Patent Application
20170296686
The present invention relates generally to germicidal devices, systems, and methods, including a system for centralized control, monitoring, storage, and/or analysis of a plurality of germicidal devices connected to a network.
Healthcare workers wash their hands often in an attempt to prevent transmission of hospital acquired infections. However, a large number of hospital patients still become infected by nosocomial (healthcare acquired) infections. Computers with bacteria ridden surfaces already present in hospital rooms or brought into a room by a healthcare worker to perform an exam or procedure may be to blame. The hands of healthcare workers may become infected when they touch the computer surface. The infection can then be passed on to patients and other surfaces in the room.
In efforts to solve this health hazard, current practices include using disinfectant wipes to wipe down the surfaces. However, to have any antimicrobial affect, most wipes require a surface to remain wet with disinfecting solution for at least 30 seconds. This manual disinfection method is time and labor intensive, and as such is unlikely to be done as frequently as required to limit transmission. Antibacterial treatment of surfaces may not be ideal either as it takes several hours to kill bacteria deposited on them, which may prohibit any real impact on the pathogen transfer mechanism. Further, as chemical disinfectants, like antibiotics, have been overused, super resistant strains of bugs are being created that require new solutions. Additional methods of disinfection are thus desirable.
Described herein are solutions to keep computer and other equipment surfaces at a level of disinfection sufficient to reduce or eliminate bacteria that is transferred to the hands of healthcare workers when they touch the surfaces. For example, computer and other surfaces may be disinfected periodically and/or after use. Disclosed herein is a germicidal system and method for automatically disinfecting the contact surfaces using a germicidal light source, such as a low intensity ultraviolet (UV) light, that is intelligently controlled. The germicidal systems described herein may comprise one or more germicidal devices having sensors to monitor for human activity. In some variations, the germicidal devices may have a single type of sensor to monitor for human activity. In other variations, the germicidal devices may have two or more types of sensors to monitor for human activity. In these instances, the germicidal devices may comprise one or more proximity sensors (e.g., a passive infrared sensor) as well as one or more interaction sensors using software monitoring of existing computer input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse, touchpad, touchscreen) for activity. In some instances, the sensors may be integrated into a control system. The control system may be configured to turn the germicidal light source on in response to contact with the contact surface, and may be configured to turn the light off in response to presence of a user. In some variations, the control system may further be configured to turn the germicidal light source on periodically, not in response to contact with the contact surface. Such a control system may reduce risks associated with human exposure to germicidal light sources, while achieving increased effectiveness.
One or more of the germicidal devices described herein may be integrated into a germicidal system and may be configured to exchange information with one or more remote devices and/or servers over a network. The network may allow for control of and/or data collection from the one or more germicidal devices. For example, the germicidal system may include a hosted, web-based management system connected to each of the one or more germicidal devices on the network within a facility (e.g., a hospital or hospital system). The management system may be configured to collect data from one or more germicidal devices on the network. For example, the administrator interface may be used to monitor and report on the disinfection statistics of one or more germicidal devices, as well as to track other factors, such as when portions of the devices (e.g., bulbs) may need to be replaced. The administrator interface may additionally or alternatively be configured to control one or more germicidal devices on the network. For example, the administrator interface may be used to modify one or more operational parameters of one or more germicidal devices.
It should be appreciated that the germicidal systems, devices, and methods described herein may be applied not only in healthcare facilities, but anywhere where computers or other interactive devices or surfaces are used in a shared environment, such as but not limited to restaurants, airports, schools, universities, self-checkout stations in grocery stores, and the like.
Described herein are systems for disinfecting one or more surfaces. In some variations, the systems may comprise a germicidal device, a server, and an administrator device. The germicidal device may comprise a germicidal light source and a proximity sensor. The server may be communicatively coupled to the germicidal device via a network, wherein the server is configured to provide instructions to the germicidal device and to receive input from the germicidal device via the network. The administrator device may be communicatively coupled to the server, wherein the administrator device comprises an administrator interface, and wherein the administrator device is configured to receive input via the administrator interface and to provide instructions to the server via the network. In some of these variations, the server may be indirectly communicatively coupled to the germicidal device via a human interface device, and the one or more surfaces to be disinfected may be part of or a peripheral device of the human interface device. In some of these variations, the system may further comprise a second germicidal device comprising a germicidal light source and a proximity sensor, and the server may be communicatively coupled to the second germicidal device via the network. In some of these variations, the germicidal device may be wirelessly connected to the network.
Also described herein are methods for controlling a germicidal system. The germicidal system may comprise at least one germicidal device communicatively coupled to an administrator device via a network. In some variations, the method may comprise receiving, at an administrator device, an administrator input via an administrator interface, and in response to the administrator input, adjusting one or more operational parameters of the at least one germicidal device. In some of these variations, the germicidal system may comprise a plurality of germicidal devices communicatively coupled to the administrator device via a network. In some of these variations, the one or more operational parameters may comprise at least one of a disinfecting cycle duration, delay period, periodic cycle duration, and periodic interval. In some of these variations, at least one of the disinfecting cycle duration and the periodic cycle duration may be increased. In some of these variations, the increase may be in response to a Clostridium difficile outbreak. In some variations, the administrator input may comprise a selection of at least one of the plurality of germicidal devices. In some variations, the administrator input may comprise a selection of at least two of the plurality of germicidal devices. In some variations, the administrator input may comprise a selection of one or more operational parameters of at least one of the plurality of germicidal devices. In some variations, the administrator input may comprise a selection of one or more operational parameters of at least two of the plurality of germicidal devices. In some variations, adjusting one or more operational parameters of the at least one germicidal device comprises transmitting instructions to the at least one germicidal device.
Also described herein are methods for disinfecting a surface using a germicidal device. The germicidal device may comprise a germicidal light source and a proximity sensor, and the germicidal device may be connected to a human interface device. In some variations, the method may comprise, in response to detecting an interaction with the human interface device, beginning a disinfection cycle, wherein the disinfection cycle comprises irradiating the surface using the germicidal light source for a disinfection cycle duration, and beginning a periodic disinfection cycle, wherein the periodic disinfection cycle comprises irradiating the surface using the germicidal light source for a periodic cycle duration. In some of these variations, the periodic cycle duration may be longer than the disinfection cycle duration. In some of these variations, the periodic cycle duration may be between 0.5 and 4 times the disinfection cycle duration. In some variations, the method may further comprise ending at least one of the disinfection cycle and the periodic disinfection cycle in response to detection of interaction with the human interface device, and pausing at least one of the disinfection cycle and the periodic disinfection cycle in response to a detection event by the proximity sensor.
Also described herein are methods for generating a report related to a germicidal system. The germicidal system may comprise at least one germicidal device communicatively coupled to a server via a network, and an administrator device communicatively coupled to the server and configured to receive administrator input. In some variations, the method may comprise, generating a report in response to receiving administrator input, wherein the report contains information related to the at least one germicidal device. In some of these variations, the information may comprise a number of completed disinfection cycles by the at least one germicidal device within a time period. In some of these variations, the system may comprise a plurality of germicidal devices communicatively coupled to the server via the network. In some of these variations, the information may comprise a number of completed disinfection cycles by at least two of the plurality of germicidal devices within a time period. In some of these variations, the report contains information related to at least two of the plurality of germicidal devices. In some of these variations, the administrator input may comprise a selection of at least two of the plurality of germicidal devices. In some variations, the administrator input comprises one or more report parameters.
Also described here are germicidal systems for use in disinfecting a human interface device. Generally, the systems may comprise at least one human interface device, at least one ultraviolet light source in proximity to the at least one human interface device for disinfecting a contact surface of the human interface device, and a sensing system configured to detect when the contact surface should be disinfected, and configured to detect when a person is near or in an irradiation area of light produced by the at least one ultraviolet light source. In some variations, the sensing system may comprise a proximity sensor. In some variations, the sensing system may comprise an interaction sensor that detects interaction with one or more inputs of the human interface device. In of variations, the sensing system may comprise a proximity sensor and an interaction sensor that detects interaction with one or more inputs of the human interface device. In some of these variations, the one or more inputs may comprise at least one of a keyboard, mouse, and touchscreen.
Also described here are germicidal systems for use in disinfecting a contact surface. Generally, the germicidal systems may comprise at least one human interface device, at least one a germicidal device in proximity to the at least one human interface device, a server communicatively coupled to the at least one germicidal device via a network, and a computer in communication with the server for controlling operational parameters of the germicidal device. In some variations, the operational parameters may comprise a duration of a disinfection cycle.
