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US 7,598,501 B2Granted
Sterilization of handles and other gripping surfaces
OwnerKelly L. Jonesinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A self-sterilizing handle or other gripping apparatus. The apparatus and method of the invention have to do with sterilizing a gripping surface with germicidal ultraviolet light. Embodiments of an apparatus are disclosed which provide for periodic and repeated exposure of a gripping surface to the UV radiation. The gripping surface may be incorporated into a handle, so that the handle remains relatively germ-free between uses by individuals. The gripping surface may define a variety of different shapes.
Claims21
A self-sterilizing gripping apparatus comprising:
- a gripping surface, at least a portion of said gripping surface being contactable by a user's hand when the user touches the apparatus;
- a source of UV radiation disposed in proximity with said gripping surface;
- means for periodically moving said portion of the gripping surface past said UV radiation source;
- and
- a housing at least partially containing said means for moving;
- wherein said portion of said gripping surface is repeatedly exposed to UV radiation.
3 more elements
A self-sterilizing handle comprising:
- a gripping surface, at least a portion of said gripping surface periodically movable past a source of UV radiation disposed in proximity with said surface, and said portion of said gripping surface being contactable by a user's hand when the user grasps the handle;
- wherein said portion of said gripping surface is repeatedly exposed to UV radiation.
A self-sterilizing gripping apparatus comprising:
- a gripping surface, a portion of said gripping surface being contactable by a user's hand when the user grasps the apparatus;
- a source of UV radiation disposed in proximity with said gripping surface;
- and
- means for periodically moving said portion of the gripping surface past said UV radiation source;
- wherein said portion of said gripping surface is repeatedly exposed to UV radiation;
- and
- wherein said gripping surface defines a member selected from the group consisting of cylinders, annuluses, and disks.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.