Medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste in medical procedure

Abstract

A medical waste collection system for collecting waste material. A level sensor is coupled to the at least one waste container to generate a signal indicative of a fluid level of waste material therein. The controller is configured to operate the light source assembly based on the signal such that a portion inside the waste container below the fluid level of the waste substance is illuminated. The lid assembly may include a rack and a pinion and / or polarizing portion to selectively limit visibility of the waste container portion. The controller may initiate a dredging protocol to create a pressure difference between the waste containers based on a determination that the transfer valve between the upper and lower waste containers may be clogged. The determination may be based on a rate of change of the fluid level measured by the level sensor.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority and all rights of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 454,860, filed Mar. 27, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 425,098, filed Nov. 14, 2022, the entire contents of each application being incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Medical waste collection systems are used in healthcare facilities to collect waste materials generated during medical procedures. A medical waste collection system can include one or more waste containers in fluid communication with a vacuum source. When the vacuum source is operated, waste materials are suctioned through a suction line into the waste container.

[0004] The waste container can be visible through a window, and the waste container can be formed at least in part of a transparent material. In some cases, a user may wish to observe the waste materials within the waste container. A light source can be provided to illuminate the waste container. However, such a light source often illuminates portions of the waste container that are not desired to be observed, such as the dirty sidewalls of the transparent material. In other cases, a user may wish to obscure or hide the waste container from view, and a lid can be employed to selectively shield the waste container from view. In such cases, it can be difficult to accommodate an actuation assembly and the lid in a compactly designed system.

[0005] An exemplary medical waste collection system is sold by Stryker Corporation (Kalamazoo, Michigan) under the trademark Neptune, in which an upper waste container is located above a lower waste container. The upper waste container has a volume of four liters, while the lower waste container has a volume of twenty liters. Although independent suction can be performed simultaneously on both the upper and lower waste containers, the upper waste container is typically mainly used in operation. The Neptune system transfers or empties the upper waste container into the lower waste container through a transfer valve, a process also known as "dumping". In some cases, waste materials may partially or completely block a path or space near or within the transfer valve. For example, the blockage may be caused by accumulations of blood clots and other waste materials within or near the transfer valve. This can result in a delay in the resumption of medical procedures and / or downtime of the medical waste collection system for repair.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a medical waste collection system that can overcome one or more of the above - mentioned disadvantages. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The first aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system further includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container. The system further includes a frame supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The system further includes a liquid level sensor coupled to the waste container and configured to generate a signal indicative of the fluid level of the waste materials disposed within the waste container. The system further includes a light source assembly, which may include a plurality of light sources, each of the plurality of light sources being configured to selectively operate to illuminate the interior of the waste container. The system further includes a controller coupled to the liquid level sensor and the light source assembly. The controller may be configured to operate the plurality of light sources based on the signal such that a portion of the interior of the waste container that is below the fluid level of the waste materials is illuminated.

[0008] The second aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system further includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container. The system further includes a frame supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The system further includes an ambient light sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of the ambient light intensity. The system further includes a light source positioned to emit light of variable intensity into the waste container. The system further includes a controller coupled to the sensor and the light source. The controller is configured to operate the light source based on the signal received from the ambient light sensor so as to illuminate the interior of the waste container at a determined intensity.

[0009] A third aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes a first waste container that defines a first interior for collecting waste materials. The system also includes a second waste container that defines a second interior for collecting waste materials. The system also includes a transfer valve that is coupled to the first and second waste containers and is configured to allow waste materials to be transferred from the first waste container to the second waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source that is configured to provide a vacuum on at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container. The system also includes a frame that supports the first and second waste containers, the vacuum source, and the transfer valve. The system also includes a level sensor that is coupled to at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container and is configured to generate a signal indicative of a fluid level of the waste materials disposed within a respective one of the first and second waste containers. The system also includes a light source that is configured to selectively operate to illuminate an interior of a respective one of the first and second waste containers. The system also includes a controller that is coupled to the transfer valve, the level sensor, and the light source. The controller is configured to operate the transfer valve to initiate fluid transfer, receive subsequent signals from the level sensor indicative of a respective change in the fluid level within at least one of the first and second waste containers, and operate the light source to indicate a clogging condition in which an increase rate of the fluid level in the second waste container is lower than a preset fluid transfer rate.

[0010] A fourth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source that is configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container at a selected vacuum level. The system also includes a frame that supports the waste container and the vacuum source. The system also includes a level sensor that is coupled to the waste container and is configured to generate a fluid level signal indicative of a fluid level of the waste materials disposed within the waste container. The system also includes a light source that is positioned to emit light of variable intensity into the waste container. The system also includes a controller that is coupled to the sensor and the light source. The controller is configured to receive a vacuum signal indicative of the vacuum level, receive the fluid level signal, and operate the light source to indicate a volume shortage condition in which an expected increase rate of the fluid level is expected to consume the available volume of the waste container in less than a predefined period of time.

[0011] A fifth aspect includes a method of operating a medical waste collection system that communicates with a quantitative blood loss (QBL) system. The method includes operating a vacuum source to draw medical waste into a waste container. The method further includes receiving, at a controller, QBL data from the QBL system, where the QBL data indicates a blood concentration in the medical waste. The method further includes receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from a fluid level sensor. The method further includes determining, using the controller, a fluid amount (or volume) of the medical waste within the waste container. The method further includes determining, using the controller, a blood loss amount based on the blood concentration and the fluid amount. The method further includes operating a light source to indicate a warning condition in which the blood loss amount deviates beyond a predefined threshold.

[0012] A sixth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste material. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container, which may include a transparent material. The system further includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container. The system further includes a carriage for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The carriage may include a housing that defines an observation window through which the waste container is visible. The system further includes a lid assembly coupled to the housing and may include: a first lid that may include a first polarizer, and a second lid that is movable relative to the first lid. The lid assembly further includes a second polarizer having a polarization orientation different from that of the first polarizer, and an actuator coupled to the first lid or the second lid and configured to receive an input to move the first lid and the second lid relative to each other, thereby selectively reducing light passing through the lid assembly based on the misalignment of the first and second polarizers.

[0013] A seventh aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste material. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system further includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container. The system further includes a carriage for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The carriage may include a housing that defines an observation window through which the waste container is visible. The system further includes a lid assembly coupled to the housing and may include: a first lid having a first rack, a second lid having a second rack, and a pinion disposed between the first and second lids and engaged with the first and second racks such that movement of the first lid in one direction causes movement of the second lid in the opposite direction. The system further includes an actuator coupled to one of the first lid and the pinion and configured to receive an input to move the first lid and the second lid toward each other to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

[0014] The eighth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system further includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container. The system also includes a frame for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The frame may include a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible. The system also includes a lid assembly coupled to the housing and may include a flexible lid movably coupled to one of the housing and the frame, first and second support rods rotatably coupled to one of the housing and the frame, and a belt coupled to the lid and configured to surround the support rods. The system also includes an actuator coupled to one of the belt and the lid and configured to receive an input to move the lid so as to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

[0015] The ninth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system further includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container. The system also includes a frame for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The frame may include a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible. The system also includes a lid assembly coupled to the housing and may include a lid movably coupled to one of the housing and the frame, and a pivot arm pivotally coupled to the lid. The lid assembly further includes an actuator pivotally coupled to the pivot arm and slidable relative to the housing, the actuator being configured to receive an input to move the lid so as to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

[0016] The tenth aspect includes a method of operating a medical waste collection system including an upper waste container. The method includes actuating a transfer valve to an open position using a controller to allow waste materials to transfer from the upper waste container to a lower waste container. The method also includes receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from at least one fluid level sensor. The method also includes using the controller to determine a change in the fluid level within the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal. The method further includes, based on the change in the fluid level during a dumping protocol indicating a clogging condition, operating a vacuum source to draw suction on the lower waste container with the transfer valve in the open position to draw the waste materials from the upper waste container into the lower waste container. The method also includes lowering the upper waste container below a preset low fluid level.

[0017] The eleventh aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials. The medical waste collection system includes an upper waste container. The system also includes a lower waste container. The system also includes at least one liquid level sensor coupled to at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container. The system also includes a transfer valve coupled to the upper and lower waste containers and operable to allow waste materials to be transferred from the upper waste container to the lower waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide independent suction to each of the upper waste container and the lower waste container. The system also includes a pump separated from the vacuum source and in fluid communication with the upper waste container. The system also includes a controller in electronic communication with the at least one liquid level sensor, the transfer valve, and the pump. The controller is configured to determine a change in fluid level when the transfer valve is in an open position based on a liquid level signal received from the at least one liquid level sensor, and operate the pump to direct air into the upper waste container based on an indication of a clogging condition from the change in fluid level during a dumping protocol.

[0018] The twelfth aspect includes a method of operating a medical waste collection system including an upper waste container. The method includes actuating a transfer valve to an open position using a controller to allow waste materials to be transferred from the upper waste container to the lower waste container. The method also includes receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from the at least one liquid level sensor. The method also includes using the controller to determine a change in fluid level within the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal. The method also includes, based on an indication of a clogging condition from the change in fluid level during a dumping protocol, operating the pump to force air into the upper waste container with the transfer valve in an open position to push the waste materials through the transfer valve into the lower waste container.

[0019] It should be understood that the various aspects and their corresponding embodiments can be combined with each other. Specifically, the aspects directed to the lamp assembly can be included in any embodiment of the cover assembly. Similarly, the aspects directed to the dumping protocol can be included in a medical waste collection system in which any embodiment of the lamp assembly and / or the cover assembly is provided. Description of the Drawings

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the medical waste collection system.

[0021] Figure 2 is a side view of the medical waste collection system. Certain sub-components are shown schematically.

[0022] Figure 3 is a partial perspective view of the medical waste collection system in which a light source assembly is coupled to the waste container.

[0023] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the light source assembly in which the waste container and the fluid level sensor are in a first state.

[0024] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view of the light source assembly, where the waste container and the fluid level sensor are in the second state.

[0025] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the first embodiment in the first state.

[0026] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the first embodiment in the second state.

[0027] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the third embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 It is a partial perspective view of the cover assembly of the third embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 It is a partial perspective view of the cover assembly of the fourth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 12 It is a partial perspective view of the cover assembly of the fourth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 13 It is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the fifth embodiment in the first state.

[0033] Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the fifth embodiment in the second state.

[0034] Figure 15A It is Figure 13 and 14 a representative view of the polarizer when the cover assembly is in the first state.

[0035] Figure 15B It is Figure 13 and 14 a front view of the polarizer when the cover assembly is in the first state.

[0036] Figure 16A It is Figure 13 and 14 a representative view of the polarizer when the cover assembly is in the second state.

[0037] Figure 16B It is Figure 13 and 14 a front view of the polarizer when the cover assembly is in the second state.

[0038] Figure 17 a front view of the cover assembly of the fifth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 18 It is a side view of a medical waste collection system. Some sub-components are schematically presented.

[0040] Figure 19 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the waste container of the medical waste collection system.