Also described here are germicidal systems for use in disinfecting a contact surface where the germicidal systems may generally comprise at least one germicidal device. The germicidal device may comprise a germicidal light source and a controller system configured to turn the germicidal light source on and off. The germicidal device may comprise at least one proximity sensor. In some variations the proximity sensor may be a passive infrared sensor. In some variations the proximity sensor may be a heat sensor. In some variations, the germicidal device may comprise both a passive infrared sensor and a heat sensor. In some variations, the germicidal device may be configured to be wireless connected to a network. In other variations, the germicidal device may be configured to be connected to a network via a human interface device. In some of these variations, the controller system may receive input regarding interaction with the human interface device, or regarding interaction with a peripheral device of the human interface device. The germicidal light source may in some variations be a cold cathode fluorescent lamp. In some variations, the germicidal device may be configured such that when the germicidal light source is on, at 10 cm directly below the germicidal light source, the intensity at a central wavelength may be less than 500 μW/cm2. In some variations, the germicidal device may be configured such that when the germicidal light source is on, at 10 cm directly below the germicidal light source, the intensity at a central wavelength may be less than 300 μW/cm2. In some variations, the germicidal device may be configured such that when the germicidal light source is on, at 10 cm directly below the germicidal light source, the intensity at a central wavelength may be less than 100 μW/cm2. In some variations, the germicidal device may be configured such that when the germicidal light source is on, at 10 cm directly below the germicidal light source, the intensity at a central wavelength may be less than 50 μW/cm2. In some variations, the germicidal device may comprise a lens, wherein the lens comprises a material that partially attenuates ultraviolet light. In some of these variations, the lens may be configured to attenuate ultraviolet light by 50%. In some of these variations, the lens may have a thickness between 2 mm and 4 mm. In some of these variations, the lens may comprise a polymer. In some of these variations, the lens may comprise cyclic olefin copolymer. In some of these variations, the lens may be removable and replaceable.
Also described here are germicidal devices. Generally, the germicidal devices may comprise a light assembly and a mounting assembly. In some variations, the mounting assembly may comprise a receptacle. The receptacle may be configured to receive an object comprising a contact surface to be disinfected. In some of these variations, the receptacle may be configured to receive a mouse. The mounting assembly may be configured such that when the object is placed within the receptacle, a germicidal light source of the light assembly is configured to illuminate the contact surface of the object. In some variations, the receptacle may comprise a surface configured to support the object. In some of these variations, the receptacle may comprise one or more sides to help secure the object in place within the receptacle. In some variations, the mounting assembly may comprise an extension attached at a first end to the light assembly. In some variations, the receptacle may comprise a mounting lip, which may be configured to be mounted to a mounting surface. In other variations, the mounting assembly may comprise a receptacle housing rotatably coupled to a panel. The panel may be configured to attach to a human interface device. In some variations, panel may be configured to attach to the rear surface of a laptop LCD screen. The mounting assembly may comprise a first configuration in which the receptacle housing is adjacent to the panel and a second configuration in which the receptacle housing is rotated away from the panel.
The germicidal devices, systems, and methods described herein may be used to reduce the risk of bacteria or virus transmission on contact surfaces. In some instances the contact surfaces may be all or a portion of an electronic human interface device or its peripheral devices, such as but not limited to notebook computers, desktop computers, touchscreen computers or portable computing devices, tablet computers, kiosks, point-of-sale screens, keyboards, mice, cash registers, automated teller machines, credit card payment devices (e.g., at grocery store check-out aisles), portions of these devices, or the like. In other instances, the contact surfaces may be all or a portion of a non-interactive object, such as but not limited to a countertop, a sink, a doorknob, or the like.
The germicidal devices described herein may be capable of automatically cleaning the contact surfaces using irradiation, such as UV irradiation. Use of a germicidal device as described herein may be particularly desirable in situations wherein contact surfaces are typically touched by more than one person, such as but not limited to medical environments, educational institutions, libraries, government entities, business, and the like, where failure to disinfect these surfaces may increase the likelihood of transmission of contagions between staff members, patients, customers, and/or other persons. The systems may also be desirable in situations in which it may be impractical to use sprays or wipes because physically touching the surfaces can easily press the input mechanisms (e.g., keys or mouse buttons) and produce erroneous data entries.
The germicidal devices described herein may comprise one or more germicidal light sources. Generally, the germicidal light source may be configured to project light onto a contact surface to irradiate and disinfect the contact surface. The germicidal system may be configured to irradiate the contact surface between users touching the contact surface (e.g., using or accessing a human interface device) to at least partially disinfect the target area. The germicidal device may comprise a controller system, which may be configured to drive the germicidal light source according to the disinfection methods described herein.
One or more germicidal devices described herein may be connected via a network into a germicidal system. The germicidal systems described herein may comprise software configured to direct one or more processors of the germicidal system to perform a wide variety of functions. For example, software may contribute to the control of automatic operations of the germicidal system, and software may enable a user to manually adjust operational parameters of the germicidal system via a user interface. Software may be configured to control the flow or transmission of data between devices of the germicidal system, and it may enable the germicidal system to collect, store, and/or analyze the transmitted data. A germicidal system may also comprise one or more germicidal devices and/or human interface devices that are configured to exchange information with one or more remote devices and/or servers over a network. This may allow for centralized control of all or a portion of the germicidal and/or human interface devices that are connected to the network. The germicidal system may allow for centralized monitoring, storage, and/or analysis of data obtained from all or a portion of the germicidal and/or human interface devices that are connected to the network.
An exemplary germicidal device 100 is shown in
Housing
As shown in
While not shown in the variation of
Germicidal Light Source
The germicidal light source 106 may be located within a housing 104, and may be a light source configured for germicidal irradiation. In some variations, the germicidal light source 106 may emit light in the UVC wavelength band. The germicidal light source may emit light in a spectrum between about 100 nm and about 280 nm. For example, the germicidal light source may be configured to have a wavelength band centered between about 240 nm and about 260 nm, between about 250 nm and about 260 nm, or at about 254 nm. However, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the germicidal light source 106 may be configured to emit light at other suitable wavelengths.
The germicidal light source 106 may be any suitable type of light source, and may have any suitable specifications. In one variation, the germicidal light source is a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL). The germicidal light source 106 may have any suitable wattage. For example, the germicidal light source 106 may have a wattage between about 0.1 W and about 5 W, or between about 0.5 W and about 1.5 W. As other examples, the germicidal light source 106 may have a wattage greater than about 5 W, may have a wattage of about 0.5 W, may have a wattage of about 1 W, may have a wattage of about 1.5 W, may have a wattage of about 2 W, may have a wattage of about 3 W, may have a wattage of about 4 W, may have a wattage of about 5 W, or may have other suitable wattages. The germicidal light source 106 may have any suitable striking voltage. For example, the striking voltage may be between about 50 Vrms and about 1000 Vrms, between about 200 Vrms and about 800 Vrms, between about 500 Vrms and about 700 Vrms, about 500 Vrms, about 550 Vrms, about 600 Vrms, about 650 Vrms, about 700 Vrms, about 750 Vrms, or about 800 Vrms. The germicidal light source 106 may have any suitable operating voltage. For example, the operating voltage may be between about 50 Vrms and about 500 Vms, between about 100 Vrms and about 300 Vrms, about 100 Vrms, about 150 Vrms, about 200 Vrms, about 250 rms, or about 300 Vrms. The germicidal light source 106 may have any suitable operating current. For example, the operating current may be about 5±3 mArms. In some of variations, the operating current may be about 5±1 mArms. In one particular variation, the germicidal light source 106 may comprise a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) having a striking voltage of about 650 Vrms, an operating voltage of about 200 Vrms, an operating current of about 5±1 mArms, and a wattage of about 1 W.
In some variations, the light assembly may be configured such that the germicidal light source can be exchanged. For example, a first germicidal light source may be removed from the housing, and a second germicidal light source having a lesser or greater luminance may be inserted. This may be desirable, for example, to reconfigure a germicidal light source for use with a second contact surface that is at a different distance from the germicidal light source than a first contact surface, or to reconfigure a germicidal light source for use with different operational parameters (e.g., shorter or longer disinfection cycles). The germicidal light source may additionally or alternatively be configured such that the luminance of the germicidal light source may be electronically adjustable.
