APPARATUS, METHOD, SYSTEM AND SOFTWARE PRODUCT FOR HAND SANITISATION

Abstract

An apparatus and method for hand sanitisation by application of ozone. The apparatus includes a disinfecting chamber having at least one port for receiving a hand therein and a sensor for detecting entry or exit of the hand into the chamber. The apparatus delivers ozone water to the hand while a controller provides start and stop times for the delivery of the ozone water. This results in improved sanitisation of the hand or hands.

Claims

1. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) for hand sanitisation by application of ozone, the apparatus comprising, a disinfecting chamber (3,3′, 110) having at least one port (2) adapted for insertion of at least one hand into the disinfecting chamber (3, 110), at least one sensor (4) adapted for detection of an entry and/or exit of the at least one hand (26) into the disinfecting chamber (3, 110), at least one ozone water output (7,130) of an ozone water supply (8) that comprises an electrolytic ozone generator (18) and being arranged to deliver ozone water to the at least one hand (26) when inserted into the disinfecting chamber (3,3′, 110), a control means (6) which is arranged to start a discharge of ozone water from the at least one ozone water output (7,130) into the disinfecting chamber (3,3′, 110) when the at least one sensor (4) detects entry of the at least one hand (26) into the disinfecting chamber (3,3′, 110), is arranged to stop the discharge of ozone water from the at least one ozone water output (7,130) in response to an input from the control means (6), comprises a timer (5) arranged to cooperate with the at least one sensor (4) to regulate a sanitisation timing of the at least one hand (26) inserted in the disinfecting chamber (3, 110), wherein the at least one ozone water output (7,130) of the disinfecting chamber (3,110) comprises a first plurality of ozone water delivery openings (33) arranged in a first pattern selected to deliver and spread a flow of ozone water over the palm of the inserted at least one hand (26) wherein said flow of ozone water is directed towards the palm to disinfect all areas of the inserted at least one hand from above, and/or a second plurality of ozone water delivery openings (34) arranged in a second pattern selected to deliver and spread a flow of ozone water over the back of the inserted at least one hand (26), wherein said flow of ozone water is directed towards the back of the hand to disinfect all areas of the inserted at least one hand from below.

2. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the least one port (2) is dimensioned for entry and/or exit of the at least one hand (26) with an open palm but not with a clenched fist.

3. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one hand is a hand (26) that has been cleaned by washing before use of the apparatus (1a,1b,13,25).

4. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a recognition device (9), arranged co-operative with the control means (6), suitable to detect and recognize at least one user whose at least one hand (26) is to be sanitised.

5. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control means (6) further comprises means for storing data (10) related to at least one sanitisation for the at least one user.

6. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the means for storing data (10) comprises at least one sanitisation protocol arranged to be implemented for the at least one user.

7. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the at least one user is a user unknown to the sanitisation protocol, a user unknown to the sanitisation protocol or belongs to a group of users having a common sanitisation protocol.

8. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in 6, wherein the sanitisation protocol is customised to an individual user or to a group of users.

9. (canceled)

10. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ozone generator (18) has a generator inlet connected to a water supply (8) and at least one generator outlet connected to the first plurality of ozone water delivery openings (33) and/or the second plurality of ozone water delivery openings (34) of the disinfecting chamber (3,110).

11. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the water supply is selected from a continuous water supply or a batch supply, optionally the water supply is tap water.

12. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ozone water has a temperature below 37° C., alternatively below 30° C., alternatively below 25° C., optionally between 10° C. and 22° C.

13. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the disinfecting chamber (3,110) has an outlet connected to a drain.

14. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control means (6) comprises failure detection means and/or failure alerting means.

15. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the disinfecting chamber (3,110) is further provided with at least one primer output (11) of a primer supply (12), arranged to deliver a release from the at least one primer output (11) arranged as regulated by the control means (6).

16. An apparatus (1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the release comprises a high pH wash, with a pH arranged >pH 7, or in a range between 8 and 12, between 9 and 11, or around 10 or 10.5.

17. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the discharge of ozone water comprises ozone water with an ozone concentration arranged between 2 to 50 PPM, or between 3 and 30 PPM, or between 5 and 20 PPM, or between 10 and 15 PPM, or around 12 PPM.

18. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the release from the at least one primer output (11) is arranged to be effected in a single continuous event or in a plurality of pulses.

19. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the discharge of ozone water are arranged to be effected in a single continuous event or in a plurality of pulses.

20. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a towel dispenser (14) arranged capable of providing a towel for drying the at least one hand.

21. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a signal device (15) comprising light and/or sound and/or display and/or other signalling means arranged to draw the attention of the at least one user and/or provide information to the at least one user while the apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) is in operation and/or when at least one sanitisation is complete.

22. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second plurality of ozone water delivery openings (33;34) is provided in a matrix or an array.

23. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second plurality of ozone water delivery openings (33;34) are provided so that the individual openings of the plurality are spaced part along a manifold in form of one or more of a pipe or a tubing (37a,37;38a,38b), or are distributed over a diffuser plate.

24. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises a means for adjusting the flow direction of the ozone water delivery openings (33,34).

25. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 24 wherein the means for adjusting the flow direction of the ozone water delivery openings (33,34) is selected to continuously change the flow direction, optionally according to a given controlled flow regime.

26. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 24 wherein the means for adjusting the flow direction of the ozone water delivery openings (33,34) comprises a motor for varying the discharge angle (α) of at least one of the first and second plurality of ozone water delivery openings (33;34) separately, or of the manifold as a combined unit.

27. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a tube or pipe (37a,37b;38a,38b) of a discharge arrangement (36) are pivotable about its longitudinal axis (A1,A2), optionally also moveable along said longitudinal axis (A1,A2).

28. An apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises guide plates (40) adjacent the first and second plurality of ozone water delivery openings (33;34) for guiding the ozone water towards the inserted hand (26).

29. A method of hand sanitisation comprising the steps of: providing the apparatus (1a,1b,13,25) according to claim 1, sensing the introduction of the at least one hand (26) in a port (2), suitable for insertion of at least one hand (26) into a disinfecting chamber (3,110), and sanitising the at least one hand (26) with a discharge from at least one ozone water output (7,130).

30. A method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising the step of recognising at least one user whose at least one hand (26) is going to be sanitised (100).

31. A method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising the step of timing at least one sanitising step to a set length of time (140).

32. A method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising the step of storing data related to an end of a timing of at least one sanitising step and/or a timing of a sanitisation cycle and/or the at least one user (150).

33. A method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising the step of sanitising the at least one hand (26) with a release from at least one primer output as a first prime (120).

34. A method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising the step of drying the at least one hand (26) by means of a towel after washing (160).

35. A method as claimed in claim 29, further comprising the step of alerting a user to an end of a timing of at least one sanitising step and/or a timing of a sanitisation cycle (170).

36. A software product recorded on machine-readable data storage media, wherein said software product is executable upon computing hardware for implementing a method as claimed in claim 29.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DIAGRAMS AND FIGURES

[0109] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams and figures wherein:

[0110] FIG. 1a is a schematic illustration of an apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0111] FIG. 1b is a schematic illustration of the apparatus of FIG. 1a comprising an additional feature, according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0112] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0113] FIG. 3a is a schematic illustration of steps of a method of employing the apparatus of FIG. 1a in a hand sanitisation application;

[0114] FIG. 3b is a schematic illustration of steps of a method of employing the apparatus of FIG. 1b in another hand sanitisation application;

[0115] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of steps of a method of employing the apparatus of FIG. 2 in yet another hand sanitisation application;

[0116] FIG. 5 is perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus for hand sanitisation in accordance with the present invention with a user preparing to position the hands inside the disinfecting chamber;

[0117] FIG. 6 illustrates suitable arrangements of a pair of hands when inserted into the disinfecting chamber via the port of the apparatus;

[0118] FIG. 7 shows the apparatus of FIG. 5 in transparent view to disclose the interior arrangement of the main components of the exemplary design of an apparatus for hand sanitisation; and

[0119] FIG. 8 shows a disinfecting chamber with an ozone water discharge arrangement in operation on one inserted left hand.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0120] When describing embodiments of the invention, it will be appreciated that illustrations and figures are provided with reference to the sanitisation of hands. However, it is further envisaged that the invention can be applied more extensively, to forearms and elbows for example, with appropriate provision for the insertion of the forearms and elbows into the sanitising apparatus.

[0121] The apparatus shown in the drawing is as an example of a mobile unit, however the apparatus can quite as well be of a non-mobile kind, including be hung on a wall or be placed stationary on the floor in the vicinity of a receptacle for exhaust ozone water, e.g. a drain. The dimensions of the apparatus shown in the drawing and the positions of the various components should not be construed as limiting the scope of the presently claimed invention. The figures are given for illustrative purposes only.

[0122] The invention is intended for utilisation where a superior level of cleanliness is required or desired. For example, it is envisaged that the apparatus and method of the invention is applicable to medical applications, food production, or facilities serving the general public, such as catering or transport hubs. A particularly relevant area for the implementation of hand sanitation is a hospital. The various aspects and embodiments of the invention can be implemented at cleaning stations on wards or in ambulances, for example, where their use is directly effective in combating transmission of infection between patients. Another related example comprises implementation of embodiments of the invention in homes for the elderly or nursing homes.

[0123] Although the apparatus is described below in relation to hand disinfection is should be emphasized that also forearms and elbows can be disinfected. This is just a matter of structural design of the apparatus.

[0124] For the purposes of explanation, the terms sanitisation, disinfecting, washing etc. are used. It should be understood that these terms are used interchangeably to indicate a process, which beneficially affects the state of cleanliness of the skin. Use of the term sanitisation includes disinfecting and is not limited in the description below or above to the use of disinfecting materials or chemically defined disinfectants, rather the term is utilised to indicate a superior disinfection of the skin, comprising an effect which kills or removes pathogens, microorganisms etc.

