WO2023135047A1

WO2023135047A1 - A disinfection device using uv light

Info

Publication number: WO2023135047A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/050149
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ties Van Bommel; Peter Johannes Martinus BUKKEMS; Marc Andre DE SAMBER; René Maarten Arjan DRIESSENS; Martinus Petrus Creusen
Original assignee: Signify Holding B.V.
Priority date: 2022-01-11
Filing date: 2023-01-05
Publication date: 2023-07-20

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a disinfection device (10) arranged for mounting in a duct (1), wherein the disinfection device (10) comprises: a flexible carrier (11) arranged in a spatial configuration having a longitudinal axis; a plurality of light emitting diodes, LEDs (12), configured to emit UV light; wherein the flexible carrier (11) comprises a plurality of strip-like carrier segments (11-n), wherein each strip-like carrier segment (11-n) is arranged in a loop, wherein the respective loops extend next to each other along the longitudinal axis; wherein each strip-like carrier segment (11-n) comprises at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes (12); wherein each strip-like carrier segment (11-n) comprises a first carrier segment end (11-na) and a second carrier segment end (11-nb); wherein the disinfection device (10) further comprises: a connecting means (13) for mechanically interconnecting the respective first carrier segment ends (11-na) with each other and mechanically interconnecting the respective second carrier segment ends (11-nb) with each other; wherein the connecting means (13) are configured to control, when in operation moved, an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment (11-N) of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments (11-N) to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension being smaller than or equal to an inner dimension of the duct (1).

Description

A disinfection device using UV light

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a disinfection device suitable for disinfecting or purifying the air of a confined area, such as the inner area of a duct or tube using UV light. The invention further relates to a corresponding method performed with said disinfection device, and to a disinfection arrangement comprising said disinfection device and a device comprising a duct.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

There is an increasing interest - due to health and safety concerns - to protect people in both personal homes and in office environments from the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as influenza or against the outbreak of novel viruses like the recent CO VID-19 pandemic. In the consumer domain (single) air purifying devices are used of which some have ionizing generators included that can kill bacteria and viruses when air ion density is at the correct level, thus improving the indoor air quality (IAQ). Alternatively, ultraviolet (UV) light emitted from ultraviolet light sources can also be used for disinfection.

In order to prevent or limit the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as the COVID-19 viruses, through air it is an object to provide an UV disinfection device, which can be mounted in a confined area, in particular in a duct or other types of complex tubular systems. Such tubular systems or devices can be used in medical applications, e.g. a PP ventilator or other types of respirator devices or in air treatment systems in buildings, e.g. HVAC or other ventilation systems.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to a first aspect of the disclosure, the invention provides a disinfection device arranged for mounting in a duct, wherein the disinfection device comprises: a flexible carrier arranged in a spatial configuration having a longitudinal axis; a plurality of light emitting diodes, LEDs, configured to emit UV light; wherein the flexible carrier comprises a plurality of strip-like carrier segments, wherein each strip-like carrier segment is arranged in a loop, wherein the respective loops extend next to each other along the longitudinal axis; wherein each strip-like carrier segment comprises at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes; wherein each strip-like carrier segment comprises a first carrier segment end and a second carrier segment end; wherein the disinfection device further comprises: a connecting means for mechanically interconnecting the respective first carrier segment ends with each other and mechanically interconnecting the respective second carrier segment ends with each other; wherein the connecting means are configured to control, when in operation moved, an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension being smaller than or equal to an inner dimension of the duct.

This configuration of the present invention renders a disinfection device that is being flexible and expandable, allowing a simple adjustment of the outer dimensions (diameter) of the spatial shaped carrier configuration with said connecting means. The UV light of the LEDs, emitted in operation, disinfects the duct when the disinfection device is mounted. Said phrase ‘dimension’ may alternatively be phrased as ‘diameter’. Said loop may be a circular, elliptical or spiral. Accordingly, installation and positioning of the disinfection device in a duct or flexible tube is significantly facilitated. This enables an improved disinfection performance for said duct or flexible tube. In addition, the spatially shaped carrier consisting of multiple controllable loop or spirally formed strip-like carrier segments mounted parallel to each other further improves and simplifies the adjustment of the outer dimensions of the carrier, further facilitating the mounting inside a duct or tube.

Moreover, the consistency or coherence of the segmented flexible carrier is maintained and improved, in particular at longer length dimensions, but also the adjustment of the outer dimension (e.g. diameter) of the spatially configured segmented flexible carrier is simplified, further adding to an easy mounting inside a duct or tube.