Generally, it may be desirable that the germicidal light source 106 emit a minimum amount of light to adequately sterilize a desired surface over one or more disinfection cycles and/or periodic disinfection cycles (described in more detail herein). Using a germicidal light source having an intensity at or near the minimum effective intensity at the contact surface may minimize risk associated with use of the system. Risks that may be minimized include human exposure during operation, such as due to reflection off of a surface or due to malfunctioning of the sensing and disabling features described herein. Lights having low luminance may be less likely to reflect off a surface (e.g., a surface of a human interface device being disinfected) than lights having higher luminance.
In some variations, it may be desirable that the intensity of the germicidal light source at the contact surface's farthest point from the germicidal light source be between about 1μW/cm2 and about 3000 μW/cm2, between about 1μW/cm2 and about 200 μW/cm2, between about 100 μW/cm2 and about 1000 μW/cm2, between about 1 μW/cm2 and about 100 μW/cm2, between about 10 μW/cm2 and about 15 μW/cm2, between about 30 μW/cm2 and about 50 μW/cm2, between about 10 μW/cm2 and about 150 μW/cm2, less than about 3000 μW/cm2, less than about 2000 μW/cm2, less than about 1000 μW/cm2, less than about 500 μW/cm2, less than about 400 μW/cm2, less than about 300 μW/cm2, less than about 200 μW/cm2, less than about 100 μW/cm2, less than about 80 μW/cm2, less than about 60 μW/cm2, less than about 40 μW/cm2, or less than about 20 μW/cm2.
In one example, the germicidal light source may have a luminance such that the intensity of light having a central wavelength (e.g., about 254 nm) at given distances are of the magnitudes listed in Table 1 below:
In some variations, the germicidal light source may have an intensity (e.g., an intensity at a central wavelength, such as a central wavelength as described herein) at 10 inches from the center of the germicidal light source of less than about 500 μW/cm2, less than about 400 μW/cm2, less than about 300 μW/cm2, less than about 200 μW/cm2, less than about 100 μW/cm2, less than about 80 μW/cm2, less than about 60 μW/cm2, less than about 40 μW/cm2, or less than about 20 μW/cm2. In some variations, the germicidal light source may have an intensity (e.g., an intensity at a central wavelength, such as a central wavelength as described herein) at 5 inches from the center of the germicidal light source of less than about 500 μW/cm2, less than about 400 μW/cm2, less than about 300 μW/cm2, less than about 200 μW/cm2, less than about 100 μW/cm2, less than about 80 μW/cm2, less than about 60 μW/cm2, less than about 40 μW/cm2, or less than about 20 μW/cm2. In some variations, the germicidal light source may have an intensity (e.g., an intensity at a central wavelength, such as a central wavelength as described herein) at 15 inches from the center of the germicidal light source of less than about 500 μW/cm2, less than about 400 μW/cm2, less than about 300 μW/cm2, less than about 200 μW/cm2, less than about 100 μW/cm2, less than about 80 μW/cm2, less than about 60 μW/cm2, less than about 40 μW/cm2, or less than about 20 μW/cm2.
The desired luminosity of the germicidal light source in a particular variation of the germicidal devices described herein may depend on a number of factors, including but not limited to the distance between the germicidal light source and the contact surface, the desired disinfecting cycle duration and/or periodic disinfection cycle duration, and environmental factors (e.g., the existence of a particular pathogen). For instance, in situations in which the germicidal light source is located further from the contact surface, the desired intensity may be higher and/or the exposure time may be longer than in situations in which the germicidal light source is located closer to the target area. Similarly, the desired luminance of the germicidal light source may be lower for longer exposure times (e.g., longer disinfection cycle lengths and/or longer periodic cycle lengths), while the desired luminance of the germicidal light source may be higher for shorter exposure times (e.g., shorter disinfection cycle lengths and/or shorter periodic cycle lengths). The exposure time may be increased by increasing the length of individual disinfection cycles or periodic disinfecting cycles, or additionally or alternatively, by having an increased number of cycles (e.g., by decreasing the periodic interval between periodic disinfecting cycles), whose disinfection effects are cumulative, as is described in more detail herein.
The germicidal light source may be turned on and off by a controller system, as is described in more detail herein. Additionally or alternatively, the germicidal device may comprise one or more manual override buttons or switches configured to control the germicidal light source. For example, an override button may be an on button (i.e., a button that turns on the disinfecting light source). As another example, an override button may be an off button (i.e., a button that turns off the germicidal light source). In variations in which the germicidal device is connected to an associated human interface device having software configured to control the germicidal device, there may be one or more override commands configured to control the germicidal light source (e.g., using the user interface of the software, a particular input via a peripheral device (e.g., a key on a keyboard), or the like).
Proximity Sensor
The one or more sensors 108 of the germicidal device 100 may comprise a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be configured to detect when an object (e.g., a person) is near the germicidal light source. That is, the proximity sensor may be configured to provide information regarding whether a user is within an area receiving light from the germicidal light source when the germicidal light source is lit. In some variations, the sensor may monitor an area larger than the area receiving light from the germicidal light source, which may reduce the risk of inadvertent exposure.
In some variations, the proximity sensor may be a motion sensor. For example, the proximity sensor may be an active infrared sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a temperature sensor, an imager, the like, or a combination thereof. In the variation shown in
Distance Sensor
The light assembly may optionally comprise a distance sensor. In variations comprising a distance sensor, the distance sensor may be used to determine a distance between the germicidal light source and the contact surface. The determined distance may then be used to determine an appropriate luminance in order to achieve a desired intensity of light from the germicidal light source at the contact surface, and/or other appropriate operational parameters (e.g., an appropriate disinfection cycle or periodic disinfection cycle duration) in order to achieve a desired germicidal effect. In some of these variations, the luminance of the germicidal light source may be electronically adjustable in response to the distance determination. However, in variations that do not include a distance sensor, settings based on preset values using expected operating conditions or settings from user input may be utilized.
Alignment Light Source
The light assembly may optionally comprise an alignment light source that may be configured to project a visible illumination pattern that may indicate the area illuminated by the germicidal light source. This may help align the germicidal device with the contact surface intended to be disinfected. In some of these variations, the alignment light source may be configured to illuminate an area matching the area illuminated by the germicidal light source. In other variations, the alignment light source may be configured to generate one or more linear illumination markers indicating the area illuminated by the germicidal light source. For example, the alignment light source may comprise a LASER or any other suitable type of light source that may be configured to illuminate a line that is approximately parallel to an edge (e.g., a front edge) of the area illuminated by the germicidal light source. An alignment light source may be placed on an underside of the housing, or may be at least partially enclosed in the housing.
In some variations of the germicidal device comprising an alignment light source, when the germicidal device is initially connected to a power source, the alignment light source may generate an alignment illumination pattern that may identify to the user the anticipated illumination area of the germicidal light source, so that the germicidal light source may be directed towards a desired contact surface. For instance, the alignment light source may be activated for a period of time (e.g., approximately 30 seconds) when the germicidal system is initially powered on. Additionally or alternatively, the alignment light source may be activated each time the germicidal light source is turned on, and/or the alignment light source may be activated via user control (e.g., via software or via a manual switch).
In some variations of the germicidal device comprising both a distance sensor and an alignment light source, the distance sensor and alignment light source may be configured to function together. For example, if the alignment light source is illuminated for an initial period of time after the germicidal device is connected to a power source, after this time period has elapsed, the distance sensor may then be activated to determine a distance between the germicidal light source and the contact surface.
Work Lights
Returning to
Indicator Lights
As shown in
The indicator 120 may be at least partially enclosed in the housing 104 of the light assembly 102, or it may be located fully outside of the housing. When the indicator 120 comprises an indicator light, the indicator light may in some cases be located within the housing 104 behind a translucent portion of the housing, such that it may be seen from the outside of the housing. In some variations, the indicator may be incorporated into a portion of a logo.
The indicator 120 may convey information. For example, the indicator 120 may convey whether the germicidal light source is lit, a status of the contact surface (e.g., contaminated, disinfected), an operating parameter of the system, user input, connectivity status with a network, the like, or a combination thereof. As another example, in some variations the indicator 120 may act as a progress display bar to give visual feedback regarding current status in various timed modes (e.g., by comprising a plurality of LEDs configured to illustrate the passage of a time period, such as the period elapsed in a disinfection cycle). In variations of germicidal devices comprising controls (e.g., buttons), the indicator 120 may indicate user input, such as use of a selector button configured to toggle through available options.
