Automated Germicidal Inhibitor System and Method of Operation

Abstract

An automated ultraviolet germicidal system sterilizes a sterilization area with an automated sterilization mechanism that is selectively actuated and terminated, depending on events in the sterilization area, and elapse of a predetermined time period. A sterilization mechanism selectively emits a germicide element in or near a sterilization area, so as to sterilize the sterilization area from germs. An actuation device operatively connects with the sterilization mechanism to regulate the actuation and termination of the germicide element generated by the sterilization mechanism. A command device, controlled by a user, transmits an actuation signal to the actuation device to actuate the sterilization mechanism, upon entry of a code. A termination device has a set of sensors that detects events near the sterilization area, and transmits a termination signal to the actuation device to terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism upon detection of the event, or after elapse of time period.

Claims

1. An automated germicidal inhibitor system, the automated germicidal inhibitor system comprising: a sterilization mechanism operable to emit a germicide element; an actuation device is detachably coupled to the sterilization mechanism, the actuation device comprising a plug operable to enables coupling to an external power outlet, whereby energy from the external power outlet powers the sterilization mechanism; the actuation device further comprising an actuation transreceiver and a switch mechanism, the actuation transreceiver and the switch mechanism are operatively connected to the sterilization mechanism, wherein the switch mechanism is operable to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism; a command device comprising a command transceiver, an entry key pad, and a timer, wherein the entry key pad is operable to enable entry of a code, the timer is operable to count a predetermined time period, and the command transceiver is operable to transmit an actuation signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device when the code is entered, whereby the actuation signal commands the switch mechanism to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism; and one or more termination devices comprising a termination transceiver and a set of sensors, wherein the set of sensors are operable to detect an event, the termination transceiver is operable to transmit a termination signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device when the event is detected and when the predetermined time period elapses, whereby the termination signal commands the switch mechanism of the actuation device to terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism, wherein the actuation transreceiver comprises a radio frequency module operable to enable wireless reception of the actuation signal and the termination signal.

2. An automated germicidal inhibitor system, the automated germicidal inhibitor system comprising: a sterilization mechanism operable to emit a germicide element; an actuation device is detachably coupled to the sterilization mechanism, the actuation device comprising a plug operable to enables coupling to an external power outlet, whereby energy from the external power outlet powers the sterilization mechanism; the actuation device further comprising an actuation transreceiver and a switch mechanism, the actuation transreceiver and the switch mechanism are operatively connected to the sterilization mechanism, wherein the switch mechanism is operable to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism; a command device comprising a command transceiver, an entry key pad, and a timer, wherein the entry key pad is operable to enable entry of a code, the timer is operable to count a predetermined time period, and the command transceiver is operable to transmit an actuation signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device when the code is entered, whereby the actuation signal commands the switch mechanism to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism; and one or more termination devices comprising a termination transceiver and a set of sensors, wherein the set of sensors are operable to detect an event, the termination transceiver is operable to transmit a termination signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device when the event is detected and when the predetermined time period elapses, whereby the termination signal commands the switch mechanism of the actuation device to terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism, wherein the actuation device further comprises an audible alert mechanism.

3. An automated germicidal inhibitor system, the automated germicidal inhibitor system comprising: a sterilization mechanism operable to emit a germicide element in or near a sterilization area; an actuation device detachably coupled to the sterilization mechanism, wherein the actuation device comprises an electrical plug operable to enables coupling to an external power outlet, whereby electricity from the external power outlet powers the sterilization mechanism, wherein the actuation device further comprises an audible alert mechanism and a digital display, wherein the actuation device further comprises an actuation transreceiver and a switch mechanism, wherein the actuation transreceiver and the switch mechanism are operatively connected to the sterilization mechanism, wherein the switch mechanism is operable to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism; a command device comprising a command transceiver, an entry key pad, and a timer, wherein the entry key pad is operable to enable entry of a password, whereby the digital display of the actuation device is operable to display entry of the password into the entry key pad, wherein the timer is operable to count a 20 minute time period, and wherein the command transceiver is operable to transmit an actuation signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device when the password is entered, whereby the actuation signal commands the switch mechanism to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism; and one or more termination devices comprising a termination transceiver and a sensor, wherein the sensor is operable to detect an event, wherein the termination transceiver is operable to transmit a termination signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device when the event is detected and when the 20 minute time period elapses, wherein the event includes at least one of the following: motion, noise, temperature, and light, whereby the termination signal commands the switch mechanism of the actuation device to terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Brief Description Of The Drawings