[0041] Figure 20 It is a schematic diagram of some electronic sub-components of the medical waste collection system.

[0042] Figure 21 It is a flowchart of a method for executing an agreement according to aspects of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0043] Referring to the accompanying drawings, throughout several views, the same numerals are used to denote the same structures. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials is generally shown at Figure 1 30. The medical waste collection system 30 collects waste materials generated during medical procedures (e.g., surgical operations) performed within a medical facility (e.g., a hospital). The waste materials may include body fluids, smoke, body tissues, irrigation fluids, etc. The medical waste collection system 30 collects the waste materials for later discharge. Specifically, the medical waste collection system 30 collects and stores the waste materials so as to unload the waste materials when detachably coupled to a docking station. In this way, the medical waste collection system 30 can store waste materials generated from a series of different medical procedures over a day or several days without unloading the waste materials.

[0044] Referring to Figure 2 FIG. [FIGURE NUMBER], the medical waste collection system 30 may include a base 32 and wheels 34 for moving the medical waste collection system 30 along a floor surface within a medical facility. The medical waste collection system 30 may further include a frame or chassis 36 extending upward from the base 32. The chassis 36 supports the components / sub-systems of the medical waste collection system 30. An outer shell 38 or housing is coupled to the chassis 36 and defines an interior, which will be described in further detail below. The outer shell 38 may be formed at least in part from a polymeric material, such as a plastic housing shell. In other configurations, the chassis 36 and the outer shell 38 are fully integrated such that the chassis 36 and the outer shell 38 are indistinguishable.

[0045] The medical waste collection system 30 further includes one or more waste containers 40a, 40b for collecting and storing waste materials. The waste containers 40a, 40b may be at least partially disposed inside the outer shell 38 and supported by the chassis 36. It is contemplated that the waste containers 40a, 40b may assume any shape suitable for containing waste materials. The waste containers 40a, 40b may include an upper waste container 40a and a lower waste container 40b, as shown in Figure 2As shown. In other embodiments, such as those disclosed in the co-owned International Patent Publication No. WO2020 / 210763, published on October 15, 2020, a single waste container may be employed, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The waste containers 40a, 40b may be formed of glass, a suitable plastic material, or other materials.

[0046] The vacuum source 42 may be supported on the base 32 and connected to the frame 36. The vacuum source 42 is configured to draw suction on the waste containers 40a, 40b through one or more vacuum lines (see Figure 18 ). The vacuum source 42 may include a vacuum pump 46 and / or at least one vacuum regulator 48a, 48b, which are configured to be in fluid communication to regulate the suction level drawn by the vacuum pump 46 on the waste containers 40a, 40b. More specifically, the upper vacuum regulator 48a may be operable to selectively establish fluid communication between the upper waste container 40a and atmospheric pressure A or between the upper waste container 40a and the vacuum source 42; the lower vacuum regulator 48b may be operable to selectively establish fluid communication between the lower waste container 40b and atmospheric pressure A or between the lower waste container 40b and the vacuum source 42. The proper construction and operation of several subsystems of the medical waste collection system 30 are disclosed in the co-owned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0171495 (published on August 4, 2005), International Patent Publication No. WO2007 / 070570 (published on June 21, 2007), International Patent Publication No. WO2014 / 066337 (published on May 1, 2014), International Patent Publication No. WO2017 / 112684 (published on June 29, 2017), and the aforementioned International Patent Publication No. WO2020 / 210763, the entire content of each of which is incorporated herein by reference. In other configurations, the vacuum source 42 may be a self - contained unit that is removably connectable to the medical waste collection system 30 for drawing suction on the waste container 40. The proper construction and operation of such a medical waste collection system 30 are disclosed in the co-owned U.S. Patent No. 10,105,470, issued on October 23, 2018, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 and 2, the housing 38 includes a front portion 66 and a rear portion 68 opposite the front portion 66. Each of the front portion 66 and the rear portion 68 of the housing 38 may include a single panel or multiple panels. The front portion 66 of the housing 38 has an outer surface. The outer surface of the front portion 66 may be adapted to generally face the surgical area during a medical procedure. The front portion 66 of the housing 38 may define one or more windows 44a, 44b to allow a user to observe the waste containers 40a, 40b. Since the waste containers 40a, 40b include a transparent material (such as transparent plastic), the user can see the waste material in the waste containers 40a, 40b through the windows 44a, 44b. The user can also see the fluid level (or level) of the waste material in the waste containers 40a, 40b. In Figure 1 the configuration shown, the windows 44a, 44b are generally located at the center of the front portion 66 of the housing 38 (relative to side-to-side). However, it is contemplated that the windows 44a, 44b may be offset such that the windows 44a, 44b may be disposed to the left or right of the window 44a, 44b positions as seen in Figure 1 .

[0048] Referring Figure 4 and 5 , the medical waste collection system 30 may include a fluid level sensor 56 that is coupled to the waste container 40b and configured to generate a signal indicative of the fluid level of the waste material disposed within the waste container 40b. The fluid level sensor 56 may be implemented as a liquid measurement system including a sensor rod 58 and a floating element 60, as described in the aforementioned International Patent Publication No. WO2007 / 070570. Also referring to Figure 17 , the sensor rod 58 may extend through the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b and be located between the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b. In other configurations, each of the waste containers 40a, 40b includes a separate fluid level sensor 56. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the fluid level sensor 56 may include a different design capable of generating a signal indicative of the fluid level within the waste container 40b.

[0049] The medical waste collection system 30 may include a light source assembly 62 coupled to the waste container 40b. The light source assembly 62 may include a plurality of light sources 64. Each light source 64 may be configured to be selectively operable to illuminate the interior of the waste container 40b. The plurality of light sources 64 may be vertically spaced apart from each other relative to gravity. Figure 4 and 5 the light sources 64 shown are equally spaced apart from each other. However, it is contemplated that the light sources 64 may be disposed at different distances relative to each other such that a first distance between a first light source and a second light source is different from a second distance between the second light source and a third light source, and so on. Each light source 64 may be a light emitting diode (LED), a light bulb, a lamp, or other similar device configured to emit visible light.

[0050] Figure 3 The light source assembly 62 is shown as a strip light having a substrate 63. A plurality of light sources 64 are coupled to the substrate 63. The substrate 63 can be coupled to the vehicle frame 36 via a support arm to space the substrate 63 from the vehicle frame 36 and against the waste container 40b. In other configurations, the substrate 63 can be directly coupled to the waste container 40b without additional attachment to the vehicle frame 36 or the housing 38. Such an arrangement can reduce light leakage from the waste container 40b. For example, Figure 4 and 5 the light sources 64 in are shown coupled to the sidewall of the waste container 40b. In other configurations, the light source assembly 62 can include a plurality of vertically spaced substrates, the plurality of vertically spaced substrates including one or more light sources 64. In yet another variant, the strip light can be arranged adjacent to one side of the window 44b of the housing 38, and the light source assembly 62 can further include a second strip light arranged adjacent to the opposite side of the viewing window 44b. It is also contemplated that one or more of the light sources 64 can be coupled to the bottom of the waste container 40b.

[0051] The medical waste collection system 30 includes a controller 86 (as Figure 2 and 20 shown). The controller 86 can be a plurality of sub - controllers, each sub - controller including one or more microprocessors, processors, systems - on - a - chip, etc., to operate certain functions of the medical waste collection system 30. The controller 86 is in electronic communication with the level sensor 56 and the light source assembly 62. The controller 86 is configured to activate or operate the light sources 64, and more specifically to selectively and individually operate each of the light sources 64. In a manner to be described, the controller is configured to control, activate, or operate less than all of the light sources 64 based on a signal from the level sensor 56 such that the portion of the waste container 40b below the fluid level of the waste material inside is illuminated. In other words, the controller 86 can be configured not to operate one or more of the light sources 64 disposed above the fluid level of the waste material in the waste container 40b based on the signal. By illuminating the waste material in the waste container 40b, the empty portion of the waste container 40b above the waste material remains relatively dark. In this case, the potentially soiled sidewalls of the waste containers 40a, 40b are less visible.

[0052] The vehicle - mounted control panel 88 can be configured to generate signals to and receive signals from the controller 86 to allow a user to selectively operate the light source assembly, the vacuum source 42, and other systems of the medical waste collection system 30. In Figure 2In the configuration shown, the control panel 88 is coupled to the top portion of the housing 38. The control panel 88 can include one or more user interfaces that communicate with the controller 86, such as knobs, dials, touchscreen input devices, etc., to allow a user to establish a desired vacuum level in the waste containers 40a, 40b. The control panel 88 can also indicate to the user data related to the suction or vacuum level on the waste containers 40a, 40b. The co-owned U.S. Patent No. 7,621,898, authorized on November 24, 2009, discloses the proper operation of the medical waste collection system 30 for controlling the vacuum level in the waste containers 40a, 40b, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] As described above, by coupling the medical waste collection system 30 to the docking station, the on-board waste material is unloaded, and the docking station also performs a cleaning cycle on the waste containers 40a, 40b. Despite the cleaning cycle being performed, dirt may still remain at least to some extent on the inner wall of the waste container 40b. Additionally or alternatively, in the case of high suction being applied to the waste containers 40a, 40b (e.g., due to splashing or sloshing), the inner wall may become dirty. Generally, the dirty wall portion above the fluid level within the waste containers 40a, 40b is particularly visibly apparent when light passes through. Therefore, to avoid the dirty wall of the waste container 40b being inappropriately visible, the controller 86 can operate the light source assembly 62 to generate light only using the light sources 64 disposed below the surface of the waste material. In this way, the user can clearly see the fluid level, color, and consistency of the waste material within the waste container 40b without noticing the empty portion of the waste container 40b.

[0054] The controller 86 can include a memory 87 or be in electronic communication with a memory 87 that stores data associating the vertical position of each of the plurality of light sources 64 with a corresponding predefined fluid level within the waste container 40b. The controller 86 can be configured to receive a signal from the level sensor 56 and determine, based on the signal, the fluid level of the waste material disposed within the waste container 40b. The controller 86 then compares the data accessed from the memory 87 with the determined fluid level and operates less than all of the light sources 64 based on the comparison. In some cases where the fluid level is above all of the light sources 64, the controller 86 can be configured to operate all of the light sources 64. The light sources 64 can be configured to emit light having variable light intensity, light color, and / or light pattern. The memory 87 can store further data associating the predefined fluid levels with predefined light intensity, light color, and light pattern. The controller 86 can be configured to operate less than all of the light sources 64 at a predefined light intensity based on the signal.

[0055] Rather than operating the light source assembly 62 to generate light only using the light source 64 disposed below the surface of the waste material, a movable cover (not shown) disposed between the waste container 40b and the housing 38 is employed to shield that portion of the waste container 40b disposed above the waste material. The movable cover can be configured as a door, a slider, a ribbon, a curtain, a polarizing lens, or other shielding member designed to reduce the visibility of that portion of the waste container 40b located above the waste material. In some configurations, the movable cover can be raised and lowered by an actuator of the cover assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 that receives input from a user or by a motor operatively coupled to the movable cover. The memory 87 can store data further associating a predefined fluid level of the waste material with a predetermined position of the movable cover. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the actuator based on signals from the level sensor to adjust the position of the movable cover at various predetermined positions such that the movable cover can automatically raise and lower in response to a changing fluid waste level in the waste container 40b. The cover assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 will be described in more detail below.