By way of explanation and not limitation, in one variation, an illuminated green LED may indicate that the contact surface is disinfected; an illuminated yellow LED may indicate that the contact surface is contaminated, and an illuminated red LED may indicate that the germicidal light source is lit. In another variation, an illuminated red LED may indicate detection of human interaction (e.g., detected by an interaction sensor as described herein) to indicate that the contact surface has been contacted. An illuminated blue LED may indicate that the germicidal light source is lit. An illuminated green LED may indicate that the contact surface has been disinfected.
Although the features are described above primarily with respect to the variation of germicidal device shown in
Exemplary Components
Turning now to
In some variations, a germicidal device may comprise one or more programming interfaces. For example, a germicidal device may comprise a first programming interface that is accessible only when the housing of the germicidal device is removed and a second programming interface that is accessible via a port on the housing. The first programming interface may be used during manufacturing to program the microcontroller with the basic functions of the germicidal device, and the second programming interface may be used to program the microcontroller with user preferences and/or operating programs that overlay the basic functions. The second programming interface may be restricted such that the core programs of the microcontroller are not re-programmable by an end user, but may permit the user to load or modify programs regarding disinfection cycle duration and the like. Limiting user-accessibility to the first programming interface may help to prevent an end-user from deleting or corrupting the core programs that drive the basic functions of the germicidal device (e.g., the signal levels and timing that drive the indicator light(s), germicidal light, etc.).
Although
Mounting Assembly
The light assemblies described herein may be mounted relative to a contact surface via one or more mounting assemblies. The light assemblies may be attached to any number of suitable human interface devices, such as but not limited to a touchscreen display, a credit card payment device, a grocery store self-checkout aisle interface, a point-of-sale device, a cash register, a keyboard or a mouse, a laptop, or the like. The light assemblies described herein may also be mounted on a stand, which may hold the light assembly near a contact surface to be disinfected.
The germicidal device 100 shown in
The engagement member 126 may include a top edge 128 that may connect with the support members 122, 124. The engagement member 126 may include an upper section 130 that may extend into a tapered body portion 132. The tapered body portion 132 may extend substantially orthogonally from the support members 122, 124. At the second end of the engagement member 126, the tapered body portion 132 may include a lower edge 134 that may be smaller in size than the top edge 128. Although shown with rounded corners, the lower edge 134 may also have square corners depending on the locking mechanism. At one side of the engagement member 126, a notched section 136 may be positioned substantially midway between the top edge 128 and lower edge 134. Although shown as a rounded semicircular notch, the notched section 136 may take the form of other shapes or appearances depending on the locking mechanism.
As seen in
An outer surface of the receptacle housing 138 may include a fastener, such as but not limited to an adhesive tape, hook and loop fastener, or the like, that may enable the receptacle housing 138 to stick, adhere, and/or be mechanically fastened to another surface in order to be held in a fixed position when mounted to a surface, such as an outside housing of a laptop. In this way, the light assembly 102 may be reversibly attachable to another surface. When the light assembly 102 is attached to the receptacle housing 138, it may be removed from the receptacle housing by rotating the latch 144 from the closed position to the open position, which may allow the engagement member 138 of the mount 112 to be removed from the receptacle housing 138.
Laptop Mount
In some instances, it may be desirable that a mounting assembly for use with a laptop be configured to allow the light assembly to flex backwards and facilitate full closure of a laptop computer.
Table Stand
The table stand 500 may have any suitable dimensions. Turning to
Mouse Holder
In some instances, the germicidal device may be used with a mounting assembly configured to receive an object comprising a contact surface, such as a surface of a peripheral device of a human interface device. That is, the mounting assembly may be shaped to form a receptacle within which an object can be placed. The germicidal light source may be fixed relative to the receptacle, such that when the object is placed within the receptacle, the contact surface is at a location that is illuminated by a lit germicidal light source.
An example is shown in
The mounting assembly of
A mounting assembly comprising a receptacle to receive a contact surface may have any suitable configuration in order to removably hold a contact surface at a fixed location relative to the germicidal lights source, and may be configured to have a desired distance between the germicidal light source and the contact surface. For example, the extension 408 of the mounting assembly of
The mounting assembly may optionally be configured to be attached to another object (e.g., a countertop, a cart, or the like). For example, the receptacle 400 may optionally be secured to a surface (e.g., secured to a desktop via screws). As shown, the receptacle 400 may comprise a mounting lip 414 comprising one or more mounting holes (here, two mounting holes) configured to receive screws. In one variation, the mounting lip 414 may be secured to the back of a mounting surface 416 (e.g., a keyboard platform of a desk or cart), such that the surface 404 extends at a downward angle from the back of the mounting surface 416, as shown in
Point-of-Sale Device Mount
In some other variations of mounts configured for use with point-of-sale devices, a mount and/or the housing of the germicidal device 100 may be configured reduce the accessibility of the germicidal device 100 to a user. For example, an additional casing or shell may extend at least partially around the germicidal device 100 to provide additional protection. In variations of germicidal devices comprising controls or switches, the mount and/or housing may be configured to reduce the accessibility of the controls or switches to a user.
It should be appreciated that the germicidal devices described herein may be attached to or near any suitable contact surface, using the mounting assemblies described herein, or using other mounting assemblies. As other examples,
Generally, the disinfection methods described herein may allow for disinfection of a contact surface after contact has occurred between a user and the contact surface. The protocols may allow for cessation of any active disinfection cycle when a human is near or within the illumination area. In some variations disinfection methods may also allow for periodic disinfection of a surface, even when contact has not occurred between a user and the contact surface.
Generally, in order to implement the disinfection protocols described herein, the germicidal systems may comprise a sensing system configured to detect human presence or activity. The sensing system may have two primary functions. First, the sensing system may be configured to determine when a contact surface should be disinfected. For example, the sensing system may be configured to determine when a user has interacted with a human interface device (e.g., when a human has pressed keys on a keyboard of a computer, when a human has moved a computer mouse or pressed one of its buttons, when a human has touched a touchscreen, or the like). Second, the sensing system may determine when a person is near or in the irradiation area of the germicidal light source, in order to prevent human exposure to irradiation.
The sensing system may comprise one or more sensors. As described above, the germicidal devices described herein may comprise one or more proximity sensors. Additionally or alternatively, the germicidal systems described herein may comprise one or more sensors configured to detect interaction with a human interface device. A human interface device may be any electronic device that has a wired or wireless connection with a germicidal device, is configured to interact or interface with the germicidal device (e.g., by having germicidal software installed on the human interface device), and that comprises a contact surface or has a peripheral device with a contact surface that is to be disinfected by the germicidal device. The interaction sensor(s) may be integrated into the human interface device (e.g., via software) in order to receive information from existing inputs. Input may include inputs from peripheral devices, such as moving a mouse or pressing a key on a keyboard, or from touching a touchpad or touchscreen, or the like. In variations in which the keyboard and/or mouse are peripheral devices of a human interface device, the detection of interaction may be communicated to the processor utilizing a USB connection, other suitable wired or wireless communication connection, or a combination thereof. In some instances, the detection of activity through an interaction sensor may indicate that the contact surface may have become dirty or infected, and may prompt the start of a disinfection period, as described in detail herein. As such, software monitoring for interaction lends to a number of advantages, including limiting unnecessary germicidal light use and performing the task of disinfection shortly after the time when pathogens may be introduced onto the contact surface. Additionally or alternatively, the detection of activity through an interaction sensor may indicate the presence of a user, and thus may indicate that the germicidal light source should be turned off in order to avoid exposure.
It should be appreciated that the sensing systems described herein may comprise more than one sensor of any type. For example, a system may comprise more than one sensor to detect interaction with a human interface device (e.g., a sensor to detect keyboard input and a sensor to detect mouse clicks). Additionally or alternatively, the system may comprise more than one sensor to detect human proximity (e.g., sensors located in different locations, different types of proximity sensors). The output of these sensors may be combined in a disinfection protocol in any suitable manner. For instance, in a variation having two sensors to detect interaction and two sensors to detect proximity, only one of the sensors to detect interaction may trigger a disinfection cycle, while the other three sensors may trigger the germicidal light source to be turned off, as explained in detail herein.
