SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FLOOR SANITIZATION

Abstract

A modular UV panel disposable on a floor surface and configured to selectively transmit ultraviolet (UV) light therefrom to destroy pathogens includes a housing, a platform, a UV light source, a first connector, and a second connector. The housing has a first and second lateral sides forming a cavity therebetween. The platform is supported by the housing and is configured to permit passage of UV light therethrough. The UV light source is disposed within the cavity of the housing and is configured to transmit UV light through the platform. The first connector is disposed along the housing having a first interface configured to enable electrical communication thereacross. The second connector is disposed along the housing having a second interface configured to enable electrical communication thereacross.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/430,070, filed on Dec. 5, 2016, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to self-sanitizing flooring. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus which emits ultraviolet light to render pathogens inert both along a floor surface as well as on objects placed on the floor surface.

BACKGROUND

Floor surfaces which come into contact with foot-traffic, such as in either public or private spaces, may foster an environment which allows for the growth, and continued existence of, surface pathogens. Common pathogens which may be found on a floor surface include, without limitation, Staph, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridium difficile (C. diff), E. coli, Legionella, Salmonella, Shigella, V. cholera, Hepatitis, Poliovirus, Rotavirus, Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Bacillus Spores, and Adenovirus, among other known viral and bacterial growths.

Pathogens may be found in a variety of places, ranging from arena bathrooms to kitchen floors. In particular, hospitals and healthcare centers, due to their increased contact with individuals who may be infected with such pathogens, are at a particular risk for pathogen growth. Given their nature, hospitals and healthcare centers often come into either indirect or direct contact with pathogens, being the place individuals turn to first when faced with an infection. As such, hospitals and healthcare centers often develop very rigid sanitization regimens, often using chemicals to sanitize surfaces which are at risk.

Private and public institutions, including households, public facilities, and hospitals to name a few, combat the growth of these pathogens by applying chemical compounds to surfaces believed to be at an increased risk of harboring these pathogens. Among these compounds are ethoxylated alcohol, sodium citrate, tetrasodium, sodium carbonate, sodium hypochlorite, sodium chloride, to name a few. While effective, these chemicals carry serious risks if mishandled or misapplied to the surface(s) being cleaned as well as the individual applying the chemical. In particular, these chemicals may cause undesirable reactions with individuals when coming in contact with skin, eyes, and respiratory systems, ranging from mild to severe irritation of the contacted surface.

While chemical agents provide significant benefits over standard soaps or other known cleaning methods, it is desirable to provide improved apparatuses, methods, and systems for eliminating or reducing pathogen growth along trafficked surfaces.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a modular UV panel may be configured to be disposed on a floor surface and to selectively transmit ultraviolet (UV) light therefrom to destroy pathogens. The modular panel may include a housing, a platform, a UV light source, a first connector, and a second connector. The housing includes a first and second lateral sides which form a cavity therebetween. The platform is supported by the housing and configured to permit passage of UV light therethrough. the UV light source is disposed within the cavity of the housing. The UV light source is further configured to transmit UV light through the platform. The first connector is disposed along the housing and includes a first interface configured to enable electrical communication thereacross. The second connector is disposed along the housing and includes a second interface configured to enable electrical communication thereacross.

In aspects the first connector or the second connector are coupled to a power supply connection and are configured to receive electrical power and transmit power to the UV light source.

The modular UV panel may include a controller in electrical communication with the power supply and the UV light source. The controller may be configured to control operation of the UV light source. The controller may be configured to operate in an ACTIVE state, a PASSIVE state, or an ON state. The controller may cause the UV light source to transmit UV light at a reduced luminescence while operating during the PASSIVE state.

The platform may include a plurality of running bars disposed in spaced relation thereon. The plurality of running bars may be disposed at a predefined angle (θ) relative to a plane defined by the platform such that UV light transmitted by the UV light source is transmitted from the modular UV panel at the predefined angle θ. The light source may be configured to transmit light at a UV-C wavelength range. The platform may further include a second plurality of running bars intersecting the plurality of running bars, thereby defining a grid. The platform may be fabricated from aluminum.

In aspects, a cover may be removably disposed along an upper portion of the housing. The cover may be configured to enclose the cavity of the housing. The housing may be constructed of a reflective material. The UV panel may further include a housing base configured to be attached to the first and second lateral sides. The housing and the housing base may be constructed of a reflected material configured to reflect transmitted UV light towards the platform. The housing may be configured to receive a reflective tray having a reflective white polytetrafluoroethylene coating. The UV light source may be a UV LED panel configured to emit short-wavelength UV radiation. The UV light source may be a UV bulb configured to emit short-wavelength UV radiation. The UV bulb may be disposed in the cavity.

In aspects the modular UV panel may further include a strain gauge in electrical communication with the controller and configured to transmit force measurements thereto in response to force exerted on the platform.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system for destroying pathogens including a modular panel in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the modular panel of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an interconnected modular panel configuration in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view the modular panel of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4B is an alternative embodiment of the modular panel of FIG. 4A according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a first and second modular panel in an uncoupled configuration;

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view the first and second modular panel of FIG. 5A in a coupled configuration;

FIG. 6 is an perspective view of a corner of the modular panel of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7A-7C are side plans of UV LED panel diode arrangements in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an alternative embodiment of the system of FIG. 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is an alternative embodiment of the system of FIG. 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is an alternative embodiment of the system of FIG. 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment a sanitizing system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12A is an alternative embodiment a sanitizing system having a supplemental platform in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the supplemental platform of FIG. 12A, taken along A-A;

FIG. 12C is an alternative embodiment the sanitizing system of FIG. 12A in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12D is an alternative embodiment the sanitizing system of FIG. 12A in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the modular panel of FIG. 2, with parts cut away, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is an alternative embodiment of the modular panel of FIG. 13, with parts cut away, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a controller-based process for controlling one or more modular panels according to embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of an alternative controller-based process for controlling one or more modular panels according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views.

Described herein are systems and methods including a self-sanitizing a floor surface and a sanitization system for objects in close proximity to the self-sanitizing floor surface. Though certain embodiments are discussed in detail, descriptions of the embodiments included herein are not intended to limit or reduce the scope of the present disclosure; rather they are included to assist in illustrating particular disclosed features. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced with or without all of the details discussed herein, or by combining the various disclosed elements.

