GB2609662A

GB2609662A - Decontamination devices

Info

Publication number: GB2609662A
Application number: GB2111657.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Platou Bjom; Fanebust Helge
Original assignee: Decon X Int AS
Current assignee: Decon X Int AS
Priority date: 2021-08-13
Filing date: 2021-08-13
Publication date: 2023-02-15
Also published as: EP4384227A1; GB202111657D0; WO2023017384A1

Abstract

A device 100 for decontamination of an enclosure, the device 100 comprising: a base unit 101, including tank (112, fig. 4) for storing a decontaminating composition, and an air turbine blower or a compressor (131, fig. 4) for generating pressurised air; a head unit 103; a nozzle (130, fig. 4) for breaking the decontaminating composition into small droplets; means (133, fig.4) for leading the decontaminating composition from the tank (112, fig. 4) to the nozzle (130, fig. 4); and a separating member 102 configured to mount the head unit 103 to the base unit 101 and to allow the height of the head unit 103 to be adjusted relative to the base unit 101. Preferably the separating member 102 comprises a hollow arm and has a square or rectangular cross-section to prevent rotation relative to the base unit 101. The device 100 may further comprise one or more sensors, a microcontroller unit and/or a user interface.

Description

Decontamination Devices The present invention relates generally to decontamination devices, and more particularly, to devices for decontamination of enclosures, such as for example rooms, buildings, ambulances, or other compartments, by circulating a decontaminating composition.

There is a continuing move towards improved hygiene and infection prevention and control in clinical, and also in some non-clinical, settings. Several methods and devices have been designed for decontamination of enclosures, such as for example rooms, buildings, ambulances or other compartments.

Decontamination devices must regularly be transported, and are often bulky which presents difficulties when it comes to movement and storage.

Additionally, during use of such devices it is often necessary for die user to interact with a user interface, making ergonomic use of smaller devices difficult.

There is a need for a device that is easier to transport and takes up less space during storage, whilst allowing for ergonomic use by the user.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention provides a device comprising: a base unit, including tank for storing a decontaminating composition, and an air turbine blower or a compressor for generating pressurised air; a head unit, a nozzle for breaking the decontaminating composition into small droplets,: means for leading the decontaminating composition from the tank to the nozzle; and a separating member configured to mount the head unit to the base unit and to allow the height of the head unit to be adjusted relative to the base unit.

The device may further comprise any one or more of the following: a) housing b) one or more sensors or sensor array including sensors configured to measure any one or more of temperature, relative humidity, and hydrogen peroxide concentration, c) microcontrol ler unit, d) communication unit, and c) user interface.

In one embodiment the device comprises: a base unit, including tank for storing a decontaminating composition, and an air turbine blower or a compressor for generating pressurised air: a head unit, including a nozzle for breaking the decontaminating composition into small droplets; means for leading the decontaminating composition from the tank to the nozzle; and a separating member configured to mount the head unit to the base unit and to allow the height of the head unit to be adjusted relative to the base unit.

A second aspect of the invention relates to use of the device of the first aspect and relevant embodiments thereof for decontamination of an enclosure.

Definitions The tenn "an enclosure to be decontaminated" is well known in the art and is understood by the skilled person in the present context to include any surface being part of or placed in the enclosure.

The term "decontamination of an enclosure" is well known in the art and is understood by the skilled person in die present context to relate to any process that eliminates, kills, or deactivates all forms of life and other biological agents such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spore forms, prions and unicellular cukatyotic organisms present in or on surfaces in a specified region, such as in an enclosure, space or area, such as a room, a building, an ambulance or other compartment.

The term "decontamination composition" is well known in the art and is understood by the skilled person, in die present context, to relate to solutions or liquids with the ability to eliminate, remove, kill or deactivate all forms of life and other biological agents such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spore forms, prions and unicellular eukaryotic organisms present in or on surfaces in a specified region, such as in an enclosure, space or area such as a room, a building, an ambulance or other compartment.

As used herein, the term "mist of droplets" generally refers to a mixture of air and finely distributed liquid droplets. A mist contains a significant proportion of liquid droplets suspended in the air. Depending on the size and density of the small droplets of liquid, the mist is generally visible to the naked eye. The mist may vapourise or evapourate into vapour.