[0056] It is also contemplated that any number or combination of light sources 64 disposed above or below the fluid waste level can be illuminated. In one configuration, the light sources 64 disposed above the fluid waste level can automatically dim relative to the light sources 64 disposed below the fluid level. For example, the controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 disposed above the fluid waste level at a first intensity and the light sources 64 disposed below the fluid waste level at a second intensity greater than the first intensity. In some configurations, the first intensity can be as low as producing little to no light.

[0057] Other configurations for controlling the light source assembly 62 are also contemplated. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 disposed farthest from the fluid waste level at a greater intensity than the light sources 64 disposed closer to the fluid waste level. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 disposed above the fluid level as dark and the light sources 64 disposed below the fluid level as light. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 in a variety of different patterns, causing the light sources 64 to produce light in sequence, e.g., the light sources emit light in a bottom-to-top order. Finally, the controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 such that every other light source 64 emits light in a blinking manner. Other patterns are also contemplated.

[0058] In Figure 4 and 5 the configuration shown, changes in the fluid level and light source illumination are shown. The light source assembly 62 includes eight light sources 64 spaced vertically relative to the waste container. In Figure 4In this case, the waste material level is located between the sixth light source 64 and the seventh light source 64 counted from the bottom. The controller 86 receives a signal from the liquid level sensor 56 and compares the signal with data from the memory to determine which light sources 64 are located below the fluid level. The controller 86 operates one or more of the light sources 64 that are located below the waste material level to illuminate only the waste material and not the portion of the waste container 40b that is located above the waste material. In Figure 5 this case, the waste material level is located between the fourth and fifth light sources 64 counted from the bottom. The controller 86 receives a signal from the liquid level sensor 56 and compares the signal with data from the memory to determine which light sources 64 are located below the fluid level. The controller 86 operates one or more of the light sources 64 that are located below the waste material level to illuminate only the waste material and not the portion of the waste container 40b that is located above the waste material. Although in Figure 4 and Figure 5 the light source assembly 62 in the configuration shown includes eight light sources 64, it is understood that the light source assembly 62 may include seven or fewer light sources 64. It is also contemplated that the light source assembly 62 may include nine or more light sources 64.

[0059] As described above, the light sources 64 disposed below the waste material level can be operated by the controller 86 to illuminate the waste container 40b. In other configurations, one or more of the light sources 64 that are immediately below the fluid level and below the fluid level do not operate, and the fluid is illuminated with fewer than all of the light sources 64. Specifically, the controller 86 can be configured to operate one or more of the first n - 1 light sources 64 starting from the bottom that are located below the waste material level, where n is the number of light sources 64 that are located below the fluid level. In this configuration, the light source 64 that is closest to the fluid level and below the fluid level may not be operated to illuminate the waste container 40b so that light does not leak into the portion of the waste container 40b that is above the fluid level in the event that the waste material is disturbed and the fluid level fluctuates instantaneously.

[0060] In some configurations, the user interface of the control panel 88 can be configured to receive input from the user to control the light source assembly 72 in any number of the above and other configurations. For example, the user can select full illumination of the waste container 40b such that the controller 86 operates all of the plurality of light sources 64 regardless of the fluid level. Another example includes the user selecting a light characteristic, such as a selected light color and / or a selected light intensity. The controller 86 can correspondingly operate fewer than all of the plurality of light sources 64 with the selected light color, the selected light intensity, or other light characteristics.

[0061] The medical waste collection system 30 can include an ambient light sensor 70 configured to generate a signal indicative of the ambient light intensity. A controller 86 can be in electronic communication with the ambient light sensor 70. The controller 86 can be configured to operate a light source 64 based on the signal received from the ambient light sensor 70 so as to illuminate the interior of the waste container 40b at a determined intensity. In some configurations, when the ambient light sensor 70 detects bright light around the medical waste collection system 30, the brightness of the light source 64 may be increased. In other configurations, when the ambient light sensor 70 detects dim light around the medical waste collection system 30, the brightness can be decreased. Medical procedures using the medical waste collection system 30 are typically performed in an operating room where the ambient light around the patient is dim. For example, in a gastrointestinal endoscopy procedure, it is important that the operating room remains dark or dimly lit so that an endoscope (not shown) used during the procedure can effectively capture images of the surgical site for subsequent analysis and display them on a monitor (not shown) in the operating room, while the light in the operating room (e.g., light from the medical waste collection system 30) does not create glare on the monitor.

[0062] The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light source 64 to be brighter in response to a signal indicating that the ambient light intensity is above an ambient light threshold. The controller 86 can also be configured to operate the light source 64 to make the determined intensity close to the intensity of the ambient light. The medical waste collection system 30 can include a container light sensor 72 coupled to the waste container 40b. A memory 87 can store data including a predefined color intensity for image capture of the interior of the waste container with a camera for quantitative blood loss (QBL) analysis. The controller 86 can also be configured to operate the light source 64 based on feedback from the container light sensor 72 so as to make the determined intensity close to the predefined color intensity. The predefined color intensity can include a whiteness color value. Operating the light source 64 to approach the whiteness color value can achieve a more accurate reading during QBL analysis. The co-owned International Application No. PCT / US2023 / 025603, filed on June 16, 2023, discloses the proper construction and operation of a QBL system, where a camera is positioned adjacent to the waste container 40 to capture images of the waste material, and the entire content of this application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0063] The controller 86 can receive QBL data from the QBL system 78, as Figure 2As shown. The QBL data can indicate the blood concentration within the waste material. The controller 86 can operate the vacuum source to draw medical waste into the waste container 40b. The controller 86 can receive a fluid level signal from the level sensor 56 and determine the fluid volume of the medical waste within the waste container 40b. Then, the controller 86 can determine the blood loss based on the blood concentration and the fluid volume. The controller 86 can operate the light source 64 based on QBL analysis to indicate any number of conditions or states. For example, the light source 64 can be selectively operated in terms of pattern, color, or intensity to indicate a warning condition where the blood loss deviates beyond a predefined threshold. As another example, the light source 64 can be selectively operated in terms of pattern, color, or intensity to indicate an error condition where the blood loss is greater than the fluid volume.

[0064] Continuing to refer Figure 2 , the light source 64 can be used to indicate a clogging condition or an insufficient volume condition of the medical waste collection system 30. The transfer valve 74 can be coupled to the first and second waste containers 40a, 40b and the controller 86. The transfer valve 74 can be disposed on the dump line 76 and configured to open to allow the waste material to be dumped from the upper waste container 40a to the lower waste container 40b. In other cases, the transfer valve can be built into one of the waste containers 40a, 40b. In such an embodiment, the transfer valve can be sized larger than when disposed on the dump line 76. The controller 86 can operate the transfer valve 74 to initiate a dumping protocol to be described. As will be described in more detail, the controller 86 receives a signal from the level sensor 56 that indicates a corresponding change in the fluid level in at least one of the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b. Then, the controller 86 operates the light source 64 to indicate a clogging condition in which the rate of increase in the fluid level in the second waste container 40b is lower than a preset fluid transfer rate. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light source 64 in one of a predefined color and blink sequence to indicate the clogging condition or the insufficient volume condition. The insufficient volume condition is based on an expected rate of increase in the fluid level that is expected to be greater than the remaining available volume of the waste container 40b within a predefined period less than a predefined period. The expected rate of increase can be based on the rate of increase in the fluid level up to that point in the medical procedure.

[0065] In addition to or as an alternative to using the lamp assembly 62 to limit visualization of (some) portions of the waste containers 40a, 40b, it may be desirable to use the lid assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 to occlude portions of the waste containers 40a, 40b. As described above, the medical waste collection system 30 is typically portable for movement throughout a healthcare facility. To facilitate portability, the medical waste collection system 30 is designed to be compact and to reduce the amount of unoccupied space within the housing 38. Accordingly, the lid assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 of the present disclosure are correspondingly compact and capable of being actuated in an intuitive and ergonomic manner. Refer to Figure 6 and 7 , a first embodiment of the lid assembly 100 of the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The front portion 66 of the housing 38 is shown in phantom lines to better illustrate the lid assembly 100. The lid assembly 100 can be used to selectively permit a user to view the waste containers 40a, 40b through the windows 44a, 44b. In Figure 6 and 7 the configuration shown, the lid assembly 100 is used to selectively permit a user to view the lower waste container 40b.

[0066] The lid assembly 100 can be coupled to the frame 36 or the housing 38. The lid assembly 100 includes a first lid 102 having a first rack 104 and a second lid 106 having a second rack 108. The first rack 104 and the second rack 108 can each include a plurality of rack teeth. A pinion 110 can be disposed between the first and second lids 102, 106 and have pinion teeth that engage the first and second racks 104, 108 in a meshing engagement such that movement of the first lid 102 in one direction causes movement of the second lid 106 in the opposite direction.

[0067] In other configurations where at least one of the pinion 110 and the racks 104, 108 does not include teeth, there may be sufficient friction between the pinion 110 and the racks 104, 108 such that movement of the first lid 102 in one direction causes movement of the second lid 106 in the opposite direction. In such a configuration, the racks 104, 108 can engage the pinion 110, where the pinion 110 is configured as a roller. The racks 104, 108 can include generally flat surfaces that abut the roller, and the racks 104, 108 can be disposed on opposite sides of the roller such that movement of the first lid 102 in one direction causes movement of the second lid 106 in the opposite direction.

[0068] In another configuration, the cover assembly 100 can include a belt (not shown) that can form a loop around two pulleys. The racks 104, 108 can be coupled to the belt between the pulleys, and each rack 104, 108 is disposed on a different side of the loop (i.e., above or below the pulley) such that movement of the first cover 102 in one direction causes movement of the second cover 106 in the opposite direction. A pinion 110 can be disposed between the pulleys and abut the belt such that rotation of the pinion 110 can drive the belt. In other configurations, one of the pulleys can include the pinion 110.

[0069] An actuator 112 (e.g., a switch or a joystick) can be coupled to the first cover 102 and configured to receive an input to move the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 towards each other to selectively cover at least a portion of the window 44b. The actuator 112 can include a single actuating slider to operate the cover assembly 100 with one input. In other words, a user can grasp the actuator 112 with one hand and close the cover assembly 100 with one hand. With the rack and pinion design, moving the two covers 102, 106 simultaneously with a single input allows for a reduction in the overall movement of the covers 102, 106 and the actuator 112, which requires less total footprint of the cover assembly 100 within the housing 38 and around the waste containers 40a, 40b compared to the case of using a single cover. Additionally, using a single actuator 112 is more convenient than using multiple actuators to move the covers 102, 106 individually.