As used, the term “pathogen” includes, but is not limited to, viruses, bacteria and the like, including Staph, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridium difficile (C. diff), E. coli, Legionella, Salmonella, Shigella, V. cholera, Hepatitis, Poliovirus, Rotavirus, Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Bacillus Spores, and Adenovirus.

For purposes of clarity, the term “UV” refers to ultraviolet rays, particularly “UV-C” rays or “shortwave UV,” often delivered in a wavelength between 100 nm to 280 nm for germicidal application.

Introducing ultraviolet (“UV”) light allows for non-chemical cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces, objects, and fluids. For instance, UV light purification allows for efficient water purification in home and commercial water filtration units, without the need to boil water, introduce chemicals, or install cumbersome manual filtration systems. UV light also has the ability to kill chemically resistant bacteria and viruses which would otherwise evade chemical cleaning applications. Further, UV purification applications are not limited to fluid applications; rather UV light can be used for sanitization in air handling, object cleaning, and surface cleaning systems.

The present disclosure features devices, systems, and methods by which a floor can be sanitized, either sporadically or continuously, using UV light. Such sanitization devices, systems, and methods can include a plurality of connected floor tiles which deliver UV light to the tile surface. Introduction of additional substances, such as titanium oxide, during the UV floor tile sanitization may also be implemented for a more thorough cleaning of the floor surface and objects thereon. As a result of delivering adequate amounts of UV light to the floor surface bacterial or viral matter thereon are eliminated. Similarly, objects in close direct contact with, or which are close in proximity, are likewise disinfected.

For illustrative purposes, the following example of a situation where non-chemical sanitization of a floor surface would be desirable. A room in a healthcare facility may be assigned to an individual who was diagnosed as being infected with MRSA. While in this particular instance the MRSA infection is not life threatening, the infection must be addressed. For the safety of healthcare facility staff and guests, the patient is assigned to a room which has installed therein a UV floor tile sanitization system for the duration of the treatment.

As a result of assigning the patient to a room with UV floor tiles, the patient, healthcare facility staff, and guests can walk about with a reduced chance of contracting the infection. The floor may additionally be cleaned chemically for added protection, though such cleaning may not be necessary. Assigning the patient to a room including UV floor tile tiles may further decrease the recovery time of the patient as well as reduce the chance that the infection will spread to uninfected parts of the body of the patient. Depending on the desired sanitization level, or based on the risk posed by the particular infection, the UV floor tiles may passively activated, such as when the patient is asleep, or after detecting that the patient, guests, and/or staff has left the room. Alternatively, the UV floor tiles may be activated actively, for example, after a spill or during thorough cleaning.

In addition to the example provided, the UV floor tiles may be installed in hallways, entryways, thresholds, or in rooms where there is an increased risk of pathogenic transfer, particularly where there is heavy foot traffic. It should be noted that installation of UV floor tiles should not be limited to healthcare facilities, but rather may be introduced in any environment where there is an increased risk of pathogenic growth, including public restrooms, food handling and preparation facilities, and the like. The figures relating to the present disclosure will now be explained in detail.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of four interconnected modular UV floor tiles (hereinafter “modular UV panels”) for destroying pathogens. As illustrated, a floor system 100 may be configured to receive one or more individuals 104 having footwear 106 in direct contact with a grate 202 of one or more modular UV panels 200. When activated, UV light is emitted through the grate 202, thereby causing UV light to be transmitted to the footwear 106 of the individual 104. Activation of the modular UV panels 200 may occur either manually (e.g., when foreign signals are received), periodically (e.g., on a timer), or as a result of detecting an increased floor load via one or more strain gauges 224 disposed about the modular UV panels 200. In embodiments, UV light may be directed through the grate 202 at an angle θ (see FIGS. 7A-7C), thereby causing the transmission of UV light indirectly to the footwear 106 of the individual 104. Such indirect transfer of light may be designed to reduce the chance of inadvertent transmission of the UV light to the eyes of any individual 104 near the modular UV panels 200. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the floor system 100 is located partially flush against a wall 110. In embodiments, the floor system 100 may be integrated or dispersed across a larger area (e.g., may be placed in a checker pattern or other such patterns across a floor surface) (see FIGS. 8-11.)

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the plurality of modular UV panels 200 are connected both mechanically and electrically. Each modular UV panel 200, as illustrated, has eight male connectors 208 and female connectors 228, though it is contemplated that there may be more or fewer male and female connectors 208, 228 extending inwardly and outwardly from the modular UV panels 200. The male and female connectors 208, 228 facilitate mechanical interconnection between the modular UV panels 200, thereby maintaining the position of the modular UV panels 200 relative to one another. Additionally, the male and female connectors 208, 228 enable selective electric connection between the modular UV panels 200. The electric connections permit both electrical power and electrical signals (e.g., control and sensor signals) to be transmitted to and from modular UV panels 200 via a tile control unit (FIG. 4). The tile control unit may be disposed within one a modular UV panel 200 and/or remotely relative to the modular UV panels 200. The modular UV panels 200 may be activated either via an external control (not shown), continuously, intermittently, or upon actuation of one or more strain gauges 224 (FIG. 4). Activation based on receiving signals from one or more strain gauges 224 may occur immediately or after a predetermined amount of time has transpired. As illustrated, a tile threshold 108 extends between the modular UV panels 200 which are connected. The tile threshold 108 may provide support both laterally to the modular UV panels 200 located adjacent to one another, as well as vertically to the grate 202.

When the floor system 100 is partially integrated into a floor (see FIG. 1), individuals may be required to remain in a fixed position for a predetermined period of time so as to allow the UV light to be transmitted to the footwear 106 of the individual 104. As a result of remaining stationary on the modular UV panels 200, thorough sanitization of the footwear 106 of the individual 104 is achieved. The predetermined period of time in which the individual 104 is to remain in a particular position may be augmented depending on the pathogen being targeted. This requirement to remain in a fixed position may be imposed when an individual 104 is about to pass through a threshold (see FIG. 6), or when transitioning between a non-sterile area to a sterile area (see FIGS. 6-8).