[0125] In FIG. 1a, a schematically hand sanitisation apparatus is indicated generally by 1a. The hand sanitisation apparatus 1a comprises a port 2, suitable for insertion of at least one hand into a disinfecting chamber 3. The port 2 can be configured to accommodate more than one hand into the chamber 3, depending on the end application of the apparatus. The disinfecting chamber 3 is sized to optimise the application of any of a disinfecting step and/or a cleaning step onto the hand(s) while also permitting a limited flexibility of movement to prevent the hand(s) contacting the equipment and each other, or at least to limit said contact. The disinfecting chamber 3 is also provided with drainage and evacuation means for removal of spent cleaning materials—these features are not shown in the figure. The disinfecting chamber 3 is provided with a sensor 4, which is capable of detecting the introduction of one or more hands into the disinfecting chamber 3. The sensor 4 is input to a timer 5 arranged in association with a control means 6, which has primary control of the apparatus and implementation of various functions and timings. The timer 5 and control means 6 can be used to implement a desired step timing or cycle timing of the disinfecting process. The control means 6 is further arranged in association with at least one ozone water output 7, for regulation of a discharge from the ozone water output 7 as part of the hand sanitisation. Such a discharge may be arranged as a single continuous event, or in a plurality of pulses, which may be timed. The ozone water output 7 are provided in form of first plurality of ozone water delivery openings and a second plurality of ozone water delivery openings that forms the exit of an ozone water supply 8. The ozone water supply 8 comprises an electrolytic ozone generator (not shown) required to produce ozone water. The ozone water supply further comprises delivery means to bring the ozone water thus produced to the disinfecting chamber 3. The apparatus 1a further comprises a recognition device 9, which is arranged in association with the control means 6. This recognition device 9 allows a user to be identified, e.g. for the purpose of providing a targeted and specific sanitisation for that user, or for relation between data regarding the sanitisation and the user, or for security purposes to prevent unauthorised personnel from using the apparatus, among other options. In addition, the apparatus 1a comprises a means for storing data 10, comprised in the control means 6, which facilitates storage of e.g. user data, data from the sanitisation processes, and protocols for implementation of various sanitisations. Storing data related to a sanitisation cycle also permits the delivery of a test report in the event of apparatus failure and/or user manipulation.

[0126] In FIG. 1b, a schematically shown modified hand sanitisation apparatus is indicated generally by 1b. The hand sanitisation apparatus 1b comprises a port 2, suitable for insertion of at least one hand into a disinfecting chamber 3. The port 2 can be configured to accommodate more than one hand into the disinfecting chamber 3, depending on the end application of the apparatus. The purpose of the disinfecting chamber 3 is to locate the hand(s) to be sanitised. The disinfecting chamber 3 is sized to optimise the application of any disinfecting, washing or cleaning steps onto the hand(s) while also permitting some flexibility of movement to prevent the hand(s) contacting the equipment or each other, or at least to limit said contact. The disinfecting chamber 3 is also provided with drainage and evacuation means for removal of spent cleaning materials—these features are not shown in the figure. The disinfecting chamber 3 is provided with a sensor 4, which is capable of detecting the introduction of one or more hands into the disinfecting chamber 3. The sensor 4 is input to a timer 5 arranged in association with a control means 6, which has primary control of the apparatus and implementation of various functions and timings. The timer 5 and control means 6 can be used to implement a desired step timing or cycle timing of the sterilisation process. The control means 6 is further arranged in association with at least one primer output 11 and at least one ozone water output 7, for regulation of a release from the primer output 11 and a discharge from the ozone water output 7 as part of the hand sanitisation. Such a release or discharge may be arranged as a single continuous event, or in a plurality of pulses, which may be timed. The primer output 11 is an exit of a primer supply 12, in which suitable materials (frequently comprising Chlorine (Cl) additives e.g. ClO.sub.2, can be stored or produced and by means of which said materials can be brought to the disinfecting chamber 3. Similarly, the ozone water output 7, in form of the selected patterns of a first plurality of ozone water delivery openings and/or a second plurality of ozone water delivery openings, respectively, forms the exit of an ozone water supply 8. The ozone water supply 8 comprises means (not shown) required to produce or supply ozone, and delivery means to bring the ozone water thus produced to the disinfecting chamber 3. The apparatus 1b further comprises a recognition device 9, which is arranged in association with the control means 6. This recognition device 9 allows a user to be identified, e.g. for the purpose of providing a targeted and specific sanitisation for that user, or for relation between data regarding the sanitisation and the user, or for security purposes to prevent unauthorised personnel from using the apparatus, among other options. In addition, the apparatus 1b comprises a means for storing data 10, comprised in the control means 6, which facilitates storage of e.g. user data, data from the sanitisation processes and protocols for implementation of various sanitisations. Storing data related to a sanitisation cycle also permits the delivery of a test report in the event of apparatus failure and/or user manipulation.

[0127] The primer could also be called a ‘prep-fluid’ or a ‘priming fluid’, as the substance is introduced into the process in the initial stages before an ozone-containing step is effected. The primer dissolves natural grease on the hand, which enhances the effect of the subsequent ozone water treatment. Further, it promotes an advanced oxidation process during the ozone water treatment.

[0128] An associated water source, such as a container or direct connection to tap water, is not shown in the figure.

[0129] The primer output 11 and the ozone water output 7 may comprise different shapes and sizes according to the required sanitisation process. The positioning of the outputs 7a, 7b is flexible in accordance with the patterns of ozone water delivery openings within the disinfecting chamber 3, and may be adapted according to the implementation of the invention.

[0130] Preferably is the ozone water output 7 simply a plurality of openings provided as a pattern in a manifold or a sprinkler to gentle apply a mild flow of ozone water over the back and the palm of the users hand. The manifold can be provided by a matrix or arrays of tubing, be holes as in a rose of a water jug, or be provided as a diffuser plate, or devices having similar properties.