As partly mentioned, in further examples, the connecting means may be configured to control, when in operation moved, an outer dimension of the loops of (all of) the plurality of strip-like carrier segments to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension being smaller than or equal to an inner dimension of the duct.

In a preferred embodiment, further simplifying the outer dimension adjustment of the spatially configured segmented flexible carrier, the connecting means comprises a first connector rod and a second connector rod extending along the longitudinal axis, the first connector rod mechanically interconnecting the first carrier segment ends with each other and the second connector rod mechanically interconnecting the second carrier segment ends with each other. In a preferred embodiment, the connecting means may be configured to control the outer dimension of said respective loop to the first configuration dimension by moving the first connector rod towards the second connector rod.

In addition, the connecting means may be configured to convey electric power to the plurality of light emitting diodes. Herewith a compact construction is obtained, which does not obstruct the interior area of the duct or tube in which the disinfection device is positioned, thus achieving a maximum disinfection or purification performance.

In an embodiment, the first connector rod comprises a first magnet, wherein the second connector rod comprises a second magnet, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet detachably connect the first connector rod to the second connector rod when the first connector rod abuts the second connector rod. Such magnetic connection of the first connector rod to the second connector rod may facilitate the maintaining of the shape of the flexible carrier when put into a duct or taken out of a duct.

The disinfection or purification performance is further improved, as in a further beneficial example the flexible carrier is provided with an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes are mounted to or distributed along the inner surface of the flexible carrier. Thus, the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit light in a direction towards the interior of the spatial configuration. Accordingly, generated light is emitted towards the interior of the duct or tube in which the disinfection device is installed.

In another example of the disclosure, the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit light in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the spatial configuration.

In yet a further example having an additional disinfection or purification performance, the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit light in a direction parallel of the longitudinal axis.

Alternatively, to achieve an improved emission of light in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the spatial configuration, the plurality of light emitting diodes may be mounted to or distributed along the outer surface of the flexible carrier.

In an embodiment, at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments is made from a transparent material. Accordingly, the flexible carrier is light transparent and does not shield off any light being emitted, thus achieving an effective disinfection or purification performance. Such an embodiment may allow light to pass through the flexible carrier and its strip-like carrier segments, so as to limit the loss of light output. Similarly, in an alternative embodiment, at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments is made from a UV-light reflective material.

Similarly, in an alternative embodiment, at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments comprises a coating layer, wherein said coating layer comprises a reflective material and/or comprises a phosphor for up-converting at least part of the emitted UV light to higher wavelengths of light. For example, UV-C may be up- converted to e.g. UV-A, violet or visible light.

In an embodiment, at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments is a light guide; wherein at least one light emitting diode of the plurality of light emitting diodes is configured to couple light into said light guide. The light guide may comprise output windows for coupling out said light. Such an embodiment may be advantageous, because the LEDs may be configured such that the LEDs couple their light into the light guide (i.e. the strip-like carrier segments) for enabling the light guide (i.e. the strip-like carrier segments) to illuminate the areas in and around the spatial configuration of the flexible carrier.

In an example exhibiting a more compact configuration seen along the longitudinal axis, the strip-like carrier segments each abut a neighboring strip-like carrier segment seen in a plane formed by the loop. Herewith a more compact light emission surface is obtained, guaranteeing an effective containment of light being emitted and prevents any light from leaving or leaking from the interior of the spatial configuration of the flexible carrier.

In examples, the strip-like carrier segments are positioned at an intermediate distance from each other along the longitudinal axis. Such example of a disinfection device according to the disclosure can exhibit a significant longitudinal length and is accordingly more suited to be mounted in a duct of a similar significant length.

In an embodiment, the plurality of light emitting diodes may be configured to emit at least one of UV-C light, UV-B light, UV-A light, UV light with a peak wavelength at 254 nm, UV light with a peak wavelength at 222 nm. Hence, the light emitting diodes may be ultraviolet LEDs.

In an embodiment, the connecting means are configured to control, when in operation moved, an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments from a first configuration dimension to a second configuration dimension, wherein the first configuration dimension being smaller than an inner dimension of the duct, wherein the second configuration dimension being equal to an inner dimension of the duct, wherein the outer dimension of the loop abuts the inner dimension of the duct when set to the second configuration dimension. Herewith it is simple and easy to mount the disinfection device in a duct of a significant long length. In particular, the outer dimension of the loop of the strip-like carrier segments is controlled by moving the first connector rod and the second connector rod of the connecting means from and to each other. This allows a simple mounting of the disinfection device for example by manual operation by a user.

