe, a lower portion of said roots of each said plant being soaked in said hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, and an upper portion of said roots of each said plant being exposed to said air flowing out of said sock sleeve, through said crevice, and in and around said pipe; and whereby said impurities present anywhere in said first room are inactivated.
39. The method of claim 38 further comprising the step of providing a utility room adjacent said first room in which said air duct originates along with a fan to produce air flow in said duct and through said hydroxyl generator, said utility room also including controls for said air flow, hydroxyl generator operation and flow of hydroponic fluid. 55
40. The method as in claim 38 wherein the roots of said plants are held in place by media selected from the group consisting of coconut fibers, vermiculite, perlite, growstones, rockwool, pine shavings, rice hulls, peat moss, soil or sand, wherein a portion of the roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid, for irrigation and fertigation, and the upper part of the roots are exposed to air containing hydroxyl radicals produced from said hydroxyl generator.
41. A agricultural greenhouse for producing plants comprising: a building structure having a first room containing one or more troughs containing media for holding roots of plants in place and wherein said roots are grown in a growing media selected from the group consisting of soil, fibrous media or hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, upper parts of said roots being exposed to air; a pipe for circulating plant growing liquids into said troughs; an air duct containing a hydroxyl generator extending into said room for delivering air through said hydroxyl generator to exposed portions of the plant; said hydroxyl generator comprising a polygon shaped housing having multiple side walls with reflective non-absorbent inside surfaces, containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics mounted parallel to each other within and extending lengthwise within said generator, said polygon shaped housing having an air inlet end and an air outlet end for exposing ambient water vapor to said spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics, said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold in said breathable air, hydroxyl radicals created and excited within said walls, becoming sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated; a flexible sock sleeve within each trough under said media having multiple upper apertures to permit hydroxyl flows to the air around said exposed parts of said plant, and then contacting the air and plant roots of the plants within the media; said plants being rooted in said pipe, a stem portion of each plant rising 56 through a crevice in said pipe, a lower portion of said roots of each said plant being soaked in said hydroponic fluid for irrigation and fertigation, and an upper portion of said roots of each said plant being exposed to said air flowing out of said sock sleeve, through said crevice, and in and around said pipe; and whereby said impurities present anywhere in said first room are inactivated.
42. The agricultural greenhouse of claim 41 having a utility room adjacent said first room in which said air duct originates along with a fan to produce air flow in said duct and through said hydroxyl generator, said utility room also including controls for said air flow, hydroxyl generator operation and flow of the growing liquids.
43. The agricultural greenhouse as in claim 41 wherein the roots of said plants are held in place by media selected from the group consisting of coconut fibers, vermiculite, perlite, growstones, rockwool, pine shavings, rice hulls, peat moss, soil or sand, wherein a portion of the roots are soaked in hydroponic fluid, for irrigation and fertigation, and the upper part of the roots are exposed to air containing hydroxyl radicals produced from said hydroxyl generator.
44. A method for sanitizing air and surfaces inside of a confined agricultural space comprising the step of retrofitting a recycling air system by introducing into a conduit carrying fresh air into said confined space a hydroxyl radical generator in an air carrying housing, said hydroxyl radical generator having interior reflective surfaces and a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics mounted parallel to each other within said housing for generating a stream of hydroxyl radicals created and excited within said walls; said housing having an inlet and an outlet for flow therethrough of breathable air; said housing having an air inlet at one end and an air outlet at an opposite end for exposing ambient water vapor to said spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics; said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating impurities including 57
VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold in said breathable air, whereby hydroxyl radicals created and excited within said walls become sufficiently excited to react quickly with said impurities, rendering them inactivated; said stream of hydroxyl radicals being hydroxyls, said hydroxyls produced without the use of photo catalytic oxidation.
45. The method of ciaim 44 in which said hydroxyls are produced on site or immediate said site by said hydroxyl generator.