Detailed Description

The present invention relates generally to decontamination devices, and more particularly, to devices for decontamination of enclosures, such as for example rooms, buildings, ambulances, or other compartments, by circulating a decontaminating composition.

The device of the invention comprises abase unit, including tank for storing a decontaminating composition.

The base unit may include a frame. The frame may support the tank.

The base unit may include wheels, casters or tracks to allow it to be moved. The wheels, casters or tracks may be secured to the tank. The wheels, casters or tracks may be secured to the frame of the base unit.

The base unit may be provided with a footrest to assist with tilting over doorsteps when moving the device. The footrest may be secured to or integral with the tank. The footrest may be secured to or integral with the frame of the base unit.

The base unit may be provided with a brake to prevent the device from moving.

The base unit may include the air turbine blower or the compressor for generating pressurized air.

The device of the invention further comprises a head unit. The head unit may be any suitable shape, for example rectangular, square, oval, "I-shaped".

The head unit may be provided with one or more handles to allow a user to hold on to the head unit during handling or transportation of the device.

In one example the head unit is rectangular or square and two handles are provided. The handles may extend along two opposing sides of the head unit.

in another example the head unit is "I-shaped" and a bar is provided on each side of the "I-shaped" head unit, each bar extending between the two parallel elongate portions of the "I-shape" to form handles.

The head unit may include the nozzle for breaking the decontaminating composition into small droplets.

The device of the invention further comprises a separating member configured to mount the head unit to the base unit and to allow the height of the head unit to be adjusted relative to the base unit.

In some embodiments, the head unit is rotatably secured to the separating member such that the head unit is capable of tilting. The head unit may be secured to the separating member by, for example, a universal joint or a ball and socket joint, to allow one or more of rotation and tilt of the head unit relative to the separating member.

In some embodiments, the head unit is secured to the separating member such that the head unit is at a fixed position with respect to the separating member. In some embodiments, the head unit is fixed in a plane perpendicular to the separating member. in some embodiments, the head unit is fixed at an angle of more than 0° with respect to a plane perpendicular to the separating member, such as more than 1°, such as more than 2°, such as more than 3°, such as more than 4°, such as more than 5°, such as more than 10°. In some embodiments, the head unit is fixed at an angle of less than 900 with respect to a plane perpendicular to the separating member, such as less than 60°, such as less than 50°, such as less than 40°, such as less than 30°, such as less than 20°.

The separating member may comprise an arm. The arm may be elongate. The arm may extend, for example vertically upwards, from the base unit. The aim may comprise a first end and a second end. The first end may be secured to the base unit. Where the base unit includes a frame the first end may be secured to the frame. The second end of the arm may be secured to the head unit. The arm may be integral with the head unit and/or the base unit. The arm may be welded or otherwise adhered to the head unit and/or the base unit. The arm may be moveably secured to the head unit and/or the base unit.

The arm may be of adjustable length.

The arm may comprise a first portion and a second portion. The second portion may be telescopically received by the first portion or the first portion may be telescopically received by the second portion. A first end of the first portion may be secured to the base unit. A second end of the second portion may be secured to the head unit. In one embodiment a first end of the second portion may be received by a second end of the first portion. In another embodiment a second end of the first portion may be received by first end of the second portion.

Means may be provided to hold the first and second portions in one or more positions relative to each other.

Alternatively, the arm may be received by the base unit such that distance of the head unit from the base unit, and thus the height of the head unit, is capable of adjustment. The arm may be received by the base unit such that it can slide into and out of the base unit and be secured in one of a number of positions.

The base unit may include an aperture in which the arm is slidably received. Means may be provided to hold the arm in one or more positions relative to the aperture.

in one example the arm is of adjustable length, comprising a first portion and a second portion where the second portion is telescopically received by the first portion, or the first portion is telescopically received by the second portion, and the first portion is slidably received by the base unit, for example a bore in the base unit.

The arm may include a gas spring. The gas spring may be a lockable gas spring. In some examples, the gas spring locking mechanism works by opening and dosing a valve on a piston inside the gas pressure housing. The gas spring may in use cause the second portion of the arm to move relative to the first portion of the arm. The gas spring may in use cause the second portion of the ama to be held in a position relative to the first portion of the arm.

The arm may be hollow. The arm may be of any suitable cross-section, for example square, rectangular or circular, in preferred embodiments, the cross-section of the arm is square or rectangular to prevent rotation of the head unit relative to the base unit.