[0131] Due to the patterns of plurality of openings the wetting of the hand(s) is consistent, and the sanitisation effect of the ozone water applied very effective, over the entire skin surface. The ozone step is the main step of the sanitisation.

[0132] The primer output 11 delivers a degreasing or primer chemical onto the hand(s). One of the purposes of this first step is to remove fatty deposits on the skin, including a normal skin coating of oily, fatty material. A subsequent step with ozone water is thereby rendered more effective. Ideally, the primer step comprises a wash with high pH water, i.e. a wash with a solution which is alkaline, i.e. pH >7, preferably with pH in the region of 8-12 and more preferably with a pH between 9 and 11. A pH of around 10 or 10.5 is considered optimal for the currently targeted applications. Such a highly alkaline solution, applied either as a liquid wash or in a mist, conditions the hand(s) to receive an ozone water application and affects the mircoorganisms to be even more receptive to the ozone water treatment.

[0133] The ozone water is obtained by use of an electrolytic ozone generator. A specific implementation of an embodiment of the invention is now detailed which utilises this device.

[0134] The ozone dissolved in the water is targeted to a concentration with an aim of providing safe sanitisation in e.g. less than one minute. In particular, a timing of between 5 and 60 seconds for an ozone wash step is desirable, with a preferred timing of around, or somewhat less than, 30 seconds considered optimal and 90 seconds the maximum. This is associated with the ozone concentrations described above.

[0135] The apparatus is arranged to provide a steady and controlled amount of ozone in the water over the full time period allocated to the ozone wash step. The ozone is dissolved in water, which together with the narrow port 2 further contributes to avoid the escape of ozone gas to the outside environment surrounding the disinfecting chamber 3, thereby keeping an even better control of ozone concentration in the ozone water. A removal of residual ozone, by known catalysis methods and materials, is suitable for inclusion in the present invention, but indeed optional.

[0136] The ozone wash is arranged within safe levels for normal use involving hand(s) or skin. The release from the primer output 11 comprises a high pH wash, with a pH arranged >pH 7, more likely in a range between 8 and 12, more preferably in a range between 9 and 11, or a pH of around 10 or 10.5. By calculation, a safe time for sanitisation can be established such that the determined percentage of cleaning achieved is deemed to be >1.0 Log or >2.0 Log or >3 Log for an extended period. A typical wash time of 30 seconds is considered sufficient for a 2.0 Log removal at an ozone concentration of about 12 PPM, highly advantageous in effect when compared with an alcohol wash, for example, even when the alcohol wash is carried out over a prolonged period. The optimal time for sanitisation depends on various factors. These parameters can be stored or programmed (e.g. as a protocol) into a means for storing data 10, located in the control means 6, for correct implementation of the sanitisation.

[0137] FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apparatus of FIG. 1b is indicated by reference numeral 1b and other similar elements of this apparatus are labelled consistently in FIG. 2.

[0138] The schematic illustration of FIG. 2 shows a particular embodiment of the invention wherein the hand sanitisation apparatus 13 comprises the additional features of a towel dispenser 14 and a signal device 15, these additional features being arranged in cooperation with the control means 6, which activates each feature as necessary during the sanitisation process. (Each of the features may be comprised separately in other embodiments of the invention).

[0139] The towel dispenser 14 facilitates provision of a towel, which is used to dry the hand(s) after the ozone wash. The towel dispenser 14 is provided such that the towel is stored in a clean environment. By arrangement of the control means, a towel may be made available only when the complete sanitisation wash steps are finished according to a desired timing. This prevents short cutting of the sanitisation process.

[0140] Further, the apparatus comprises (user) recognition device 9, set-up to identify a user, either by a bar code or eye scan, for example. Successful registration of their data can be indicated.

[0141] The control means 6 further comprises means to record data on the sanitisation process, optionally in conjunction with the user information, and successful registration of the sanitisation data can be indicated.

[0142] In an embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention without recognition device 9 the user may have the option between various sanitisation programmes selectable via a user interface provided at the front of the apparatus of the present invention and controlled by the control means 6 to activate stored standard protocols of sanitisation. Standard protocols can include but is not limited to a selection of ozone steps, sanitisation times and ozone concentrations of the users choice. The combinations and standard protocols may be pre-programmed factory setting or be created by a local of central manager as input to the control system.

[0143] A signal device 15, which may incorporate light, sound, display or other signalling means for drawing the attention of a user and/or providing information to a user while the apparatus is in operation, can be used to indicate to the user various stages of the process or the completion of the process. The user can thereby be notified e.g. of the end of each sanitisation process step, made aware of problems, required maintenance or malfunctions, or informed of the particular sanitisation running on the apparatus. The apparatus can be arranged to deliver a test report due to system failure and/or user manipulation. Optionally, the apparatus 13 may further comprise a separate indicator, not shown here, to announce to a user that the sanitisation process is at an end.

[0144] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the apparatus 13 is shown to comprise two ports 2a, 2b each designed for insertion of one hand into the disinfecting chamber 3. Two optional primer outputs 11a, 11b are provided, arranged one on each side of the disinfecting chamber 3 such that each hand is supplied preferentially by one of the primer outputs 11a, 11b. Two schematically ozone water outputs 7a, 7b, one for each hand, are similarly arranged. Such a design facilitates equal sanitisation of both hands.