[0041] The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary automated germicidal inhibitor system, showing a sterilization mechanism operationally actuated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the automated germicidal inhibitor system shown in FIG. 1, showing the sterilization mechanism operationally terminated upon detection of an event, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary actuation device coupled to a sterilization mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary command device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of exemplary termination devices, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word exemplary or illustrative means serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation described herein as exemplary or illustrative is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms upper, lower, left, rear, right, front, vertical, horizontal, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are therefore not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0049] An automated germicidal inhibitor system 100 and method of operation is referenced in FIGS. 1-5. The automated germicidal inhibitor system 100, hereafter system 100, comprises a sterilization mechanism 106 that is configured to selectively emit a germicide element 108 at or near a sterilization area 102, based on user commands; and then terminate the emission of germicide element 108 upon detection of an event or after an elapsed time period. This utility of automation for sterilizing a sterilization area 102 enables a germicide element 108 to be emitted when the sterilization area 102 is void of hot-blooded animals activities such as humans motion or animal loud noises; and then terminated upon detection of such activities in the sterilization area 102. Such selective sterilization works to enhance safety for humans, so as not to allow any humans to be in contact with the germicide element 108.

[0050] For example, FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the system 100, showing a sterilization mechanism 106 operationally actuated. Conversely, FIG. 2 references the system 100 with the sterilization mechanism 106 operationally terminated upon detection of an event 126, i.e., a person entering the sterilization area 102. An elapsed period of time may also terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism 106.

[0051] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sterilization area 102 can include a hospital operating room, a waiting area 102 at a bus station, and a public restroom. These are enclosed areas that often require sterilization against germs, such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and fungus. Thus, sterilization mechanism 106 emits the germicide element 108 on, near, or in the proximity of the sterilization area 102. As discussed below, various types of sterilization mechanisms and germicide elements may be used with the system 100.

[0052] To activate sterilization means, the system 100 comprises an actuation device 104 that detachably couples, and provides the mechanical articulations necessary to actuate the sterilization mechanism 106 for emitting the germicide element 108. In some embodiments, the sterilization mechanism 106 comprises an ultraviolet light tube, which is configured to emit a short-wavelength ultraviolet light throughout the sterilization area 102. The short-wavelength ultraviolet light may be a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelength from 10-400 nm. However, the short-wavelength ultraviolet light is known in the art to be dangerous people and animals; and thus, it is advantageous automate termination of the short-wavelength ultraviolet light to power off, when people or animals are in the sterilization area 102.

[0053] In yet other embodiments, the sterilization mechanism 106 comprises a germicide sprayer that discharges a sanitization composition. The sanitization composition may include, without limitation, quaternary ammonium compounds, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, and other sanitizing agents known in the art. Similar to the ultraviolet light, the sanitization composition can include a spray with toxic ingredients that is harmful to people or animals. Thus, it is advantageous automate termination of the sanitization composition to stop discharging, when people or animals are in the sterilization area 102. In yet other embodiments, the system 100 utilizes any sterilization mechanism 106 and germicide element 108 known in the art.

[0054] To power the sterilization mechanism 106, the actuation device 104 comprising a plug 124 that couples to an external power outlet 122. The plug 124 may include an electrical plug that goes to an electrical outlet. External, whereby power outlet powers the sterilization mechanism 106. In alternative embodiments, the plug 124 couples to a source for compressed air or high-pressure fluids. And thus, it is through pneumatic means that the sterilization mechanism 106 is powered. However, depending on the type of sterilization mechanism 106, the power source is determined.

[0055] Looking now at FIG. 3, the actuation device 104 further comprising an actuation transreceiver 302 and a switch mechanism 304. The actuation transreceiver 302 and the switch mechanism 304 are operatively connected to the sterilization mechanism 106. The actuation transreceiver 302 is configured to send and receive actuation signals 130 that command operation of the sterilization mechanism 106. In one possible embodiment, the actuation transreceiver comprises a radio frequency module operable to enable wireless reception of an actuation signal 130, and a termination signal 132. The signals 130, 132 may include radiofrequency signals known in the art. However other digital, or satellite signals may also be used, including data packets.