Alternatively, floor system 100 may be fully integrated into a floor, either completely covering the floor surface 102 or in a pattern (see FIG. 11). Partial integration of the floor system 100 adds both the benefit of partial UV treatment of select surfaces 102 as well as reducing the overall cost of installing the floor system 100. Further description of incorporation of floor surface patterns will be discussed in detail later with respect to FIG. 11.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the modular UV panels 200 of FIG. 1. The modular UV panel 200 includes the grate 202 disposed along a top surface of the modular UV panel 200, the plurality of male connectors 208, located along two sides of the housing 206 of the modular UV panels 200, and the plurality of female connectors 228 located along two sides of the housing 206 of the modular UV panels 200. In response to selective placement of the male and female connectors 208, 228 about the modular UV panel 200, a plurality of modular UV panels 200 may be mating the male connectors 208 with the female connectors 228 as shown in FIGS. 3, 5A and 5B. While the embodiments disclosed herein discuss connection of the modular UV panels 200 with male to female connections (see FIGS. 5A and 5B), it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various fasteners or connectors may be substituted as appropriate.

The modular UV panel 200 further includes a housing 206 which encloses four sides of the upper cavity 226 and lower cavity 222 (see FIG. 4, 5A, 5B). It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, a modular UV panels 200 may have greater or fewer sides defined by the housing 206 than presently described which enclose the upper cavity 226 and lower cavity 222, with grate 202 supports being located internal to the modular UV panels 200. Reduction or relocation of the sides of the housing 206 may provide for greater treatment of the modular UV panels 200, or may facilitate easier installation depending on certain environmental constraints.

The modular UV panel 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 further includes electric connectors (see FIGS. 4, 5A, 5B) disposed within the male connectors 208 and female connectors 228. In embodiments, the male and female connectors 208, 228 may not be recessed and, alternatively, may be disposed flush or substantially flush along a surface of the male and female connectors 208, 228. The male and female connectors 208, 228 may facilitate power transfer to an array of modular UV panels 200 (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 6-9), and additionally or alternatively may selectively transmit control signals to cause the transmission of either direct or indirect UV light (see FIG. 7). The control signals may, upon receipt by any modular UV panel 200, cause a subset of modular UV panels 200 to be activated, thereby causing the subset of modular UV panels 200 to deliver varying amounts of direct or indirect UV light. Descriptions of various patterns formed with modular UV panels 200 will be described later in detail.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an array 300 of modular UV panels 200 configured to sit flush against a surface such as the wall 110 illustrated in FIG. 1 when disposed along a floor surface 102. The modular UV panels 200 may be connected as illustrated in FIG. 1 both mechanically and electrically. Modular UV panels 308, 310 configured to be in contact with a wall 110 include flush housing sides 302, 304, 306 which extend along the periphery of the modular UV panel 200 and allow the array 300 of modular UV panels 200 to sit flush against a surface without creating a gap equal to the distance of a male connector 208. In particular, two embodiments of modular UV panel 200 with flush housings are illustrated, a side modular UV panel 310 with only one flush housing side 302 and a modular UV panel 308 configured to be positioned in the corner of a room against two walls 110, the modular UV panel 308 having two flush housing sides 304, 306.

FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-section view of one of the modular UV panels 200 of FIG. 1. The modular UV panel 200 is configured to receive electrical power and control signals, as well as selectively transmit electrical power and control signals to modular UV panels 200 which are interconnected. The modular UV panels 200 includes grate 202 which provides both structural support for individuals or objects disposed thereon as well as running bars 202A which divert UV light as it is transmitted from the UV led panel 220 at an angle θ (see FIG. 7). The grate 202 also includes a transparent material 202B which provides a continuous surface as well as structural support for individuals 104 or objects disposed thereon. Though the described embodiments of the grate 202 will be referred to through the rest of the application without necessarily referencing the transparent material 202B, it will become apparent to one skilled in the art that in place of the transparent material 202B, the grate 202 may be located under a cover 204 which encloses the presently described components of the modular UV panels 200, as illustrated in FIG. 4A. For a detailed description of UV led panels integrated into a UV floor tile, reference may be made to commonly-owned International Patent Application No. PCT/US17/58439, filed on Oct. 26, 2017, entitled “SYSTEM AND APPARATUS THEREOF FOR DESTROYING PATHOGENS ASSOCIATED WITH FOOTWEAR,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The housing 206 couples to the grate 202 via a plurality of fasteners or flanges (not shown), and may additionally support a cover 204 made of a structural transparent material such as, without limitation, structural glass or laminates capable of supporting a predetermined floor load. The housing 206 may define one or more openings configured to receive and/or support a male connector 208 or female connector 228 therein.

As UV light is transmitted through the grate 202 illustrated in FIG. 4A, the efficacy of the transferred UV light may be reduced depending on the angle θ at which the UV light is transmitted. The as angle θ approaches a perpendicular relation to the grate (as θ approaches 90 degrees), the disinfecting ability of the UV light increases. In particular, less-direct UV light has a reduced chance of being drawn to the eyes of an individual 104. While this reduced potential for contact is valuable, the UV light transmission time may need to be extended for a prolonged period of time to achieve similar efficacy as UV light transmitted from the modular UV panel 200.

Direct UV light may be desirable when thorough sanitization of the floor surface 102 is desired. One such example of thorough sanitization would be when preparing a room, in particular a floor surface 102, in a healthcare facility in between occupancy of different patients. For example, in an emergency room, the floor surface 102 may be subjected to the patient, healthcare providers, healthcare equipment (not shown), or solids and liquids which otherwise come into contact with the floor surface during the stay of the patient in that emergency room. The patient may sneeze, bio hazardous articles may be dropped, or other potentially pathogenic agents may inadvertently come into contact with the floor surface 102. While indirect UV light may be more desirable, application of indirect UV light 226B to the floor surface 102 may not be sufficient to sanitize the floor surface 102 in a desirable amount of time, particularly if indirect UV light is not administered continuously.

Modular UV panels 200, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, may further include a power source input 210 which connects to the modular UV panel control unit, or controller 214, located above the housing base 212. In embodiments, the controller 214 may receive and transmit electrical power and/or control signals either wirelessly, or via wired configurations. Electrical power and control signals may subsequently be transmitted form the controller 214 to modular UV panels 200 which are connected via a power cable 218. Once received, the electrical power cause the UV led panels 220 to transmit UV light therefrom.