46. The method of claim 44 wherein said confined space is an agricultural greenhouse housing growing plants and said hydroxyls are introduced into air surrounding exposed roots, leaves, stems, vascular or phloem tissues of the plant.
47. The method of claim 44 wherein said confined space is a hydroponic agricultural greenhouse growing plants in a hydroponic media and said hydroxyls are introduced into exposed roots of the plant partially submerged in hydroponic fluid in a trough in the agricultural greenhouse; said hydroxyls being introduced through apertures in a sleeve located below said hydroponic media, whereby said hydroxyls flow upward around said trough of hydroponic fluid and into the exposed roots of the plant in the air above said hydroponic fluid.
48. A system for cleaning breathable air in an occupied enclosed agricultural space comprising the steps of: mounting a hydroxyl radical generator along an inside surface of a source of breathable air in an occupied enclosed human or plant occupied space with an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof: said hydroxyl radical generator including a polygonal housing supporting a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics, said polygon shaped housing having an air inlet end and an air outlet end for exposing ambient water vapor to said spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics, said lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in the breathable air; said hydroxyl radicals being caused to be created and excited within reflective non-absorbent walls of said polygonal housing; 58 said hydroxyl radicals being excited to react upon contact with impurities, said impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold, rendering said impurities inactivated; whereby the breathable air passes through the polygonal housing of said hydroxyl generator and is cleansed of said impurities before entering the human or plant occupied enclosed space, outside of said hydroxyl radical generator.
49. The system for cleaning breathable air in an occupied enclosed agricultural space as in claim 48 wherein said occupied space is selected from the group consisting of hydroponic plant agricultural greenhouses and soil-based plant agricultural greenhouses.
50. Apparatus for cleaning breathable air in separate flight deck and passenger compartments of an aircraft comprising: said aircraft parked on a tarmac; a hydroxyl generator positioned at a distance away from said aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, said hydroxyl generator being positioned away from said aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near said aircraft; an air supply unit adjacent said hydroxyl generator; a duct from said air supply unit for delivering breathable air separately into said flight deck and passenger compartments; means for injecting a stream of hydroxyls from said hydroxyl generator into said breathable air within said duct for delivery of said breathable air separately into said flight deck and passenger compartments; and whereby said breathable air passing through duct is cleansed of said impurities before entering said separate flight deck and passenger compartments.
51. The apparatus of claim 50 in which said hydroxyl generator comprises a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, said housing containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, said UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air for said 59 flight deck and passenger compartments; .said housing having said air inlet at one end and said air outlet at an opposite end for exposing ambient water vapor to said plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls.
52. The apparatus of claim 50 in which said aircraft is connected by a passenger walkway corridor to a passenger terminal.
53. The apparatus of claim 52 in which said air supply unit and hydroxyl generator are positioned adjacent each other within said passenger terminal.
54. The apparatus of claim 52 in which said duct is located outside of said walkway.
55. The apparatus of claim 50 in which said air supply unit and hydroxyl generator are located on a movable cart at a distance away from said aircraft.
56. The apparatus of claim 55 in which said movable cart is on said tarmac.
57. The apparatus as in claim 50 further comprising an air flow divider at the distal end of said duct, said air flow divider separating the breathable air from the duct separately into said flight deck compartment and into said passenger compartment.
58. The apparatus as in claim 50 wherein said duct is a hollow flexible sleeve.
59. The apparatus of claim 51 in which said housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
60. A method for cleaning breathable air in separate flight deck and passenger compartments of an aircraft comprising the steps of: parking said aircraft parked on a tarmac; positioning a hydroxyl generator at a distance away from said aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, said hydroxyl generator being positioned away from said aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near said aircraft; placing an air supply unit adjacent said hydroxyl generator; connecting a duct from said air supply unit to said aircraft for delivering breathable air separately into said flight deck and passenger compartments; 60 injecting a stream of hydroxyls from said hydroxyl generator into said breathable air within said duct for delivery of said breathable air separately into said flight deck and said passenger compartments; separating said breathable air into a divider for separately delivering said breathable air into said flight deck and passenger compartments; and whereby said breathable air passing through duct is cleansed of said impurities before separately entering said flight deck and passenger compartments.
