Boeing engineers and designers have developed a self-cleaning lavatory prototype that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to kill germs. The cleaning system can disinfect all surfaces after every use in three seconds. The lavatory uses Far UV light that would be activated only when the lavatory is unoccupied. Far UV is different from the UVA or UVB light in tanning beds, and is not harmful to humans. This innovation is expected to minimise the growth and potential transmission of micro-organisms. Boeing has filed for a patent on the concept.
“We’re trying to alleviate the anxiety we all face when using a restroom that gets a workout during a flight. In the prototype, we position the lights throughout the lavatory so that it floods the touch surfaces like the toilet seat, sink and countertops with the UV light once a person exits the lavatory. This sanitizing even helps eliminate odors,” said Jeanne Yu, director of ennvironmental performance, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
The cleaning system, which will require further study before it can be offered to airlines, would lift and close the toilet seat by itself so that all surfaces are exposed during the cleaning cycle. The design also incorporates a hands-free faucet, soap dispenser, trash flap, toilet lid and seat and a hand dryer. A hands-free door latch and a vacuum vent system for the floor are also under study.
“Some of the touchless features are already in use on some Boeing airplanes today, but combining that with the new UV sanitising will give passengers even more protection from germs and make for an even better flying experience,” Yu added.