The device may assume a first position in which there is a first distance between the base portion and the head portion. The first distance between the base portion and the head portion may be minimized in this position.

The device may assume a second position in which there is a second distance between the base portion and the head portion. The second distance is greater than the first distance. The second distance is increased compared to the first distance.

The separating member allows the device to be stored easily in smaller spaces when in the first position, as well as lowering the centre of gravity of the device, making it more stable during 35 transport.

The separating member provides the benefit of ergonomic use of the device when in the second position. The separating member also allows for optimization of the height and orientation of the nozzle as appropriate for the specific enclosure to be decontaminated.

The device of the present invention may additionally include one or more sensors or a sensor array including sensors configured to measure one or more of, for example, temperature, relative humidity, and hydrogen peroxide concentration; a microcontroller unit comprising a software algorithm for determining and controlling the hydrogen peroxide concentration in the enclosure to be decontaminated; a user interface.

The sensors may be included in or mounted on the base portion or the head portion. The sensors may be included in or mounted on the head portion.

The device, for example the head unit, may include a pressure sensor for detecting the nozzle pressure. The pressure sensor may be a pneumatic pressure sensor.

A microcontroller may be included in or mounted on the base portion or the head portion. The microcontroller may be included in or mounted on the head unit.

A user interface may be included in or mounted on the base unit or the head unit. The user interface is ideally included in or mounted on the head unit.

The device may be provided with a power source such as a batten'.

The device may be provided with means to connect to an electricity supply, such as a power cable and plug. The power cable may be retractable within the base unit of the device. Tank

The base unit is provided with a tank for storing the decontaminating composition.

Examples of a suitable tank for storing the decontaminating composition are well known in the art and the skilled person knows how to select a suitable tank. The tank may be made of any material suitable for storing the decontaminating composition. Such a material may be selected from plastic, stainless steel, metal, ceramics or porcelain. For example, the tank is made of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, stainless steel, metal, ceramics or porcelain. In one example, the tank is made of plastic.

The tank may be adapted or made such that it can easily be removed from the base unit. In one example, the tank is removable from the frame of the base unit.

The base unit may include a tank level sensor for detecting the volume of decontaminating composition in the tank.

Housing The base unit may be provided with a housing.

The housing of the base unit, where provided, may comprise a preferably rigid and stable, nondeformable structure with an oval, round, rectangular or square shape. The housing may include, or be adapted to be attachable to, any frame provided as part of the base unit. The housing and any frame are preferably made of metal, stainless steel, plastic, or wood. In one example, the housing and frame are made of metal, stainless steel or plastic such as an organic thermoplastic polymer.

The housing may comprise a lid or a door, having an open position and a closed position. The housing may be constructed so that the tank is accessible when the lid or door is in the open position.

In one example, the tank is removable via the lid disposed in the housing of the base unit. In one example the base unit includes a lid lock sensor for detecting whether the lid in the housing is in the open or closed position.

The housing may be constructed in a way that allows easy access to any filter for the compressor or air turbine. The housing may have an opening, and the compressor suction filter may be disposed in the opening, allowing a user direct access to the compressor suction filter to remove clean or replace the filter.

The housing may hold, wholly or in part, elements including but not limited to the tank for storing the decontaminating composition, the air turbine or compressor for generating pressurized air, part or all of the means for leading the decontaminating composition from the tank to the nozzle.

The base unit may additionally include sensors for measuring one or more of the following: head unit position, lid lock status, tank level.

Means for measuring temperature, relative humidity and hydrogen peroxide concentration Examples of suitable means for measuring one or more of temperature, relative humidity and hydrogen peroxide concentration are well known in the art and the skilled person knows how to select a suitable means for measuring temperature, relative humidity and hydrogen peroxide concentration.

Means for measuring temperature include classical glass thermometers that consist of a glass tube filled with mercury or some other liquid acting as the working fluid. Other, more preferred means for measuring temperature are thermocouples, thennistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTD), pyrometers. The means for measuring temperature may be selected from the group comprising a classical glass thermometer, a thermocouple, a thermistor, a resistance temperature detector or a pyrometer. In a preferred example, the means for measuring temperature is an integrated Circuit HDC 1080 from Texas instruments.