The controller 214 may receive or transmit control signals which subsequently configure or set all or a portion of the modular UV panels 200 connected to the controller 214 to operate in one or more predefined modular UV panel states. Embodiments of various modular UV panel states will be described in greater detail with regard to FIGS. 15 and 16. The controller 214 may either receive input from a physical input device (not shown) or may receive wireless input from a device capable of transmitting signals to the controller 214, both types of devices referred to collectively as foreign devices. Upon receiving input from the foreign device, the controller 214 may execute one or more programs which, in turn, control activation and deactivation of the various components of the modular UV panels 200, including the UV led panel 220, or UV lamp 234.

The controller 214, disposed within the modular UV panel 200 (FIG. 4A) may be any suitable computing device capable of receiving and transmitting electrical power and control signals and, in response, controlling select components associated with the modular UV panels 200, 200′ of the present disclosure. The controller 214 may include one or more memories, processors, network interfaces, input and/or output ports, or any combination thereof. The memory may include both transitory and non-transitory computer readable storage media for storing data and/or software which include instructions that may be executed by the one or more processors. When executed, the instructions in the memory cause the processor to control the operation of the various components of the modular UV panel 200, 200′. It is contemplated that the memory may include any known available medium for storing instructions thereon which can be accessed by the processor such as, without limitation, non-transitory, volatile and/or non-volatile, removable and/or non-removable media, and the like, implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other suitable data access and management systems. Examples of such computer-readable storage media include, without limitation, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, magnetic tapes, CD-ROM, and the like.

In embodiments, the memory stores data and/or one or more applications which may include instructions to be executed on the one or more processors of the controller 214. Likewise, the network interface may enable electrical communication between the controller 214 and external computing devices (not shown). For example, the network interface may enable the controller 214 to transmit and/or receive data on wired or wireless networks such as, without limitation, local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), wireless mobile networks, Bluetooth® networks, the internet, and the like. Such networks may enable the controller 214 of the modular UV panel 200 to receive and transmit data therebetween for remote control of the components of the modular UV panel 200, transfer and review of event logs stored in the memory based on operation of the modular UV panel, and other similar operations.

An upper cavity 226 is defined by the UV led panel 220, housing 206 and grate 202. Likewise, a lower cavity 222 is defined by the UV led panel 220, housing 206 and housing base 212. The upper cavity 226 and lower cavity 222 may be partially or completely sealed so as to prevent buildup of dust or debris which may prevent effective UV light transmission from the UV led panel 220. Alternatively, the grate 202 and cover 204 may be configured to be removed periodically for cleaning of the modular UV panels 200.

Located under the housing base 212 may be one or more strain gauges 224. Strain gauge 224 may cause the modular UV panels 200 to immediately transmit UV light via the UV led panel 220, or may send a signal to the controller 214, either via wired or wireless transmission, which may in turn cause the controller 214 to activate the UV led panel 220 at a later time. The strain gauge 224 may also be configured to prevent inadvertent activation the UV led panel 220 by detecting certain conditions. Such conditions may include, without limitation, the dropping of articles on the floor, traffic of individuals such as children, or otherwise applying pressure on the modular UV panels 200 in a manner not intended to activate the Modular UV panels 200.

As shown in FIG. 4B an alternate embodiment of the modular UV panel 200, referred to herein as modular UV panel 200′, includes a UV lamp 234 in place of the UV led panel 220 (FIG. 4A). As illustrated, two UV lamps 234 are installed in UV lamp housings 232, though one UV lamp 234 may be sufficient. The UV lamp 234 is located in the cavity 236 of the modular UV panel 200′. The modular UV panel 200′ may further include a reflective surface 230 to redirect UV light which is reflected or otherwise angled away from the grate 202. It is further contemplated that the modular UV panel 200′ housing 206′ may be made of a reflective material to assist in directing UV light which initially strikes the modular UV panels 200′ housing 206′ toward the grate 202.

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the modular UV panels 200′ may further include an ozone generator 238. The ozone generator 238 may emit ozone (commonly referred to as trioxogen or O₃) so as to provide additional disinfection to the surface of the modular UV panels 200′. The ozone generator 238 may be triggered when a specific load is detected by one or more strain gauges 224, releasing a quantity of ozone determined to be both desirable for the environment as well as effective for sanitization of the footwear 106 of the individuals 104 or other objects (not shown) located above the modular UV panels 200′. The modular UV panel 200 control unit 214′ may further activate the ozone generator 238 upon detecting an increased load via the one or more strain gauges 224 for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined time may be set to trigger the ozone generator 238 automatically, or may measure a period of time, such as ten seconds, so as to prevent inadvertent actuation of the ozone generator 238. While certain features have been described with regard to the modular UV panel 200′ such as the reflective surface and the ozone generator 238, such features are not limited to the embodiment of the modular UV panel 200′ shown in FIG. 4B but, rather, may be included in any of the embodiments presently disclosed.

FIG. 5A illustrates two modular UV panels, referred to as a first modular UV panel 500 and a second modular UV panel 502 for purposes of simplicity, in an unconnected position. A male connector 208 of the first modular UV panel 500 is shown positioned to be insertably coupled with a female connector 228 of a second modular UV panel 502. In particular, the cross-section taken through the first and second modular UV panels 500, 502 show the male connector housing 208A which, when coupled with the female connector 228, is slidably received within a female connector cavity 228A.

The male connector 208 further includes a male connector housing cavity 208B configured to receive a female connector electric housing 228B. When the male connector 208 and the female connector 228 are connected, a male electric connector 208C and a female electric connector 228C enable the transmission of electrical power and control signals from the first modular UV panel 500 to the second modular UV panel 502. Electrical power and control signals may subsequently be transferred to modular UV panels 200 which are connected thereto (see FIG. 1) as well as to UV led panels 220, when available.

