Radiant energy – Supported for nonsignalling objects of irradiation – With source support
Reexamination Certificate
1999-02-23
2001-08-21
McKane, Elizabeth (Department: 1744)
Radiant energy
Supported for nonsignalling objects of irradiation
With source support
C422S024000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06278122
ABSTRACT:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Technical Field
This invention relates generally to a sterilizing system and more particularly to an improved and novel sterilizing system for computer keyboards, keypads and computer mice.
2. Description of Related Art
Computer keyboards are subject to constant and repeated touch by the fingertips of users. By the nature of their use, keyboards, keypads, and computer mice accumulate substantial quantities of bacteria and germs. Currently, users will spray disinfectant onto a disposable paper product and then, with the computer turned off, wipe off the keys and the mouse. This method subjects the electronics of the keyboard or keypad and mouse to the liquid spray and risks electrical damage. Liquid disinfecting sprays are also limited in their ability to access all component surfaces which may be infected. Liquid disinfecting sprays are also limited in their ability to kill the various microorganisms that accumulate on the components. Liquid disinfectants are also a nuisance to use, requiring labor and materials, and as a result, they are infrequently used. The use of liquid disinfecting sprays also generates solid waste for disposal.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A primary advantage of the present invention is that it sterilizes computer keyboards, computer mice, and keypads and more effectively kills the various microorganisms that accumulate on these components than previous methods of disinfecting. Another advantage of the present invention is that it automatically sterilizes computer keyboards, computer mice, and keypads without the requirement of manual labor or generation of solid waste. Another advantage of the present invention is that it sterilizes computer keyboards, computer mice, and keypads without the requirement of chemicals, or liquids that might interfere with the electronics. Other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a computer keyboard and mouse are located on a retractable base section, which is connected to and supported by an enclosure. A front door is hinge connected to the base. The front door may be opened to provide an armrest for the keyboard operator. The base section may be retracted into the enclosure for storage and sterilization. An ultraviolet light source is located inside of the enclosure. A highly reflective material lines the inside of the enclosure surface. When the base section is in the retracted position, the ultraviolet light may be activated. A position switch can automate activation of the Ultraviolet light. A timer can be used to control the duration of the activation of the Ultraviolet light. A safety interlock switch prevents exposure of the operator to ultraviolet radiation. Operation of the Ultraviolet light effectively destroys the microorganisms that have accumulated on the computer keyboard and mouse.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4952812 (1990-08-01), Miripol et al.
patent: 4975587 (1990-12-01), Min-Jenn
patent: 5225172 (1993-07-01), Meyler et al.
Crow P.E. Morgan L.
McKane Elizabeth
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