Means for measuring relative humidity include gravimetric hygrometer, a chilled mirror hygrometer, or an electric hygrometer. Relative humidity may also be determined based on capacitance measurements. Thus, in one example, the means for measuring relative humidity is selected from the group comprising a gravimetric hygrometer, a chilled mirror hygrometer, or an electric hygrometer. In another example, the means for measuring relative humidity is based on capacitance measurements. In a preferred example, means for measuring relative humidity is an Integrated Circuit HDC1080 from Texas Instruments.

Hydrogen peroxide may be quantified by combinations of enzymatic and spectrophotometric techniques or by the use of amperometric hydrogen peroxide sensors and electrochemical diffusion sensors. Electrochemical sensors are particularly attractive due to their ease of use and low cost. Sensors for gas analysis rely for example on a gas permeable membrane covering a supporting electrolyte solution, or on a polymer membrane deposited directly on the electrodes.

After uptake and diffusion of hydrogen peroxide to the electrode surface, electrochemical conversion results in a concentration dependent current. There are several available amperometric hydrogen peroxide sensors available from commercial suppliers. In one example, the means for measuring hydrogen peroxide is an electrochemical gas sensor. in another example, the means for measuring hydrogen peroxide is an amperometric based hydrogen peroxide sensor. In a further example, the hydrogen peroxide sensor shows the concentration as ppm (parts per million). In a still further example, the hydrogen peroxide sensor is a The Drager Polytrorrk 7000 equipped with a hydrogen peroxide sensor with part number 6809675 or 6809705. In a preferred example, the hydrogen peroxide concentration is measured using anlectrochemicat hydrogen peroxide gas sensors CB-100 and CB-500 from Membrapor.

The means for measuring temperature, relative humidity, and hydrogen peroxide concentration may alternatively be built together as a single sensor or sensor array that can measure all three parameters simultaneously.

Decontaminating composition The decontaminating composition can be any solution or liquid with the ability to eliminate, remove, kin or deactivate all forms of life and other biological agents such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spore forms, prions, unicellular eukaryotic organisms present in a specified region, such as an enclosure, a room, building, ambulance or other compartment.

In one example, the decontaminating composition is a liquid. in another example, the decontaminating composition is a liquid comprising from 1-20% hydrogen peroxide, such as from 2-15% hydrogen peroxide, suth as from 3-12% hydrogen peroxide, such as from 5-10% hydrogen peroxide, such as from 4-8% hydrogen peroxide. In a preferred example, the decontaminating composition is a liquid comprising 4-8% hydrogen peroxide.

Compressor Examples of a suitable compressor for generating pressurized air are well known in the art and the skilled person knows how to select a suitable compressor.

In some examples, thc compressor is an oil-free compressor that can provide an outlet flow rate of more than 40 L/minute, such as more than 10 L/minute, such as more than 20 L/minute, such as more than 30 L/minute, such as more than 40 L/minute, such as more than 50 L/minute, such as more than 60 L/minute.

In one example, the compressor is an oil-free compressor. In another example, the compressor is a compressor that can provide an outlet flow rate of more than 5 L/minute, such as more than 10 L/minute, such as more than 20 Uminute, such as more than 30 L/minute, such as more than 40 L/minute, such as more than 50 Uminute, such as more tram 60 L/minute.

In a preferred example, the compressor is an oil-free Planet Air model P1-120 C compressor. In another example, die compressor is an oil-free Planet Air model P1-180 C Compressor.

Nozzle The nozzle is configured to break up the decontaminating composition into a decontaminating mist comprising small droplets of the decontaminating composition.

The nozzle may be any nozzle suitable for breaking up the decontaminating composition into small droplets. The nozzle may be optimized for providing drops having a mean diameter of from 10-13 pm.

In one example, the nozzle breaks up the decontaminating composition into small droplets wherein the diameter of at least 50% of the droplets produced by the nozzle is in the range of from 1-50 vim, such as from 1-25 vim, such as from 1-20 pm, such as from 1-15 vim. Preferably, the size of the droplets is relatively uniform.

In preferred examples, the nozzle is configured to produce a decontaminating mist comprising mostly (i.e. more than 50%) droplets having a diameter of from 1-25 vim.