[0056] The switch mechanism 304 is configured to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism 106. Thus, the switch mechanism converts the actuation signal 130 into a mechanical articulation. In one possible embodiment, the switch mechanism comprises a bypass socket. The bypass socket may plug directly into the external power outlet. However, in other embodiments, the switch mechanism may include, without limitation, a static bypass switch, a maintenance bypass switch, UPS-mounted bypass switch, and an electrical bypass switch.

[0057] In some embodiments, the actuation device 104 comprises an audible alert mechanism 300. The audible alert mechanism 300 can emit a beeping sound to indicate actuation or termination of the sterilization mechanism 106, as described below. In other embodiments, the actuation device 104 comprises a digital display 118 that is configured to display entry of the code 120 into the key pad 116. In one embodiment, the code 120 is a password that is used and known by the user, or provided to the user from an entity. In one non-limiting embodiment, the actuation device 104 comprises an MSP430 microcontroller. However, in other embodiments different microcontrollers or processors may also be used with the actuation device 104.

[0058] In one non-limiting embodiment, the switch mechanism 304 is a socket by-pass that is plugged into a normal household light socket, and any standard UV light tube is plugged into it. In one possible embodiment, the function of the switch mechanism for the actuation device 104 is to switch power on/off on UV light tubes. The actuation device 104 receives radio frequency signals form a command device 114 to turn on, and a different radio frequency signal from an inhibitor device 110a to pause the power. Several of the ultra violet light bulbs (or larger sizes) can be installed in a sterilization area 102, including a large room such as a hospital operating room, or a waiting area at a bus station. A single actuation device 104 may also be installed in smaller area such as a single public bathroom.

[0059] As referenced in FIG. 4, the system 100 further comprises a command device 114 that is the primary device used to initiate actuation of the sterilization mechanism 106. The command device 114 is in communication with the actuation device 104, and a termination device, described below. In one non-limiting embodiment, the command device 114 comprises an MSP430 microcontroller. However, in other embodiments different microcontrollers or processors may also be used with the command device 114. The command device 114 can be controlled directly by the user, or indirectly through a personal communication device in the hands of the user.

[0060] In some embodiments, the command device 114 may include a command transceiver, an entry key pad 116, and a microcontroller 400. The entry key pad 116 is configured to enable entry of a code 120. The entry keypad may have various alphanumeric digits arranged for entry into a processor that resides in the command device 114 to process the code 120. In one non-limiting embodiment, the code 120 is a password, which is memorized, or assigned to the user. The digital display 118 is also provided to show the user's entry of the code 120 into the entry key pad 116.

[0061] The microcontroller 400 is operable to count the predetermined time period. The predetermined time period may be 20 minutes. However, in other embodiments, the predetermined time period is greater or lesser than 20 minutes. In some embodiments, the command transreceiver transmits an actuation signal to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device 104 when the code 120 is entered; transmits an inhibitor signal 132 when the predetermined time period elapses. For example, after 20 minutes, the sterilization mechanism 106 powers off, whether an event 126 occurs, or not. However, if an event 126 occurs before the 20-minute time period, the sterilization mechanism 106 powers off powers off in response to the generated termination signal 132.

[0062] For example, the user enters a code 120 directly into the command device 114, or indirectly through a personal mobile communication device. The code 120 is processed and transmitted wirelessly to the actuation transreceiver. This triggers the switch mechanism to actuate the sterilization mechanism 106. Such as, powering on the ultraviolet light source, or spraying the germicidal composition into the sterilization area 102. In essence, the actuation signal 130 commands the switch mechanism to actuate operation of the sterilization mechanism 106.