In one variation of the sensing systems described herein, the sensing system may be a “single-mode” system—that is, it may comprise only one type of sensor. In one variation, the single-mode sensing systems may be “standalone” sensing systems that do not rely on input into a human interaction device or its peripherals. For example, a standalone sensing system may comprise one or more proximity sensors, and no interaction sensors. Germicidal devices having such a “standalone” single-mode sensing systems not relying on input into a human interaction device may be used, for example, with non-electronic contact surfaces, such as countertops, sinks, doorknobs, and the like. As another example, germicidal devices having such a standalone sensing system may be used with electronic contact surfaces for which software integration is not feasible or is not desirable, such as tablet computers, point-of-sale systems, kiosks, automated teller machines, biometric scanners, electronic keypads, infusion pumps or other medical equipment, and the like. In both instances, germicidal devices having a standalone sensing system may be configured to be wirelessly connected to a network and/or administrator interface. This may allow information to be sent to and from the germicidal devices. In contrast to germicidal devices connected to a human interface device and controllable via software on the human interface device, germicidal devices having standalone sensing systems may be controlled (e.g., have operational parameters changed, have data collected or analyzed) using an administrator interface via a wireless connection to a network, as described in more detail herein.
In one variation of a germicidal device having a standalone sensing system comprising one or more proximity sensors, the germicidal device may be configured to respond to a detection event by a proximity sensor. The germicidal device may be configured such that a detection event while the disinfecting light is off may start the beginning of a delay period preceding a disinfection cycle, because such a detection event may indicate that the contact surface may have been touched. A detection event during the delay period may reset the delay period to restart at its beginning. A detection event while the germicidal light source is on may result in the germicidal light source being turned off, because such a detection event may indicate that a person is within the illumination area of the germicidal light source.
An exemplary disinfection method for a germicidal device comprising a standalone sensing system is shown in
The disinfection method of
In other variations of the sensing systems described herein, the sensing system may be a “dual-mode” system—that is, it may comprise two types of sensors. In one variation of a dual-mode sensing system, the sensing system may comprise one or more proximity sensors and one or more interaction sensors. Germicidal devices having such a dual-mode sensing system comprising one or more proximity sensors and one or more interaction sensors may be used, for example, with contact surfaces that are part of or near a human interface device having software (described in more detail herein) installed to interface with the germicidal device. The one or more interaction sensors of the sensing system may be configured to detect interaction with a human interface device or with one or more of its peripheral devices. For example, the interaction sensors may be configured to detect input via a keyboard (e.g., pressing a key on a keyboard), via a mouse (e.g., moving a mouse, clicking a button on a mouse, rotating a scroll wheel on a mouse), a trackpad (e.g., touching a trackpad), a touchscreen (e.g., touching the touchscreen), and/or the like. Information from the one or more interaction sensors may be used, along with information from the proximity sensor, by the sensing system. It should be appreciated that in other variations, the sensing systems described herein may comprise more than two types of sensors (e.g., three types of sensors).
A germicidal device having a dual-mode sensing system comprising one or more proximity sensors and one or more interaction sensors may be configured such that there is one type of detection event that may lead to disinfection (detection of interaction), while there may be two types of detection events that may lead to cessation of an ongoing disinfection cycle (detection of proximity or interaction). This sensing system may thus minimize risk of exposure to the germicidal light source by disinfecting in response to user contact with a device, while using both types of sensors to turn off the disinfection light if human presence is detected. Put another way, the germicidal device may be configured such that an interaction detection event while the germicidal light source is off may start the beginning of a delay period preceding a disinfection cycle. However, the germicidal device may be configured such that a proximity detection event while the germicidal light source is off may not start the beginning of a delay period preceding a disinfection cycle. During the delay period, the germicidal device may be configured such that either a proximity or interaction detection event may reset the delay period to restart at its beginning. Similarly, while the germicidal light source is on, the germicidal light source may be turned off if there is either a proximity or interaction detection event. Generally speaking, this may result in a disinfection protocol in which the interaction sensor may monitor for interaction with a human interface device via one or more inputs such as a keyboard, mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen. If surface contact is detected by the interaction sensor, after a delay period has passed, the germicidal light source may be turned on. While the germicidal light source is on, both the proximity sensor and interaction sensor may continue to operate. If either sensor registers a detection event (i.e., if a person touches the human interface device or comes near it), the germicidal light source may turn off. If neither sensor registers a detection event, the disinfection cycle may continue to completion.
An exemplary disinfection method for a germicidal device comprising a dual-mode sensing system comprising one or more proximity sensors and one or more interaction sensors is shown in
Like the disinfection method of
It should be appreciated that when the germicidal device comprises one or more indicators, the state of the one or more indicators may reflect a particular step or steps of a disinfection method. For example, in variations in which the germicidal device comprises one or more indicator lights having different colors, an indicator light of a first color may be illuminated while the germicidal light source is on; an indicator light of a second color may be illuminated during a delay period; and an indicator light source of a third color may be illuminated after a completed disinfection cycle or completed periodic cycle.
The various operational parameters may be set to any suitable time periods. For example, the disinfection cycle duration may be chosen based on one or more factors, such as but not limited to the light output of the germicidal light source, distance of the germicidal light source from a contact surface, and/or the quantity or character of the pathogens expected to be on the contact surface. Generally, different pathogens (e.g., methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli (E. coli), H1N1 flu virus, Clostridium difficile (C. diff)) may require differing amounts of UV energy in order to be reduced or eliminated. In some variations, the disinfection cycle duration may be between about 1 minute and about 1 hour, between about 1 second and about 20 minutes, between about 1 second and about 30 minutes, between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes, between about 5 seconds and about 10 minutes, between about 5 seconds and about 20 minutes, between about 10 seconds and about 10 minutes, between about 30 seconds and about 5 minutes, between about 30 seconds and about 4 minutes, between about 5 seconds and about 5 minutes, or between about 10 seconds and about 30 seconds. In one variation, the disinfection cycle duration using a germicidal light source comprising 1W bulb may be about 160 seconds for a contact surface located about 15 inches from the bulb. In some variations, a particular disinfection cycle duration may be chosen based on the contact surface to be disinfected and the expected distance between the contact surface and the germicidal light source. For example, for the mounting assemblies described herein, a desktop setting may have a disinfection cycle duration of between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes, between about 30 seconds and about 10 minutes, between about 5 minutes and about 10 minutes, about 1 minute, about 2 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 9 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 11 minutes, or about 12 minutes. A laptop setting may have a disinfection cycle duration of between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes, between about 1 minute and 15 minutes, between about 5 minutes and about 15 minutes, between about 10 minutes and 15 minutes, about 1 minute, about 2 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 9 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 11 minutes, about 12 minutes, about 13 minutes, about 14 minutes, about 15 minutes, or about 16 minutes. A tablet setting may have a disinfection cycle duration of between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes, between about 30 seconds and about 10 minutes, between about 5 minutes and about 10 minutes, about 1 minute, about 2 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 9 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 11 minutes, or about 12 minutes. A touchscreen may have a disinfection cycle duration of between about 1 minute and about 20 minutes, between about 1 minute and 15 minutes, between about 5 minutes and about 15 minutes, between about 10 minutes and 15 minutes, about 1 minute, about 2 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 9 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 11 minutes, about 12 minutes, about 13 minutes, about 14 minutes, about 15 minutes, or about 16 minutes.
The periodic cycle duration may similarly be chosen based on one or more factors, such as but not limited to the light output of the germicidal light source, distance of the germicidal light source from a contact surface, and/or the quantity or character of the pathogens expected to be on the contact surface. In some variations, the periodic cycle duration may be between about 1 minute and about 2 hours, between about 1 minute and about 1 hour, between about 5 minutes and about 1 hour, between about 5 minutes and about 30 minutes, between about 5 minutes and about 30 minutes, between about 20 minutes and about 40 minutes, or between about 10 minutes and about 20 minutes. The periodic cycle duration may in some instances be a multiple of the standard disinfection cycle duration, such as a factor of about 1.1 to about 3, about 1.25 to about 2, about 1.5 to about 2, or about 1.67. In other variations, the periodic cycle may be the same length as the standard disinfection cycle duration (i.e., a factor of about 1). In yet other variations, the periodic cycle may be shorter than the standard disinfection cycle duration, such as a factor of between about 0.5 and about 0.9. In some variations, a particular periodic cycle duration may be chosen based on the contact surface to be disinfected and the expected distance between the contact surface and the germicidal light source. For example, for the mounts described herein, a desktop setting may have a periodic cycle duration of about 2 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 12 minutes, about 14 minutes, about 16 minutes, about 18 minutes, about 20 minutes, about 22 minutes, or about 24 minutes; a laptop setting may have a periodic cycle duration of about 2 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 12 minutes, about 14 minutes, about 16 minutes, about 18 minutes, about 20 minutes, about 22 minutes, about 24 minutes, about 26 minutes, about 28 minutes, about 30 minutes, or about 32 minutes; a tablet setting may have a periodic cycle duration of about 2 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 12 minutes, about 14 minutes, about 16 minutes, about 18 minutes, about 20 minutes, about 22 minutes, or about 24 minutes; and a touchscreen may have a periodic cycle duration of about 3 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 9 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 11 minutes, about 12 minutes, about 13 minutes, about 14 minutes, about 15 minutes, about 16 minutes, about 17 minutes, about 18 minutes, about 19 minutes, or about 20 minutes. In situations in which C. diff is suspected to be on a contact surface, the periodic cycle duration may be increased. For example, the increase may be between a factor of about 1.5 and a factor of about 3. In some variations, the increase may be a factor of about 2. In one example the periodic cycle duration may be about 20 minutes for a desktop setting; about 27 minutes for a laptop setting; about 20 minutes for a tablet setting; and about 26 minutes for a touchscreen setting.
