Enhanced Flexible Ultraviolet Light Generation Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
Improved flexible UV light generation systems with enhanced flexibility, uniformity, safety, durability, and adjustability for efficient and effective UV light emission.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a flexible UV light generation system, but it had limitations in terms of flexibility, UV light emission uniformity, safety, durability, and adjustability. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel design and material enhancements.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced flexible UV light generation system features a flexible circuit with multiple UV-LEDs arranged in a spiral pattern, improving flexibility and reducing stress concentrations. The system also includes a UV diffuse reflective layer with a textured surface, enhancing UV light emission uniformity. Additionally, the system incorporates a built-in UV sensor to detect and respond to excessive UV radiation, ensuring safety. The UV diffuse reflective layer is coated with a protective layer to prevent degradation from environmental factors, improving durability. Furthermore, the system features a variable reflectivity mechanism to adjust the UV intensity output, providing adjustability. These enhancements result in a more efficient and effective UV light generation system.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel design and material enhancements that improve flexibility, uniformity, safety, durability, and adjustability, making the inventive concept non-obvious and distinct from the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different UV-LED arrangements, such as a hexagonal pattern, or incorporating additional safety features, like automatic shut-off in case of excessive UV radiation. Variations may also include using different materials for the UV diffuse reflective layer or the protective coating.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced flexible UV light generation system has potential applications in various industries, including water treatment, air purification, and medical device sterilization. The market for UV light generation systems is growing, driven by increasing demand for efficient and effective disinfection solutions.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61L2/10 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/088 |
| H | H01 | H01L25/0753 |
| H | H01 | H01L33/005 |
| H | H01 | H01L33/60 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Photonics and UV light generation systems, specifically flexible LED-based UV radiation devices with applications in disinfection and materials treatment. Requires expertise in electrical engineering, materials science, LED technology, and optical system design.
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with advanced degree in electrical/materials engineering, familiar with LED packaging, flexible circuit design, optical reflective technologies, and UV radiation applications. Capable of understanding complex optical and electronic system integration.
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's fundamental UV light generation system. The disclosed enhancements like spiral LED arrangement, textured reflective layer, and built-in safety sensors are logical extensions of existing UV light generation technologies. These modifications represent standard design optimization techniques within the known capabilities of skilled practitioners in the field.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,689 |
|---|---|
| Title | Methods for producing flexible ultraviolet light generation sheets and systems |
| Assignee(s) | W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. |