61. The method of claim 60 in which said hydroxyl generator comprises a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, said housing containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, said UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air for said flight deck and passenger compartments; said housing having said air inlet at one end and said air outlet at an opposite end for exposing ambient water vapor to said plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics generate the hydroxyls.
62. The method of claim 61 in which said housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
63. The method of claim 60 in which said aircraft is connected by a passenger walkway corridor to a passenger terminal.
64. The method of claim 60 in which said air supply unit and hydroxyl generator are positioned adjacent each other within said passenger terminal.
65. The method of claim 60 in which said duct is located outside of said walkway.
66. The method of claim 60 in which said air supply unit and hydroxyl generator are located on a movable cart at a distance away from said aircraft.
67. The method of claim 66 in which said movable cart is on said tarmac.
68. Apparatus for cleaning breathable air an aircraft, comprising: said aircraft parked on a tarmac; a hydroxyl generator positioned at a distance away from said aircraft for generating hydroxyl radicals sufficiently excited to react quickly with impurities 61 including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold for rendering them inactivated, said hydroxyl generator being positioned away from said aircraft to reduce a possibility of sparks near said aircraft," an air supply unit adjacent said hydroxyl generator; a duct from said air supply unit for delivering breathable air separately into said flight deck and passenger compartments; means for injecting a stream of hydroxyls from said hydroxyl generator into said breathable air within said duct for delivery of said breathable air; and whereby said breathable air passing through duct is cleansed of said impurities before entering said aircraft.
69. The apparatus of claim 68 in which said hydroxyl generator comprises a housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, said housing containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV optics, said UV optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air for said aircraft interior; .said housing having said air inlet at one end and said air outlet at an opposite end for exposing ambient water vapor to said plurality of spaced crystal- spliced UV optics, to generate the hydroxyls.
70. The apparatus of claim 68 wherein said aircraft interior comprises separate flight deck compartment and passenger compartments, and said breathable air is delivered separately to said flight deck and said passenger compartment.
71. The apparatus as in claim 70 further comprising an air flow divider at the distal end of said duct, said air flow divider separating the breathable air from the duct separately into said flight deck compartment and into said passenger compartment.
72. The apparatus of claim 68 in which said aircraft is connected by a passenger walkway corridor to a passenger terminal.
73. The apparatus of claim 72 in which said air supply unit and hydroxyl generator are positioned adjacent each other within said passenger terminal. 62
74. The apparatus of claim 72 in which said duct is located outside of said walkway.
75. The apparatus of claim 69 in which said air supply unit and hydroxyl generator are located on a movable cart at a distance away from said aircraft.
76. The apparatus of claim 75 in which said movable cart is on said tarmac.
77. The apparatus as in claim 68 wherein said duct is a hollow flexible sleeve.
78. The apparatus of claim 69 in which said housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow housing having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining lengthwise extending flat walls.
79. A building incorporating apparatus for cleaning breathable air in an occupied enclosed space thereof comprising: at least one duct for delivering breathable air into said occupied enclosed space; a hydroxyl generator comprising a housing, said housing having a flat wall attached to an inner surface of a removable wall section of said duct allowing for retrofit of an existing duct and servicing of said hydroxyl generator; said housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, with a portion of said breathable air flowing in said duct passes through said housing for delivering a stream of hydroxyl radicals into said occupied enclosed space; said housing containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics, said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultra violet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air; whereby hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said walls, becoming excited sufficiently to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria, and mold, rendering them inactivated; and whereby said breathable air passing through said housing within said duct is cleansed of said impurities before entering said enclosed space.
80. The building of claim 79 in which said housing is configured as a 63 clamshell having a pivotable top wall adjacent to said flat wall attached to said removable wall section of said duct for servicing said hydroxyl generator upon removal of said removable section of said duct.