The periodic interval may have any suitable length. As described above, in some variations, if a complete disinfection cycle occurs, a countdown to the next periodic cycle may reset. As such, a periodic cycle may occur when a periodic interval has elapsed since the last completed disinfection cycle or periodic cycle. In other variations, a periodic cycle may occur each time a given periodic interval has elapsed, regardless of when or whether a standard disinfection cycle has occurred. In some instances the periodic interval may be between about 10 minutes and about 24 hours, between about 1 hour and about 24 hours, between about 30 minutes and about 3 hours, between about 1 hour and 10 hours, between about 1 hour and about 2 hours, between about 2 hours and 5 hours, between about 5 hours and 10 hours, about 1 hour, or about 2 hours.
The delay period may also have any suitable length. In some variations, the delay period may be between about 1 second and about 5 minutes, between about 60 seconds and about 120 seconds, between about 5 seconds and about 120 seconds, between about 30 seconds and about 60 seconds, between about 1 second and about 60 seconds, about 30 seconds, about 60 seconds, about 120 seconds, or more than about 120 seconds. It may be desirable that the delay period may be adequately long enough to make a reasonable assumption that the user is at least temporarily done using a human interface device.
The germicidal systems described herein may comprise other mechanisms for turning off a germicidal light source while it is on, in addition to the controller causing it to turn off in response to a sensing system as described herein. In some variations, the germicidal device may comprise an auto-disabling device. For example, the germicidal device may comprise an auto-disabling sensor configured to detect the orientation or movement of the lamp, such as but not limited to an inertial sensor and/or an accelerometer. If the orientation of the light assembly is altered beyond predetermined angles (e.g., as detected by an inertial sensor) and/or movement is detected (e.g., as detected by an accelerometer), the germicidal light source may be turned off if the germicidal light source is illuminated when the changed orientation or movement is detected. If the germicidal light source is off when the changed orientation or movement is detected, the germicidal light source may be configured to remain off. In some variations, the germicidal light source may be disabled until it is manually reset. In other variations, the germicidal light source may be disabled until an orientation within the acceptable orientation range is detected. The germicidal devices may additionally or alternatively comprise an autotimer override configured to turn off the germicidal light source after it is on for an extended period, to prevent prolonged irradiation in the case of a system malfunction.
The germicidal systems described herein may comprise software configured to direct one or more processors of the germicidal system to perform a wide variety of functions. For example, software may contribute to the control of automatic operations of the germicidal system (e.g., turning off a disinfection light source if a proximity sensor detects a nearby user), and/or software may enable a user to manually adjust operational parameters of the germicidal system via a user interface. Software may be configured to control the flow or transmission of data between devices of the germicidal system, and it may enable the germicidal system to collect, store, and/or analyze the transmitted data. Software may be installed or stored on one or more components of the germicidal system, and the location of the software may depend on the configuration of the germicidal system. For example, in some variations germicidal devices comprising dual-mode sensing systems described herein, germicidal software may be installed on one or more human interface devices. In integrated designs, software may be installed on one or more integrated human interface and germicidal devices. In germicidal devices comprising single-mode sensing systems comprising only one or more proximity sensors and that do not rely on input into a human interaction device, software may optionally be installed on one or more germicidal devices. In some variations, one or more germicidal and/or human interface devices may be configured to communicate with one or more remote devices and/or servers via a network, and in these variations, software may be stored on one or more of the remote devices and/or servers.
Functions that may be enabled and/or controlled by software of the germicidal system will be discussed in detail herein by describing multiple representative screens of a user interface. These screens may appear, for example, on a visual display of a human interface device (e.g., a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet). The screens may provide information related to the human interface device and associated germicidal device and/or allow a user to control various functions of the human interface and/or germicidal device. In variations of germicidal systems connected to a network, user interface screens may additionally or alternatively be displayed on one or more remote devices. In some variations, a user may be required to login (e.g., provide a username and/or password) to the germicidal system (e.g., germicidal system software and/or a network that one or more devices of the germicidal system are connected to) in order for one or more screens of the user interface to be displayed and/or modified. It should be understood that these screens, shown in
In an exemplary variation, a single germicidal device is controlled by software installed on a human interface device, where a portion or peripheral device of that human interface device (e.g., keyboard, mouse, trackpad) is the contact surface to be disinfected. However, it should be appreciated that not all germicidal systems described herein need comprise a user interface as described. For example, in some variations of germicidal devices having standalone sensing systems that do not rely on input into a human interaction device or its peripherals, as described herein, the germicidal devices may not be directly communicatively coupled to a human interface device having software for controlling the germicidal device. In these variations, the standalone germicidal devices may be wirelessly connected to a network, which may allow for control of and other forms of interfacing with the germicidal devices via the network, as described in more detail herein.
The adjustable delay indicator 1604 may show the currently selected delay period between a detection event (i.e., an event, such as detection by an interaction sensor, which may indicate that a contact surface may be contaminated) and the start of a disinfection cycle. As shown, the delay period is set at about 1 minute, but in the variation shown a user may change this delay period from about 20 seconds to about 5 minutes by selecting and moving the delay indicator 1604. In other variations, the available range of delay periods may be different, or a user may enter a specific delay period as opposed to choosing from within a defined range.
The operation screen 1600 may display a periodic cleaning cycle area 1606 that may allow a user to choose parameters of a periodic, or deep, cleaning cycle. A periodic cycle may occur with a specific frequency or at specific intervals (e.g., twice a day, three times a day, every shift, every hour, every 2 hours, every 12 hours, every 24 hours). As shown, the periodic cleaning cycle area 1606 may include fields for a user to enable and disable periodic cleaning cycles 1608, choose the length (duration) of the periodic cycle 1610, and choose the frequency of the periodic cleaning cycle 1612 (i.e., the periodic interval).
The operation screen 1600 may include some features that may be present on one or more other screens of a user interface of a germicidal system. For example, one or more identifying features may be displayed on a screen that may indicate the type or category of information that may be viewed and/or modified on the screen. For example, as shown, the identifying feature may be a highlighted or otherwise distinguished named tab 1614. In some variations, one or more screens of the user interface may include one or more saving options 1616 that may allow a user to save the currently selected settings on the screen, revert to default settings, and/or choose from one or more saved settings. As shown, one or more screens of the user interface may comprise a communication field 1618 that may display one or more messages related to the status of the germicidal system. Here, the communication field 1618 indicates “cleaning complete,” but any suitable message may be displayed (e.g., a message related to a cleaning cycle, device connection, system error, system location, or the like).
The work light screen 1626 may also display an adjustable idle time indicator 1630, adjustable illumination delay indicator 1632, and adjustable brightness indicator 1634. The adjustable idle time indicator 1630 may indicate the idle time before the work light turns off. As shown it is set at about 1 minute, but a user may select and move the idle time indicator to change this setting. The work light illumination delay indicator 1632 may indicate the time between when the germicidal system receives a signal to illuminate or turn on the work light (e.g., an activation signal from a proximity sensor or interaction sensor, pressing a virtual or physical button) and when the light becomes illuminated or turns on. As shown, the illumination delay is set at about 2 seconds, and a user can select and move the illumination delay indicator 1632 to change this time. The work light brightness indicator 1634 may indicate the level of brightness of the work light, and a user may select and move the brightness indicator to change this level.