[0145] The two primer outputs 11a, 11b are comprised in the primer supply 12 which is shown here as further comprising a primer supply, preferably a high pH water supply 16 and a pump 17. The two primer outputs 11a, 11b of this embodiment preferentially comprise nozzles for formation of a steady stream of high pH water over the hands. In the figure, the pump 17 is shown as connected to the control means 6 and it is anticipated that activation of the pump 17 will produce an output. However, in a further embodiment of the invention, it is also possible to arrange the two primer outputs 11a, 11b under direct control of the control means 6.

[0146] The two ozone water outputs 7a, 7b are provided by the respective first plurality of ozone water delivery openings and are arranged as the first pattern selected to spread the ozone water over the palm of the inserted at least one hand, and as the second plurality of ozone water delivery openings arranged in the second pattern selected to spread the ozone water over the back of the inserted at least one hand, respectively, and are comprised in the ozone water supply 8.

[0147] The ozone water supply 8 is here illustrated as further comprising an electrolytic ozone generator 18, arranged to utilise a supply of ultra clean water supplied via a tap water filter device 19 used in the generation process and a valve 20 to facilitate the access of ozone water produced to the disinfecting chamber 3 by means of the ozone water outputs 7a, 7b. It is anticipated that activation of the electrolytic ozone generator 18 will produce an ozone output into the disinfecting chamber 3, however, in a further embodiment of the invention, it is also possible to arrange the two ozone water outputs 7a,7b under direct control of the control means 6.

[0148] The figure also illustrates that the disinfecting chamber 3 is connected to a drain 21, located external to the main apparatus 11. This provides for evacuation of excess liquid from the disinfecting chamber 3.

[0149] The tap water filter device 19 inputs tap water, illustrated by an arrow 22, and filters and otherwise treats the water so that ultra clean water is output, as illustrated by an arrow 23, and the residue, illustrated by an arrow 24, exits to a drain (not shown). The ultra clean water 23 is then input to the electrolytic ozone generator 18. Ultra clean water is in the context of the present application e.g. de-mineralized water, de-ionized water or filtered water, or combination of these.

[0150] FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b illustrate methods associated with embodiments of the present invention. Specifically FIG. 3a relates to a method implemented by means of the apparatus 1a and FIG. 3b to a method implemented by apparatus 1b. As the method steps comprise steps in common, the figures will be described below in terms of the more extensive method associated with apparatus 1b.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 3b, the apparatus 1b implements an embodiment of the invention in a manner as defined by a method whose steps are illustrated in the figure.

[0152] The first method step 100 comprises recognising at least one user whose at least one hand is going to be sanitised. This step identifies the user whose hand(s) will be sanitised. This information is then available for the control means to be used during operation of the apparatus e.g. for protocol selection for a user so that a specific sanitisation is run for that user, or for identification of data generated in association with the user.

[0153] The second step 110 comprises sensing the introduction of the at least one hand in a port 2, suitable for insertion of at least one hand into a disinfecting chamber 3. This step ensures that a hand is present in the disinfecting chamber 3 for sanitisation and is related to the timing of the sanitisation steps as it acts as a baseline or start time, or depending on implementation, may act as the start trigger for the sanitisation process.

[0154] The third and optional method step 120 comprises sanitising the at least one hand with a release from at least one primer output as a first prime. This step can also be called a priming step. By performing this method step 120, the hand(s) are cleansed of e.g. grease, fatty deposits and fatty residue naturally present on the skin surface. Removal of these fatty substances prepares and conditions the hand(s) for the next step 130. Further the primer affects the mircoorganisms to make them more receptive of the ozone water treatment.

[0155] A fourth method step 130 comprises sanitising the at least one hand with a discharge from at least one ozone water output 7. The ozone in the water sanitises and thoroughly disinfects the hand surface. This step utilising ozone water can cover and wet the surface of the skin in a most efficient way due to the patterns of pluralities of ozone water delivery openings. A first prime step 120 can follow the ozone water step so that in some embodiments of use the skin is even more effectively sanitised. More than one prime step 120 can be implemented as desired. Similarly, more than one wash with ozone water 130 can be implemented as desired. Such multiple steps are not constrained to all prime steps being completed before one or more ozone washes are effected.

[0156] A fifth method step 140 comprises timing at least one sanitising step to a set length of time. By careful consideration of the strength and concentrations of the materials used, in conjunction with forethought regarding the degree of sanitisation required and the contamination likely to be eligible for removal, an optimum timing can be determined for each method step. This timing can then be implemented by the apparatus as an automatic procedure thereby ensuring a standardisation of method protocol and a consistency of application of the method of the invention between different users.

[0157] A sixth method step 150 comprises storing data related to an end of a timing of at least one sanitising step and/or a timing of a sanitisation cycle and/or the at least one user.