[0063] In one non-limiting embodiment, the command device 114 comprises a standalone handheld operating device with a radio frequency transceiver. The command device 114 has a keypad and a digital display 118. The function of the command device 114 is to transmit a radio frequency command to the actuation device 104 to turn on the ultra violet light tubes based on a successful password entry and an allowable time table. Only one command device 114 is needed for a complete system 100. The same command device 114 can be used to operate multiple systems, for example in different rooms. The command device 114 is programmed to work only the system that is paired with. For example, in a typical hospital, each floor uses one command device 114, which works only with multiple ultra violet lights on the same floor, where each system 100 has multiple actuator devices 104 and multiple inhibitor devices 110a, 110b, 110c,

[0064] Looking at FIG. 5, the system 100 also provides one or more termination devices 110a, 110b, 110c that work to terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism 106. The termination devices 110a-c are in operational communication with the command device 114 and the actuation device 104. In one non-limiting embodiment, the termination devices 110a-c comprise an MSP430 microcontroller. However, in other embodiments, different microcontrollers or processors may also be used with the termination device 110a-c.

[0065] In some embodiments, the termination devices 110a-c may include a termination transceiver 500 and a sensor 112. As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor 112 is configured to detect an event 126. The event 126 is a sensory indication that a person, animal, or object is in the sterilization area 102. This forms the foundation for terminating operation of the sterilization mechanism 106 since it can be dangerous for the person to be exposed to the germicide element 108 from the sterilization mechanism 106. The termination devices 110a-c can be placed strategically throughout the sterilization area 102 to sense the entry points. Any number of termination devices 110a-c may be used.

[0066] In some embodiments, the event 126 can include motion, noise, temperature, and light. Thus, the motion can be the person entering the sterilization area 102. The noise can be a voice or footsteps from the person entering the sterilization area 102. The temperature can be the body temperature or the opening of lighting in the sterilization area 102, both of which indicate the presence of a person. Finally, the light can be an indication that the person has turned on the lights or has powered on other instruments in the sterilization area 102. However, the system 100 can utilize any event that is a physical indication that a person, animal, or object has entered into the sterilization area 102.

[0067] The event 126 is defined as occurring when the motion, the noise, the temperature, and the light, exceed an event threshold 128. In one non-limiting embodiment, the event 126 is triggered when the event threshold 128 exceeds the motion, the noise, the temperature, and the light, by about 5% above the normal. In one embodiment, the event threshold 128 is simply the motion, noise, temperature, and light levels in an empty, non-occupied sterilization area 102. Any of the motion, noise, temperature, and light that exceed this by 5%, (or more or less) represents exceeding the event threshold 128.

[0068] For example, an occupied doctor's office may have a noise decibel of 40-45 dBA. An empty doctor's office may have a noise decibel of 0-5 dBA. This shows at least 5% increase of noise when the doctor's office is occupied. Consequently, it would be advantageous for the event 126 to trigger the termination of the sterilization mechanism 106 when the office is occupied. In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 2, the event is simply a person entering the room, and the sensor 112 detecting motion therefrom. Thus, from zero motion in the sterilization area 102, to a human walking into the sterilization area 102, represents an exemplary 5% increase from the event threshold 128.

[0069] In some embodiments, the termination transceiver 500 is configured to transmit a termination signal 132 to the actuation transreceiver of the actuation device 104 when the event 126 is detected. The termination signal 132 commands the switch mechanism of the actuation device 104 to terminate operation of the sterilization mechanism 106. For example, a valve in the germicidal sprayer is turned to the Off position. In some embodiments, the termination signal 132 may include a radio frequency signal, or data packets. When the termination of the sterilization mechanism 106 occurs, all devices enter emergency mode, with red LED's, green LED's, and the audible alert mechanism illuminating and beeping to indicate termination of sanitization process.

[0070] In one non-limiting embodiment, the inhibitor device 110a comprises a standalone sensor/monitor devise with a radio frequency transceiver. The function of the inhibitor device is to sense the presence of a human by motion, noise, light; and transmits a radio frequency signal to the actuator device to pause the ultra violet light bulbs. When nothing is sensed, the ultra violet light bulbs resume its operation to finished the predetermine exposure dose. Several of these inhibitor devices can be mounted in the desired sterilization area 102 to safeguard it, one by the door entrance, one by the seats, once in the middle of the ceilings, etc., so that sensing can cover all possibilities.

[0071] In operation, the user initially couples the sterilization mechanism 106 to the actuation device 104. The actuation device 104 is then plugged into an external power source, such as an electrical socket. This can provide alternating current in one embodiment. The sterilization mechanism 106 is now powered transmit a germicide element 108. Next, the command device 114 is engaged by the user either directly or through a personal communication device.

