Iodine-dispensing antifoulant implemented with dispensing shutter
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
InventorsKimberly Leung, Charles Ringer
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Sensors, such as optical sensors and other sensors used in an aqueous environment are protected from biological contamination by applying a biocide behind a shutter. The shutter is capable of covering a subject portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor in at least a semi-sealing manner. A well or reservoir forms a chamber in the shutter that is capable of holding a biocide having a limited water solubility and a low environmental toxicity in the aqueous environment, for example, anhydrous iodine crystals. The reservoir is in communication with the portion of the sensor while positioned against the portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor.
Claims7
Apparatus for protecting a sensor in an aqueous environment, the apparatus comprising:
- a shutter having a facing surface and a reservoir, the shutter configured to cover a mating surface comprised of a subject portion of the sensor or surrounding mounting surface adjacent the sensor in at least a semi-sealing manner;
- and
- the reservoir having a capability of holding a biocide having a limited water solubility and a low environmental toxicity in the aqueous environment, the reservoir in communication with the mating surface while positioned against the mating surface, wherein the reservoir is fixed to an opening in the facing surface to form a well for holding the biocide, wherein the shutter further comprises a screen for retaining the biocide within the well, and wherein the screen has a recessed alignment with respect to the facing surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.