The representative work light screen 1626 displays an automated work light time field 1636, which may show one or more time ranges when the work light is automatically activated or turned on, even if, for example, no activation signal from a proximity or interaction sensor is provided. As shown, one automated work light time range is set between 8 PM and 7 AM, but a user may change the start and stop times of this range. In some variations, a user may add or remove one or more automated work light time ranges. In some variations, the work light screen 1626 may have features that allow a user to set one or more automated time ranges to occur on one or more specific days of the week and/or on specific dates (e.g., specific day, month, holiday).
As shown, the access screen 1646 may include fields related to the indicator or status lights on a germicidal device, here status light radio buttons 1652. Various options may be selected or adjusted related to the status light of the germicidal device, such as turning the status light on or off and/or choosing an illuminated color of the status light.
The access screen 1646 may include a standalone mode field 1654, which may allow a user to turn a standalone mode on and off and/or change parameters of the standalone mode. In some variations, the standalone mode may enable a germicidal device to function (e.g., to perform disinfection cycles, periodic cleaning functions, store data, the like, and/or any combination thereof) without exchanging information with a human interface device. That is, in a variation of the germicidal device associated with a human interface and relying on input into a human interaction device or its peripherals for its sensing system (e.g., having a dual-mode sensing system having both proximity and interaction sensors), the standalone mode field may be selected to change to a dual-mode sensing system into a single-mode sensing system using only one or more proximity sensors.
As shown, the access screen 1646 may allow a user to enable and disable transmission of one or more types of data from the germicidal and/or human interface device to a remote server via a network, for example using the logging to server field 1656 shown. For example, in some variations, a germicidal and/or human interface device may be configured to automatically send usage data (e.g., data related to the number and/or completeness of disinfection cycles and/or period cleaning cycles, bulb life, work light usage) to a remote server for monitoring, storage, and/or analysis.
A germicidal and/or human interface device may be configured to produce one or more unique or common sounds for one or more purposes. For example, one or more of the same or different sounds may alert a user when a germicidal and/or human interface device is turned on and/or off, a disinfection and/or periodic cleaning cycle starts or is about to start, a disinfection and/or periodic cleaning cycle stops or is about to stop, the germicidal and/or human interface device connects and/or disconnects from a network, the germicidal device connects and/or disconnects from a human interface device, a device or system error occurs, and/or the like. An access screen of a user interface of a germicidal system may allow a user to change operational parameters related to one or more of these sounds. For example, as shown in
A germicidal system may comprise one or more germicidal devices and/or human interface devices that are configured to exchange information with one or more remote devices and/or servers over a network (e.g., local area network, wide area network, the Internet). This may allow for centralized control (e.g., operational parameter adjustment) of all or a portion of the germicidal and/or human interface devices that are connected to the network. For example, an administrator may simultaneously control the germicidal and/or human interface devices in a certain building, on a certain floor, or in a certain department, from one computer. Additionally or alternatively, a germicidal system that is connected to a network may allow for centralized monitoring, storage, and/or analysis of data obtained from all or a portion of the germicidal and/or human interface devices that are connected to the network. Generally, any of the control, data collection, analysis, reporting, or storage functions described herein that may be performed locally for one germicidal device and/or associated human interface device (e.g., via the user interface screens described herein) may be performed remotely by an administrator for one or more germicidal and/or human interface devices.
One or more germicidal devices, human interface devices, and/or remote devices or servers may be connected to and communicate over any suitable network type using any suitable communication protocol. For example, the network may be an intranet and/or a wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network, a wired or wireless local area network (LAN), and/or a metropolitan area network (MAN). In some variations, such as when the germicidal system is a cloud-based or hosted, web-based system, the network may be the Internet, also referred to as the World Wide Web (WWW). The wireless communication may use any of a plurality of communications standards, protocols and technologies, including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), high-speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high-speed uplink packet access (HSUPA), Evolution, Data-Only (EV-DO), HSPA, HSPA+, Dual-Cell HSPA (DC-HSPDA), long term evolution (LTE), near field communication (NFC), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (e.g., IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and/or IEEE 802.11n), voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-MAX, a protocol for e-mail (e.g., Internet message access protocol (IMAP) and/or post office protocol (POP)), instant messaging (e.g., extensible messaging and presence protocol (XMPP), Session Initiation Protocol for Instant Messaging and Presence Leveraging Extensions (SIMPLE), Instant Messaging and Presence Service (IMPS)), and/or Short Message Service (SMS), or any other suitable communication protocol.
Various types of information may be exchanged between a remote server and one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices over a network. For example, information originally obtained by a germicidal device may include data obtained via the signals detected by one or more germicidal device sensors (e.g., proximity sensors). As mentioned, in some variations, the germicidal device may be configured to send at least some of this information directly to the remote server. Additionally or alternatively, the germicidal device may be configured to send at least some information to an associated or connected human interface device, and the human interface device may in turn send the information to the remote server. The human interface device may obtain information from user input (e.g., a user may make selections or adjust operational parameters via a user interface) and/or data obtained via detection by one or more interaction sensors, and this information may be sent to the remote server. Other data that may be sent to the remote server by one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices may include device status or performance data, such as remaining bulb life, device location, disinfection protocol information, and/or device malfunction information. In some variations, one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices may be configured to store and/or analyze data, and this processed data may be sent to the remote server.
A remote server may receive, compile, store, analyze, and/or transmit information that is sent from one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices. An administrator may control what information is received by the remote server and the types of processing that may be done with this information. For example, an administrator may direct the remote server to receive information from the human interface and/or germicidal devices on a particular floor of a building and/or generate a report summarizing that information in a specific way.
Similarly, the remote server may send information to one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices, and an administrator may control what information is sent and which human interface and/or germicidal devices receive the information. In some variations, a germicidal system may be configured such that a remote server exchanges information with one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices automatically, with or without initial direction by an administrator. For example, a germicidal system may be configured so that one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices send status or performance data to a remote server with a predetermined frequency (e.g., every 6 hours, every day, every week). Additionally or alternatively, a germicidal system may be configured such that information may be sent from the remote server to one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices automatically when certain criteria are met. For example, the remote server may automatically assign a C. diff protocol to one or more germicidal devices if the remote server receives information, such as positive C. diff lab results, that indicate a C. diff outbreak.
The way that an administrator interacts or communicates with a remote server may depend on the configuration of the germicidal system, such as the type of network connected to the devices. In some variations, such as when the remote server, human interface devices, and/or germicidal devices are connected to a LAN or WAN, any device that is connected to the network and that comprises suitable software may be an administrator device. An administrator may input information via an administrator interface of the administrator device, and instructions based on this information may then be sent to the remote server. The instructions may direct the remote server to process information from or communicate information to the human interface and/or germicidal devices in a particular way. Similarly, the administrator may receive output (e.g., via an administrator interface display, printer) from the administrator device that was obtained from the remote server. The administrator device may be a device with an associated germicidal device or a device (e.g., computer, tablet, mobile phone) without an associated germicidal device. In some variations, a germicidal system may not comprise a separate remote server and administrator device, and the administrator device may also function as the server. For example, the computer that an administrator uses to select operational parameters for a plurality of human interface and/or germicidal devices may communicate directly with the plurality of human interface and/or germicidal devices. Similarly, the same computer may receive and process data from a plurality of human interface and/or germicidal devices and also provide this data to the administrator.
In some variations, a germicidal system may be a cloud-based or hosted, web-based system. For example, the Internet may be the network to which one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices and a remote server are connected. In this variation, an administrator device that an administrator may use to communicate with the remote server may be any device that is connected to the Internet. For example, a web browser on an administrator device may be used to interact with the remote server, rather than a dedicated germicidal program or application software being required. In an exemplary variation, the germicidal system may comprise a plurality of germicidal devices communicatively coupled with a remote server via a wireless network. Communicative coupling of a germicidal device with a remote server via a wireless network may be particularly useful for germicidal devices not connected to an associated human interface device (e.g., germicidal devices having standalone sensing systems as described herein). The remote server may in turn be communicatively coupled with an administrator device, such as a computer. An administrator (i.e., a user with access to germicidal software that may, for example, allow for control of more than one germicidal device) may input information into the administrator device (e.g., via an administrator interface). Instructions based on this information may be sent to the remote server via the network, and the instructions may then be sent to one or more of the plurality of germicidal devices via the network. As mentioned, in cloud or web-based germicidal systems, the network communicatively coupling the germicidal devices, remote server, and administrator device may be the Internet. In this variation, the germicidal system may comprise a web-based management system. In some variations, an administrator may access and interact with the web-based management system via a web browser on the administrator device.
