Importance

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Abstract

A bacteria destroying apparatus for use with a voice communication system such as a telephone system, and telephone systems which have such bacteria destroying apparatus included therewith. The bacteria destroying apparatus may adopt the form of a relatively thin, flat disc which is located in the mouthpiece of a telephone handset, and preferably in close proximity to the diaphram of the handset or any other portion of the voice communication system which normally collects a substantial amount of bacteria thereon as, for example, a result of close proximity of a user's mouth. The bacteria destroying apparatus generates radiation in a wave length range which is effective to destroy bacteria. In one embodiment, the radiation is generated when the element itself is electrically energized. The apparatus also includes an electrically conductive member such as a cable which extends through a portion of the voice communication system, and preferably the telephone handset, for connection to the radiation generating element as well as to a source of electrical power. Thus, when energized, radiation will be effective to destroy any bacteria on the mouthpiece of the telephone handset or other area which is contacted by the radiation. A switch system is provided for effectively disconnecting the radiation generating element from the source of electrical power when the telephone handset is in use.

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First Claim