The size of the droplets in this description is determined by a laser diffraction analyser. Such analysers fall into the non-imaging (ensemble) category and comprise a transmitter, a receiver and a computer. The technique is based on measuring the scattered light intensity caused by the drops as they pass through the analyser sampling area. The scattered light intensity is measured using a series of semi-circular photo diodes housed in the receiver unit. A curve-fitting program is used to convert the light intensity distribution into any of several empirical drop size distribution functions. The most serious limitation of this technique is known as multiple scattering. Multiple scattering occurs when spray densities are too high; the light may be scattered by multiple drops before reaching the detector. This introduces errors in computing the drop size distribution. Generally, laser diffraction analyzers are best suited for measuring small capacity air atomizing nozzles, hydraulic and flat spray nozzles, and is useful for comparisons and quick evaluation of prototype nozzles.

More specifically, the size of the droplets of the decontaminating mist is determined using a Malvern laser diffraction-based instmment sin MAL1070400 with a 300mm lens with the capability of measuring the size of the diameter of droplets from 0.1-2000 vim.

In some examples, the nozzle is selected from an air atomizing nozzle, a hydraulic nozzle and a flat spray nozzle. In preferred examples, the nozzle is an air atomizing nozzle.

Means for leading the decontaminating composition to the nozzle Means for leading the decontaminating composition to the nozzle may include a pump. In one example, the pump is a peristaltic pump. In one example the pump is a Welco model WPX pump.

The pump may alternatively be based on the Venturi effect that is created by a reduction in fluid pressure that results when a fluid flows through a constricted section (or choke) of a pipe.

Combining an air turbine blower with Venturi tubes/nozzles may also be used for creating a suitable mist of droplets.

Means for leading the decontaminating composition to the nozzle may include one or more hoses extending between the tank and the nozzle. Since the decontaminating composition comprising hydrogen peroxide may be corrosive to the inside parts of the device it is desirable to use a single, unbroken hose for transporting the decontaminating composition from the tank to the nozzle in order to avoid contact of the decontaminating composition with any parts of the device except the tank, the hose and the nozzle. Accordingly, in one example a hose connecting the tank with the nozzle is made as a single piece.

in some embodiments, the hose leads from the tank in the base unit to the nozzle in the head unit via the separating member.

Microcontroller In some examples, the device comprises a microcontroller. Examples of a suitable microcontroller unit are well known in the art and the skilled person knows how to select a suitable microcontroller unit.

When present, the microcontroller unit (MCU) may act as a small computer on a single integrated circuit or on a few single integrated circuits. The MCU may comprise a general-purpose programmable processor or controller for executing application programming or instructions related to the device. Furthermore, it can perform operations for configuring and transmitting information as described herein. The MCU may have one or more central processing units (CPUs) or microprocessors along with RAM for data and calculation, a ROM for boot, memory for program storage and programmable input/output peripherals. As examples, the memory/storage may comprise a computer-readable device, RAM, ROM, DRAM, SDRAM, and/or other storage device and media. The CPU controls the program execution and numerous peripherals for communication with onboard sensors. The software algorithm is part of the program and preferably resides in the memory. The timers are used for timing an external event, generating an event on periodic basis and for generation of pulse-width modulation (PWM) signals. By way of example, the MCU may comprise a specifically configured Application Specific Integrated Circuit (AS1C) or other integrated circuit, a digital signal processor, a controller, a hardwired electronic or logic circuit, a programmable logic device or gate army, a special purpose computer, or the like. In one example, the microcontroller unit comprises a microprocessor as means for data processing.

The MCU may connect to some or all sensors and control devices such as compressors and pumps, and may be configured with a user interface. The user interface may comprise a touch screen. The touch screen may be housed in the head unit of the device and may be connected to a PC which is integrated with a main circuit board. The PC and main circuit board are ideally positioned in the base unit. . The PC may also hold any CPU where the communication unit and the algorithm for disinfection runs when the device is in use. The touch screen may be connected to the PC wirelessly or via a cable, such as for example a USB-C cable.

The microcontroller unit may comprise a software algorithm for determining and controlling the hydrogen peroxide concentration in the enclosure to be decontaminated. The concentration of the decontaminating composition within the enclosure to be decontaminated may be maintained within a predetermined range, such as more than 30 ppm, such as more than 40 ppm, such as more than 50 ppm, such as more than 60 ppm, such as more than 70ppm, such as more than 100 ppm. The concentration of the decontaminating solution may be less than 1000ppm, such as less than 750 ppm, such as less than 500ppm, such as less than 300 ppm, such as less than 250 ppm, such as less than 230 ppm, such as less than 220 ppm, such as less than 210 ppm, such as less than 200 ppm. A suitable concentration range may be 30 to 400 pmm, for example 50 to 300 ppm, for example 70 to 200 ppm.