81 . The building of claim 80 in which said hydroxyl generator is installed upstream of any humidifier in said duct.
82. The building of claim 81 in which said removable wall section has a front panel visible outside of said duct.
83. The building of claim 82 in which said hydroxyl generator is remotely controlled by an app installed on a smartphone.
84. The building of claim 83 in which said front panel has indicator lights showing status of said hydroxyl generator, including power status, diagnostic information, runtime, and airflow speed.
85. The building of claim 84 in which said duct is part of a HVAC system for said building.
86. The building of claim 85 in which the building HVAC system is retro fit using a hole cut into said duct whereby said hydroxyl generator with front panel is slid in place in the building HVAC system.
87. The building of claim 85 having a website for remotely checking the status of said hydroxyl generator.
88. The building of claim 87 in which said hydroxyl generator includes means for automatically creating a Wi-Fi hotspot for control of said hydroxyl generator by said smartphone or any computer.
89. A method for cleaning breathable air in an occupied enclosed space of a building comprising the steps of: attaching a flat wall of a housing containing a hydroxyl generator to an inner surface of a removable wall section of a duct delivering said breathable air in said building, said hydroxyl generator comprising an elongated housing containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamp optics, said UV lamp optics being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air, said housing having an air inlet at one end and air outlet at an opposite end thereof, whereby at least a 64 portion of air flowing through said duct passes through said hydroxyl generator; whereby hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said walls, becoming excited sufficiently to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria, and mold, rendering them inactivated; and whereby said breathable air passing through said housing within said duct is cleansed of said impurities before entering said enclosed space.
90. The method of claim 89 in which said housing is configured as a clamshell having a pivotable top wall adjacent to said flat wall attached to said removable wall section of said duct for servicing said hydroxyl generator upon removal of said removable section of said duct.
91 . The method of claim 89 in which said hydroxyl generator is installed upstream of any humidifier in said duct.
92. The method of claim 89 including the step of providing said removable wall section with a front panel visible outside of said duct.
93. The method of claim 89 in which said hydroxyl generator is remotely controlled by an app installed on a smartphone.
94. The method of claim 92 in which said front panel is provided with indicator lights showing status of said hydroxyl generator, including power status, diagnostic information, runtime, and airflow speed.
95. The method of claim 94 in which said duct is part of a HVAC system for said building.
96. The method of claim 89 in which the building HVAC system is retro fit using a hole cut into said duct whereby said hydroxyl generator is slid in place in the building HVAC system.
97. The method of claim 95 including the step of providing a website for remotely checking the status of said hydroxyl generator.
98. The method of claim 97 including the step of creating a Wi-Fi hotspot for control of said hydroxyl generator by said smartphone or any computer.
99. Apparatus for cleaning breathable air within an occupied enclosed space of a transit vehicle comprising: a stand alone unit within said occupied enclosed space for treating said breathable air; 65 said stand alone unit enclosing a hydroxyl generator for generating and delivering hydroxyl radicals into said breathable air; said hydroxyl generator containing a plurality of spaced crystal- spliced UV lamp optics within a housing, said UV lamps being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air; said housing having an air inlet to said hydroxyl generator on one end thereof and an air outlet on an opposite end of said housing; said stand alone unit having grated openings opposite said air inlet and outlet of said housing to allow for continuous air flow through said hydroxyl generator; said stand alone unit having at least one fan for circulating said breathable air through said hydroxyl generator and into said occupied enclosed space; said stand alone unit being situated anywhere within said occupied enclosed space of said transit vehicle which does not interfere with user traffic; whereby hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said housing, becoming excited sufficiently to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold, rendering them inactivated; and whereby said breathable air passing through said hydroxyl generator is cleansed of said impurities before returning to said enclosed space.
100. The apparatus of claim 99 in which said stand alone unit is located in a public transportation vehicle including a bus or a train.
101. The apparatus of claim 99 in which said housing is configured as a clamshell having a pivotable wail for servicing said hydroxyl generator.