[0070] The cover assembly 100 can be movable between a first state ( Figure 6 ) and a second state ( Figure 7 ). In the first state, the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 together cover the window 44b. In the second state, the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 are spaced apart from each other such that the window 44b is not covered. The actuator 112 can be selectively movable between a first position ( Figure 6 ) and a second position ( Figure 7 ). In the first position, the cover assembly 100 is in the first state. In the second position, the cover assembly 100 is in the second state.

[0071] The cover assembly 100 may include a first track 114 and a second track 116 that are coupled to at least one of the frame 36 and the housing 38 and are configured to support the movement of the first cover 102 and the second cover 106, respectively. The tracks 114, 116 may be fixed to the frame 36 and / or the housing 38 and are configured to guide the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 when the user moves the actuator 112. The pinion 110 may be coupled to the frame 36 and / or the housing 38 and is configured to rotate about a pivot that is fixed relative to the frame 36 and the housing 38. In some configurations, the pinion 110 may be coupled to at least one of the first track 114 and the second track 116. In the illustrated configuration, portions of each track 114, 116 are received in grooves of the respective racks 104, 108 and are configured for relative sliding movement. The grooves may be configured in a dovetail design to constrain the relative movement to be slidable. In other configurations, the grooves may include another shape that allows sliding between the racks 104, 108 and the tracks 114, 116. Rollers may be attached to the racks 104, 108, and the tracks 114, 116 may include tracks for receiving the rollers. The rollers may rotate relative to the tracks and the racks 104, 108 such that rotation of the rollers causes the rollers to roll along the tracks, thereby moving the racks 104, 108 and the covers 102, 106 along the tracks 114, 116.

[0072] In another configuration, the actuator 112 may be coupled to the pinion 110 instead of to one of the covers 102, 106. In this configuration, the actuator 112 may include a knob that rotates with the pinion 110 relative to the frame 36 and the housing 38. The user may grip the knob and provide a single input to rotate the pinion 110, and due to the meshing engagement of the pinion 110 with the first and second racks 104, 108, cause the first and second covers 102, 106 to move simultaneously between a first and a second state to selectively open and close the covers 102, 106.

[0073] In Figure 8 In a second embodiment of the illustrated cover assembly 200, the first and second racks 204, 208 may be curved and contoured to conform to the outer surface of the waste container 40b. In this manner, the first cover 202 and the second cover 206 may be configured to move arcuately about the outer surface of the waste container 40b. In some configurations of the curved first and second racks 204, 208, the pinion 210 may have a conical or beveled shape to support the arcuate movement of the first and second racks 204, 208. The first and second covers 202, 206 may be supported by first and second tracks 214, 216, respectively, which are also curved to arcuately guide the covers 202, 206.

[0074] ReferenceFigure 9 and 10 , showing a third embodiment of the lid assembly 600 of the medical waste collection system 30. The lid assembly 600 may be coupled to the frame 36 or the housing 38. The lid assembly 600 includes a lid 602, a top guide 604, and a bottom guide 606. The lid 602 may be flexible, and the guides 604, 606 may be configured to maintain the bent shape of the lid 602 when the lid 602 covers the window 44b. The bent shape may conform to the shape of the waste containers 40a, 40b or the housing 38. In some configurations, a single guide is used. The lid assembly 600 may include support rods 608, 610 rotatably coupled to the top and bottom guides 604, 606. The support rods 608, 610 may be spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the window 44b. A belt 614 is coupled to the lid 602 and wrapped around the support rods 608, 610. The belt 614 may move with the lid 602 around the support rods 608, 610 to selectively cover the window 44b. In some configurations, two belts 614a, 614b are used. The belts 614a, 614b are spaced apart from each other and prevent the lid 602 from getting stuck in the guides 604, 606. In some configurations, the belts 614a, 614b have teeth. In some cases, using belts may be preferred in order to reduce the noise of the lid assembly 600 when the lid 602 moves to cover or expose the window 44b.

[0075] An actuator 612 (e.g., a switch or a joystick) may be coupled to the lid 602 and / or the belts 614a, 614b, and is configured to receive an input to move the lid 602 relative to the top and bottom guides 604, 606 to selectively cover at least a portion of the window 44b. The actuator 612 may include a single actuator slider to operate the lid assembly 600 with one input. In other words, a user may grasp the actuator 612 with one hand and close the lid assembly 600 with one hand.

[0076] The lid assembly 600 may include a winding rod 616 positioned adjacent to one of the support rods 608, 610 to hold the portion of the lid 602 that does not cover the window 44b. The winding rod 616 may be spring-loaded (e.g., by a torsion spring) to roll up the lid 602 when the lid is not held in place. In other configurations, the winding rod 616 may be adjusted to be strong enough to roll up the slack portion of the lid 602 and weak enough to not rotate the belts 614a, 614b. In some cases, hooks may be coupled to the lid 602, the actuator 612, and / or the belts 614a, 614b to latch onto a portion of the housing 38 or the frame 36. The hooks may be used to hold the position of the lid 602 relative to the housing 38. For example, the hooks may hold the lid 602 in a position where the lid 602 covers the window 44b. When the lid 602 does not cover the window 44b, the winding rod 616 allows the lid 602 to occupy less space inside the housing 38, thereby reducing the overall footprint of the lid assembly 600.

[0077] Reference Figure 11 and 12 , a fourth embodiment of a lid assembly 700 of the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The lid assembly 700 may be coupled to the frame 36 or the housing 38. The lid assembly 700 includes a lid 702 and a guide 704. The lid 702 and the guide 704 may be curved to conform to the shape of the waste containers 40a, 40b, or the housing 38. The lid 702 may include rigid plastic, and the guide 704 may define a channel 706 for receiving the lid 702 and constrain the position of the lid 702 as the lid 702 moves relative to the housing 38.

[0078] The lid assembly 700 further includes a pivot arm 708 or a linkage pivotally coupled to the lid 702. The pivot arm 708 may include a first pivot portion 710 pivotally coupled to the lid. The pivot arm 708 may include a second pivot portion (not shown) pivotally coupled to an actuator 712 (e.g., a switch or a joystick). The pivot arm 708 may further include an elongated portion 714 extending between the first and second pivot portions. In some configurations, the elongated portion 714 includes an arcuate shape. In some configurations, the lid 702 may define a groove 716 to receive at least the first pivot portion 710. The arcuate shapes of the elongated portion 714 and the groove 716 may be adopted together or independently to reduce the risk of jamming occurring between the lid 702 and the actuator 712.

[0079] As described above, the actuator 712 is pivotally coupled to the pivot arm 708 and is slidable relative to the housing 38. The housing 38 may include a slideway 718 that defines a slot 720 for receiving the actuator 712. The actuator 712 is configured to receive an input to move within the slot 720 and move the cover 702 to selectively cover at least a portion of the window 44b. The actuator 712 may include a protrusion that can be grasped by a user to move the actuator 712 within the slot 720 along the slideway 718. The protrusion may include a first flange 722 that is disposed on a first side of the slideway 718 facing the waste container 40a and is pivotally coupled to the pivot arm 708. The protrusion may further include a second flange 724 that is disposed on a second side of the slideway 718 facing away from the waste container 40a. The first and second flanges 722, 724 cooperate to hold a portion of the protrusion within the slot 720.

[0080] In a configuration where the cover 702 includes a curved shape, the guide 704 may subtend a first arc having a first center point. The slideway 718 may extend linearly, or the slideway may correspond to a second arc having a second center point different from the first center point. The pivot arm 708 allows the actuator 712 to slide linearly or along a second arc different from the arc corresponding to the cover 702. In other words, when the user moves the actuator 712, the pivot arm 708 allows the orientation of the cover 702 to change relative to the actuator 712. This configuration allows the slideway 718 of the housing 38 to accommodate a shape different from the shape of the cover 702.

[0081] Reference Figures 13 - 16B , a fifth embodiment of a cover assembly 300 of the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The cover assembly 300 is coupled to the housing 38 and / or the carriage 36. The cover assembly 300 may include: a first cover 302 that includes a first polarizer; and a second cover 306 that is movable relative to the first cover and includes a second polarizer. The second polarizer has a polarization orientation different from that of the first polarizer. The actuator 312 may be coupled to the first cover 302 or the second cover 306 and is configured to receive an input to move the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 relative to each other, thereby selectively reducing the light transmitted through the cover assembly 300 based on the misalignment of the first and second polarizers. The actuator 312 may include a single actuator slider to operate the cover assembly 300 with a single input. In other words, the user can grasp the actuator 312 with one hand and operate the cover assembly 300 with one hand. In one configuration, one of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is fixed to the housing 38 and / or the carriage 36, and the other of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is movable in response to the operation of the actuator 312.

[0082] The first and second polarizers each include at least a first portion 318 and a second portion 320. The polarization orientation of the first portion 318 is different from that of the second portion 320. The cover assembly 300 can operate between a first state ( Figure 13 ) and a second state ( Figure 14 ). In the first state, the first portions 318 of the first and second polarizers are aligned to allow the transmission of a first light. In the second state, the first portion 318 of the first polarizer is aligned with the second portion 320 of the second polarizer to allow the transmission of a second light that is less than the first light. The transmission of the first light may be about 45 - 50% of the ambient light. The transmission of the second light may be close to zero. Other reductions in the light transmission in each of the first state and / or the second state can be envisioned.

[0083] In the first state, even though the transmission of light is reduced, the waste container 40b is still visible through the window 44b. In the second state, the waste container 40b may not be visible through the window. Although in Figures 13 - 16B the illustrated configuration both the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 include three first portions 318 and three second portions 320, it is envisioned that the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 can include any number of portions 318, 320 as long as at least one first portion 318 of one of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is aligned with the first portion 318 of the other of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the first state and at least one first portion 318 of one of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is aligned with the second portion 320 of the other of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the second state.

[0084] Referring to Figures 15A - 16B , the first portion 318 can have a front surface and a rear surface, and a polarization slit arranged horizontally is defined between the front surface and the rear surface. The second portion 320 can have a front surface and a rear surface, and a polarization slit is defined between the front surface and the rear surface. The polarization slit in the second portion 320 can be arranged vertically compared to the first portion 318. Each cover 302, 306 includes first portions 318 and second portions 320 arranged in an alternating series (or consecutive, in series) manner such that each cover 302, 306 includes a plurality of first portions 318 and second portions 320. When the portions 318, 320 are arranged in series, the portions 318, 320 of the covers 302, 306 can be considered to be plate - like or sheet - like. In other words, the portions 318, 320 of the covers 302, 306 can include thin, nearly planar occupied regions. Figure 15A and 15B show the relationship between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the first state and correspond to Figure 13 . Specifically, Figure 15B showsFigure 13 The actual relative positions of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the first state shown. Figure 15A The actual position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 306 is not shown, but is intended to illustrate the horizontal position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 308 when the cover assembly 300 is in the first state. In a similar manner. Figure 16A and 16B shows the relationship between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the second state and corresponds to Figure 14 Specifically, Figure 16B shows Figure 14 the actual relative positions of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the second state shown. Figure 16A The actual position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 308 is not shown, but is intended to illustrate the horizontal position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 308 when the cover assembly 300 is in the second state.