In a preferred example, the number of the strip-like carrier segments is at least five.

To achieve an even distribution of light for disinfecting purposes, a number of the plurality of light emitting diodes are mounted at equidistant distances from each other on a strip-like carrier segment. For example, the number of light emitting diodes mounted on a strip-like carrier segment is at least four.

Effectively, as mentioned before, the UV light may comprise UV-A, UV-B and/or UV-C light.

In a further embodiment, the disinfection device further comprises a sensor element; wherein at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments comprises the sensor element; wherein the sensor element is configured to control at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes.

In aspects, said sensor element may for example be a light sensor and/or a thermocouple. For example, the light sensor may be utilized to sense a fluid with a first dust level or particulate level in said duct, so as to control the at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes with a corresponding intensity and/or wavelength for disinfection of said fluid with a first dust level. Said dust level may alternatively be a different particulate level. For example, the thermocouple may sense a temperature of a fluid in the duct, and control at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes if said temperature is exceeding, or is within, a predefined threshold value. For example, the LEDs may be turned on if the temperature of said fluid is below a threshold value, so as to disinfect said fluid.

It is further an object of the invention to provide an improved disinfection arrangement. Hence, the invention provides, a disinfection arrangement comprising the disinfection device according to the invention and a device comprising a duct, wherein the disinfection device is mounted in the duct of said device. Said device may for example be one of a respirator, an air purifier, HVAC, or a ventilation device. The disclosure also pertains to a method for installing a disinfection device as defined in one or more of the preceding claims in a duct. Hence, the invention provides, a method of mounting a disinfection device according to the present invention in a duct, the duct having an inner dimension, the method comprising the steps of: providing the flexible carrier arranged in a spatial configuration having a longitudinal axis, wherein each strip-like carrier segment is arranged in a loop, wherein the respective loops extend next to each other along the longitudinal axis; moving the connecting means to control the outer dimension of the loop of each strip-like carrier segment to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension being smaller than an inner dimension of the duct; positioning the spatially configured flexible carrier in its first configuration dimension in the duct; moving the connecting means to control the outer dimension of the loop of each the strip-like carrier segment to a second configuration dimension, the second configuration dimension being (substantially) equal to the inner dimension of the duct, such that the spatially configured flexible carrier with its second configuration dimension abuts the inner dimension of the duct.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the drawings, which show in:

Fig.l an example of an embodiment of a disinfecting device according to the disclosure;

Figs. 2 and 3 details of the embodiment of Figure 1;

Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b depict a functionality of the disinfection device according to the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

For a proper understanding of the disclosure, in the detailed description below corresponding elements or parts of the disclosure will be denoted with identical reference numerals in the drawings.

In order to prevent or limit the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as the COVID-19 viruses, through air there is an increasing interest - due to the health and safety concerns - in UV disinfecting applications which allow next to an improved disinfection performance and/or reliability using UV light also a simple installation and positioning in a duct or flexible tube used in medical applications, e.g. a PP ventilator or other types of respirator devices or in air treatment systems in buildings, e.g. HVAC or other ventilation systems.

Accordingly, Figure 1 depicts an example of an embodiment of a disinfection device using light according to the disclosure, which can be positioned in the interior area of such duct or tube.

The disinfection device is denoted with reference numeral 10. It comprises a flexible carrier denoted with reference numeral 11, which is manufactured from a flexible material, such as a thin metal sheet (e.g. comprising stainless steel, copper and/or aluminum) or a polymer plastic foil with elastic properties. The polymer may comprise polyimide (PI), PET, PC, PS, or PMMA. As shown in Figure 1, the flexible carrier 11 has a spiral shape and is formed in a spatial configuration having a certain longitudinal dimension. The flexible carrier extends along a longitudinal axis. The spatial configuration of the spirally formed flexible carrier 11 allows for mounting in a duct 1, for example a duct of air treatment systems in buildings, such as HVAC or other ventilation systems or in a flexible tube used in medical applications, such as in a PP ventilator or other types of respirator devices. The duct may similarly extend along a longitudinal axis or central axis, which for the duct may either be straight or curved (e.g. for bending ducts). The disinfection device 10 has a longitudinal dimension with a longitudinal axis, denoted with reference numeral lOz.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a plurality of light emitting sources, which are mounted on a surface of the flexible carrier 11. In a non-limiting example, the light emitting sources 12 can be light emitting diodes, LEDs. When activated, the light emitting sources 12 emit UV light radiation in a wavelength range suitable disinfecting or purifying purposes. Preferably, the UV light being emitted comprises UV-A, UV-B and/or UV-C light.