[0072] Once it has been determined that the sterilization area 102 is empty, the user enters a code 120 into the entry key pad 116. This triggers an actuation signal which is transmitted from the command transreceiver to the actuation transreceiver (See FIG. 1). Consequently, the switch mechanism mechanically causes the sterilization mechanism 106 to emit the germicide element 108. This can be simply closing the electrical circuit to ultraviolet light source, or turning a switch in a germicidal composition sprayer.

[0073] At this point, the germicide element 108, whether ultraviolet light, or a spray germicide composition, is sterilizing the sterilization area 102. The one or more termination devices 110a, 110b maintain operation to detect motion, light, noise, or other physical elements that indicate a person, animal, or object has entered the sterilization area 102. Once the sensor 112 detects the event, the termination transceiver transmits a termination signal to the actuation transreceiver (See FIG. 2). Consequently, the switch mechanism mechanically causes the sterilization mechanism 106 to terminate emitting the germicide element 108. This can be simply opening an electrical circuit to ultraviolet light source, or turning a switch in a germicidal composition sprayer.

[0074] One non-limiting operational series of steps are as follows. The user enters a password on the command device 114 to activate the ultra violet light bulb. If the password is correct, the command device 114 sends a radio frequency actuation signal to all the actuator devices and inhibitor devices. The actuator devices and inhibitor devices flash a red LED, indicating the short wavelength ultra violet light has been activated. When the activation command is issued, the actuation device 104 turn on the ultra violet light for the activation predetermined time period, and turns it back off.

[0075] Simultaneously, the inhibitor devices 110a-c are monitoring the surrounding sterilization area 102, and if any of the sensors 112 detects abnormal values exceeding the event threshold, after receiving the actuation command 130, the corresponding inhibitor device 110a will send the inhibit signal 132 so that the actuator device 104 terminates operation of the sterilization mechanism 106. At this point, all devices enter emergency mode, with red LED's, green LED's, and the audible alert mechanism illuminating and beeping to indicate termination of sanitization.

[0076] However, when the event threshold 128 returns to within the 5% normal range, the inhibitor signal is ceased, and all devises will go back normal. The actuator device then resumes the activation time till the end. Normally all devises are flashing green LED's indicating they are on and ready. All the device may also flash red LED's when activities are reported. Further, both red and green LED's flash when entered a programing mode. And all the red LED's, green LED's, and the audible alert mechanism if there is an inhibit signal issued during activation period.

[0077] These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings.

[0078] Because many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.

ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURE

Radio Frequency Module

[0079] In some embodiments the radio frequency module may include any integrated or discrete circuitry that enables the wireless transmission and or reception of radio frequency signals between system components. The radio frequency module may be part of the actuation transreceiver, the command transceiver, or the termination transceiver, and may be configured for short-range, or medium-range wireless communication. Structural embodiments may include a transceiver module comprising an radio frequency oscillator amplifier mixer demodulator modulator filter and antenna circuitry a receiver-only module capable of demodulating incoming signals in specified frequency bands, a digital signal processor or microcontroller interface which interprets or generates the communication data encoded in the radio frequency signal, or a wireless protocol stack implemented in hardware or software to support standard or proprietary communication protocols

[0080] The radio frequency module may operate using one or more of the following modulation schemes; an amplitude-shift keying frequency-shift keying phase-shift keying on-off keying chirp spread spectrum Bluetooth Low Energy or Zigbee and IEEE 802.15.4 protocols. The radio frequency module may be operable in half-duplex or full-duplex communication modes and may include an embedded antenna a printed trace antenna or an external antenna connected via radio frequency connectors. Communication may be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0081] In some embodiments the radio frequency module enables the actuation device to receive an actuation signal from a command device or a termination signal from a termination device, these signals may be encoded with a unique digital address or identifier to prevent unintended operation by external signals. Security features such as rolling code encryption or frequency hopping may also be implemented to enhance signal integrity and prevent unauthorized activation

[0082] The radio frequency module may be powered by the same power source as the actuation circuitry and may include a power-saving mode such as intermittent polling to reduce energy consumption. The radio frequency may also include error detection and correction circuitry to enhance signal reliability particularly in environments with radio frequency noise or interference

[0083] In some embodiments the radio frequency module includes an antenna connected to a receiver circuit configured to receive wireless signals within a predetermined frequency band. In some embodiments the receiver circuit demodulates the wireless actuation signals and termination signals and outputs corresponding control commands to a switching mechanism that actuates or terminates operation of the sterilization mechanism. The radio frequency module may operate in standard ISM bands and may utilize modulation schemes such as amplitude-shift keying or frequency-shift keying to distinguish between actuation and termination commands.