102. The apparatus of claim 99 in which said stand alone unit has baffles located outside of said clamshell housing but within said stand alone unit, adjacent said inlet and outlet for creating a diversion of incoming and outgoing airflow, said baffles being configured to block any light emanating from said housing.
103. The apparatus of claim 99 in which said baffles create an S shaped diversion of incoming and outgoing air flow. 66
104. The apparatus of claim 99 in which said stand-alone unit is provided with air filters at locations of the airflow inlet and outlet within said stand-alone unit, outside of said clamshell housing, to protect optics therein from contamination by airborne dirt and other particles which might accompany incoming air flow and may degrade hydroxyl activation portions of said optics.
105. The apparatus of claim 99 in which a control box is mounted adjacent said hydroxyl generator, said control box including a microprocessor for controlling sensors and switches which control operation of said optics within said hydroxyl generator.
106. The apparatus of claim 105 in which one of said sensors is a detector to detect that airflow is on, so that said optics will only be on when there is airflow.
107. The apparatus of claim 106 in which other sensors include one for detecting emitted light and providing feedback to replace optics, and a proximity switch detecting opening of said housing and thereafter turning off said optics.
108. The apparatus of claim 107 having a mobile phone application connection for user feedback by wireless communication between an operator, said control box, and said hydroxyl generator, together with a timer.
109. The apparatus of claim 99 in which said apparatus is powered by DC power from the vehicle power supply, and a DC/AC inverter is supplied to convert said DC current to AC current for use within said apparatus.
110. A method for cleaning breathable air in an occupied enclosed space of a transit vehicle comprising the steps of: placing a stand alone unit within said occupied enclosed space in any location not interfering with user traffic therein; said stand alone unit enclosing a hydroxyl generator for generating and delivering hydroxyl radicals into said breathable air; said hydroxyl generator containing a plurality of spaced crystal- spliced UV lamp optics within a housing, said UV lamps being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air; providing said housing within an air inlet to said hydroxyl generator 67 on one end thereof and an air outlet on an opposite end of said housing; providing said stand alone unit with grated openings opposite said air inlet and outlet of said housing to allow for continuous air flow through said hydroxyl generator; providing said stand alone unit with at least one fan for circulating said breathable air through said hydroxyl generator and into said occupied enclosed space; whereby hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said housing, becoming excited sufficiently to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold, rendering them inactivated; and whereby said breathable air passing through said hydroxyl generator is cleansed of said impurities before returning to said occupied enclosed space.
111. The method of claim 110 in which said stand alone unit is placed in a public transportation vehicle including a bus or a train.
112. The method of claim 110 in which said housing is configured as a clamshell having a pivotable wall for servicing said hydroxyl generator.
113. The method of claim 110 in which said stand alone unit is provided with baffles outside of said clamshell housing, adjacent said inlet and outlet for creating a diversion of incoming and outgoing airflow, said baffles being configured to block any light emanating from said housing.
114. The method of claim 113 in which said baffles create an S shaped diversion of incoming and outgoing air flow.
115. The method of claim 110 in which said stand-alone unit is provided with air filters at locations of the airflow inlet and outlet within said stand-alone unit but outside of said clamshell housing to protect said optics from contamination by airborne dirt and other particles which might accompany incoming air flow and may degrade hydroxyl activation portions of said optics.
116. The method of claim 110 in which a control box is mounted adjacent said hydroxyl generator, said control box including a microprocessor for controlling sensors and switches which control operation of optics within said hydroxyl generator.
117. The method of claim 116 in which one of said sensors is a detector for 68 detecting airflow, so that said optics will only be on when there is airflow.
118. The method of claim 117 in which other sensors include one for detecting emitted light and providing feedback to replace optics, and a proximity switch detecting opening of said housing and thereafter turning off said optics.
119. The method of claim 118 including the step of providing a mobile phone application connection for user feedback by wireless communication between an operator, said control box, and said hydroxyl generator, together with a timer.