As shown in Figure 1, the flexible carrier 11 is provided with an outer surface I la and an inner surface 1 lb. The plurality of light emitting sources 12 are mounted to the inner surface 1 lb of the flexible carrier 11. With this configuration, any light generated by the light emitting sources 12 is emitted towards the interior of the duct or tube 1 in which the disinfection device 10 is installed.

Accordingly, any bacteria and viruses present within the duct or tube will be neutralized by the energy of the UV light and its germicidal effect.

Alternatively, the plurality of light emitting sources 12 can be mounted to the outer surface 1 la of the flexible carrier 11. With this configuration, any light generated by the light emitting sources 12 is emitted to the exterior of the duct or tube 1, hence away from the longitudinal axis lOz of the disinfection device 10. In yet a further example having an additional disinfection or purification performance, the plurality of light emitting diodes 12 may be configured to emit light in a direction parallel of the longitudinal axis lOz of the spatial configuration of the flexible carrier 11 of the disinfection device 10.

In order to facilitate the mounting or installation of the disinfection device 10 in a duct or tube 1, it is desired that the spatial shaped flexible carrier is flexible and expandable and that the outer dimensions (diameter) thereof can be adapted and adjusted in a simple manner.

Accordingly, in this example, the flexible carrier 11 is composed of a plurality of n strip-like carrier segments, denoted with 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; ... ; l l-(n-l); 11-n. The flexible carrier may therefore alternatively be phrased as flexible carrier assembly, or carrier assembly. The number n of the strip-like carrier segments can be arbitrarily chosen. Nonlimiting examples of the carrier may comprise 11 5, 10, 25 or even 50 strip-like carrier segments depending on the intended application of the disinfecting device 10 and the length of the duct or tube 1, whose interior needs to be disinfected or purified using UV light radiation.

Each strip-like carrier segment 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l); 11-n has a spiral form of (approximately only) one winding and they are mounted parallel or adjacent to each other along the longitudinal dimension (seen along the longitudinal axis lOz) of the spatial configuration of the flexible carrier assembly 11. The multiple spirally formed strip-like carrier segments 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l); 11-n are mounted parallel to each other in order to reduce the amount of torsion or shrink when minimizing its outer dimension prior to the insertion in the duct or tube 1. Such embodiment improves and simplifies the adjustment of the outer configuration dimension of the spatially shaped segmented carrier assembly 11 and accordingly facilitates the mounting and fitting of the disinfection device 10 inside a duct of a tube 1.

As depicted in more detail in Figures 2 and 3, each spirally formed strip-like carrier segment 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l); 11-n has a spiral length of approximately one winding or loop. The strip-like winding segments 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; ... ; l l-(n-l); 11-n have each a first carrier segment end 11 -la; 11 -2a; 11 -3 a; ... ; l l-(n-l)a; 11 -na and a second carrier segment end 11-lb; l l-2b; l l-3b; ... ; l l-(n-l)b; 11-nb. Because of the one winding or loop arrangement of each spirally formed strip-like carrier segment the first carrier segment end 11-la; l l-2a; l l-3a; ... ; l l-(n-l)a; 11-na and second carrier segment end 11-lb; 1 l-2b; 11 -3b; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l)b; 11-nb are located closely next to other. An example exhibiting a more compact configuration seen along the longitudinal axis lOz can be realized, when the strip-like carrier segments 11-n each abut a neighboring strip-like carrier segment 11-n seen in a plane formed by the loop. Herewith a more compact, hence completely closed light emission surface is obtained, guaranteeing an effective containment of light being emitted and prevents any light from leaving or leaking from the interior of the spatial configuration of the flexible carrier assembly 11.

Alternatively, the strip-like carrier segments 11-n are spaced apart at a predetermined distance Y from each other seen along the longitudinal axis lOz as shown in the Figure 3. Such example of a disinfection device according to the disclosure can exhibit a significant longitudinal length and is accordingly more suited to be mounted in a duct 1 of a similar significant length.

