Boeing Creates a Self-Cleaning Airplane Lavatory

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Many passengers are reluctant to use airplane lavatories given that so many individuals use them on a single flight, leaving it a potential “germ-zone.”

But what if the lavatory could clean itself after every use?

To make airplane lavatories more hygienic, Boeing engineers and designers have created a self-cleaning prototype bathroom that uses ultraviolet (UV) light and non-touch technology to kill 99% of germs, all in less than three seconds.

The prototype lavatory consists of touch-less faucets, soap dispensers, trash flap, toilet lid, and seat. It also includes a hand dryer as opposed to paper towels. The team is also focusing on the potential for a hands-free door latch and a vacuum-vent system for the floor. This will ensure the lavatory is as hygienic as possible between scheduled cleanings.

The cleaning system also utilizes far UV light, which is not harmful to humans. The far UV light targets bacteria and other germs and can kill any that are left in the bathroom.

“The UV light destroys all known microbes by literally making them explode,” said Jamie Childress, Associate Technical Fellow and a BR&T engineer. “It matches the resonant frequency of the molecular bonds on the outside of the microbes.”

Principal investigator Teresa King from Product Development added, “We position the lights throughout the lavatory so that it floods the touch surfaces like the toilet seat, sink, countertops, etc. with the UV light. This sanitizing even eliminates odors from bacteria so that passengers can have a more pleasant experience.”

To prevent any possible risks or concerns associated with UV exposure, the lavatory could possibly be designed so that the UV lights are only on when the bathroom door is closed.

Boeing has filed a patent for its new, innovative technology. The concept itself is on the short list for being a Crystal Cabin Award finalist. These Awards are designed to recognize innovative cabin designs and ideas in seven categories. If Boeing’s concept is recognized as one of the top three finalists in its category, the company will have the award presented to them on April 5th in Germany.