Patent attributes
A UV-C sterilization apparatus for a confined space having a closure which can be selectively positioned between a closed position, wherein the confined space is fully enclosed, and an opened position, wherein the confined space is accessible from an exterior thereof. The apparatus comprises means for connecting the apparatus to a power source to provide operating power to the apparatus and a housing dimensioned to fit within the confined space. The housing supports at least one sensor operative to detect when the closure is in the closed position and/or when the closure is not in the closed position; at least one source operative to emit UV-C light for irradiating the confined space; and a controller. The controller is connected to the at least one sensor and the at least one UV-C light source, and is operative to: determine when the closure is and is not in the closed position; activate the at least one UV-C light source to irradiate the confined space for a first fixed period of time when it is determined that the closure has gone to the closed position from not being in the closed position; periodically activate the UV-C light source to irradiate the confined space for at least a second fixed period of time, the periodic activation occurring following the first fixed period of time for so long as the closure remains in the closed position; and prevent the at least one UV-C light source from irradiating the confined space when it is determined that the closure is not in the closed position.