By structuring the strip-like carrier segments 11-n of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments from a transparent material, a flexible carrier assembly 11 is obtained which is light transparent and does not shield off any light being emitted, thus achieving an effective disinfection or purification performance.

Said strip-like carrier segments may alternatively be a light guide for coupling in the light emitted by the LEDs and coupling subsequently said light out, as the general working of a light guide is apparent in the art. Hence, at least one (preferably all) strip-like carrier segment 11-n of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments is structured as light guide. In this example, one preferably all of the plurality of light emitting diodes 12 is structured to couple light into the light guide / strip-like carrier segment 11-n.

To achieve an even distribution of light for disinfecting purposes, the plurality of light emitting diodes 12 may be mounted at equidistant distances from each other on one of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l); 11-n. For example, the number of light emitting diodes 12 mounted on one strip-like carrier segment is at least four.

Reference numerals 13a and 13b form components of so-called connecting means 13, which each interconnect the respective first carrier segment ends 11-1 a; 1 l-2a; 11- 3a; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l)a; 11-na and the respective second carrier segment ends 11 - lb; 1 l-2b; 11 -3b; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l)b; 11-nb with each other. Herewith the consistency or coherence of the segmented carrier assembly 11 is maintained and improved. This configuration allows for the installment of disinfection devices 10 having a segmented carrier assembly 11 with a significant long length dimension inside a duct of tube 1. In addition, the connecting means 13 allow for a simplified adjustment of the outer dimension (e.g. the diameter) of the spatial segmented carrier assembly 11, which also improves the mounting of the device 10 in a duct or tube 1.

The connecting means 13 are structured as first and second connector rods (or connectors) 13a and 13b respectively, which both extend along the longitudinal dimension of the disinfecting device 10. Their intermediate distance seen parallel to the longitudinal axis lOz is denoted with X in Figures 1 and 2. The first connecting rod (or connector) 13a interconnects the respective first carrier segment ends 11-1 a; 1 l-2a; 11-3 a; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l)a; 11- na and the first connector rod (or connector) 13a interconnects the second carrier segment ends 11-lb; 1 l-2b; 1 l-3b; 1 l-(n-l)b; 11-nb with each other. This further simplifies the adjustment of the outer dimension (e.g. diameter) of the spatial segmented carrier assembly 11, for example by manual operation by a user.

This functionality is depicted in more detail in Figures 4a and 4b. In the Figures 4a and 4b the duct 1 has an inner dimension (e.g. diameter) which is denoted with D. The intermediate distance seen parallel to the longitudinal axis lOz between the connector rods (or connectors) 13a-13b is denoted with XI in Figure 4a and with X2 in Figure 4b. The outer dimension (e.g. outer diameter) of the flexible carrier assembly 11 (and of the disinfection device 10) is denoted with W1 in Figure 4a and with W2 in Figure 4b.

By manually displacing, in Figure 4a, the first and second connector rods 13a and 13b towards each other (depicted by means of the bold arrows pointing towards each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis lOz), their intermediate distance X is decreased to a distance XI. Likewise, the outer dimension or the outer diameters of each spirally formed strip-like carrier segment 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l); 11-n are reduced simultaneously to Wl. Accordingly, the overall spatial segmented carrier assembly 11, now with a reduced overall outer dimension (diameter) Wl, can be introduced more easily in a duct or tube 1 having a larger inner dimension or diameter D. Accordingly, the amount of torsion or shrink to minimize the outer dimension of the flexible carrier assembly 11 to dimension W 1 prior to the insertion in the duct or tube 1 is significantly reduced.

Thus, the connecting means 13 can adjust an outer dimension of the loop of the strip-like carrier segments (and hence that of the flexible carrier assembly 11) between a first configuration dimension as shown in Figure 4a, wherein the outer dimension of the loop (the flexible carrier assembly 11) is smaller than an inner dimension of the duct (Wl < D, see Figure 4a) and a second configuration dimension shown in Figure 4b, wherein the outer dimension of the loop (the flexible carrier assembly 11) abuts the inner dimension of the duct (W2 <= D). Herewith it is simple and easy to mount the disinfection device 10 in a duct 1 of a significant long length.

Hence, the connecting means 13 control, when in operation moved (i.e. distance XI between the two connector rods 13a, 13b becomes for example smaller), an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; ... ; 1 l-(n-l) to a first configuration dimension Wl, the first configuration dimension being smaller than or equal to an inner dimension D of the duct.