[0085] As Figures 15A - 16B shown, the first and second polarizers may include linear polarizers that transmit the desired polarization while reflecting the remaining polarization. The polarizer slits in the first and second covers 302, 306 may each include a number of thin openings arranged parallel to each other. In the first state, light polarized along these slits is reflected, while light polarized perpendicular to these slits is transmitted. In the second state, since the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 are arranged to be ninety degrees out of phase with respect to each other, light is polarized (or polarised) in the vertical direction of each polarizer, which results in almost zero transmitted light. The first polarizer and the second polarizer of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 may include acrylic substrates. In some configurations, the polarizer may include a UV-grade fused silica substrate.

[0086] The widths of the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 may be determined to the extent that the actuator 312 and the first cover 302 must move relative to the second cover 306 in order to operate the cover assembly 300 between the first state and the second state. By increasing the number of portions 318, 320 and arranging them in series and alternately, this extent can be further reduced. Limiting the movement between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 to move between the first state and the second state of the cover assembly 300 reduces the space required in the housing 38 to accommodate the cover assembly 300 in the first state and the second state. In addition, limiting the movement between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 to move between the first state and the second state of the cover assembly 300 reduces the effort required by the user to operate the cover assembly 300 between the first state and the second state.

[0087] Although the polarization slits in the first and second portions 318, 320 are described above as being arranged in horizontal and vertical orientations, it is contemplated that the polarization slits may be arranged in other orientations. To reduce light transmittance in the second state, the polarization slits in the first portion 318 may be arranged ninety degrees out of phase with the polarization slits in the second portion 320 to best promote a cross-polarization effect that is close to zero light transmission.

[0088] Figure 17 A fifth embodiment of a cover assembly 400 is shown. The first portion 418 and the second portion 420 of each cover of the cover assembly 400 can be formed into a V-shape. It is contemplated that the first portion 418 and the second portion 420 of each cover of the cover assembly 400 can include other shapes. In some configurations, the polarizers of the covers 302, 306 of the fourth and fifth embodiments can be combined with the covers 102, 106, 202, 206 of the first and second embodiments so that the first and second polarizers of the covers 302, 306 move simultaneously to further reduce the degree of actuation required to block the view through the window.

[0089] As described above, the transfer valve 74 can be opened to allow waste material to be transferred from the upper waste container 40a to the lower waste container 40b. The dumping protocol can include waste material being gravity-fed from the upper waste container 40a through the transfer valve 74 into the lower waste container 40b. In some cases, waste material may partially or completely block the path or space near or within the transfer valve 74, causing the system 30 to experience a blockage condition. For example, the blockage may be caused by the accumulation of blood clots and other waste material in or near the orifice of the transfer valve 74, the diameter of the orifice of the transfer valve 74 being relatively smaller than the diameter of the adjacent portion of the upper waste container 40a from which the waste material is dumped. In the event of a blockage, the rate at which waste material is transferred from the upper waste container 40a to the lower waste container 40b may be suboptimal and in some cases approach zero (i.e., no waste material leaves the upper waste container 40a). This may result in delayed recovery from the surgical procedure, and / or downtime for maintenance of the medical waste collection system 30.

[0090] Advantageously, the medical waste collection system 30 alleviates or eliminates the blockage condition by creating a pressure differential between the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b. This can be facilitated by controlling the suction force of the vacuum source 42 on the waste containers 40a, 40b and / or by the pump 50. Figure 18Shown is a first or upper vacuum regulator 48a associated with the upper waste container 40a, and a second or lower vacuum regulator 48b associated with the lower waste container 40b, such that independent suction can be provided to the upper and lower waste containers 40a, 40b. In other words, the vacuum regulators 48a, 48b can be configured to independently regulate the suction level that the vacuum pump 46 draws on the waste containers 40a, 40b. In a blocked condition, in order to unclog, remove, or otherwise assist the movement of waste contents through the transfer valve 74, a pressure differential can be generated through system control by the controller 86 in the following manner. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure differential can be generated or assisted by a pump 50 separate from the vacuum pump 46.

[0091] Figure 21 An exemplary method 500 is presented. The method includes a step of initiating a dumping protocol (step 502). The controller 86 is configured to initiate the dumping protocol based on an input from a user to the control panel 88. For example, the control panel 88 can display information or provide an alert indicating that the fluid level in the upper waste container 40a exceeds a threshold amount. The threshold amount can be a fixed value, or a value determined based on the available volume in consideration of the expected fluid collection for one or more upcoming procedures. In another embodiment, the controller 86 can automatically initiate the dumping protocol based on certain system conditions, such as when the system 30 has not been used or has been idle for a predefined period after exceeding the threshold amount.

[0092] The dumping protocol can include terminating the operation of the vacuum source 48 and moving the transfer valve 74 to the open position. Under the influence of gravity, the waste material can begin to pass through the transfer valve 74 and into the lower waste container 40b. The user can visually observe the dumping process through the windows of the waste containers 40a, 40b. It is contemplated that the lighting aspects related to fluid levels previously disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with the dumping protocol to provide further feedback on the progress of the dumping protocol. Specifically, as the fluid level decreases in the upper waste container 40a and increases in the lower waste container 40b, the light sources 64 of the light source assemblies 62 associated with each of the upper and lower waste containers 40a, 40b can be selectively deactivated or activated. For example, the light source 64 associated with the upper waste container 40a can be deactivated sequentially from top to bottom, while the light source 64 associated with the lower waste container 40b can be activated sequentially from bottom to top.

[0093] The method includes determining whether a clogging condition exists (step 504). The medical waste collection system 30 includes level sensors 56a, 56b respectively coupled to each of the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b. In an embodiment having a single waste container 40, a single level sensor 56 may be used. In another variant, although there is a second level sensor 56b, the determination performed by the controller 86 may be based only on the level sensor 56a of the upper waste container 40a. The level sensors 56a, 56b may be coupled to the waste containers 40a, 40b and in electronic communication with the controller 86. The level sensors 56a, 56b are configured to generate signals indicative of the fluid levels of the waste substances within the respective waste containers 40a, 40b. The level sensors 56a, 56b may be similar to those described above or similar to the sensors described in the aforementioned International Patent Publication No. WO2007 / 070570. It is also contemplated that the level sensors 56a, 56b may include different designs capable of generating signals indicative of the fluid levels. The controller 86 may be configured to determine the fluid volumes of the respective waste containers 40a, 40b based on the corresponding level signals and the known geometric profiles of the waste containers 40a, 40b.

[0094] During the dumping protocol when the transfer valve 74 is in the open position, the controller 86 is configured to determine the rate of change of the fluid level (and / or fluid volume) based on the level signals received from at least one of the level sensors 56a, 56b. For example, the controller 86 may determine the fluid level within the upper waste container 40a based on the level signals over a known time period and determine the rate as the actual or average change per unit time. The controller 86 may compare the rate of change with a preset fluid transfer rate. The preset fluid transfer rate may be calibration data input during manufacturing (or via software update), or input by the user or service technician on the control panel 88. Alternatively, the controller 86 may determine that the change in the fluid level from a first time to a second time does not exceed a preset transfer threshold. The preset transfer threshold may be calibration data input during manufacturing (or via software update), or input by the user or service technician on the control panel 88. In some cases, the rate of change of the fluid level may be broadly understood to refer to the change in the fluid level over a period of time.

[0095] The controller 86 repeatedly (e.g., continuously) makes comparisons during the dumping protocol. If the rate of change is higher than a preset fluid transfer rate, the controller 86 determines that there is no blockage condition, and the controller 86 does not initiate a clearing protocol. If the rate of change is lower than the preset fluid transfer rate, the controller 86 determines that a blockage condition may exist. Similarly, if the change in fluid level is higher than a preset transfer threshold, the controller 86 determines that there is no blockage condition. If the change in fluid level is lower than the preset transfer threshold, the controller 86 determines that a blockage condition may exist.

[0096] In addition to the preset fluid transfer level and / or the preset transfer threshold, the controller 86 also determines whether the fluid level is below a preset low fluid level. In other words, during a non-blocked dumping protocol, once the tank is truly empty, the rate of change of the fluid level drops to zero. Therefore, it must be ensured that the low rate of change only applies when the waste containers 40a, 40b are empty. If the rate of change of the fluid level is lower than the preset fluid transfer rate and the fluid level is higher than the preset low fluid level, the controller 86 determines that a blockage condition exists.

[0097] Before initiating the clearing protocol, the controller 86 can execute a timer or otherwise require that the rate of change be lower than the preset fluid transfer rate for a sufficient period of time. In other words, the controller 86 can be configured to ignore transient, momentary situations where the rate of change is lower than the preset fluid transfer rate to achieve smooth system control. For example, a blood clot may temporarily impede the passage of waste material through the transfer valve 74, but may then be cleared due to the hydrostatic pressure of the waste material from above.

[0098] Before operating the vacuum source 42 to facilitate the clearing protocol, the controller 86 can determine whether the manifold 55 is present in one or both of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b, particularly whether the manifold 55 is present in the lower manifold receiver 52b (step 506). From Figure 18The fluid circuit schematically shown therein can be generally seen that in the lower manifold receiver 52b, the presence of the manifold establishes a suction path from the vacuum source 42 through the lower manifold receiver 52b and the lower waste container 40b to the external environment (e.g., the straw). According to the principle of fluid dynamics, i.e., the principle of the path of least resistance, if the resistance from the aforementioned suction path is small, the suction force on the blocked transfer valve 74 may be insufficient. Removing the manifold 55 from the manifold receivers 52a, 52b interrupts or seals off the suction path from the waste containers 40a, 40b to the corresponding manifold receivers 52a, 52b. Details of the interruption of the suction path are disclosed in the commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 7,615,037 issued on November 10, 2009, the International Patent Publication No. WO2020 / 209898 published on October 15, 2020, and the International Patent Publication No. WO2022 / 103832 published on May 19, 2022, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Since the suction path between the lower manifold receiver 52b and the lower waste container 40b is interrupted, the suction force applied by the vacuum source 42 on the lower waste container 40b during the dredging operation generates a more effective pressure difference, thereby concentrating the force generated by the pressure difference on the blocked substance within the transfer valve 74. In addition, ensuring that the manifold 55 is not coupled to one of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b prevents the vacuum source 42 from sucking suction at the patient site through the suction line 80.

[0099] Each manifold receiver 52a, 52b may include manifold sensors 54a, 54b coupled to the corresponding manifold receivers 52a, 52b. The manifold sensors 54a, 54b are schematically shown in Figure 18 and are in electronic communication with the controller 86. The manifold sensors 54a, 54b may be configured to generate a manifold signal in response to the presence of the manifold 55 being received within the corresponding manifold receivers 52a, 52b. The controller 86 may receive the manifold signal and determine based on the manifold signal whether the manifold 55 is removably inserted into one of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b.