FIG. 5B illustrates the first and second modular UV panels 500, 502 of FIG. 5A in a connected position. Specifically, as a result of slidably engaging the male connector 208 of the first modular UV panel 500 with the female connector 228 of the second modular UV panel 502, mechanical and electrical connections are established. As a result, the first and second modular UV panels 500, 502 are aligned such that the housings 206 of both modular UV panels 500, 502 provide lateral support, while the male and female connectors 208, 228 provide horizontal support relative to the respective opposing modular UV panels 500, 502. As a result, the positions of the first modular UV panel 500 and second modular UV panel 502 are maintained during the operation of the first and second modular UV panel 500, 502.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the corner of the modular UV panel 200 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the male connector 208 defines a male connector housing 208A which further includes a male connector housing cavity 208B which extends outward from the housing 206 defining a male connector housing cavity 208B. Disposed within the male connector housing cavity 208B is a male electric connector 208C. As illustrated, the male electric connector 208C includes a plurality of pins disposed thereon capable of receiving both electrical power and control signals.

Further illustrated in FIG. 6 is a female connector 228, defining a female connector cavity 228A which extends inward through the housing 206 of the modular UV panel 200. The female connector cavity 228A defines a cavity extending inwardly into the housing 206 configured to receive a male connector 208 therein. The female connector 228 includes a female connector support 228D, extending outward toward the housing 206 and further including a plurality of female electric connectors 228C configured to enable the transmission of electrical power and control signals between a male connector 208 when connected.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7C, and initially to FIG. 7A, a UV led panel 220 is shown having a plurality of led diodes 220A configured to project UV-C light indirectly, or at an angle θ₁ relative to the UV led panel 220, referred to herein as indirect led diodes 220A. The indirect led diodes 220A are configured to emit UV light at an angle θ₁ from the surface of the UV led panel 220. The transmission of the UV light at such an angle may be configured to operate in connection with the grate 202 (see FIG. 4), thereby reducing the ability of UV light to be transmitted and subsequently come in contact with the eyes of an individual 104 while the UV led panel 220 is activated. Emission of UV light at angle θ₁ may further permit continuous transmission of UV light for prolonged periods of time without the need for protective eyewear, thereby allowing for more comprehensive sanitization of the grate 202, or cover 204.

FIG. 7B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the UV led panel 220, referred to generally as UV led panel 220′. As illustrated, UV led panel 220′ includes a plurality of direct led diodes 220B which are configured to emit UV light at an angle θ₂ which is substantially perpendicular to the UV led panel 220′. The angled UV light may be filtered and redirected by a grate 202 (see FIG. 4), or may be transmitted without impedance directly upward to the upper surface of the modular UV panel 200 in which the UV led panel 220′ is installed.

FIG. 7C illustrates an alternative embodiment of the UV led panel 220, referred to generally as UV led panel 220″ including a plurality of indirect led diodes 220A and direct led diodes 220B. As illustrated in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the direct and indirect led diodes 220A, 220B transmit light at an angle equal to θ₁ and θ₂, respectively. As a result, the UV led panel 220 ″ may be configured to deliver both direct and indirect UV light to the surface of the modular UV panel 200 in which the UV led panel 220″ is installed.

FIG. 8 illustrates the system of FIG. 1 installed in an environment as an array 300′ of modular UV panels 200 disposed along the exterior of a threshold or doorway 800. The array 300′ of modular UV panels 200 is configured to sterilize footwear 106 or other objects that traverse the grate 202 of the modular UV panels 200. The environment illustrated in FIG. 8 contemplates the demarcation of an area as a sterile area, and subsequent requirement of individuals 104 to pass over the array 300′ of modular UV panels 200 prior to entering the sterile area (not shown). In addition, environmental control systems such as signage, alerts, and the like (not shown) may be installed to prevent an individual 104 from passing beyond a sterile threshold 802 prior to sterilization of the footwear 106 of the individual 104 so as to prevent transfer of pathogens between environments. To prevent inadvertent contact between UV light emitted from the modular UV panels 200 and the eyes of individuals 104 in proximity to the modular UV panels 200, the grate 202 may be oriented so as to divert UV light toward the doorway 800, thereby reducing the chance of UV light coming into contact with other individuals 104 in the environment. Additionally, or alternatively, UV led panels which transmit UV light at an angle θ₁ and/or θ₂ may be installed in the modular UV panels 200 to direct UV light away from the line-of-sight of the individuals 104 in proximity to the modular UV panels 200.

FIG. 9 illustrates the system of FIG. 1 installed in an environment as an array 300″ of modular UV panels 200 arranged along a hallway 900 leading to a sterile area (not shown). The array 300″ of modular UV panels 200, as illustrated, covers the floor surface 102, thereby creating a sterile barrier between the sterile area and non-sterile area. By covering a portion of the floor surface 102, the modular UV panels 200 may be configured to operate in a passive mode, delivering reduced amounts of UV light to the grate 202, as well as any objects disposed on or near the grate 202. Also, the modular UV panels 200 may be oriented on the floor surface 102 so as to reduce the chance of exposure of UV light to the eyes of individuals 104 in close proximity to the modular UV panels 200. For example, the grate 202 may divert light away from the center of the hallway toward the periphery to be received by the walls 110. The walls 110 may be made or coated in a non-reflective material such as flat paints and the like, or where a smooth surface is located on the wall 110 such as a glass or laminate, compounds intended to reduce reflectivity such as DuPont™ Anti-Reflective Coating.

FIG. 10 illustrates the system of FIG. 1 installed in an environment 1000 as an array 300′″ of modular UV panels 200 for preventing transmission of pathogens from a non-sterile environment (not shown) to a patient room or sterile environment 1004. Prior to entering the sterile environment 1004 an individual may be required to undergo a sterilization process including known sterilization techniques (e.g., hand washing, scrubbing-in, and the like), in addition to sanitization performed by the one or more modular UV panels 200 disposed thereon. By installing the array 300′″ of modular UV panels 200 in close proximity to the sterile threshold 802, individuals entering the sterile environment 1004 receive additionally sanitization, thereby protected them from the transfer or contraction of pathogens from the environment of FIG. 10. This may both reduce the overall recovery time of patients located in the sterile environment 1004, protect healthcare providers and guests interacting with patients, as well as patients with compromised immune systems that may be at heightened risk of contracting infections (e.g., patients in different rooms which are receiving care from healthcare providers who are engaging with patients contaminated with pathogens). Though the environment illustrated in FIG. 10 shows only a portion of the floor surface 102 having modular UV panels 200 disposed thereon, the floor surface 102 may be completely covered with modular UV panels 200, or may have tiles disposed intermittently in patterns thereon (see FIG. 11). Further, the modular UV panels 200 may be selectively installed in areas likely to come into contact with pathogens, such as medical staging areas or where waste receptacles are disposed.