As outlined above, the outer dimension W of the loop of the strip-like carrier segments 11-n is controlled by moving the first connector rod 13a and the second connector rod 13b of the connecting means 13 to (as in Figure 4a) and from (as in Figure 4b) each other. This allows a simple mounting of the disinfection device for example by manual operation by a user.

Hence, for example, the connecting means 13 are configured to control, when in operation moved (i.e. the first and second connector rods are brought further or closer to each other), an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l) from a first configuration dimension to a second configuration dimension, wherein the first configuration dimension being smaller than an inner dimension of the duct, wherein the second configuration dimension being equal to an inner dimension D of the duct, wherein the outer dimension of the loop abuts the inner dimension of the duct 1 when set to the second configuration dimension.

Due to the fact that the spatial segmented flexible carrier assembly 11 is made of a flexible material with a spring back characteristic, each spirally formed strip-like carrier segment 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; . . . ; 1 l-(n-l); 11-n will return from its in its expanded, increased outer dimension or diameter configuration, depicted with W2 in Figure 4b. This spring back feature will provide an optimal abutment or compression of the outer surface 1 la of the striplike carrier segments 11-n of the flexible carrier assembly 11 against the inner surface la of the duct or tube 1, which facilitates good thermal contact for draining any excessive heat generated by the light emitting sources 12.

The above clarification of the adjustment of the outer dimension (Wl, W2) of the flexible carrier assembly 11 of the disinfection device according to the disclosure also outlines the principle of the installing method for installing a disinfection device 10 in a duct 1 with an inner dimension D. The installing steps according to the disclosure are: providing the flexible carrier assembly 11 arranged in a spatial configuration and consisting of a plurality of strip-like carrier segments 11-n, with each strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments 11-n being arranged in a loop, wherein the respective loops extend next to each other along the longitudinal axis lOz; moving the connecting means 13 to control the outer dimension of the loop of each strip-like carrier segment to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension W1 being smaller than an inner dimension D of the duct 1. Alternatively, this step may be formulated as setting the outer dimension of the loop of the strip-like carrier segments 11-n of the flexible carrier assembly 11 to a first configuration dimension W1 (Figure 4a). positioning the spatially configured flexible carrier in its first configuration dimension W1 in the duct 1; as shown in Figure 4a; moving the connecting means 13 to control the outer dimension of the loop of each the strip-like carrier segment to a second configuration dimension W2, the second configuration dimension W2 being (substantially) equal to the inner dimension of the duct, such that the spatially configured flexible carrier with its second configuration dimension abuts the inner dimension of the duct 1. Alternatively, this step may be formulated as setting the outer dimension of the loop of the strip-like carrier segments to a second configuration dimension W2, such that the spatially configured flexible carrier assembly 11 with its second configuration dimension W2 conforms to the inner dimension D and abuts to the inner surface la of the duct 1, see Figure 4b.

The final step of setting the outer dimension of the loop of the strip-like carrier segments to a second configuration dimension W2 can be performed by manually (by means of a user) displacing the first and second connecting rods 13a and 13b of the connecting means 13 from each other, or due the spring back characteristic of the flexible material of the spatial segmented flexible carrier assembly 11.

In addition, the connecting means/rods/connectors 13; 13a-13b are structured to provide electric power to the plurality of light emitting sources 12. For example, one or both connecting rods 13 a- 13b can be hollow for guiding electric wiring towards the light emitting diodes 12. Also the connecting rods 13a-13b can be provided with suitable driver electronics for driving the light emitting diodes 12. Herewith a compact construction is obtained, which does not obstruct the interior area of the duct or tube 1 in which the disinfection device 10 is positioned, thus achieving a maximum disinfection or purification performance. In particular, when implemented in a duct of an air treatment system or in a flexible tube of a respirator device, the design as shown in Figures 1-3 and 4a-4b exhibits a very low flow obstruction allowing a maximum air flow, whilst guaranteeing an optimal disinfection performance. The configuration of the spatial segmented flexible carrier 11 exhibits a significant large diameter adjustment or shrinkage with one simple actuation of the connecting means 13; 13a-13b.

Next to the advanced single hand manual diameter adjustment, the disinfecting device 10 can be mounted from one side in a duct or tube 1. The cleaning performance of the disinfecting device 10 depends on the air flow speed through the duct 1 and the amount of UV light energy provided by the light emitting sources 12. By adding additional spirally formed strip-like carrier segments 11-n in parallel the effective UV disinfection length is increased as the air to be disinfected and flowing through the duct 1 will be subjected to UV light radiation over a longer distance.

