Tyrolean start-up can save ski season

COVID19 viruses endanger human lives, bring health systems to the edge of their capacity and keep the global economy on tenterhooks. Especially the tourism industry, which is so important in Austria and Tyrol, has suffered massive losses since the outbreak of the crisis. Against this background, technological solutions are needed that can reduce the health risks and get the economic cycle going.

"seTUBE" has this potential. It eliminates germs and microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc.) in gondolas and transport cabins by means of UV-C light efficiently, contact-free and residue-free in the shortest possible time and thus kills pathogens adhering to surfaces, preventing smear infections. "This LED platform technology, developed in a very short time, can be used for a very wide range of applications for disinfection. Our investigations in cooperation with the Medical University of Innsbruck show that it reliably kills viruses, bacteria and fungi," explains Michael Kraxner, who heads the research at MCI. The form of technical cleaning by light dispenses entirely with chemicals: no mercury, no ozone - 100% residue-free. The mobile "seTube" light console with built-in rechargeable battery is highly efficient, reliably effective and can be transported and used wirelessly.

"Our offer not only gives guests and hosts a safe feeling, but also a scientifically validated system of cleanliness and hygiene", Felicitas Kohler, Managing Director PLANLICHT explains the concept.

The technical disinfection of lift gondolas by means of UV-C light is one of several solutions with which 'CARE BY LIGHT GmbH', the joint venture of MCI and Planlicht, wants to make transport in mountain lifts safe for health. With 'seCube Card', for example, ski tickets - as they are used today as reusable plastic cards - can be made germ-free effortlessly. Hoteliers preparing for the safe stay of their guests rely on "seTube Mini". In no time at all, the UV table lamp disinfects masks, caps, balaclavas, ski goggles and even ski helmets. Ronald Stärz, head of the Emerging Applications Lab at MCI explains: "In these challenging times, it shows that Tyrolean know-how can open up new, interesting business fields. Industry and MCI have joined forces to develop 'seTUBE'. This enables the Tyrolean cable car industry to react quickly in this winter season and even in the event of the next pandemic - which unfortunately cannot be ruled out - and thus maintain operations."