[0100] Method 500 includes performing a clearing protocol (step 508). The controller 86 is configured to allow the performance of the clearing protocol based on determining that the manifold 55 is not removably inserted into one of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b, as will be described. If it is determined that the manifold 55 is to be coupled to one of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b and an attempt is made to initiate the clearing protocol automatically or via user input, an alert may be generated on the control panel 88. The alert may instruct the user to remove the manifold 55 from the associated manifold receiver 52a, 52b. The alert may include text or graphical markings. Once the user removes the manifold 55, the associated manifold sensors 54a, 54b may generate an updated manifold signal indicating that the manifold 55 has been removed. The controller 86 may receive this updated manifold signal, and then the user or the controller 86 may continue to perform the clearing protocol.

[0101] In one embodiment, the clearing protocol includes the controller 86 operating the vacuum source 42 to draw suction on the lower waste container 40b with the transfer valve 74 in the open position (step 510). In some embodiments, the controller 86 may operate the vacuum source 42 to have a vacuum level below 100 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), more specifically below 55 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). In other embodiments, the controller 86 may operate the vacuum source 42 to operate over the entire range of vacuum levels. The negative pressure established in the lower waste container 40b creates the aforementioned pressure differential relative to the upper waste container 40a. The pressure differential exerts a force on the waste material clogging the transfer valve 74. These forces increase the likelihood that the waste material is drawn through the transfer valve 74 from the upper waste container 40a into the lower waste container 40b, thereby eliminating the clogging condition.

[0102] The controller 86 may be configured to actuate the upper vacuum regulator 48a to terminate drawing suction on the upper waste container 40a before drawing suction on the lower waste container 40b. The controller 86 may also be configured to actuate the upper vacuum regulator 48a to vent the upper waste container 40a to atmospheric conditions while the vacuum source 42 draws suction on the lower waste container 40b. In this way, the pressure differential between the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b can be better promoted.

[0103] When the vacuum source 42 applies suction to the lower waste container 40b, the controller 86 can monitor the fluid level signal (step 512). Based on the monitored rate of change, the system 30 can make a dynamic response. For example, if the rate of change of the fluid level does not increase above a preset fluid transfer rate within a set time period, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 to increase the suction on the lower waste container 40b. In other words, if it is determined that the waste material has not been cleared, the system 30 can create a greater pressure differential. Conversely, if the rate of change of the fluid level increases above the preset fluid transfer rate, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 to terminate the suction on the lower waste container 40b. This increase in the rate of change can indicate that the waste material has been cleared. The controller 86 can also terminate the suction based on the fluid level in the upper waste container 40a dropping below a preset low fluid level. In this case, if most or all of the waste material has been dumped into the lower waste container 40b, it may be necessary to terminate the operation of the vacuum source 42. In this case, due to the lack of waste material in the upper waste container 40a rather than a clogging condition in the upper waste container 40a, the rate of change of the fluid level may be lower than the fluid transfer rate.

[0104] In another embodiment, the system 30 can make a dynamic response based on the monitored fluid level. For example, if the rate and / or change of the fluid level still indicates a clogging condition, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 at different levels based on the fluid level relative to one or more preset fluid levels. In one embodiment, when it is determined that the fluid level is approaching full, the controller can operate the vacuum source 42 at a higher vacuum level, and when it is determined that the fluid level is approaching empty, the controller can operate the vacuum source 42 at a lower vacuum level, regardless of how the fluid level changes over time.

[0105] In another embodiment, when the vacuum source 42 draws suction on the lower waste container 40b, the controller 86 can monitor the fluid level signal, and the controller can evaluate the change in fluid level in a rolling manner. For example, the controller 86 can determine the change in fluid level from a first time to a second time, from the second time to a third time, from the third time to a fourth time, and so on. The controller 86 may determine that the change in fluid level between the first time and the second time is not sufficient to trigger a clogging condition. The controller evaluates the change in fluid level from the second time to the third time and may determine that this change in fluid level indicates a clogging condition. In some cases, the controller 86 can use different preset transfer thresholds within different time periods to determine the presence of a clogging condition. In some cases, the time periods have equal durations (or lengths). In other cases, the time periods are not equal. In some cases, these time periods change based on whether the controller determined the presence of a clogging condition in the previous time period. When a clogging condition is determined, the controller 86 can shorten the time period such that the operation of the vacuum source 42 to eliminate the clogging condition is restricted to the shortest possible time.

[0106] The method 500 can include completing a clearing protocol (step 514). The controller 86 can also terminate the operation of the vacuum source 42 based on the fact that the rate of change of the fluid level within a set time period does not increase above a preset fluid transfer rate. In this case, the operation of the vacuum source 42 may not be sufficient to clear the upper waste container 40a. The controller 86 can be configured to provide an error condition alert on the control panel 88 to indicate to the user that the upper waste container 40a is still clogged. Additionally or alternatively, the error condition can be transmitted to a service technician or another entity via a network connection. The controller 86 can prevent further operation of the medical waste collection system 30 until the error condition is satisfactorily resolved.

[0107] The pressure difference generated using the clearing protocol discussed above can generally provide a constant force on the waste material, and the magnitude of this force can depend on the suction level from the vacuum source 42. In one variant, an intermittent exhaust protocol (step 516) can be performed, in which the suction on the lower waste container 40b is alternately started and stopped, increased and decreased, or a combination thereof. In other words, the controller 86 can be configured to operate the vacuum source 42 and / or the lower vacuum regulator 48b at fixed or variable intervals and / or fixed or variable vacuum levels to promote agitation within the upper waste container 40a. An instantaneous peak in the force on the clog is more likely to dislodge the clog from the transfer valve 74. The intermittent exhaust (burp) protocol is an optional step.

[0108] In another embodiment, the medical waste collection system 30 can include the aforementioned pump 50, Figure 18 and 19Illustrated is that the pump 50 is disposed on the base 32 and separated from the vacuum pump 46. The pump 50 is in at least fluid communication with the upper waste container 40a and in electronic communication with the controller 86. The pump 50 can be a positive pressure pump operable to press air into the upper waste container 40a to create or increase a pressure differential (step 518). In one variant, the pump 50 is also in fluid communication with the lower waste container 40b and operable to reduce the pressure in the lower waste container 40b to create a pressure differential. For example, the pump 50 can draw air from the lower waste container 40b and push it into the upper waste container 40a. Alternatively, multiple pumps can be provided.

[0109] The pump 50 can be incorporated into a clearing protocol similar to that previously described. For example, the controller 86 can prevent the operation of the pump 50 based on determining that the manifold 55 is removably inserted within one of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b. In this case, ensuring that the manifold 55 is not connected to one of the manifold receivers 52a, 52b prevents the pump 50 from pressing air through the suction line 80 to the patient site. As another example, the controller 86 is configured to operate the pump 50 to direct air into the upper waste container 40a based on determining that the rate of change of the fluid level is less than a preset fluid transfer rate and the fluid level is above a preset low fluid level.

[0110] In an exemplary method, the controller 86 actuates the transfer valve 74 to the open position to allow waste material to transfer from the upper waste container 40a to the lower waste container 40b. The controller 86 receives a fluid level signal from at least one of the level sensors 56a, 56b. Based on the level signal, the controller 86 determines the fluid level within the upper waste container 40a and the rate of change of the fluid level within at least one of the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b. If the rate of change of the fluid level is less than a preset fluid transfer rate and if the fluid level is above a preset low fluid level, the controller 86 determines that a clogging condition exists. Prior to the step of operating the pump 50, the controller 86 can actuate the upper vacuum regulator 48a to terminate the suction on the upper waste container 40a. The controller 86 operates the pump 50 to press air into the upper waste container 40a. The pressure differential increases to clear and force the waste material through the transfer valve 74.

[0111] The controller 86 can be configured to monitor the fluid level signal while the pump 50 is operating. In some cases, the controller 86 decreases or increases the speed of the pump 50 (i.e., the amount of air being forced into the upper waste container 40a) based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing or not increasing above a preset fluid transfer rate over a set period of time. The controller 86 can also terminate the operation of the pump 50 based on the fluid level in the upper waste container 40a dropping below a preset low fluid level, indicating that most or all of the waste material has been dumped into the lower waste container 40b. In the case where the operation of the pump 50 is insufficient to clear the upper waste container 40a, the controller 86 can terminate the operation of the pump 50 and provide an error condition alert on the control panel 88.

[0112] In some embodiments, the control of the pump 50 can be used in conjunction with the system control of the vacuum source 42 in the manner previously described. Specifically, the controller 86 can be configured to operate the vacuum pump 46, the lower vacuum regulator 48b, and / or the pump 50 simultaneously in a coordinated manner to create a desired or increased pressure differential. Coordinated operation is particularly advantageous in cases where the pump 50 is not connected to and in fluid communication with the lower waste container 40b, for preventing the upper and lower waste containers 40a, 40b from being under pressure. Coordinated operation can also be achieved through an intermittent exhaust protocol to alternately start and stop, and / or increase and decrease the positive pressure provided to the upper waste container 40a and the negative pressure provided to the lower waste container 40. Preferably, in the case of successfully clearing the transfer valve 74, the dumping protocol (step 520) can be completed.

[0113] The foregoing description has discussed several configurations. However, the configurations discussed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to any particular form. The terminology used is intended to be descriptive rather than restrictive. Many modifications and variations can be made in accordance with the above teachings and can be implemented in a manner different from that specifically described.

Claims

1. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste substances, the medical waste collection system comprising: Waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; A frame supporting the waste container and the vacuum source; A liquid level sensor coupled to the waste container and configured to generate a signal indicative of the fluid level of the waste material disposed within the waste container; A light source assembly including a plurality of light sources, each of the plurality of light sources being configured to be selectively operable to illuminate the interior of the waste container; And A controller coupled to the liquid level sensor and the light source assembly, the controller being configured to operate the plurality of light sources based on the signal such that a portion of the interior of the waste container below the fluid level of the waste material is illuminated.

2. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the light source assembly based on the signal to illuminate the waste container using only one or more of the plurality of light sources disposed below the fluid level of the waste substance in the waste container.

3. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller includes a memory that stores data associating the vertical position of each of the plurality of light sources with a corresponding predefined fluid level.

4. The medical waste collection system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to: Receive a signal from the level sensor; Determine the fluid level of the waste substance disposed within the waste container based on the signal; Compare the data accessed from the memory with the determined fluid level; and Operate the plurality of light sources based on the comparison.

5. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the plurality of light sources are vertically spaced apart from each other with respect to gravity; and optionally, the spacing is equidistant.

6. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the light source assembly is a light strip, the light strip including a substrate having a plurality of light sources, wherein the plurality of light sources are light emitting diodes (LEDs).

7. The medical waste collection system according to claim 6, wherein the carriage includes a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible, and wherein the light strip is disposed adjacent to the observation window between the carriage and the waste container.

8. The medical waste collection system according to claim 7, wherein the light assembly further includes a second light strip disposed adjacent to the opposite side of the observation window between the housing and the waste container.

9. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the plurality of light sources are configured to emit light having a variable light intensity, wherein the memory stores data associating a predefined fluid level with a predefined light intensity, and wherein the controller is further configured to operate the plurality of light sources at the predefined light intensity based on the signal such that the light sources arranged above the fluid level are operated at a first intensity and the light sources arranged below the fluid level are operated at a second intensity greater than the first intensity.

10. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the plurality of light sources are configured to emit light having a variable light color, wherein the memory stores data associating a predefined fluid level with a predefined light color, and wherein the controller is further configured to operate the plurality of light sources in one or more of the predefined light colors based on the signal.

11. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a user interface that communicates with the controller and is configured to receive a full illumination input such that the controller operates all of the plurality of light sources regardless of the fluid level.

12. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the plurality of light sources are configured to emit light having at least one of a variable light intensity and a variable light color, the system further comprising a user interface that communicates with the controller and is configured to receive a light characteristic input such that the controller operates the plurality of light sources in a selected color or at a selected intensity.

13. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste substances, the medical waste collection system comprising: Waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; A frame supporting the waste container and the vacuum source; An ambient light sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of the intensity of ambient light; A light source positioned to emit light of variable intensity into the waste container; And A controller coupled to the sensor and the light source, the controller being configured to operate the light source based on the signal received from the ambient light sensor to illuminate the interior of the waste container at a determined intensity.

14. The medical waste collection system according to claim 13, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the light source to be brighter in response to the signal indicating that the intensity of the ambient light is higher than the ambient light threshold.

15. The medical waste collection system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the light source so that the determined intensity is close to the intensity of the ambient light.

16. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 13 - 15 further includes a container optical sensor coupled to the waste container, and a memory storing data including a predefined color intensity for image capture of the interior of the waste container with a camera for quantitative blood loss analysis, and wherein the controller is further configured to operate a light source based on feedback from the container optical sensor to bring the determined intensity close to the predefined color intensity.

17. The medical waste collection system according to claim 16, wherein the predefined color intensity is a whiteness color value.

18. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 13 - 17 further includes a user interface that communicates with the controller and is configured to receive an input of a selected light intensity such that the controller operates the light source at the selected light intensity.

19. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste substances, the medical waste collection system comprising: A first waste container defining a first interior for collecting waste material; A second waste container defining a second interior for collecting waste material; A transfer valve coupled to the first waste container and the second waste container and configured to allow waste material to be transferred from the first waste container to the second waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container; A frame supporting the first waste container and the second waste container, the vacuum source, and the transfer valve; A liquid level sensor coupled to at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container and configured to generate a signal indicative of the fluid level of the waste material disposed within the respective one of the first waste container and the second waste container; A light source configured to be selectively operable to illuminate the first interior or the second interior of the respective one of the first waste container and the second waste container; And A controller coupled to the transfer valve, the liquid level sensor, and the light source, the controller being configured to operate the transfer valve to initiate fluid transfer, receive subsequent signals from the liquid level sensor indicative of corresponding changes in the fluid level within at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container, and operate the light source to indicate a clogging condition in which the rate of increase of the fluid level in the second waste container is lower than a preset fluid transfer rate.

20. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste substances, the medical waste collection system comprising: Waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container at a selected vacuum level; A frame supporting the waste container and the vacuum source; A liquid level sensor coupled to the waste container and configured to generate a fluid level signal indicative of the fluid level of the waste material disposed within the waste container; A light source positioned to emit light of variable intensity into the waste container; And A controller, which is coupled to a sensor and a light source, the controller being configured to receive a vacuum signal indicative of the vacuum level, receive the fluid level signal, and operate the light source to indicate a volume shortage condition in which an expected rate of increase in the fluid level is expected to consume the available volume of the waste container in less than a predefined period.

21. The medical waste collection system according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the light source in one of a predefined color and a blinking sequence to indicate a clogging condition.

22. A method of operating a medical waste collection system in communication with a quantitative blood loss (QBL) system, wherein, The medical waste collection system includes a waste container, a vacuum source, a liquid level sensor coupled to the waste container, a light source, and a controller, and the method includes: Operating the vacuum source to draw medical waste into the waste container; Receiving, at the controller, QBL data from a QBL system, wherein the QBL data indicates the blood concentration in the medical waste; Receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from the liquid level sensor; Determining, using the controller, the fluid volume of the medical waste in the waste container; Determining, using the controller, the blood loss based on the blood concentration and the fluid volume; and Operating the light source to indicate a warning state in which the blood loss deviates beyond a predefined threshold.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein the predefined threshold is one of the following: (i) the amount of blood loss, and (ii) the ratio of the blood loss to the fluid volume.

24. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste substances, the medical waste collection system comprising: A waste container including a transparent material; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; A frame for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source, the frame including a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible; A lid assembly, which is coupled to the housing and includes: A first lid, which includes a first polarizer; and A second lid, which is movable relative to the first lid and includes a second polarizer having a polarization orientation different from that of the first polarizer; and An actuator, which is coupled to the first lid or the second lid and is configured to receive an input to move the first lid and the second lid relative to each other, thereby selectively reducing the light transmitted through the lid assembly based on the misalignment of the first and second polarizers.

25. The medical waste collection system according to claim 24, wherein the first and second polarizers each comprise at least a first part and a second part, and wherein the polarization orientation of the first part is different from that of the second part.

26. The medical waste collection system according to claim 25, wherein the lid assembly is operable between a first state and a second state, in the first state the first parts of the first and second polarizers are aligned to allow a first light to transmit, and in the second state the first part of the first polarizer is aligned with the second part of the second polarizer to allow a second light less than the first light to transmit.

27. The medical waste collection system according to claim 26, wherein the first light transmission is fifty percent of the ambient light.

28. The medical waste collection system according to claim 26, wherein the second light transmission is approximately zero.

29. The medical waste collection system according to claim 25, wherein each first part comprises polarization slits arranged in a vertical orientation, and wherein each second part comprises polarization slits arranged in a horizontal orientation.

30. The medical waste collection system according to claim 25, wherein the first part and the second part are in a V-shaped configuration.

31. The medical waste collection system according to claim 25, wherein the second lid comprises five parts including the first part and the second part.

32. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste substances, the medical waste collection system comprising: A waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; A frame for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source, the frame including a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible; A lid assembly, which is coupled to the housing and includes a first lid having a first rack, a second lid having a second rack, and a pinion gear disposed between the first lid and the second lid and engaging with the first rack and the second rack such that movement of the first lid in one direction causes movement of the second lid in the opposite direction; and An actuator, which is coupled to one of the first lid and the pinion gear and is configured to receive an input to move the first lid and the second lid towards each other to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

33. The medical waste collection system according to claim 32, wherein the first and second racks are curved and contoured to conform to the outer surface of the waste container, and the pinion has a conical shape such that the first and second lids are configured to move arcuately around the outer surface of the waste container.

34. The medical waste collection system according to claim 33, wherein the first and second lids are polarized as described in any one of claims 24-31.

35. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials, the medical waste collection system comprising: A waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; A frame for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source, the frame including a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible; A lid assembly, which is coupled to the housing and includes: A flexible lid, which is movably coupled to one of the housing and the frame; First and second support rods rotatably coupled to one of the housing and the frame; and A belt, which is coupled to the lid and is configured to surround the support rods; and An actuator coupled to one of the belt and the cover and configured to receive an input to move the cover to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

36. The medical waste collection system according to claim 35, wherein the lid includes a curved shape when covering the window.

37. The medical waste collection system according to claim 36, further comprising a winding rod for holding the portion of the lid that does not cover the window.

38. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste materials, the medical waste collection system comprising: A waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum on the waste container; A carriage for supporting the waste container and the vacuum source, the carriage including a housing defining an observation window through which the waste container is visible; A cover assembly coupled to the housing and including: A cover movably coupled to one of the housings; A pivot arm pivotally coupled to the cover; and An actuator pivotally coupled to the pivot arm and slidable relative to the housing, the actuator being configured to receive an input to move the cover to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

39. The medical waste collection system according to claim 38, wherein the lid has a curved shape, and wherein the housing has a curved shape with a radius of curvature different from the radius of curvature of the curved shape of the lid.

40. The medical waste collection system according to one of claims 38 or 39, wherein the pivot arm includes a first pivot portion pivotally coupled to the lid, a second pivot portion pivotally coupled to the actuator, and an elongated portion extending between the first and second pivot portions.

41. The medical waste collection system according to claim 40, wherein the elongated portion includes an arcuate shape.

42. The medical waste collection system according to one of claims 40 or 41, wherein the lid defines a recess for receiving at least the first pivot portion.

43. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 38 - 42, wherein the housing includes a slideway defining a slot for receiving the actuator.

44. The medical waste collection system according to claim 43, wherein the actuator is movable within the slot to selectively cover at least a portion of the window.

45. The medical waste collection system according to one of claims 43 or 44, wherein the actuator includes a user - grippable protrusion for moving the actuator along the slideway.

46. The medical waste collection system according to claim 45, wherein, The protrusion includes a first flange disposed on a first side of the slide facing the waste container and a second flange disposed on a second side of the slide facing away from the waste container, wherein the first and second flanges cooperate to hold a portion of the protrusion within the slot.

47. The medical waste collection system according to claim 46, wherein the pivot arm is pivotally coupled to a first flange.

48. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 43 - 47, wherein the housing includes a guide defining a passage for receiving the lid.

49. The medical waste collection system according to claim 48, wherein the guide includes a curved shape corresponding to a first arc having a first center point.

50. The medical waste collection system according to claim 49, wherein the slideway extends linearly.

51. The medical waste collection system according to claim 49, wherein the slideway corresponds to a second arc having a second center point different from the first center point.

52. The medical waste collection system according to any one of claims 38 - 51, wherein the lid includes rigid plastic.

53. A method of operating a medical waste collection system, the medical waste collection system including an upper waste container, a lower waste container, a controller, a user interface, a vacuum source configured to provide independent suction to the upper and lower waste containers, a transfer valve in electronic communication with the controller, and at least one level sensor coupled to at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container and in electronic communication with the controller, the method comprising: Actuate the transfer valve to the open position using a controller to allow waste material to transfer from the upper waste container to the lower waste container; Receive a fluid level signal from the at least one fluid level sensor at the controller; Use the controller to determine a change in the fluid level within the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal; And Indicate a clogging condition based on a change in fluid level during a dumping protocol, and operate the vacuum source to apply suction to the lower waste container with the transfer valve in the open position to draw waste material from the upper waste container through the transfer valve into the lower waste container.

54. The method according to claim 53, further comprising: Determine a first fluid level within at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container using the controller at a first time, and Determine a second fluid level within at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container using the controller at a second time, the second time being a preset duration after the first time, Wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further includes operating the vacuum source to apply suction after the second time based on a difference between the first and second fluid levels being less than a preset transfer threshold.

55. The method according to claim 54, further comprising determining, at a third time using a controller based on a fluid level signal, a third fluid level in at least one of an upper waste container and a lower waste container, the third time being a preset duration after the second time, wherein, The preset transfer threshold is further defined as a first preset transfer threshold, and wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further includes operating the vacuum source to apply suction after a third time based on a difference between the second fluid level and a third fluid level being less than a second preset transfer threshold.