In a further example, the inner surface 1 lb of the spirally formed strip-like carrier segments 11-1; 11-2; 11-3; ... ; l l-(n-l); 11-n can be made of a light reflective material, thus improving an optical reflection of UV light being emitted within the interior the duct or tube 1 and accordingly the disinfecting performance of the device 10.

In alternative embodiments, not depicted, the disinfection device may further comprises a sensor element; wherein at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments comprises the sensor element; wherein the sensor element is configured to control at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A disinfection device arranged for mounting in a duct, wherein the disinfection device comprises:

- a flexible carrier arranged in a spatial configuration having a longitudinal axis;

- a plurality of light emitting diodes, LEDs, configured to emit UV light; wherein the flexible carrier comprises a plurality of strip-like carrier segments, wherein each strip-like carrier segment is arranged in a loop, wherein the respective loops extend next to each other along the longitudinal axis; wherein each strip-like carrier segment comprises at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes; wherein each strip-like carrier segment comprises a first carrier segment end and a second carrier segment end; wherein the disinfection device further comprises:

- a connecting means for mechanically interconnecting the respective first carrier segment ends with each other and mechanically interconnecting the respective second carrier segment ends with each other; wherein the connecting means are configured to control, when in operation moved, an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension being smaller than or equal to an inner dimension of the duct.

2. The disinfection device according to claim 1, wherein the connecting means comprises a first connector rod and a second connector rod extending along the longitudinal axis, the first connector rod mechanically interconnecting the first carrier segment ends with each other and the second connector rod mechanically interconnecting the second carrier segment ends with each other.

3. The disinfection device according to claim 2, wherein the connecting means are configured to control the outer dimension of said respective loop to the first configuration dimension by moving the first connector rod towards the second connector rod.

4. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-3, wherein the connecting means are configured to convey electric power to the plurality of light emitting diodes.

5. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 2-4, wherein the first connector rod comprises a first magnet, wherein the second connector rod comprises a second magnet, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet detachably connect the first connector rod to the second connector rod when the first connector rod abuts the second connector rod.

6. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-5, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit light in a direction towards the interior of the spatial configuration.

7. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-6, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit light in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the spatial configuration.

8. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-7, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit light in a direction parallel of the longitudinal axis.

9. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-8, wherein at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments is made from a transparent material.

10. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-9, wherein at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments is a light guide; 16 wherein at least one light emitting diode of the plurality of light emitting diodes is configured to couple light into said light guide.

11. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the claims 1-10, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit at least one of UV-C light, UV-B light, UV-A light, UV light with a peak wavelength at 254 nm, UV light with a peak wavelength at 222 nm.

12. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting means are configured to control, when in operation moved, an outer dimension of a respective loop of a strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments from a first configuration dimension to a second configuration dimension, wherein the first configuration dimension being smaller than an inner dimension of the duct, wherein the second configuration dimension being equal to an inner dimension of the duct, wherein the outer dimension of the loop abuts the inner dimension of the duct when set to the second configuration dimension.

13. The disinfection device according to any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the disinfection device further comprises a sensor element; wherein at least one strip-like carrier segment of the plurality of strip-like carrier segments comprises the sensor element; wherein the sensor element is configured to control at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes.

14. A disinfection arrangement comprising the disinfection device as defined in one or more of the preceding claims 1-13 and a device comprising a duct, wherein the disinfection device is mounted in the duct of said device.

15. A method of mounting a disinfection device as defined in one or more of the preceding claims 1-13 in a duct, the duct having an inner dimension, the method comprising the steps of: providing the flexible carrier arranged in a spatial configuration having a longitudinal axis, wherein each strip-like carrier segment is arranged in a loop, wherein the respective loops extend next to each other along the longitudinal axis; 17 moving the connecting means to control the outer dimension of the loop of each strip-like carrier segment to a first configuration dimension, the first configuration dimension being smaller than an inner dimension of the duct; positioning the spatially configured flexible carrier in its first configuration dimension in the duct; moving the connecting means to control the outer dimension of the loop of each the strip-like carrier segment to a second configuration dimension, the second configuration dimension being equal to the inner dimension of the duct, such that the spatially configured flexible carrier with its second configuration dimension abuts the inner dimension of the duct.