FIG. 11 is an illustration an embodiment of a floor surface 102 in which a subset of floor tiles 1100 are installed along a floor surface (not shown) in conjunction with a plurality of modular UV panels 200. By arranging the modular UV panels 200 intermittently across the floor surface 102, select or dispersed areas of the floor surface 102 may be sanitized as needed, or the modular UV panels 200 may be operated for longer periods of time. While a checker pattern is illustrated in FIG. 11, in embodiments, the pattern defined by the integration of modular UV panels may form other suitable patterns not expressly illustrated.

FIG. 12A is an illustration of a supplemental platform 1200 incorporated into the array 300′ of modular UV panels 200 illustrated in FIG. 8. The supplemental platform 1200 may be configured to interlock with one or more modular UV panels 200. More particularly, the supplemental platform 1200 may include male connectors 1208 and female connectors 1228 disposed thereon, the male and female connectors 1208, 1228 configured to engage with the male and female connectors 208, 228 of the modular UV panel 200. Both male and female connectors 1208, 1228 may only provide physical support for mechanical connections to modular UV panels 200 coupled thereto. In embodiments, both the male and female connectors 1208, 1228 may be configured as “pass-through” connectors, allowing for transmission of electrical energy as well as control signals to modular UV panels 200 which are interconnected. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 12A, a transfer patch 1202 may be disposed on the supplemental platform 1200, the transfer patch 1202 configured to transfer substances to the footwear 106 of individuals 104 standing on the supplemental platform 1200. The transfer patch 1202 may also be removable and/or disposable, to enable efficient replacement of the transfer patch 1202 once the end of the lifespan of the transfer patch 1202 is reached.

FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the supplemental platform 1200 of FIG. 12A, taken along A-A. As discussed earlier, the supplemental platform 1200 includes the transfer patch 1202 disposed in a recess defined by a supplemental platform surface 1204. The transfer patch 1202 may be loaded or otherwise saturated with substances capable of absorbing UV light energy (e.g., titanium dioxide (TiO₂), thereby increasing and/or prolonging the efficacy of the UV light treatment to the footwear 106 of individuals 104 engaging the modular UV panels 200. The transfer patch 1202 may be constructed of an absorbent gel or gel-like substance (e.g. a superabsorbent polymer), or may be a pad (not shown) which is lined with a UV light absorbing substance. The transfer patch 1202 may be removable for replacement with a new transfer patch 1202 after the UV absorbing material is extracted from the transfer patch 1202.

In embodiments, the transfer patch 1202 may include an outer membrane constructed of a microporous material. Examples of suitable porous and microporous materials include, without limitation, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), cotton, and the like. A transfer patch 1202 with a suitable porous or microporous membrane may be filled with a UV absorbent material such as titanium oxide (TiO₂) stored in a liquid, gel, or powder form. As an individual 104 steps onto the transfer patch 1202, the liquid, gel, or powder may pass through the porous or microporous membrane and attach to the footwear 106 of the individuals 104 traversing the transfer patch 1202. After the application of the UV absorbent material to the footwear 106 of the individual 104, the individual 104 may then step onto the modular UV panels 200 to allow for sanitization of the footwear 106 by the UV led panel 220.

FIGS. 12C and 12D illustrate alternative embodiments of the supplemental platform 1200, referred to as 1200′ and 1200″, respectively. As illustrated, the supplemental platforms 1200′ and 1200″ have disposed thereon transfer patches 1202 in predetermined shapes, presently, in shapes of the footwear 106 of individuals 104 interacting with the supplemental platforms 1200′ and 1200′. By shaping the transfer patches 1202 in such a manner, use of the transfer patch 1202 is made more intuitive. As such, an individual 104 is less likely to mistake the transfer patch for the modular UV panel 200 or for a surface which does not have UV absorbent materials disposed thereon.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the modular UV panels 200, referred to generally as 200′. As illustrated, modular UV panels 200′ include a grate 202 which further includes a plurality of running bars 202A and transparent material 202B interposed between the running bars 202A. The transparent material 202B may be any solid substance which permits UV light to pass through the transparent material 202B. Alternatively, the transparent material 202B may be substituted for a hollow cavity filled with air.

The UV led panel 220 of FIG. 13 as illustrated may be made of any material capable of sustaining the required floor load while supporting a plurality of UV led diodes 220A. Additionally, or alternatively, the UV led panel 220 may have openings (not shown) which permit direct connection between the supporting elements of the modular UV panel 200′ and the running bars 202A. The UV led panel 220 includes male and female connectors 208, 228 which are configured to engage with the male and female connectors 208, 228 of corresponding modular UV panels 200 (not shown). Since the UV floor tile of FIG. 13 does not require a housing 206 to support the grate 202, the modular UV panel 200′ has an overall height requirement which is reduced relative to the modular UV panel 200 (FIG. 1) when installed on a floor surface 102. Male connector 208 includes a male electric connector 208C configured to engage with a female electric connector 228C of a modular UV panel 200′ (see FIG. 6).

FIG. 14 is an illustration of the modular UV panel 200′ described in connection with FIG. 13, with alternative male and female connectors 208′, 228′. As illustrated, the male connector 208′ and female connector 228′ do not extrude or protrude from the modular UV panel 200′. Disposed on the exterior surface of the male and female connectors 208′, 228′ are a series of flush or substantially female electric connectors 228C which are substantially flush with the housing of the modular UV panel 200′ and are configured to transfer electrical power and/or control signals to modular UV panels 200 thereacross (see FIG. 1).

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating a process 1500, described generally as a controller-based process for controlling one or more modular UV panels 200 which operate between varying modular UV panel states. The modular UV panel states may selectively activate certain UV floor tile components. In embodiments, process 1500 may be performed by control unit or controller 214 (see FIG. 4A). As described, the modular UV panels 200, 200′, and components associated therewith, may include various components which are controlled by the controller 214, as described with respect to FIG. 4A. The processes described in this application, including process 1500 and process 1600, may be performed and/or executed on one or more of the components described in connection with the controller 214. Further, one of ordinary skill will recognize that the process described may be performed as single or unitary processes or, in the alternative, may be performed by performing a set of sub-processes. While the processes and sub-processes associated with processes 1500, 1600 are described in a particular order for purposes of clarity, it is contemplated that performance of particular processes may occur in differing order without departing from the scope or spirit of this disclosure. Further, specific examples of execution of any or all of the particular processes described below should not be seen as limiting, but merely as exemplary of embodiments consistent with this disclosure.

