Boeing

Engineers and designers at Boeing have developed a self-cleaning aircraft lavatory prototype, which uses far ultraviolet (UV) light to kill 99.99% of germs in three seconds.

Capable of disinfecting all surfaces of the bathroom after every use, the technology seeks to improve the passenger experience on commercial flights.

Boeing’s self-cleaning technology has touch-free features and far UV light is activated only when the lavatory is vacant.

Different from the UVA or UVB light in tanning beds, far UV light is said not to be harmful to people and Boeing has already tested the technology’s ability to reduce the growth and potential transmission of micro-organisms.

The US plane manufacturer has filed for a patent for the latest idea.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes environmental performance director Jeanne Yu said: "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 such as the toilet seat, sink and countertops with the UV light once a person exits the lavatory.

"This sanitising even helps eliminate odours."

"We’re trying to alleviate the anxiety we all face when using a restroom that gets a workout during a flight."

The cleaning system includes a hands-free faucet, soap dispenser, trash flap, toilet lid and seat, as well as a hand dryer. It needs more research before being installed on aircraft.

Study is also underway for including a hands-free door latch and a vacuum vent system for the floor, so that the lavatory can be kept at the most hygienic condition between scheduled cleaning.

Yu also added: "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."

Last month, the company has patented a new 3D printing technology that helps objects to be printed mid-air, reports 3D Printing Industry.

Image: Boeing’s self-cleaning lavatory prototype. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.