[0158] Implementation of this method step allows for better management of the use of the apparatus and control of the sanitisation process. The user may be identified by means of a bar code or eye scan, for example. This allows specific logging of a user's activity on the apparatus.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 4, the apparatus 13 implements an embodiment of the invention in a manner as defined by a method whose steps are illustrated in the figure. This method incorporates steps 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150 of the previous method together with additional steps 160, 170. These additional steps 160, 170 are shown here as implemented together because the apparatus 13 is arranged to facilitate such use. However, the additional steps 160, 170 may be implemented individually, dependent on the set up of other apparatus according to a particular embodiment of the invention.

[0160] Method step 160 comprises drying the at least one hand by means of a towel after washing. By drying the hands, skin condition is protected. Use of a clean towel further reinforces the sanitisation process just accomplished by the sanitising steps, and indicates to the user that the sanitisation process is complete.

[0161] Method step 170 comprises alerting a user to an end of a timing of at least one sanitising step and/or a timing of a sanitisation cycle. This may be effected by various means depending on the circumstances and preferences of the user. A display may be used to chart the progress of the sanitisation and give information on the timing. A light indicator may be used to indicate completed process, e.g. a green light to indicate that the hands may be removed because the sanitisation cycle has been completed. Alternatively, a sound may be used, such a buzzer. This alert has advantages to the user as it provides confirmation that a full protocol is finished and it makes it more likely that the user will follow the protocol to the end, as there is anticipation of the confirmation by the user. The user is more engaged with the successful implementation of the sanitisation. Yet an alternative is that the delivery of ozone water to the hands simply stops at the end of the sanitisation protocol, which is an indication to the user to remove the hands and proceed to next step, e.g. drying the hands with the towel.

[0162] FIG. 5 shows in perspective an exemplary design of a sanitisation apparatus 25, where a user is preparing for inserting his/her hands 26. Just prior to insertion of the hands 26 in the disinfecting chamber 3 the hands 26 are arranged in any of the positions seen in FIG. 6, wherein the hands are open and arranged flat next to each other and out of mutual contact. When the hands 26 are inside the disinfecting chamber 3 and the sanitisation protocol runs an optimum standardised disinfection takes place while the hands are kept in the same position during the timed sanitisation cycle and the ozone water gently runs over all areas of the hands 26. The sanitisation protocol decides the timer setting, the ozone concentration setting, the ozone water pressure setting, and the user is responsible for that the hands 26 are kept steady to allow the ozone water access to all corners and surfaces.

[0163] The sanitisation protocol is determined by a user identification or the sanitisation protocol is run as a standard sanitisation protocol for an unknown user, or the sanitisation protocol is selected by the user via a user interface.

[0164] As is clear from the transparent view of FIG. 7, the exemplary embodiment of a sanitisation apparatus 25 shown in FIG. 6 comprises a cabinet 27 that accommodates the ozone generator 28, a towel dispenser 14, a power box 29, a drain pump 30 and a drain tank 31 with an outlet or floor drain. The tap water supply to the ozone generator 28 and the power supply to the power box 29 are not shown in the figures.

[0165] Ozone water produced by the ozone generator 28 out of the tap water flows via ozone water conduit 32 to disinfecting chamber 3 with the ozone water output 7.

[0166] The ozone water output 7 is provided by a first plurality of ozone water delivery openings 33 arranged in a first pattern selected to spread the ozone water over the palm of the inserted hands (not shown), and/or a second plurality of ozone water delivery openings 34 arranged in a second pattern selected to spread the ozone water over the back of the inserted hands (not shown), or vice versa. For the purpose of overviewing the figure only a few of the pluralities of ozone water delivery openings 33, 34 are shown, as well as the patterns simply are shown as linear arrangements. It should be emphasised that the patterns can be any patterns suited to provide the flow, preferably a mild flow, to the hands 26 that are disinfected inside the disinfecting chamber 3. Patterns can be circular or special, e.g. similar to a hand with fingers spread and where the plurality of ozone water delivery openings 33, 34 are arranged corresponding to the hand contour above and below the respective hand. Thus the pattern of plurality of ozone water delivery openings above and below the left hand can be a mirror image of the pattern of plurality of ozone water delivery openings above and below the right hand.

[0167] The present exemplary of a sanitisation apparatus 25 has a disinfecting chamber 3 that can be tilted and locked into a position in which the port 2 is in an appropriate orientation for inserting the hands of users of different heights and abilities. For example in an environment for users in wheel chairs or for children the port 2 must be kept low.

[0168] The means that allows the disinfecting chamber 3 to be locked in an angle in relation to the cabinet 27 are webs 36 arranged upright on the cabinet 27. The webs 36 are secured to the disinfecting chamber 3 in an appropriate angle by a suitable releasable fastening means, such as screws. Alternatively the angle between the disinfecting chamber 3 and the cabinet 27 is fixed.

[0169] The cabinet 27 has wheels 35 to make the sanitisation apparatus 25 mobile. This means that the only requirement for use of the sanitisation apparatus 25 is access to water and a receptacle for wastewater. No soap or alcohol is needed incorporated in the apparatus, nor need the sanitisation apparatus be frequently replenished with disinfecting agents. The ozone water is produced on demand. The towel is an option and the sanitisation apparatus 25 may in some embodiments work even if the towel dispenser is run out. If the towel dispenser runs out this is registered by the control means and an alert is issued via the alerting means that replenishment is needed. Thus the sanitisation apparatus of the present invention is a very consistent product that requires minimum maintenance and provides a safe, reliable and highly disinfecting sanitisation regime for the user, optionally special sanitisation protocols for different known users or standard sanitisation protocols for known or unknown users.