In some examples, the software algorithm is capable of controlling the device to maintain the decontaminating mist in the enclosure to be decontaminated such that the number of bacteria is promptly reduced by at least a factor of Ix 102, such as in the range of I x103 to Ix 107.

Communication Unit In some examples, the device may be configured for use with a communication unit. The communication unit may be remote from die device. The device may be suitable for remote operation via the communication unit. In some examples the MCU is connectable to the remote communication unit. In some examples the user interface is connectable to the remote communication unit. Examples of suitable communication units are well known in the art and the skilled person knows how to select a suitable communication unit.

When present, the communication unit is adapted for communicating with a user interface -as understood by the skilled person this is necessary in order for the measured process parameters to be received by the user interface.

The communication unit may include a transmitter and receiver which can transmit and receive signals, respectively, to and from other wireless devices. It may also contain one or more antennas for use in wireless communications such as multi-input multi-output (MIMO) communications, for example mobile 5G, 4G, 3G or 2G based wireless systems. Bluetoothg, ZigBee, Z-Wave or Wifi. The antennas can include, but are not limited to, directional antennas, omnidirectional antennas, monopoles, patch antennas, loop antennas, microstrip antennas, dipoles, and any other antenna(s) suitable for communication transmission/reception. The communication unit may for example be connected to external devices via an ethernet cable. In one example, the communication unit is a modem. In one example, the modem is integrated with the user interface.

The communication unit may also optionally contain a security module. This security module can contain information regarding, but not limited to, security parameters required to connect the device to an access point or other device or other available network(s), and can include WEP or WPA security access keys, network keys, etc. The WEP security access key is a security password used by Wi-Fi networks. Knowledge of this code will enable a wireless device to exchange information with the access point. The information exchange can occur through encoded messages with the WEP access code often being chosen by the network administrator. TPA is an added security standard that is also used in conjunction with network connectivity with stronger encryption than WEP. In one example, the communication is wireless. In another example, the means for measuring one or more of temperature, relative humidity and hydrogen peroxide concentration and the communication unit may be assembled on one printed circuit board (PCB).

Software algorithm as such The TVICU may comprise a software algorithm for determining and controlling the hydrogen peroxide concentration in the enclosure to be decontaminated. In some examples, the software L1 algorithm works using data inputted by the user. In some examples, the software algorithm allows the device to control the device based on feedback from the sensors. The actual mathematics and specific software language used for making a suitable software algorithm may be seen as based on standard, well known mathematics and software language -i.e. based on the teaching herein and the common general knowledge of the skilled person, it is routine work for the skilled person to make a suitable software algorithm where required.

Use of the device for decontamination of an enclosure A second aspect of the invention relates to use of the device of the first aspect and relevant embodiments thereof for decontamination of an enclosure.

Preferably, the enclosure does not have a size greater than from 1-1000 m3, such as from 5-500 m3, such as from 10-200 m3 per device for decontamination of the enclosure, if the size of the enclosure is greater than 1000 m3, or greater than 500 m3, or greater than 200 m3 a number of devices of the present invention may be placed in the enclosure and operated in parallel. Moreover, if the enclosure is constructed in a way such that one device cannot produce a homogenous mist of droplets, a number of devices may be placed in different places in the enclosure such that a homogenous mist of droplets can be achieved. In one example, the enclosure has a size of from 1-1000 m3 per device for decontamination of the enclosure.

The temperature in the enclosure may be from 5-60°C, such as from 10-50°C, such as from 1640°C.

The relative humidity in the enclosure may be from 5-95%, such as from 10-90%, such as from 20-90%.

Preferably, there is no ventilation in the enclosure to be decontaminated and the windows, doors and other openings are sealed during the decontamination process. In an example, the temperature in the room, building, ambulance, or other enclosure is from 1-70 'C., such as from 5-65 °C, such as from 10-60 °C, such as from 10-50 °C, such as from 10-40 °C, such as from 15-40 °C. in a further example, the relative humidity in the room, building, ambulance, or other enclosure is from 10-90%.

