CABIN FILTER CLEANING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A VEHICLE

Systems and methods that utilize both UVA and UVC lamps to clean and disinfect a cabin filter of a vehicle, thereby preventing the cabin filter from becoming fouled for an extended period of time. By performing both gas filtration and cabin filter disinfection functions, these systems and methods mitigate: (1) the pressure drop (or flow reduction) experienced; (2) the smell breakthrough when the gas adsorbent becomes saturated; and (3) the presence of microbial growth. This is accomplished by the sequential application of UVC and UVA radiation to the cabin filter, with the UVC radiation being applied for a period of time upon vehicle startup to neutralize bacteria and fungus present in the cabin filter and the UVA radiation subsequently being applied continuously to filter the gas flowing through the cabin filter. A photocatalyst may be added to the cabin filter itself to enhance disinfection and gas filtration.