Process 1500 starts at block 1502, where the controller 214 sets a setting or state of the modular UV panel 200 to an active state. While in the active state, the controller 214 selectively causes electrical power to be transmitted to the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) disposed within the modular UV panel 200, 200′ to selectively activate or deactivate the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) once a predetermined criteria is detected. The predetermined criteria may include, without limitation, receiving sensor signals from one or more components of the modular UV panel 200, such as the one or more strain gauges 224.

At block 1504 the controller 214 may detect, among other events, an increase in the applied surface load as measured by one or more strain gauges 224 (see FIG. 4). Where no increase in the applied surface load is measured, process 1500 returns to block 1502, maintaining the controller 214 in the active state. Alternatively, once an increased surface load is detected by the one or more strain gauges 224, process 1500 continues to block 1506. In embodiments, the controller 214 may further include a wireless communication unit, e.g., a WiFi® antenna, an Bluetooth® antenna, an RFID antenna, or any other suitable device. The controller 214 may, either continuously or in response to an increase in the applied surface load measured by strain gauges 224, search for an electric signal associated with one or more individuals. For example, as an individual enters a room with a patient located therein (see FIG. 10), the amount of times the individual enters the room, or the amount of time the individual spends in the room, may be counted. As a result, the count may be maintained in the memory of the controller 214 or may be transmitted to a system remote from the controller 214. The count may subsequently be reviewed to ensure compliance (e.g., ensuring that the individual entering is not in the room for a period of time which is determined to be unsafe) with best practices for treating patients.

Upon determining the surface load has increased, the controller 214 causes electrical power to be transmitted to the UV led panel 220 at block 1506, thereby activating the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) and causing UV light to be transmitted toward the grate 202 of the modular UV panel 200, 200′ (see FIG. 4A). Notably, the controller 214 may further analyze the increase in the surface load and, if the measured surface load is not above a predetermined threshold (e.g., an individual 104 (FIG. 1) is not located on the modular UV panel 200, 200′) the controller 214 does not cause electrical power to be transmitted to the UV led panel 220.

While the controller 214 controls the UV led panel 220 to cause the UV led panel 220 to transmit UV light, the controller 214 again checks the strain gauge 224 to determine whether an increased load is present. If an increased load is still present, the controller 214 continues to cause the transmission of UV light, returning to block 1506. Otherwise, if the increased surface load detected at block 1506 is no longer detected, process 1500 proceeds to block 1510.

When the increased load is no longer detected, the modular UV panel 200, and more particularly the UV led panel 220, is deactivated by the controller 214, thereby causing the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) to stop or reduce the emission of UV light at block 1510. Upon deactivation of the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), the modular UV panels 200 is deactivated.

It is contemplated that process 1500 may, in alternative embodiments, monitor additional modular UV panel states. For example, the controller 214 may maintain a lamp-on counter configured to measure the amount of time the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) receives power from the controller 214. The modular UV panels 200 controller 214 may, upon detection of a lamp-on counter measurement which is greater than a predetermined measurement, deactivate the modular UV panel 200, or alternatively adjust the strain gauge 224 tolerance. Adjustment of the tolerance of the strain gauge 224 may be desired for handling situations such as objects being placed on the floor for extended periods of time, thereby preventing over-sanitization of the object. Additionally, when in the active state, the controller 214 may cause intermittent or otherwise varied transmission of UV light from the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), in place of continues transmission.

Referring now to FIG. 16, a flow diagram a process for setting a modular UV panel 200 state, referred to as process 1600, is illustrated. In embodiments, process 1600 may be performed by the controller 214 (FIG. 4A) in a manner similar described with respect to process 1500.

The controller 214 may initially set a default state at block 1602, causing the UV lamp 234 to operate in an ACTIVE state, described later at block 1608, a PASSIVE state described at block 1612, or an ON state described at block 1618. In general, the ACTIVE state relates to a state in which the controller 214 monitors one or more strain gauges 224 to determine whether an individual or objects are disposed thereon for sanitization; the PASSIVE state generally relates to operation in which the controller 214 maintains sanitization without necessarily measuring increased strain (e.g., activating the UV led panel 220 intermittently, maintaining continuous transmission of UV light at a reduced intensity); and the ON state generally relates to operation in which the controller 214 causes the UV led panel 220 to transmit light continuously, at either the maximum intensity or any lesser intensity which may be selected.

At block 1604, when the controller 214 determines that an ACTIVE state has been selected, either via an external input (not shown), or as a default state stored in the memory of the controller 214. If the ACTIVE state is selected, the controller 214 determines whether the one or more strain gauges 224 have detected a sufficient increase in the load placed on the modular UV panel 200 at block 1606. Alternatively, if, at block 1604, the controller 214 determines that the ACTIVE state is not selected, the controller 214 proceeds to block 1610 and determines whether the PASSIVE state is selected.

When the controller 214 determines the strain gauge 224 has detected a load greater than a predetermined threshold (block 1606), process 1600 continues to block 1608 and the controller 214 causes electrical energy to be transmitted to the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), thereby activating the UV led panel 220. The predetermined threshold necessary to activate the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) may be any measurable force exerted downward on the modular UV panel 200, or may be set at a threshold to prevent activation of the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) by an individual or object of insufficient weight (such as a child or small objects). Additionally, the predetermined threshold may be set as any weight determined to indicate incidental actuation not intended to activate the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) (e.g., when an individual 104 steps on two or more tiles). In embodiments, incidental actuation may also be determined by measuring a variation in strain, or lack thereof, and determining, based on the measured strain variation, whether the object located above the modular UV panel 200 has moved. If the controller 214 determines that the strain gauge 224 measurement meets the condition for activating the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), at block 1608 the UV led panel 220 is activated. Alternatively, if in the ACTIVE state the controller 214 does not determine the measured strain is sufficient to activate the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), process 1600 returns to block 1602.