Description of the Figures

The invention will now be described in more detail by reference to the following figures in 30 which: Figure 1 shows a side perspective view of the device; Figure 2 shows a side view of the device with the head unit shown in two of its possible positions; Figure 3 shows a cross section through the separating member; Figure 4 shows a cross section through the device; arid Figure 5 shows the head unit.

Figures 1-5 of the accompanying drawings show an embodiment of the invention.

As shown in figures Ito 4 the device 100 comprises a base unit 101, a separating member 102, and a head unit 103.

In this embodiment, the base unit 101 includes a rectangular frame 104 mounted on four casters 105, one at each corner of the frame, to allow the device to be moved. The base unit 101 further includes a footrest 106 protruding from a short side of the frame 104 to assist in tilting and moving the device Two of the casters 105 are provided with brakes107 to prevent the device from moving.

The base unit 101 is provided with a housing 108. The housing 108 is a rigid, non-deformable 3D structure with a rectangular cross-section The housing 108 is secured to or integral with the frame 104.

The housing has an openable section 150. The openable section may lift out, open by hinges or be raised and lowered, for example on tracks. The openable section allows access to the tank to fill it or replace an empty tank with a fuller tank.

The base unit 101, in particular the frame 104 and in some embodiments the housing 108, support the separating member 102 on which the head unit 103 is mounted.

In this embodiment the separating member 102 extends vertically upwards from the base unit 101. The separating member 102 extends through an aperture in the housing 108.

Figure 2 shows the device 100 assuming a first position (A) in which the separating member 102 is inserted into the base unit 101 such that the distance between the base unit 101 and the head unit 103 is minimized, and a second position (B) in which the separating member 102 is extended from the base unit 101 such that the distance between the base unit 101 and the head unit 109 is increased.

Figure 3 shows the separating member 102 in detail. The separating member 102 comprises an arm 109 having a first portion 119 and a second portion 129. The first portion 119 is telescopically received by the second portion 129. A first end 129a of the second portion 129 receives a second end 119b of the first portion 119. A second end 129b of the second portion 129 is secured to the head unit 103. A first end 119a of the first portion 119 is secured to the frame 104 of the base unit 101 and a second end 119b of the first portion 119 is received by the first end I29a of the second portion 129.

The separating member of Figure 3 comprises a lockable gas spring to hold the second portion 129 in one or more positions relative to the first portion 119 and to move the second portion 129 between these positions. The gas spring comprises a valve 120, a gas pressure housing 121 and a piston 122. The piston 122 being movable in and out of the gas cylinder 121.

The gas spring locking mechanism works by opening and closing valve 120 on the piston 122 inside the gas pressure housing 121. Opening the valve 120 allows gas to flow freely between each side of the piston 122, thus allowing movement of the piston 122 and as a result the second portion 119 of the separating member in relation to the first portion 119, thus resulting in movement of die head unit 103 relative to the base unit 101. Closing the valve 120 causes pressurized gas on both sides of the piston 122 to hold the piston 122, and as a result the second portion 129 in a fixed position in relation to the first portion 119, thus holding the head unit 103 in a fixed position relative to the base unit 101. The valve 120 is operated by button 123 positioned at the second end 129b of the second portion 129 of the ann 109.

Figure 4 shows a cross section through the device 100. In this particular embodiment, the nozzle is located on the head unit 103 of the device 100. The base unit 101 includes a frame 104 and, supported by the frame, a tank 112 for containing the decontamination composition, a compressor 131 and a liquid pump 132 for leading the decontaminating composition from the tank 112 to the nozzle 130. The device 100 further comprises a chemical hose 133 leading from the tank 112 to the nozzle 130 via the liquid pump 132. The device 100 also includes an air hose 134 leading from the compressor 131 to the nozzle 130. The chemical hose 133 and the air hose 134 are both contained within the hollow arm 109 of the separating member 102.

The head unit 103 shown in Figure 5 is "I-shaped" comprising a central elongate portion 140 with two opposing ends 140a, 140b. Two further elongate portions 14L 142 are provided extending parallel to each other and perpendicular to the central elongate portion 140 and one positioned at each end 140a, 140b of the central elongate portion 140.

A bar 143, 144 of circular cross-section is provided on each side of the "I-shaped" head unit, each bar 143, 144 extending between the two parallel elongate portions 141, 142 of the "I-shape" to form handles.

