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 used in tanning beds, and is not harmful to people. Boeing engineers say that their prototype can minimise the growth and potential transmission of micro-organisms.
"We're trying to alleviate the anxiety we all face when using a restroom that gets a workout during a flight," said Jeanne Yu, Boeing Commercial Airplanes director of environmental performance. "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 sanitising even helps eliminate odours."
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 tap, soap dispenser, rubbish flap, toilet lid and seat and a hand dryer. A hands-free door latch and a vacuum vent system for the floor are also being devised, all to keep the lavatory as hygienic as possible between scheduled cleaning.
Boeing's Clean Lavatory is a finalist in the Crystal Cabin Awards, taking place at the Hamburg Aircraft Interiors Expo on April 5.