While the UV led panel 220 is operated in the ACTIVE state at block 1608, the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) receives electrical energy, causing UV light to be transmitted upwardly from the modular UV panel 200 for sanitization of objects in contact with, or close proximity to, the modular UV panel 200. After activating the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), process 1600 returns to block 1606 where the controller 214 continues to check whether sufficient weight is exerted on the modular UV panel 200, thereby warranting continued sanitization.

When the controller 214 determines that an ACTIVE state is not selected at block 1604, the controller 214 determines whether a PASSIVE state is selected at block 1610. If the controller 214 determines that the PASSIVE state has is selected either in response to receiving external input (not shown) or based on instructions stored in the memory of the controller 214, process 1600 continues to block 1612. Alternatively, if the controller 214 determines that the PASSIVE state is not selected, process 1600 continues to block 1616.

At block 1612 the controller 214 operates the modular UV panel 200 in the PASSIVE state. While operating in the PASSIVE state, the UV floor tile may selectively activate the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), causing the transmission of UV light at a reduced intensity and/or intermittently. During operation in the PASSIVE state, the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) may emit UV light which is deemed to be optimal for use in connection with the presence of individuals 104 located in close proximity to the modular UV panel 200. Once the controller 214 activates the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), the controller 214 continues to block 1614 to determine whether the modular UV panel 200 has been deactivated. Deactivation of the UV led panel 220 may occur when the controller 214 receives a control signal to deactivate the UV led panel 220 from an external input source (not shown) or as a result of executing instructions in the memory of the controller 214. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 214 may determine that the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) has been active for a period of time greater than a predetermined period of time, and as such may cause the processes executed on the processor of the controller 214 to timeout, thereby deactivating the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234). If the controller 214 deactivates the UV led panel 220, process 1600 is terminated. Alternatively, if deactivation does not occur, process 1600 returns to block 1612.

If both the ACTIVE and PASSIVE states are not selected at blocks 1604 and 1610, respectively, the controller 214 determines whether an ON state is selected. The ON state generally refers to manual activation of the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234). The controller 214 may determine that an ON state is selected as a default state if either the ACTIVE or PASSIVE states are not selected. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 214 may determine that the ON state is selected based on receiving external input from an external input device (not shown). If the controller 214 determines that an ON state has been selected, process 1600 continues to block 1618. Alternatively, if the controller 214 does not determine that an ON state is selected, process 1600 continues to block 1620.

Once the ON state is selected, the controller 214 activates the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234) at block 1618. The UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234), after activation, receives power and emits UV light upwardly, toward the grate 202, the UV light ultimately received by objects located above the modular UV panel 200. Once the UV led panel 220 is activated the process 1600 for setting a UV tile state is terminated once terminated, the UV led panel 220 may continue to transmit UV light until receiving additional input, either from a remote computing device or in response to a timer maintained in the memory of the controller 214. In embodiments, the UV light may be continuously transmitted as an individual, operating a remote computing device, engages the remote device (e.g., depresses a button) to selectively cause the transmission of UV light from the UV led panel 220.

At block 1620 the controller 214 sets the UV floor tile state to an OFF state, thereby stopping the transmission of electrical power to the UV led panel 220 (or UV lamp 234). Once electrical power is no longer delivered to the UV led panel 220, process 1600 terminates.

The disclosed technology provides novel systems, methods, and apparatus for the sanitization of floor surfaces as well as objects located above. Though detailed descriptions of one or more embodiments of the disclosed technology are detailed above, various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without varying or departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, components, or combinations thereof, such features, components and combinations may be substituted with functionally equivalent substitutes which may or may not contain the elements as originally described or arranged.

Claims

1. A modular UV panel disposable on a floor surface and configured to selectively transmit ultraviolet (UV) light therefrom to destroy pathogens, the modular UV panel comprising:

a housing having a first and second lateral sides forming a cavity therebetween;

a platform supported by the housing and configured to permit passage of UV light therethrough;

a UV light source disposed within the cavity of the housing, the UV light source configured to transmit UV light through the platform;

a first connector disposed along the housing having a first interface configured to enable electrical communication thereacross; and

a second connector disposed along the housing having a second interface configured to enable electrical communication thereacross.

2. The modular UV panel of claim 1, wherein the first connector or the second connector are coupled to a power supply connection and are configured to receive electrical power and transmit power to the UV light source.

3. The modular UV panel of claim 2, further comprising a controller in electrical communication with the power supply and the UV light source, the controller configured to control operation of the UV light source.

4. The modular panel of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to operate in an ACTIVE state, a PASSIVE state, or an ON state.

5. The modular UV panel of claim 4, wherein the controller causes the UV light source to transmit UV light at a reduced luminescence while operating during a PASSIVE state.

6. The modular UV panel of claim 3, wherein the platform includes a plurality of running bars disposed in spaced relation thereon.

7. The modular UV panel of claim 6, wherein the plurality of running bars are disposed at a predefined angle (θ) relative to a plane defined by the platform such that UV light transmitted by the UV light source is transmitted from the modular UV panel at the predefined angle θ.

8. The modular UV panel of claim 6, wherein the UV light source is configured to transmit light at a UV-C wavelength range.

9. The modular UV panel of claim 6, wherein the platform further includes a second plurality of running bars intersecting the plurality of running bars, thereby defining a grid.

10. The modular UV panel of claim 1, wherein the platform is fabricated from aluminum.

11. The modular UV panel of claim 1, further comprising a cover removably disposed along an upper portion of the housing, the cover configured to enclose the cavity of the housing.

12. The modular UV panel of claim 1, wherein the housing is constructed of a reflective material.

13. The modular UV panel of claim 1, further comprising a housing base configured to be attached to the first and second lateral sides.

14. The modular UV panel of claim 13, wherein the housing and housing base are constructed of a reflective material configured to reflect transmitted UV light toward the platform.

15. The modular UV panel of claim 13, wherein the housing is configured to receive a reflective tray having a reflective white polytetrafluoroethylene coating.

16. The modular UV panel of claim 1, wherein the UV light source is a UV LED panel configured to emit short-wavelength UV radiation.

17. The modular UV panel of claim 1, wherein the UV light source is a UV bulb configured to emit short-wavelength UV radiation, the UV bulb being disposed in the cavity.

18. The modular UV panel of claim 3, further comprising a strain gauge in electrical communication with the controller and configured to transmit force measurements thereto in response to force exerted on the platform.