[0170] FIG. 8 shows a modified disinfecting chamber 3′ with an ozone water discharge arrangement 36 operated by one or more motors (not shown).

[0171] In FIG. 8 the disinfection chamber 3′ is seen from the front. The sides of the disinfection chamber 3′ are not shown in FIG. 8 in order to visualize the interior structure of the ozone discharge arrangement 36.

[0172] The ozone water discharge arrangement 36 comprises two sets of pipes 37a,37b;38a,38b, the second set including the pipe 38a,38b above the inserted hand 26, and the first set including the pipes 37a,37b below the inserted hand 26, for varying the discharge angle α of an ozone water flow from at least one of the first and second plurality of ozone water delivery openings 33;34 individually, or of the manifold 36 as a combined unit, as indicated in FIG. 8 at double arrows A1 and A2.

[0173] The first set of pipes 37a,37b has a first plurality of ozone water delivery openings 33 and pivot the angle α about respective pipe axes x1,x2. The second set of pipes 38a,38b has the second plurality of ozone water delivery openings 34 and pivot the angle α about respective pipe axes x3,x4.

[0174] The pipes 37a,37b;38a,38b are pivoted back and forth within a discharge angle α of about 120°,—much like a garden sprinkler.

[0175] Further, within each complete angular pivoting cycle a pipe 37a,37b;38a,38b of the set of pipes can also be moved, as indicated by double arrow B in FIG. 8 at the left upper pipe second 38a, axially between a number of axial positions, such as fixed axial position. The spacing between said axial positions is small enough to ensure together with the angular movement of the pipes that the complete hand surface is covered by ozone water.

[0176] This way ozone water, that flows out of the pluralities of ozone delivery openings 33,34 as gentle, crossing streams 39, can in this design of a ozone water discharge arrangement be spread over an inserted hand 26 in a standardised manner.

[0177] Opposite plates 40 are arranged in V-shape along the pipes 37a,37;38a,38b on opposite sides of said pipes 37a,37;38a,38b, so that the apices of the V-shape allow the pipes 37a,37;38a,38b to be sligthly distanced from the wall 41 of the disinfecting chamber 3′, this way giving more space for obtaining tapering of the discharge angle α without substantially increasing the interior available space for the hand 26, which space should be as narrow as possible to encourage the person using the disinfecting apparatus not to turn the hand during the disinfecting process. A further advantage is that the V-shape plates 40 may guide ozone water inside the chamber 3′ at an angle limited by the legs of the V-shape. The V-shape plates 40 may thus also posses a baffle function.

[0178] Four pipes 37a,37;38a,38b are shown in FIG. 8, but this number should not be construed as a limiting feature. Several additional pipes can be incorporated for altering the ozone water discharge pattern. The pipes has a plurality of equally spaced small holes serving as the first and second pluralities of ozone water delivery openings. Other spacing between the small holes are contemplated within the scope of the present invention. In the preferred embodiment the number of small holes, thus the number of first and second pluralities of ozone water delivery openings, respectively, multiplied by the spacing between said holes is substantially equivalent to the length of an average hand/wrist that is to be treated. All pipes 37a,37;38a,38b can be connected to the ozone generator by means of soft, bendable hoses.

Comparative Experiment

[0179] A prototype apparatus according to the present invention,—an Ozone Hand Disinfector with sprinkling ozone water dispensation—, was tested according to the below protocol to compare the disinfecting effect of the apparatus to conventional alcohol disinfection. A solution of bacteria including Enterococcus was prepared as basis for establishing the killing effect.

[0180] The hands of the test persons were washed with soap, rinsed with water in 2 min., and allowed to air-dry in 1 min. The bacteria solution was applied to the hands during 2×30 sec. Then the hands were again allowed to dry in the air for 3 min. Disinfection was conducted. 18 tests were conducted by three persons. The test were 6 references without disinfection, 6 tests using the Ozone Hand Disinfector with sprinkling water dispensation for 30 sec., and 6 comparative test using alcohol disinfection for 30 sec.

[0181] The experiments and calculations are conducted according to ASTM-2755-10 “StandardTest Method for Determining the Bacteria-Eliminating Effectiveness of Hand Sanitizer Formulations Using Hands of Adults”. Alcohol disinfecting were conducted in six different hand rub positions according to the guidance set forth in EN1500 Clinical disinfectants and antiseptics—hygienic handrub—Test method and requirements.