56. The method according to claim 55, wherein the duration between the third time and the second time is different from the duration between the second time and the first time.

57. The method according to claim 55 or 56, wherein the first preset transfer threshold is different from the second preset transfer threshold.

58. The method according to any one of claims 55 - 57, wherein the step of operating a vacuum source to draw suction further comprises operating the vacuum source at a first vacuum level after the second time and operating the vacuum source at a second level different from the first level after the third time.

59. The method according to claim 54, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while applying suction to the lower waste container; And Terminate the suction on the lower waste container based on a change in fluid level increasing above the preset transfer threshold.

60. The method according to claim 54, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while applying suction to the lower waste container; And Terminate the suction on the lower waste container based on a change in fluid level not increasing above the preset transfer threshold within a set time period; and Subsequently provide an error condition alert on the user interface.

61. The method according to claim 53, further comprising determining, using a controller based on a fluid level signal, a rate of change of the fluid level in at least one of an upper waste container and a lower waste container, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises operating the vacuum source to draw suction based on the rate of change of the fluid level being less than a preset fluid transfer rate.

62. The method according to claim 61, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while applying suction to the lower waste container; And Increase the suction on the lower waste container based on a rate of change in fluid level not increasing above the preset fluid transfer rate within a set time period.

63. The method according to claim 61, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while applying suction to the lower waste container; And Terminate the suction on the lower waste container based on the rate of change of the fluid level increasing above the preset fluid transfer rate.

64. The method according to claim 61, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while applying suction to the lower waste container; And Terminate the suction on the lower waste container based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing above the preset fluid transfer rate within a set time period; and Subsequently provide an error condition alert on the user interface.

65. The method according to any one of claims 53-64, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises: Operate the vacuum source to apply suction at a first vacuum level based on the fluid level in the upper waste container being above a preset fluid level, and operate the vacuum source to apply suction at a second vacuum level different from the first vacuum level based on the fluid level in the upper waste container being below the preset fluid level.

66. The method according to any one of claims 53-65, wherein the medical waste collection system further comprises a lower manifold receiver selectively in fluid communication with the lower waste container, and a manifold sensor coupled to the lower manifold receiver, and the method further comprises the steps of: Receive a manifold signal from a manifold sensor at the controller; Use the controller to determine based on the manifold signal whether a manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver; And Based on determining that the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver, prevent the vacuum source from operating on the lower waste container when the transfer valve is in the open position.

67. The method according to claim 66, further comprising allowing operation of the vacuum source based on determining that the manifold is not removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver.

68. The method according to claim 66, further comprising the step of providing an alert on a user interface based on determining that the manifold is removably coupled to the lower manifold receiver, wherein the alert instructs the user to remove the manifold from the lower manifold receiver.

69. The method according to claim 68, further comprising: Receive a confirmation input on the user interface that the manifold has been removed from the lower manifold receiver; And Receive an updated manifold signal from the manifold sensor at the controller; And Use the controller to determine again based on the updated manifold signal whether the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver.

70. The method according to any one of claims 53-69, wherein the system further comprises an upper vacuum regulator in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the upper waste container, and a lower vacuum regulator in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the lower waste container, and the method further comprises: Prior to the step of operating the vacuum source on the lower waste container, use the controller to actuate the upper vacuum regulator to terminate the suction on the upper waste container; And Use the controller to actuate the lower vacuum regulator to allow suction to be applied to the lower waste container.

71. The method according to claim 70 further comprises actuating an upper vacuum regulator by a controller to exhaust the upper waste container to atmospheric conditions during the step of operating a vacuum source on a lower waste container.

72. The method according to any one of claims 53 - 71 further comprises alternately providing and terminating suction on the lower waste container according to an intermittent exhaust protocol.

73. The method according to claim 72, wherein the intermittent exhaust protocol comprises fixed or variable intervals and / or fixed or variable vacuum levels.

74. The method according to any one of claims 53 - 73, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises operating the vacuum source at a vacuum level less than 100 mmHg; and optionally, operating the vacuum source at a vacuum level less than 55 mmHg.

75. The method according to any one of claims 53 - 74 further comprises: Prior to the step of operating the vacuum source, display an indication of a clogging condition on the user interface; And Receive an input on the user interface to initiate a clearing sequence.

76. The method according to any one of claims 53 - 74, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source is initiated immediately and automatically based on a change in fluid level indicating a clogging condition.

77. The method according to any one of claims 53 - 75 further comprises: Monitor the fluid level signal while applying suction to the lower waste container; And Terminate the suction on the lower waste container based on the fluid level in the upper waste container dropping below a preset low fluid level.

78. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste material, the medical waste collection system comprising: Upper waste container; Lower waste container; At least one fluid level sensor coupled to at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container; A transfer valve coupled to the upper waste container and the lower waste container and operable to allow waste material to be transferred from the upper waste container to the lower waste container; A vacuum source configured to provide independent suction to each of the upper waste container and the lower waste container; A pump separated from the vacuum source and in fluid communication with the upper waste container; And A controller in electronic communication with the at least one fluid level sensor, the transfer valve, and the pump, wherein the controller is configured to determine the change in fluid level when the transfer valve is in the open position based on the fluid level signal received from the at least one fluid level sensor, and operate the pump to direct air into the upper waste container based on indicating a clogging condition by the change in fluid level during a dumping protocol.

79. The medical waste collection system according to claim 78, wherein a pump is in fluid communication with the lower waste container and is further configured to draw air from the lower waste container to direct it into the upper waste container.

80. The medical waste collection system according to claim 78 or 79, wherein the controller is further configured to operate a vacuum source simultaneously with the operation of the pump to apply suction on the lower waste container.

81. A method of operating a medical waste collection system, the medical waste collection system including an upper waste container, a lower waste container, a controller, a user interface, a vacuum source configured to provide separate suction to the upper and lower waste containers, a pump, a transfer valve in electronic communication with the controller, and at least one liquid level sensor coupled to at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container and in electronic communication with the controller, the method comprising: Use the controller to actuate the transfer valve to the open position to allow waste material to be transferred from the upper waste container to the lower waste container; Receive a fluid level signal from the at least one fluid level sensor at the controller; Use the controller to determine the change in the fluid level in the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal; And Indicating a clogging condition based on the change in the fluid level during the dumping protocol, operate the pump to press air into the upper waste container with the transfer valve in the open position, and push the waste material into the lower waste container through the transfer valve.

82. The method according to claim 81, further comprising: At a first time, use the controller to determine a first fluid level in at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container based on the fluid level signal, and At a second time, use the controller to determine a second fluid level in at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container based on the fluid level signal, the second time being a preset duration after the first time, wherein the step of operating the pump further includes: operating the pump to press air into the upper waste container after the second time based on the difference between the first fluid level and the second fluid level being less than a preset transfer threshold.

83. The method according to claim 82, further comprising, at a third time, using the controller to determine a third fluid level in at least one of the upper waste container and the lower waste container based on a fluid level signal, the third time being a preset duration after the second time, wherein the preset transfer threshold is further defined as a first preset transfer threshold, and wherein the step of operating the pump further comprises operating the pump after the third time to press air into the upper waste container based on a difference between the second fluid level and the third fluid level being less than a second preset transfer threshold.

84. The method according to claim 83, wherein a duration between the third time and the second time is different from a duration between the second time and the first time.

85. The method according to claim 83 or 84, wherein the first preset transfer threshold is different from the second preset transfer threshold.

86. The method according to any one of claims 83 - 85, wherein the step of operating the pump to press air into the upper waste container further comprises operating the pump at a first speed after the second time, and operating the pump at a second speed different from the first speed after the third time.

87. The method according to claim 82, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; And Terminate the operation of the pump based on the change in the fluid level increasing above a preset transfer threshold.

88. The method according to claim 82, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; And Terminate the operation of the pump based on the change in the fluid level not increasing above a preset transfer threshold within a set time period; And Subsequently, provide an error condition alarm on the user interface.

89. The method according to claim 81, further comprising determining, by a controller, a rate of change of a fluid level in at least one of an upper waste container and a lower waste container based on a fluid level signal, wherein the step of operating the pump further comprises operating the pump to press air into the upper waste container based on the rate of change of the fluid level being less than a preset fluid transfer rate.

90. The method according to claim 89, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; And Increase the speed of the pump based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing above a preset fluid transfer rate within a set time period.

91. The method according to claim 89, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; And Terminate the operation of the pump based on the rate of change of the fluid level increasing above a preset fluid transfer rate.

92. The method according to claim 89, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; And Terminate the operation of the pump based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing above a preset fluid transfer rate within a set time period; and Subsequently, provide an error condition alarm on the user interface.

93. The method according to any one of claims 81 - 92, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises: Based on the fluid level in the upper waste container being higher than a preset fluid level, operate the vacuum source to suction with a first vacuum level, and based on the fluid level in the upper waste container being lower than the preset fluid level, operate the vacuum source to suction with a second vacuum level different from the first vacuum level.

94. The method according to any one of claims 81 - 93, wherein the medical waste collection system further comprises a lower manifold receiver selectively in fluid communication with the lower waste container, and a manifold sensor coupled to the lower manifold receiver, and the method further comprises the steps of: Receive a manifold signal from the manifold sensor at the controller; Use the controller to determine whether a manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver based on the manifold signal; And Based on determining that the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver, prevent the vacuum source from operating on the lower waste container with the transfer valve in the open position.

95. The method according to claim 94, further comprising allowing operation of the vacuum source based on determining that the manifold is not removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver.

96. The method according to claim 94, further comprising the step of providing an alert on a user interface based on the manifold being removably coupled to the lower manifold receiver, wherein the alert instructs the user to remove the manifold from the lower manifold receiver.

97. The method according to claim 96, further comprising: Receive a confirmation input on the user interface that the manifold has been removed from the lower manifold receiver; Receive an updated manifold signal from the manifold sensor at the controller; And Based on the updated manifold signal, use the controller to determine again whether the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver.

98. The method according to any one of claims 81 - 97, wherein the system further comprises an upper vacuum regulator in fluid communication with a vacuum source and an upper waste container, and a lower vacuum regulator in fluid communication with the vacuum source and a lower waste container, and the method further comprises: Before the step of operating the pump, use the controller to actuate the upper vacuum regulator to terminate the suction on the upper waste container.

99. The method according to any one of claims 81 - 98, further comprising operating the vacuum source to draw suction on the lower waste container.

100. The method according to claim 97, wherein the operation of the pump and the operation of the vacuum source are carried out simultaneously.

101. The method according to claim 100, wherein the operation of the pump and the operation of the vacuum source are carried out alternately.

102. The method according to claim 101, wherein the alternation is carried out at fixed or variable intervals and / or at fixed or variable levels.

103. The method according to any one of claims 81 - 102, further comprising: Monitor the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; And Terminate the operation of the pump based on the fluid level in the upper waste container dropping below a preset low fluid level.

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