The head unit 103 comprises a user interface which is a touch display 145 mounted on the central elongate portion 140.

The head unit comprises a nozzle 130 positioned in the centre of one of the two further elongate portions 141.

The device 100 can be stored with the head unit 103 in first position (A) as shown in figure 2.

The device can also be transported in this position. in first position (A) the device 100 is compact and robust allowing for easy storage. When the device is to be used it can be moved into position using the casters 105 and assisted by use of the footrest 106 as required. The device can be held in position by brakes 107.

The user then needs to set up the device ready for use and wants to do this in an ergonomic position, second position (B) of figure 2. The user therefore opens the valve 120 using button 123 to allow gas to flow freely from the gas pressure housing 121 between each side of the piston 122. This causes movement of the piston 122 out of the gas pressure housing 121 and as a result movement of the second portion 119 of the arm 109 in relation to the first portion 119, thus resulting in movement of the head unit 103 away from the base unit 101.

Once the desired distance between the head unit and base unit is achieved the user can use button 123 to close the valve 120. This causes pressurized gas on both sides of the piston 122 to hold the piston 122 in a fixed position relative to the gas pressure housing 121, and as a result the second portion 129 in a fixed position in relation to the first portion 119. thus holding the head unit 103 in a fixed position relative to the base unit 101.

The user may choose to put the device into second position (B) while moving the device, for example while pushing the device short distances to position it. This allows the user to adopt an ergonomic position while moving the device into place for use and avoid damage to their back neck or other body areas.

Once the device has been used to decontaminate a room the head unit can be returned to first position (A) and the device can be transported and stored until next use.

Claims

Claims 1. A device for decontamination of an enclosure, the device comprising: a base unit, including tank for storing a decontaminating composition, and an air turbine blower or a compressor for generating pressurised air; a head unit, a nozzle for breaking the decontaminating composition into small droplets,: means for leading the decontaminating composition from the tank to the nozzle; and a separating member configured to mount the head unit to the base unit and to allow the height of the head unit to be adjusted relative to the base unit.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the separating member comprises an arm having a first end and a second end, the first end being secured to the base unit and the second end being secured to the head unit, and wherein the arm is of adjustable length.
3. The device of claim 2 wherein the arm is hollow.
4. The device of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the cross-section of the arm is square or rectangular to prevent rotation of the head unit relative to the base unit.
5. The device of any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the arm comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein one of the first portion or second portion is capable of being telescopically received by the other, and wherein means are provided to hold the first and second portions in one or more positions relative to each other.
6. The device of claim 5 wherein the means provided to hold the first and second porti in one or more positions relative to each other is a lockable gas spring.
7. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the head unit is provided with handles.
8. The device of any preceding claim wherein the base unit comprises a housing.
9. The device of claim 8 wherein the housing comprises a lid or a door, having an open position and a closed position.
10. The device of claim 8 or claim 9 wherein the housing comprises an opening housing a compression suction filter.
11. The device of any preceding claim wherein the nozzle is included in the head unit.
12. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle is selected from an air atomizing nozzle, a hydraulic nozzle and a flat spray nozzle.
13. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the means for leading the decontaminating composition to the nozzle includes a pump.
14. The device of claim 13, wherein the pump is a peristaltic pump.
15. The device according to claim 13 -herein the pump is based on the Venturi effect. 011S
16. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the means for leading the decontaminating composition to the nozzle includes one or more hoses extending between the tank and the nozzle.
17. The device of claim 16, wherein the means for leading the decontaminating composition to the nozzle includes one or more hoses ex/ending between the tank and the nozzle via the separating member.
18. The device of any preceding claim, further comprising one or more sensors or a sensor array, optionally configured to measure one or more of temperature, relative humidity and hydrogen peroxide concentration.
19. The device of any preceding claim, further comprising a microcontroller unit, wherein optionally the microcontroller unit comprises a software algorithm for determining and controlling the hydrogen peroxide concentration in the enclosure to be decontaminated.
The device of any preceding claim, further comprising a user interface.
21 The device of claim 20 wherein the user interface comprises a touch screen
22 The device of claim 20, wherein the user interface is included in the head unit.
23. The device of claim 20, further comprising a communication unit adapted for communicating with the user interface.
24. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises a compressor and wherein optionally the compressor is an oil-free compressor.
25. Use of a device according to any preceding claim for decontamination of an enclosure.