120. The method of claim 110 is which said stand-alone unit is powered by DC power from the vehicle power supply, and a DC/AC inverter is supplied to convert said DC current to AC current for use within said stan-alone unit.
121. Apparatus for cleaning breathable air within an enclosed space of a room in a structure comprising: a portable unit supported on casters within said occupied enclosed space for treating said breathable air; said portable unit enclosing a hydroxyl generator for generating and delivering hydroxyl radicals into said breathable air; said hydroxyl generator containing a plurality of spaced crystal- spliced UV lamps within a housing, said UV lamps being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for exposing ambient water vapor to the spaced crystal-spliced UV lamps, to generate the hydroxyl radicals, for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air; said housing having an air inlet to said hydroxyl generator on one side thereof and an air outlet on an opposite side of said housing; said portable unit having grated openings opposite said air inlet and outlet of said housing to allow for continuous air flow through said hydroxyl generator; said portable unit having at least one fan for circulating said breathable air through said hydroxyl generator and into said enclosed space; said hydroxyl generator creating short-lived hydroxyl radical molecules at the rate of 2.6 million per cubic centimeter of air; 69 said portable unit being movable anywhere within said enclosed space of said room which does not interfere with user traffic; whereby said short-lived hydroxyl radicals, created and excited within said housing, becoming excited sufficiently to react quickly with impurities including VOC, viruses, bacteria and mold, rendering them inactivated; and whereby said breathable air passing through said hydroxyl generator is cleansed of said impurities before returning to said enclosed space.
122. The apparatus of claim 121 in which said housing has at least two UV lamps for creating said short-lived hydroxyl radicals for reacting quickly with breathable passing therethrough.
123. The apparatus of claim 122 in which said housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow structure having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining flat walls, and configured as a clamshell having a pivotable wall for servicing said hydroxyl generator.
124. The apparatus of claim 123 in which said portable unit contains baffles adjacent said inlet and outlet for creating a diversion of incoming and outgoing airflow, said baffles being configured to block any light emanating from said housing.
125. The apparatus of claim 124 in which said baffles create an S shaped diversion of incoming and outgoing air flow.
126. The apparatus of claim 125 in which said portable unit is provided with air filters at locations of the air flow inlet and outlet within said housing to protect optics therein from contamination by airborne dirt and other particles which might accompany incoming air flow and may degrade hydroxyl activation portions of said optics.
127. The apparatus of claim 126 in which a control box is mounted adjacent said hydroxyl generator, said control box including a master events controller receiving input from sensors, for controlling operation of said optics within said hydroxyl generator.
128. The apparatus of claim 127 in which said sensors include a detector to detect that airflow is on, so that said optics will only be on when there is airflow, a proximity switch for detecting opening of said housing, a timer and voltage monitor, 70 said master events controller sending pulse width modulation data to said fan or to stop air flow when needed for safety and maintenance situations.
129. The apparatus of claim 128 in which said master events controller has a communications output to send data via a controller area network to a visual display for user feedback, and also send digital data wirelessly as output to status feedback units.
130. The apparatus of claim 129 in which the communications output includes a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® signal output to wireless input devices for wireless user feedback during use.
131. A method for cleaning breathable air in an occupied enclosed space of a room in a structure comprising the steps of: placing a portable unit supported on casters within said occupied enclosed space for treating said breathable airs; said portable unit enclosing a hydroxyl generator for generating and delivering hydroxyl radicals into said breathable air; said hydroxyl generator containing a plurality of spaced crystal-spliced UV lamps within a housing, said UV lamps being tubular, medical grade pure quartz optics designed to emit/irradiate ultraviolet in the nanometer wavelength/ultraviolet spectrum of between 100 and 400 nanometers for exposing ambient water vapor to the spaced crystal-spliced UV lamps, to generate the hydroxyl radicals, for deactivating chemicals and pathogens in said breathable air; providing said housing with an air inlet to said hydroxyl generator on one end thereof and an air outlet on an opposite end of said housing; providing said portable unit with grated openings opposite said air inlet and outlet of said housing to allow for continuous air flow through said hydroxyl generator; providing said portable unit with at least one fan for circulating said breathable air through said hydroxyl generator and into said occupied enclosed space; moving said portable unit to a location anywhere within said enclosed space of said room which does not interfere with user traffics; 71 whereby said hydroxyl radicals, are short-lived, created and excited within said housing, becoming excited sufficiently to react quickly with impurities including VOG, viruses, bacteria and mold, rendering them inactivated; and whereby said breathable air passing through said hydroxyl generator is cleansed of said impurities before returning to said occupied enclosed space.