The types of information that may be exchanged between a remote server and one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices and the ways that this information may be controlled and/or analyzed will be described in more detail in relation to various administrator interface screens. These representative screens, shown in
The search results area 1932 of the device management screen 1928 may display the devices of the germicidal system (e.g., human interface and/or germicidal devices) that meet the criteria selected in the device search area 1930. One or more properties (e.g., serial number, location, status, service log) of these devices may be displayed in the search results area 1932. In some variations, an administrator may select one or more of the devices displayed in the search results area 1932 in order to view more properties of the one or more devices. In some variations, the administrator may modify one or more of these device properties. For example, the administrator may select one or more devices and change the disinfection protocol assigned to the one or more devices. In some variations, the device management screen 1928 may comprise an area that may allow an administrator to add a new device to the germicidal system.
While the report selection screen 1948 in
A method for disinfecting one or more surfaces may comprise assigning a disinfection protocol to one or more germicidal devices. A disinfection protocol may comprise operational parameters for one or more germicidal devices. For example, a disinfection protocol may comprise instructions directing a germicidal light source of a germicidal device to be illuminated for a specific duration when performing a disinfection cycle. As described in detail herein, the disinfection protocol assigned to a germicidal device (e.g., the disinfection protocol that a germicidal device is instructed to run, follow, execute) may depend on factors including the type of surface or type of device comprising the contact surface to be disinfected (e.g. desktop computer, laptop computer, touchscreen, mouse). In some variations, a specific disinfection protocol may be assigned to a germicidal device based on environmental factors, such as one or more specific pathogens suspected of being on the surface (e.g., C. diff , H1N1 flu virus). For example, if a C. diff outbreak occurs, germicidal devices in an area of the outbreak may be assigned a C. diff disinfection protocol, which may comprise operational parameters that allow a germicidal device to substantially disinfect a surface at least partially covered with C. diff bacteria.
In some variations, a disinfection protocol may be assigned to one or more germicidal devices by default when the one or more germicidal devices is initially powered on and/or set up by a user or administrator. For example, when a germicidal device is initially connected to a human interface device, the germicidal system may determine the type of human interface device (e.g., desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet, touchscreen). This determination may be performed using software stored in memory of the germicidal system (e.g., memory of the germicidal device, human interface device, and/or server) and executed by a processor of the germicidal system (e.g., a processor of the germicidal device, human interface device, and/or server). In response to this determination, a specific disinfection protocol may be assigned to the germicidal device (e.g., desktop protocol, laptop protocol, tablet protocol, touchscreen protocol).
In some variations, a method for disinfecting one or more surfaces may comprise manually assigning a disinfection protocol to one or more germicidal devices at initial set up and/or at a later time in response to one or more environmental factors. A disinfection protocol may be assigned to a germicidal device locally (e.g., via software installed on an associated human interface device) and/or remotely over a network. For example, for a germicidal device comprising a dual-mode sensing system and connected to a human interface device, a user may assign a disinfection protocol to the germicidal device by accessing a user interface of the human interface device that is associated with (e.g., connected to, coupled to, communicatively coupled with, nearby) the germicidal device. In some variations, this method may comprise the user navigating to a screen generated by the software and displayed on the user interface, such as the representative operation screens discussed with respect to
In some variations, a method for disinfecting one or more surfaces may comprise assigning one or more disinfection protocols to one or more germicidal devices via a network (e.g., LAN, WAN, the Internet). In these variations, an administrator may access an administrator interface of an administrator device connected to the network. The administrator may navigate to a screen generated by the germicidal software and displayed on the administrator interface, such as the representative settings profiles screen shown in
Instructions for performing the selected disinfection protocol may be delivered from the administrator device and received by a server via a network. The instructions may then be delivered from the server and received by the one or more germicidal devices via the network. In some variations in which a germicidal device is communicatively coupled to a human interface device, such as in germicidal devices comprising dual-mode sensing systems described herein, sending instructions for the disinfection protocol from the server to the one or more germicidal devices may be indirect. In other words, the instructions for the disinfection protocol may be sent from the server to one or more human interface devices, and then from the one or more human interface devices to one or more germicidal devices associated with those human interface devices. The instructions for specific operational parameters of the germicidal device may be stored in memory of the administrator device, server, human interface device, and/or germicidal device.
One particular example of when a disinfection protocol may be assigned to one or more germicidal devices may be in response to a C. diff outbreak in a healthcare setting. Because longer exposure times (e.g., either disinfection cycle durations or periodic cycle durations) may be more effective in disinfecting contact surfaces contaminated with C. diff , when C. diff is likely to be found in a particular area of a healthcare setting (e.g., one or more rooms, a wing, a floor, a building, or the like), it may be desirable to assign a new disinfection protocol to the germicidal devices located in these areas. In some of these instances, in response to information indicating that C. diff is likely to be found at the location of one or more germicidal devices, an administrator may use an administrator interface to select the germicidal devices as described herein, and may assign predetermined C. diff protocols to each of the germicidal devices. In some instances, different predetermined C. diff protocols may be sent to different devices, for example based on their location, mounting assembly, and/or contact surface. The instructions for performing the assigned protocols may be delivered from the administrator device to a server via a network, and may then be received by the germicidal devices via the network, and in some instances, via a human interface device.
As discussed in detail herein, a germicidal system may be configured to generate one or more types of reports displaying information related to the germicidal system. In some variations, a method for generating a report may comprise obtaining information via a user interface of a human interface device. Using this method, a report may be generated that relates to the human interface device and/or an associated germicidal device. In other variations, the method for generating a report may comprise obtaining information via an administrator interface of an administrator device, which may or may not have an associated germicidal device. Using this method, a report may be generated that relates to one or more human interface and/or germicidal devices that are connected to the same network as a server and the administrator device.
A method for generating a report related to a germicidal system may comprise a human interface device obtaining user input via a user interface of the human interface device. For example, a user may access the user interface of the human interface device, and in some variations, navigate to a screen, such as the representative report screen shown in
In response to the user input, the human interface device (e.g., a processor of the human interface device) may generate a report based on the selected parameters. At least some of the data used to generate the report may be obtained from memory of the germicidal device and/or the human interface device. The report may be output to the user interface in order to be viewed by the user, to memory of the human interface device and/or germicidal device in order to be stored, and/or to one or more other devices (printer, remote server via a network). The output destination of the report may be determined based on user input via the user interface. In other words, a human interface device may provide a user interface and receive user input (e.g., a selection of one or more report parameters). In response to the user input, the human interface device may display, store, and/or otherwise output a report corresponding to the selected report parameters.
In some variations, a method for generating a report related to a germicidal system may comprise a server obtaining administrator input via an administrator interface of an administrator device. For example, the germicidal system may provide the administrator interface on an administrator device that is connected to the same network as a server and one or more germicidal and/or human interface devices. In this variation, germicidal software may be stored in memory of the administrator device, the server, one or more human interface devices, and/or one or more germicidal devices. The administrator may navigate to a screen, such as the report selection screen shown in
In response to the administrator input, a processor of the germicidal system (e.g., one or more processors of the administrator device, server, human interface devices, and/or germicidal devices) may generate a report based on the selected parameters and using data obtained from memory of the germicidal system (e.g., memory of the server, administrator device, one or more human interface devices, and/or one or more germicidal devices). The processor of the germicidal system that generates the report may obtain the necessary input and data via the network. The report may be output to the administrator interface of the administrator device in order to be viewed by the administrator, stored in memory of the germicidal system, and/or output to any other device connected to the network. The one or more output destinations may be determined based on administrator input via the administrator interface.
While the inventive devices, systems, and methods have been described in some detail by way of illustration, such illustration is for purposes of clarity of understanding only. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings herein that certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that elements of the germicidal devices, systems, and methods described herein may be combined in alternative ways not expressly described herein.
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/005,437, filed May 30, 2014, and titled “UV GERMIDICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD USING DEVICE IDENTIFICATION AND DISINFECTION PROTOCOL,” and to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/119,157, filed Feb. 21, 2015, and titled “UV GERMICIDAL SYSTEM AND METHOD,” each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62119157 | Feb 2015 | US | |
| 62005437 | May 2014 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | PCT/US2015/033434 | May 2015 | US |
| Child | 15364242 | US |