[0182] Disinfecting in accordance with the present invention with ozone water followed the standardisation of the present invention wherein the hands are kept steady at the same position inside the disinfecting chamber,

[0183] The conclusion is summarised in Table 1 below.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Standard Deviation Bacterial reduction compared with reference Ozone Hand Disinfector Average 99.73% 0.21% Alcohol disinfection Average 98.53% 0.45% Average (MPN/100 ml) References 798.600 78.602

[0184] The tests results forming the basis for the conclusion in Table 1 are presented in Table 2.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Percentage Average removal Serie O3 conc. Reference, Percentage (average Test# # Person Test description (PPM) MPN/100 ml (MPN/100 ml) removal Reference) 1 1 F Ozone Hand Disinfector - 30 sec. 20.9 1.000 798.600 99.88% 99.87% 4 1 F Reference — 860.000 x x 7 1 F Alcohol disinfection - 30 sec. — 10.900 98.73% 98.64% 5 2 V Ozone Hand Disinfector - 30 sec. 22.8 3.100 99.62% 99.61% 2 2 V Reference — 813.000 x x 8 2 V Alcohol disinfection - 30 sec. — 12.100 98.51% 98.48% 15 3 L Ozone Hand Disinfector - 30 sec. 20.0 1.000 NA 99.87% 10 3 L Reference — NA* x x 12 3 L Alcohol disinfection - 30 sec. — 8.500 NA 98.94% 6 4 F Ozone Hand Disinfector - 30 sec. 15.1 1.000 99.86% 99.87% 3 4 F Reference — 733.000 x x 9 4 F Alcohol disinfection - 30 sec. — 6.300 99.14% 99.21% 11 5 V Ozone Hand Disinfector - 30 sec. 20.2 1.000 99.86% 99.87% 14 5 V Reference — 703.000 x x 17 5 V Alcohol disinfection - 30 sec. — 14.600 97.92% 98.17% 18 6 L Ozone Hand Disinfector - 30 sec. 24.2 5.200 99.41% 99.35% 13 6 L Reference — 884.000 x x 16 6 L Alcohol disinfection - 30 sec. — 14.600 98.35% 98.17% *NA: The reference in the third series (test # 10) could not be quantified due to a procedural error. Instead the average of the five other reference tests for calculation of values in series 3 were used.

[0185] The invention provides an easy platform for broad spectrum removal of various organisms, pathogens, spores, fungi and chemical impurities, even those as small as nano-particles are within reach of the sanitisation. Liquids and other solid particles hazardous to health and detrimental to the quality of life are also susceptible to removal. So not only are microorganisms killed by the ozone present in the ozone water, the water removes killed microorganisms from the hands as well from the disinfecting chamber, and since the microorganisms are killed and the ozone suspended in the water the entire sanitisation environment are extremely clean and safe to work and stay in. At the same time, consideration is given to the protection of the skin of the user by careful implementation.

[0186] By implementation of a method according to the invention a protocol is applied to the sanitisation process and the use of the apparatus can be monitored and data collected per user. Timing and implementation allow repeatable, equal, treatment of each user, a standardised sanitisation and a consistent result.

[0187] Although embodiments of the invention are described in the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the present invention is also susceptible to being implemented as a therapeutic apparatus, system and method. While the primary use of the apparatus is designed to be the sanitisation of hands, with a view to promoting cleanliness and the prevention of transmission of disease (and conditioning the hands to be suitable for use in applications where hygiene is of paramount importance), it is also envisaged that the apparatus may be used as a therapy to sanitise hands or other body parts where disease or contamination is already present to an amplified degree. The invention can either be implemented as presented or implemented with appropriate modifications for access of the body part to be treated, and for timing and concentrations of substances used.

[0188] Modifications to embodiments of the invention described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present invention are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. Numerals included within parentheses in the accompanying claims are intended to assist understanding of the claims and should not be construed in any way to limit subject matter claimed by these claims.

[0189] The apparatus and the method according to the invention can make hand disinfection a uniform high quality, automated and well documented procedure. Thereby ensuring a standardization of method protocol and a consistency of application of the method between users. This secures compliance with the institution's policies.

[0190] The control means of the present invention may be configured to provide further advantageous control of operational status of the apparatus.

[0191] For example in control mode A can predefined ranges of water flow through and from the ozone generator, limits of voltage, current and temperature be controlled and monitored by the control means. Registration by the control means that any of these parameters are outside its predefined range and/or level indicates malfunction and need for maintenance.

[0192] The control means can also include a module that facilitates and/or control proper user operation. For example in a control mode B the sensors in the disinfecting chamber can verify that the user hold his/her hand(s) inside said disinfecting chamber until the entire disinfecting time and disinfecting cycle is completed.

[0193] Error messages and information can be issued by a reporting module associated with the control means to issue information to the user, or to the person or location responsible for maintenance.

[0194] If both control mode A and B are confirmed positive the message “Disinfection completed” will issue. If control mode A and/or B is not confirmed positive the message “ERROR”, will issue. If control mode A, or both control mode A and control mode B cannot be verified positive the message “TECHNICAL ERROR—CALL SERVICE” will issue.

[0195] If control mode A but not control mode B is confirmed positive the message “INCOMPLETE DISINFECTION: USER ERROR” will issue, optionally with the added comment of “HANDS RETRACTED BEFORE DISINFECTION COMPLETE”.

[0196] The issued alert, information or message of course depends on the occasioning situation and can be any entered text string, noise, moving or stationary image, pictogram, video, etc.

[0197] Data regarding the control mode can be stored and retrieved locally on and from, respectively, e.g. a USB storage.

[0198] Sending of data can take place via a computer network, intra network, or coupled to a server for operating a control programme of the control means. The control programme can be installed on the server and accessible via one or more PCs or be installed at the individual PCs.

[0199] The control programme and the control means may be adapted to issue data reports, alerts and warnings on a regular basis about apparatus quality, performance, and user operating errors, as well as coupling user data from a user log together with operating data from an operating log.