132. The method of claim 131 in which said portable unit delivers hydroxyl radical molecules at the rate of 2.6 million per cubic centimeter of air.
133. The method of claim 131 in which said housing comprises a lengthwise extending hollow structure having a polygon shape in cross section, with adjoining flat walls, and configured as a clamshell having a pivotable wall for servicing said hydroxyl generator.
134. The method of claim 133 in which said portable unit is provided with baffles adjacent said inlet and outlet for creating a diversion of incoming and outgoing airflow, said baffles being configured to block any light emanating from said housing.
135. The method of claim 134 in which said baffles create an S shaped diversion of incoming and outgoing air flow.
136. The method of claim 135 in which said portable unit is provided with air filters at locations of the airflow inlet and outlet within said housing to protect said optics from contamination by airborne dirt and other particles which might accompany incoming airflow and may degrade hydroxyl activation portions of said optics.
137. The method of claim 136 in which a control box is mounted adjacent said hydroxyl generator, said control box including a master events controller receiving input from sensors, for controlling operation of said optics within said hydroxyl generator.
138. The method of claim 137 in which said sensors include a detector to detect that airflow is on, so that said optics will only be on when there is airflow, a proximity switch for detecting opening of said housing, a timer and voltage monitor, with said master events controller sending pulse width modulation data to said fan or to stop air flow when needed for safety and maintenance situations. 72
139. The method of claim 138 in which said master events controller is provided with a communications output to send data via a controller area network to a visual display for user feedback, and also send digital data wirelessly as output to status feedback units.
140. The method of claim 139 in which the communications output is provided with a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® signal output to wireless input devices for wireless user feedback during use.
PCT/US2022/051886 2021-12-08 2022-12-06 Proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices WO2023107408A1 (en)

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US17/545,919 2021-12-08
US17/545,919 US20230173127A1 (en) 2021-12-08 2021-12-08 Proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices
US17/590,270 2022-02-01
US17/590,270 US20230173128A1 (en) 2021-12-08 2022-02-01 Proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices
US17/674,763 US20230173125A1 (en) 2021-12-08 2022-02-17 Agricultural proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices
US17/674,763 2022-02-17
US17/713,959 2022-04-05
US17/713,959 US20230173126A1 (en) 2021-12-08 2022-04-05 Agricultural proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices
US17/826,555 2022-05-27
US17/826,555 US20230173129A1 (en) 2021-12-08 2022-05-27 Aircraft proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices
US17/861,181 US20230173130A1 (en) 2021-12-08 2022-07-09 Proactive air/surface decontamination system and devices
US17/861,181 2022-07-09

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US2945554A (en) * 1957-01-11 1960-07-19 Edward M Berly Air cleaning devices and components therefor
US6497840B1 (en) * 1992-10-09 2002-12-24 Richard P. Palestro Ultraviolet germicidal system
US20080073565A1 (en) * 2006-02-13 2008-03-27 Dong-Hyeon Jeon OH radical air sterilization lamp quartz tube casing device
JP2010080195A (en) * 2008-09-25 2010-04-08 Sharp Corp Lamp attaching and removing method, light source device, and display device
US20150114822A1 (en) * 2013-10-28 2015-04-30 Richard J. Greco Photocatalytic Oxidation Apparatus for Oxidizing Volatile Organic Compounds
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