[0084] In some embodiments, the automated germicidal inhibitor system includes a radio frequency module operatively associated with the actuation device. In some embodiments the radio frequency module is configured to enable wireless reception of an actuation signal and a termination signal transmitted from remote devices such as a command device or a termination device. In some embodiments the radio frequency module may include an antenna configured to receive wireless signals transmitted within a designated frequency band such as 315 MHz 433 MHz 868 MHz or 24 GHz and may be tuned to operate within the ISM industrial scientific and medical bands designated for wireless communication

[0085] In some embodiments the radio frequency module may further comprise a receiver circuit operatively coupled to the antenna wherein the receiver circuit is configured to demodulate received wireless signals and extract the actuation or termination commands embedded within the transmitted data. The demodulation may be performed using amplitude shift keying ASK frequency shift keying FSK phase shift keying PSK or on-off keying OOK modulation schemes. The receiver circuit may include a frequency tuner, a radio frequency amplifier, a demodulator, an analog-to-digital converter, and a signal decoding module which collectively process incoming signals into usable control instructions.

[0086] The processed actuation or termination signal output from the radio frequency module may be supplied to a control circuit or a microcontroller within the actuation device wherein the control circuit interprets the decoded command and generates corresponding actuation or termination instructions for the switch mechanism. The radio frequency module may be configured for unidirectional communication wherein only the reception of control signals is necessary or bidirectional communication if acknowledgement signals are transmitted back to the command device

[0087] In some embodiments the radio frequency module may incorporate signal security measures including but not limited to rolling code encryption digital handshaking or frequency hopping techniques to prevent unauthorized access or spoofing of control signals. The radio frequency module may be integrated onto a printed circuit board within the actuation device or may be implemented as a separate module coupled via wired communication to the control circuitry.

[0088] The radio frequency module may be configured to operate continuously to detect incoming signals or may utilize a power-saving polling mode wherein the receiver circuit periodically awakens to check for incoming transmissions thereby conserving energy during periods of inactivity The antenna associated with the radio frequency module may be an integrated trace antenna a chip antenna a whip antenna or a wire antenna depending on design constraints and performance requirements

[0089] The structure and arrangement of the antenna receiver circuit signal processor and output control logic collectively enable the radio frequency module to wirelessly receive actuation and termination signals from external devices and to initiate corresponding control actions within the actuation device without the need for wired communication links

Audible Alert Mechanism

[0090] In some embodiments the audible alert mechanism may include any electronic or electromechanical component capable of generating sound perceptible to a human user in response to an electrical signal initiated by the control system of the actuation device In some embodiments the audible alert mechanism may comprise a piezoelectric buzzer which generates sound through mechanical vibration when an alternating voltage is applied an electromagnetic buzzer which produces sound by moving a diaphragm via magnetic interaction when current flows through a coil a micro speaker capable of producing modulated tones beeps voice prompts or musical sequences or a transducer-based sounder wherein a signal conditioning circuit drives a resonant chamber to produce a distinct tone.

[0091] In some embodiments the audible alert mechanism may be an active component or a passive component which requires an oscillating signal to generate sound. The output may range from simple tones to modulated audio signals and the volume and duration may be adjustable by the control system. In some configurations the audible alert is triggered upon initiation or completion of a sterilization cycle expiration of a countdown timer detection of a sensor event entry of an incorrect or unauthorized code or manual test or diagnostic modes.

[0092] In some embodiments the audible alert mechanism may be mounted internally to the actuation device housing with an acoustic outlet positioned to allow efficient transmission of sound. It may be driven by a pulse-width modulated signal from a control microcontroller a discrete oscillator circuit or an analog timer circuit. In further embodiments the audible alert mechanism may include multiple tone generators each corresponding to different system states or include a mute function optionally programmable through user settings or factory presets. The sound output may be continuous intermittent or patterned and may comply with regulatory standards for decibel levels and safety notifications.